Back To The Birthdays

I am so behind with lots going on here and guests to enjoy, so last, but not least, Spencer and Popie (my grandfather). We celebrated Spencer's birthday with 10 of his friends at a local bowling alley. Let me start by saying that the kids had a fantastic time and one of Spencer's friends has decided he too wants a bowling party for his birthday and "no doubt" Spencer will be invited.

That being said, I think time might have actually stood still that Sunday afternoon. We bowled a bit, ate our cake and ice cream, opened presents and then the cold realization that we still had 45 more minutes until the parents came back set in. Note to self: 10 6 year olds with big heavy balls...not the best idea, oh, and make sure the children go to the bathroom before the party begins. Anyway, here are a few photos of the event:

Melissa, please note the Costco cake in the photo above.

Favors for the kids - t-shirts, bowling stickers and Pixy sticks.

Each child got a t-shirt with his name on it. I bought the t-shirts and the transfer paper at Michael's (I used the Wilton brand). This was the first time I tried using the paper and, I must say, it was very easy to use and fun to do. You just create your design - I did mine in Word with some art from Family Fun magazine (Wilton has a sight full of graphics that allows you to create design too), printed them up and ironed them on.

Unfortunately my grandfather, who was visiting from San Diego, was forced to share his actual birthday with Spencer and the 10 friends. My mom and grandmother prepared Coquilles St. Jacques (yum) and I was in charge of the dessert. I decided to make Bon Appetit's meringue crusted chocolate cake. I have made it several times before and it really looks impressive, but this time I had a bit of a problem.

Looking good...

Then, somehow, disaster struck - the oven was turned off. I have am clueless as to how it happened, but it did and I had to make it work, so I turned the oven back on and watched the meringue on the sides climb up out of the pan. It was ridiculous. Again, it had to work, so I decided to trim the towering top and cover the damage with chocolate leaves. The leaves were pretty, but not enough to beautify that monstrosity of a cake. Fortunately, the taste was still delicious - too bad you had to eat the frightful cake with your eyes closed. I'll do better next year Popie and I promise no time defying kid parties.