I think we parents all tend to overthink things - especially the modern day concept of a child's birthday party. Thanks to tabloid TV and magazines bringing us the epic birthday planning details of Suri Cruise, North West, and Tori Spelling's brood, it's easy to feel a little inadequate in the birthday party department. What with the flower arrangements, circus themes, and catered grub in those glossy pictures in People Magazine, it's enough to make any mom wonder if a more expensive or elaborate birthday would generate more fun, deliver longer lasting memories, or prove just how much we love our child. Well, don't fall for it!

Last year for my daughter’s 11th birthday party, aside from movies, popcorn and lots of nail polish, my husband and I offered our daughter's friends a simple game of Bingo with very affordable prizes (oversized candy bars and arts and crafts projects). We were surprised by the glowing reviews! The girls had a blast and my daughter says that her friends still say it was one of their favorite birthday parties. In fact, she’s requested an encoreround of Bingo for her birthday party next month. As you can see from this video clip, my hubby and I had a lot of fun too! So here’s to keeping it simple! Sure, this is definitely not an "E! Television moment", but for us, less fuss means less stress and more time to just enjoy the moment.

p.s. I also learned that should Sean lose his job as a Congressman, he'll at least have a second career as a Bingo caller at churches, nursing homes and tween birthday parties.