Ideas for Super Hero Birthday

• Plan a memorable party for your little superhero. Jupiterimages/BananaStock/Getty Images

  From web-slinging superheroes to building-climbing superheroes, many children love the thought of having a superhero birthday party. Create some exciting party decorations, food and games for your little superhero on his big day. Hand out party favors, such as Superman capes, Spider-Man gloves and Batman masks to all party guests to get the party started.

Decorations

• Print several Spider-Man, Batman, Wonder Woman and Superman posters from images found online and hang them all over the party area. Decorate the party area with red, blue, black and yellow balloons. Use costume accessories, masks and superhero toys to decorate the party area or use as centerpieces for tables.

Arrival Activities

• As the party guests arrive, let them get into the superhero spirit by enjoying some exciting activities. Have an adult or older teen paint the party guests' faces. Paint objects, such as bats, lightning bolts, spiders or any superhero symbols on their faces. You can also paint the full superhero mask on each party guest's face.

  Purchase several white t-shirts and let the guests paint their own superhero symbol on their shirt. Put out a table with paints, stencils and markers for the guest to create their very own superhero shirt. Guests can choose to paint a Batman symbol, a big "W" for Wonder Woman, a large "S" for Superman or a lightning bolt for the Flash. Let them make up their own symbols for their own superheroes if you wish.

Food

• Make oval-shaped sandwiches, and create eyes with olives and legs using vegetable sticks. Place them on a tray and label them "radioactive spiders." For superhero sandwiches, use cookie cutters shaped as a diamond, bat, or lightning bolt. Label the sandwiches "for super strength," "for x-ray vision," or titles for similar super powers.

  Serve sports drinks with pop rocks and call them power hero sippers. You can also make an ice tray the night before the party and drop a few drops of food coloring in each tray before it freezes. At the party, pour a lemon-lime soda over the colored ice cubes and call them "transformation drinks."

Games

• As the party guests arrive, tape a picture of a superhero on each person's back, such as Batman, Spider-Man, Wonder Women and the Flash. Make sure the child doesn't see what superhero he has. Each party guest will have to ask other party guests yes or no questions to try to figure out what superhero he has on his back. Guests can ask questions like "Do I wear a cape?" or "Am I a boy superhero"?

How to Decorate a Silent Auction Basket

Silent auctions are an exciting yet gently competitive way to raise money for an organization or charity that you care about. If you're doing this as a school project, get the various classes to think up design ideas for the auction basket. Ask local businesses and individuals to contribute items or sponsor a basket.

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  Choose a theme for your basket, such as "movie night" or "pasta night." The basket will be more appealing if it's designed around a theme.

• 2

  Attach themed embellishments to your basket's handle and to the basket itself with a hot glue gun. For example, a movie night basket can have tickets and pictures of movie scenes attached to it. A game night basket can have game pieces glued to the handle.

• 3

  Wrap a ribbon around the top of the basket and tie a bow. If you can, select a ribbon that's related to your theme. A basket with the makings of an Italian dinner inside, or a certificate to an Italian restaurant, will pair perfectly with a green, red and white ribbon, which are the colors of the Italian flag.

• 4

  Attach a decorated gift tag to the ribbon that gives a detailed list of the items in the basket, the minimum bid or other information pertinent to your auction.

Home Birthday Decoration Ideas

• Choose fun party decorations for a home birthday party. Kathryn Bell/Photodisc/Getty Images

  When you throw a birthday party at your home, try to transform the space from your everyday living quarters to an area fit for a party. Although streamers and balloons make good decoration ideas, think outside the box and go for something a bit more creative. If your party has a theme, keep that in mind when you choose your decorations.

Numbers

• This is a party decoration idea that works well for adults or children. Use the numbers of the age the birthday girl is turning to decorate the party. For example, for someone who is turning 16, hang paper 1s and 6s from light fixtures and ceiling fans. Scatter numbers over the serving tables, and cut big numbers out of poster board and place them on the walls. Use numbers in the same colors as your other birthday party decorations for a more cohesive look.

