Each year as the kiddos get older I just marvel at who they are becoming. But can I stop for a minute and just let you all know something about me? Well, birthday parties are my jam. Actually any party is my jam. I love throwing them. I love decorating for them. I love cooking for them. The whole bit!




In reality I show love this way. Some people despise hosting guests....I seriously get filled up by it. And my kiddos birthday parties are no different. I get to feed their friends a home cooked meal, help them enjoy time with other kiddos and be present and show our family life to others! Yes it's messy sometimes and down right chaotic...but it's us! And dare I say that the kiddos' friends enjoy it. I mean...they keep coming back don't they?

So as my Sylvi turned 11 we celebrated with some select girlies and family. It was perfect. She enjoyed each part. Her friends were so thoughtful...giving gifts that were specific to Sylvi and taking time for cards and homemade bits and pieces as well. I watched Sylvi interact with care and concern to her friends, family and cousins. She thanked each with a smile. She included them all (which at times my friends is a task as one wants on thing and another a different.) It was a joy to watch.

So as part of our tradition I ask each child what meal they'd like me to prepare for their friends and family. Sylvi, for a couple of years now, has chosen turkey pot pie. So pot pie it was. What a delicious meal to feed loved ones, if I do say so myself.

And due to some wet weather we chose to do our traditional piñata indoors! Crazy? YES! But fun? Oh yes.

And finally they played...10 and 11 year old girls played outdoors in the wet weather without complaint. This part of being young will never get old to watch. Playing. In whatever form...free playing is such a beautiful sight to see. Do your kids still love to play?

So...as parties are my jam and our traditions are deeply placed in my kiddos hearts....I sit with joy recalling that day just this past weekend. What a truly blessed day!

Written by Alicia Overby - Founder & President of Baby Elephant Ears

Alicia is wife, mother, and creator of Baby Elephant Ears. Baby Elephant Ears was created out of parental concern, not financial desire. In 2005, when their second child was an infant, he cried all the time and just couldn't seem to get comfortable.

After seeking advice and suggestion from the medical community and alternative medicine, they eventually ended up in the chiropractors office where their baby was successfully treated for a subluxation, discomfort most likely the result of the strain during labor, which was now being exacerbated by the normal lack of infant neck strength. Only proper neck, head, and back alignment would offer him relief. When they couldn't find a product to give their baby the necessary support, Alicia took matters into her own hands and crafted her own infant support pillow. The first Baby Elephant Ears was born!

For more information, visit www.babyelephantears.com.