In simpler times, you could call up your BFF from the OB's office after your ultrasound and tell her the gender of your baby. Now, people can only learn the gender when you release a giant box of pink or blue balloons that float up to heaven and later deflate to choke a baby seal.

Think you want to plan a scientific party for your birthday boy or girl? Here are some crafty and creative ideas you can do at home.

This year, I took a different approach. I wanted to have a party that was as stress-free as possible for me. Because when Mommy is stressed, no one has fun, especially Hubby. So, what does one Mommy looking for the easy way out do to throw a fun birthday party? Outsource.

The most important element of any party, in my opinion, is the theme. Having a theme directs the party and makes planning and decorating for the event significantly easier. There are so so many fun, cute and unique themes out there -- a theme doesn't have to be traditional either.

Kids don't need a fancy party or an entire park of wild animals. What they want is to spend time with you and their friends doing something fun.