Luau

• A luau party is an easy one to throw right at home. This party works well either indoors or outdoors. Head to the party store, and pick up plenty of leis made from either plastic or fake flowers. You can use the leis prominently in your decorations. For example, fill a clear glass or plastic bowl with the leis for your centerpiece. Surround the bowl with colorful tea candles. Purchase Hawaiian skirts from a party store, and hang them on your walls. You can also arrange tall plastic palm trees around the space. For an outdoor party, place plenty of tiki torches around your yard and hang paper lanterns from the trees.

1970s

• Throw a 1970s-themed birthday party for an adult or even a teenager. This is an especially good idea for a birthday party for someone who was born in the 1970s. Buy tie-dyed fabrics at a craft store, and hang them all over your walls. Use lava lamps as your psychedelic centerpieces. Choose tablecloths, napkins, plates and other party accessories that have peace signs on them. You could also put posters around the party of groups and singers who were popular in the 1970s.

Red Carpet

• Throw a party fit for a celebrity for the birthday boy. Host this party for an adult, older child or a teenager. Buy red fabric, and create a red carpet going into the house. Blow up a picture of the guest of honor, and place it on an easel. On the picture, write "One Night Only, Heather's Birthday," as if the party were a show or a movie. Choose silver and gold decorations for the party to raise the glamour factor. Choose shiny metallic tablecloths, and put pictures of the birthday boy at the center of your tables, as if he is a celebrity.

The Best Female Superhero Costumes

• Girls can make the best superheroes. Plush Studios/Digital Vision/Getty Images

  Don't leave the superhero costumes solely up to men and boys. There are plenty of awesome superhero options for women. Some of the coolest superheroes happen to actually be women. Get empowered and select a superhero costume for Halloween or any type of costume party, and you'll definitely be a hit. Purchase a costume or get creative and put one together yourself if you like.

Wonder Woman

• Wonder Woman is the classic embodiment of a female superhero. People of all ages know who she is, and some of us grew up watching the classic television version of the famed heroine. Wonder Woman gets ready for action by donning blue shorts with stars on them, a red bustier-type top and red boots. She wears a gold headband and straps on a utility belt. Don't forget her magical wrist cuffs to complete the look. A talented seamstress could make a cool Wonder Woman outfit, but you may just want to purchase this one. It can be found in different versions depending on age of the wearer and modesty quotient.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer

• Buffy is a bit of a nontraditional superhero, but she is a superhero nonetheless. Based on the cult hit movie and spin-off TV series, Buffy goes head to head with vampires and monsters on a daily basis. In the movie version, Buffy is a cheerleader, so don a cheerleader outfit and carry a wooden stake, garlic and holy water. In the TV version, Buffy is a pretty blond who dresses trendy and carries heavy weaponry. Wear some tight jeans and a cute top and carry a crossbow or hatchet along with the requisite stake. Or, pull from one particular episode and copy her outfit from the show if you desire that, such as the Halloween episode when she dresses like a Victorian lady.

The Bride

• Quentin Tarantino's action film, "Kill Bill," featured a female character simply called "The Bride." The Bride was a tough woman who fought her way through life seeking vengeance. For The Bride's outfit, simply wear a wedding dress and stain it with some fake blood. Carry some weapons; memorize lines from the movie and deliver them all evening so people will know who you are. Watch the movie to copy mannerisms from the character. She's not a classic superhero, but she's a strong female who carries this action movie as well as a sequel. She's an empowering woman to dress up as.

Catwoman

• Catwoman is one of Batman's arch nemeses in the old Batman comics. She's also been played in several movie versions of the comic book series. There are several variations on the Catwoman look, but mostly she wears a black one-piece jumpsuit with a mask that covers her head and allows her to see out through holes. The mask has cat ears on top, and the jumpsuit has a tail. This costume could easily be made by wearing a leotard or unitard and black tights along with black shoes or slippers. The mask may have to be purchased or could be made by a creative person by sewing cat ears on a black ski mask. Practice Catwoman's signature purr and voice and maybe some fun lines from one of the current movie versions.

