The year my daughter turned eight was a magical year for us. She was finally old enough to have sleepovers, and I finally got to know the other parents enough to build strong relationships in the community. But Iím not sure anybody was ready for the Birthday Party To End All Birthday Parties.
I wanted to do something different, something that hadnít been done before; I donít mean ever, but at least in recent times, or at least in our community.
We loved Seattle, and we loved the sea. How could I take advantage of the lovely city? Then I had it.I sent out invitations to all the kids and parents (my daughter helped, of course), and the day came. I should probably tell you that I used a very peculiar writing style within the invitations.Well, there at the meeting place ñ the local park – , was a big, beautifully ugly, run-down pirate ship that had previously been the site of tours, but had recently been reduced to simply part of the park. My daughter and I handed out eye patches, hats, and swords, and we were ìunderwayî!
Before everyone got there, and while my daughter was distracted by mom, I hid ìtreasureî all over the park, with directions to said treasure on maps; the maps were also hidden INSIDE the pirate ship, amidst friends and certain parents. What were they doing? They were inside the ship, in full costume, acting like real pirates.
The kids had a blast, and they felt like they were part of something magical, just like in the old pirate movies. And the parents had a great time getting to know each other better, creating even stronger bonds. What a day, matey!