Derrick's Friend Party

Since Derrick's birthday is always right next to Thanksgiving we planned to have his friend party the week before. I crossed my fingers so we could do it at the park with good weather. I sent the invitations on Monday and he handed out 22 to his friends. Usually only 1/3 show up but I was surprised to have 1/2 come.We planned a treasure hunt. Derrick was so excited and was making sure that I got the map ready and helped Kevin blow up some balloons. I went to the park before I picked them up from school and buried the treasure box (WOW, those chocolate coins are expensive!). I literally buried it in the wood chips and several more inches in the dirt. I should have brought a shovel! I tried to keep KayDee away but a 4 year old just wants to help.When I brought the kids over to the park, I had to hurry and use the bathroom. When I came back, KayDee had showed them where the treasure was hidden but they hadn't dug it out yet. I had specifically told her NOT TO TELL, but she is 4. So I had them go on a map hunt since I cut the map in pieces and had hid them throughout the park. I knew the treasure was still a success when I heard them shriek "It's a real treasure box" as they dug it up.
Derrick opened presents and we had cupcakes. Then I dumped the big bag of balloons on them and they stomped on them making it sound like fireworks. They played together on the park until their parents came.
Birthdays at the park are so great. I didn't have to clean my house before or after, and I didn't have to entertain them.