Mom and Daughter Banquet Ideas

• Throwing a mom and daughter banquet is a marvelous way from moms and daughters to work together to raising funds for a worthy cause. It can also be a way to help daughters build confidence by helping to plan the banquet and acting as hostesses of the event. Mom and daughter banquets can serve many purposes.

Themed Banquets

• Choose a themed banquet that focuses on the special relationship between mothers and daughter. For instance, host a fancy dress party where moms and daughters can choose to dress up as famous mothers and daughters in history or literature. Another idea is to reverse roles for the banquet and dress up as each other. Or, celebrate the sacrifices and struggles women have faced throughout history so every mom knows that her daughters will have a chance at realizing their dreams.

Mom and Daughter Focus

• Develop materials for your banquet with a mom and daughter focus. For example, draw comparisons between moms and daughters attending your banquet, such as decorating the hall with enlarged photographs of moms and daughters at various stages of their life individually and together. Create a collage design for any promotional materials you need, such as invitations, flyers and a program for your banquet. You can create your own banquet materials by using a graphics program on your computer.

Games and Entertainment

• Another idea to incorporate into your upcoming mom and daughter banquet is to include games and entertainment. It's important to include games and entertainment that everyone will enjoy, from young girls to teens to adults. Your entertainment can include skits, storytelling or a mother-daughter talent show. You may also want to include a contest where moms and daughters attending the banquet can submit a video where they talk about their relationship and what it means to them. The winning videos can be awarded a prize along with a showing at your banquet.

Modern Bridesmaids Gifts

• Finding the right gift for all your bridesmaids can be difficult. Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images

  Being a bride is hard enough without having to figure out the perfect bridesmaids gifts. The interests and personalities of your bridesmaids can vary wildly, and finding the right gift that will fit them all is difficult. Try choosing something classy and useful that can be tailored to each bridesmaid.

Mini Camera

• Digital cameras are a creative and unique gift for your bridesmaids, especially small compact versions that can easily slip into a pocket or purse. Be sure to give this gift before the big day so they can take lots of snapshots of the event.

Watches

• The wide variety of watches means that you can select a unique design for each of your bridesmaids. Something funky and fun, elegant and sophisticated, or even sporty and utilitarian. Not only is it a useful gift, but it can also be fashionable. Every time your bridesmaids check the time, they can be reminded of your special day.

Silk Pajamas

• For modern pampering, there isn't anything more comfy than silk pajamas after a long day in high heels. Let your bridesmaids relax with unique pajamas picked out just for them. Match colors and styles to their personalities and lifestyles.

Bouquet

• Give all your bridesmaids a chance to catch the bouquet. Bouquet image by Kimprebble from Fotolia.com

  Create a modern trend on the old tradition of catching the bridal bouquet. Give your bridesmaids gift cards for a fancy floral boutique so they can pick out their own floral arrangement to bring home. Wrap the gift card with a clear glass or modern silver vase to complete the package.

Beach Themed Bridesmaid Gifts

• Beaches can offer the perfect setting for a wedding. Heath Korvola/Digital Vision/Getty Images

  Beach weddings are an exciting dream for many young girls. The soft sand and warm sun cater to a carefree atmosphere and can help make that special day all the more memorable. When shopping for gifts for your bridesmaids, there are several products you can give them that they will enjoy at the wedding, or after the nuptials, while spending a day at the beach or taking a bit of the beach life home.

Parasols

• Parasols can easily complement a sunny beach. tropical parasols on the beach image by Ivonne Wierink from Fotolia.com

  These paper umbrellas are perfect for giving shade from the sun while at the beach. Your bridesmaids can set them in the sand to shield their faces at the wedding. Later, they can use them for shade while lying on the beach or hold them over the shoulder as they walk along the breaking water. You can find parasols in several sizes, shapes, and designs, and prices can range from extravagant to less expensive to fit almost any budget.

Tropical Lotions, Salts and Sprays

• Tropical lotions smell great and hydrate skin. potions and lotions image by Alison Bowden from Fotolia.com

  Tropical lotions, smelling salts and room sprays come in a variety of fragrances such as hibiscus, ocean, mango or coconut and can set a beach mood whether at the oceanfront wedding or at home after the nuptials. They offer the perfect beach-themed complement to daily life and can always serve as a fresh reminder of relaxing wedding memories. Costs can vary considerably, but many of these products can be found at inexpensive prices.

Individual Leis

• Noting says "beach life" like a floral lei. pineapple and lei image by William Berry from Fotolia.com

  Fresh, floral necklaces make the perfect beach-themed gift for any bridesmaid. They supply a long-lasting, sweet aroma and can display bright colors or simple wedding colors to easily complement the atmosphere. Leis are a permanent staple at any beach wedding, as they can elevate the tropical vibe for that special day and are inexpensive and easy to come by.

How to Add Ribbon to a Wedding Program

The program is an important part of any wedding --- they list the ceremony's order of events and identify the wedding party for guests. Wedding programs can be single sheets or small booklets. Ribbon adds a touch of color to either style of program. You can easily add a ribbon as long as you have a hole puncher, ribbon of an appropriate color and your programs.

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  Choose a color of ribbon that either complements or matches your program's ink color. For example, if your program is written is dark blue ink, use a matching dark blue ribbon. Alternatively, use a yellow or red ribbon, two colors that complement blue. A third option is to make the ribbon one of your wedding colors. Just make sure it doesn't clash too violently with the colors on your program. If you're unsure what colors go together, consult a color wheel.

• 2

  Buy ribbon from a local craft store or online. If you purchase online, be aware that your monitor settings can alter the appearance of the ribbon's color.

• 3

  Buy a hole puncher from an office supply store if you don't already have one. Decide where on the program you want your ribbon to be.

  For single-sheet programs, consider punching two holes at the top of the program, one on the left side and one on the right. This placement lets you tie the ribbon in a bow at the top of the program. Another option is to punch one hole on the upper left or right hand side of the program, and then punch a second hole diagonally across from it. When inserted, the ribbon then lies diagonally across the upper part of the program.

  If your program is a folded piece of paper creating a booklet, make two holes along the folded spine of the program. Ribbon inserted into these holes will run along the spine of the program. The ribbon ties outside the spine so the programs can close easily.

• 4

  Insert the ribbon into the holes. Tie the ribbon into a bow. Use scissors to cut the ends of the ribbon to your desired length.

Punk Rock Girl Costume Ideas

• There are many ways to dress punk--just choose a decade. Orbon Alija/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Punk rock has been with us since the '70s and in that time, there have been many different looks. From the rock and roll look of the early New York scene through Oi!, Crusty, Emo and several other scenes, there are countless ways to dress up "punk." Before you put on the Mohawk wig and the fake tattoos, consider some of the other fashion styles in punk.

DIY Punk Look

• Give your punk rock costume a ragged edge and save money with the DIY look. Take black ripped jeans or a torn skirt and jacket and hold the rip together with a long row of safety pins. Put clean safety pins through your ear piercing holes and wear them as earrings. Alternately, sew patches on your pants, jacket and other clothing using brightly colored thread. You can use band patches or just squares of fabric in whatever colors you happen to have around. Write slogans or band names on a white T-shirt or your patches using a permanent marker. Wear your hair short and messy.

Old School Look

• Put on some original punk style with your old school costume. Old school punk rock is all about the rock. Put on low slung, tight black jeans or even leather pants, big black boots, a black T-shirt and a leather jacket. Accessorize with thick belts with rhinestones, studded bracelets and collars and anything else black and shiny. Put on a lot of eye shadow, both above and below your eyes and heavy, messy makeup. Practice looking jaded and impassive--it will sell the costume.

Extravegantly Mismatched

• If you don't want to spend money on your costume, dig deep in your closet for the I don't care what I'm wearing look as practiced by such underground punk heroes as the X-Ray Specs Poly Styrene. Put on granny sweaters, polka dotted skirts, costume jewelry, military surplus helmets or odd hats, vests--it doesn't really matter much as long as it clashes in a way that shows attitude.

  Use bright, garish colors or patterns that don't go together. Put your hair in an odd and striking style such as spiked up or in an over the top perm. Either wear no makeup or wear messy, overdone makeup.

Unique Reception Centerpiece Ideas

• Centerpieces help set the theme of your wedding reception. Mark Hayes/Photodisc/Getty Images

  The centerpiece of the reception tables at your wedding should reflect the theme and style of the wedding. Elaborate floral creations in vases or candles floating in water are always beautiful, but typical reception centerpieces. Try something different like sand and shells for a beach wedding. Having a unique centerpiece will leave your guests impressed and are also great conversation starters for strangers sitting at the tables.

Sea Shell Centerpiece

• If you're getting married on or by the beach, or are having a seaside themed wedding, consider using huge conch shells as a reception centerpiece, with smaller shells around it. Another option is to fill a vase halfway with sand and the rest of the way with sea shells. Another variation of this is to have a pail overflowing with sea shells.

Mini Chandeliers or candelabras

• Create an elegant feel with mini chandelier centerpieces every table. You can find mini chandeliers that stand on their own with the appearance of hanging; or choose a style that has two tiny hanging chandeliers attached to a base. Candelebras are equally elegant and create a dramatic effect; just be sure to make sure no on knocks it over if you are using real candles.

Flowers in a Box

• Instead of putting flowers in a vase, put flowers in a hat box with flowers overflowing out of the box. You can also use gift boxes with bows on them. Make sure the boxes are in line with your color scheme and contrast with the flowers you are using.

Mini Chocolate Fountain

• A centerpiece guests will never forget is a mini chocolate fountain. Put one on every table, with milk chocolate, white chocolate and even pink colored chocolate if you like. Have platters of fruit, pound cake brownies and marshmallows surrounding the fountains, and make sure to include a fondue fork at every place setting.

Words for Sympathy Flowers

• Choose a quiet spot to write your condolences without distraction. Indeed/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Finding the right words to go with sympathy flowers can be challenging. There are a number of meaningful things you can say to let the family know you care. Express your condolences in a way that's appropriate to your relationship, whether the sympathy card is addressed to a boss or best friend, whether it's a concise message, a prayer or a comforting tone. The timely sympathy flowers and words show the bereaved that you're thinking of them.

Fond Memories

• When a family friend or loved one passes, you may begin your message on the sympathy card with "In loving memory of [Deceased's Name]."

Comfort

• To loved ones, writing "My heart is with you in this difficult time," sincerely conveys your empathy. Let them know that you are available if they need anything and consider delivering the sympathy flowers and card in person.

Prayers

• If you and the family of the deceased are religious, let them know they are in your prayers. You may write, "You're in my prayers" or write a brief prayer of love and loss on the card. You may want to avoid mentioning prayer if you are not certain that the family is religious. Consider what you feel when praying for someone, perhaps warmth and love. Write the family those words instead.

Anecdotes

• Let the family know how you knew the deceased. Tell them a little about the day you met their loved one and what your first impressions were. The family will appreciate hearing the impact their loved one had on other people's loves.

Wishes

• It takes time to manage the pain of losing someone. Send your best wishes to the grieving family with a simple statement like, "I wish you strength as you get through this rough time."

How to Have Home Parties With Premier Jewelry

Many people are looking for ways to make additional money. Home jewelry parties are one way to make money and enjoy an evening with your friends. Premier Designs is a company that makes jewelry for you to sell in your home through jewelry parties. You can make money by becoming a Premier Designs jeweler (seller) and by mentoring other Premier Designs jewelers.

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  Contact a Premier Designs jeweler to say that you want to sell Premier Jewelry. Ask the jeweler to act as your mentor. If you do not know a Premier Designs jeweler, you can locate one through the Premier Designs website.

• 2

  Schedule your party. Determine and purchase the inventory you need for your party, based on your mentor's recommendations. Sample jewelry costs 50 percent of the retail price that Premier Designs sets. At the party, you can earn 50 percent gross profit on jewelry sold at the suggested retail price.

• 3

  Send out invitations to friends and neighbors to announce that you're hosting a jewelry party at your home.

• 4

  Prepare for the party by setting up the jewelry for your display and marking the prices on it. Set out food and drink.

• 5

  Play dress up with your party guests. Encourage your guests to try on the jewelry. Take photos of each other. Help your guests select jewelry that fits their personalities.

• 6

  Write a sales ticket for the guests who buy jewelry. Collect the amounts due. Keep 50 percent profit from each retail sale for yourself. Send Premier Designs the other 50 percent plus the tax and shipping that the customer paid.

How to Plan a Rhode Island Wedding in Two Weeks

You could spend a year planning an extravagant wedding in Rhode Island if you wanted to. Or you could get married in two short weeks. While you may not be able to book the venue of your dreams with only two weeks of notice, it's still possible to plan a wedding complete with flowers, family and plenty of dancing.

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  Apply for a marriage license at your local city or town office.

• 2

  Sit down with your fiance and make a guest list of your closest friends and family. Keep in mind that two weeks does not give people a lot of notice, especially if they don't live nearby. Attendance to your wedding may be low, but the ceremony only requires you, your partner and an officiant.

• 3

  Evaluate your venue options. Look in the Rhode Island Wedding Guide for casual venues and parks that host weddings. Call the venues beginning with your top choices; find out the rental fee and if the space will be available on your date. Find a location that excites you and your partner the most, and then book it.

• 4

  Send your wedding invitations electronically and request an immediate RSVP.

• 5

  Call everyone on your guest list to find out how many people you can expect to attend your wedding.

• 6

  Set up your gift registry at a local or online store.

• 7

  Order your wedding rings at a local jeweler.

• 8

  Ask your friends or relatives to be your maid of honor and best man.

• 9

  Buy your wedding dress, maid of honor dress and tuxedo or find a rental place. Arrange dress alterations with a seamstress.

• 10

  Find out if your venue will cater the event and choose a menu. If they do not offer food, refer to your local wedding guide for a list of caterers or call your favorite restaurants to see if any of them offer catering or would provide a buffet for your wedding. If your venue does not serve alcohol, ask your caterer if they will provide a bar as well.

• 11

  Go to a bakery and order a cake. If they don't do wedding cakes on short notice or if your budget is getting tight, consider cupcakes decorated in your wedding colors.

• 12

  Order your bouquet and flowers from a flower shop. Your flower options will be limited to what the shop has in stock as it can take weeks for special flowers to arrive, but your bouquet can still have bells and sparkly ribbons.

• 13

  Hire a DJ or ask a music-oriented friend to DJ your wedding. You could also create a long play list of your wedding and dance songs of choice and plug in your iPod to begin the reception.

• 14

  Pick out festive wedding favors and decorations.

• 15

  Ask a friend to take pictures of your wedding ceremony and reception.

How to Plan a Child's Treasure Hunt

Children love treasure hunts. They get to run around, solve mysteries and find cool treats along the way. The hunts not only provide children a chance to exercise but also to socialize and develop critical-thinking skills while contemplating the various clues. Adults also have fun planning the treasure hunt. Use your creativity and sense of mischief while dreaming up ideas. Then sit back and watch the children have fun hunting for treasure.

How to Plan a Child's Treasure Hunt

• 1

  Choose a theme. You might organize the hunt around a holiday, such as a Halloween or Easter. If planning for a party, pick a theme such as Sponge Bob or some other popular child icon.

• 2

  Pick various places to stash goodies. For Halloween, you might place candy bars inside the bird house and alongside the fence. For Easter, you can stick plastic eggs in the bushes and in couch cushions.

• 3

  Think of a grand finale -- a super-sweet prize to end your treasure hunt with. You could hide a stuffed animal or small toy in the backyard shed. If you plan the treasure hunt as a contest, whichever child finishes first will enjoy his prize.

• 4

  Write clues on pieces of paper, each leading kids to a hidden stash. Each clue should lead to the next. For added fun, try making each clue a short poem.

Ideas to Set up a Tea Party

• A tea party is an opportunity to conduct an elegant social affair. Full House Images/Lifesize/Getty Images

  Tea parties are a delightful social experience, popularized by the English but established by years of tradition in many countries from around the world. A tea party offers the opportunity to create an elegant event, in a setting of traditional formality, rather than simply a random gathering of friends. Dressing up and observing the rules of social behavior, while enjoying correctly prepared tea along with light sandwiches and an assortment of sweets will prove an enjoyable experience.

Invitations

• The invitation communicates the degree of formality of the tea party. An engraved invitation or one written with beautiful script on elegant stationary communicates to the recipient that this is a formal occasion. A telephone call or an e-mail does not carry the same weight or set the same tone as one received in the mail. Tea parties are traditionally conducted between 3 and 5 p.m. Saturday is the best day, since your friends are involved so many tasks on weekdays and Sunday is generally a family day. The invitation announces the occasion, requests the pleasure of the guest's company and sets the time and date with an R.S.V.P.

Table Settings

• The tea party may be conducted in the garden pergola, dining room or patio. The table is laid with a nice lace or linen tablecloth; and, while china or porcelain is the traditional dinner service, any attractive matching set will suffice. Set a platter at one end of the table with tea service and another platter at the other end of the table with coffee. Set the cups and saucers to the left of the tea or coffee platter. A sugar bowl, milk pitcher, lemon slices and a pitcher of hot water for those who wish to weaken or refresh their tea are the essential items. A saucer set to the left of each table setting and a spoon holder set to the right are very nice touches. The center of the table is reserved for the food.

Decorations and Theme

• Colorful flowers or plants set around the table add freshness and vitality to the event. Decoration is sedate and understated while communicating the theme primarily through color. A tea party might take its theme from a holiday, or may celebrate the change of seasons, welcome new neighbors or create an opportunity for socializing with business associates.

Tea and Food

• Beforehand, assign a good friend to pour the tea for the guests and start the affair by asking the friend to "do the honors." The hostess or one of her associates usually conducts the pouring of the tea at a party. While the food served at tea parties is light, you can create a varied assortment. Triangular sandwiches with the crusts removed and prepared with deviled egg, salmon, chicken or crab salad or a filler of your choice is appropriate; give the guests a choice of several. A selection of cookies, scones with various fillings, lemon tarts or even chocolate éclairs adds to the enjoyment of the affair.

Themes for a 13th Birthday Party

• Ditch the typical birthday ideas for original party themes. Kathryn Bell/Photodisc/Getty Images

  A young pre-teen's life changes when she turns 13. As he becomes a teenager, you want to commemorate the milestone in his life by throwing a celebration he can remember for years to come. Make the party all the more special by centering all your party preparations on a specific theme perfect for a 13-year-old's sensibilities.

The Cursed 13th

• People often think of the number 13 as being cursed. If you have a son or daughter who loves spooky stories and scary movies, try this party theme. Decorate the party space with black and green party streamers, balloons and banners. Draw the number 13 on the balloons with a permanent marker once you blow them up. Really commit to the theme by placing some old Halloween decorations around the space to add more creepiness to the event.

  Tell all your party guests to come dressed as something scary. Make scary appetizers like pigs-in-a-blanket fingers and black cat-shaped cookies. For the birthday cake, carve out two sheet cakes so that one cake looks like the number one and the other looks like the number three. For activities, tell scary stories, try out the Ouija board and play games like "Ghost in the Graveyard".

Weird Hat Party

• If the 13-year-old likes a bit of silliness, plan on this theme. When you invite guests, tell them to come wearing the strangest hats they can locate. Decorate the party area with hats placed about the room, and add photos of people wearing weird hats to the walls.

  Though the party theme may seem simple, you can think of several variations to it. For example, carve the birthday cake to look like a large hat. Play games involving hats, such as flinging hats through a hoop or playing the game, Limbo while wearing their large hats. Throw a contest to decide which guest is wearing the weirdest, most unique hat. Take pictures of the party guests to commemorate the 13th birthday.

Backward Party

• For your wackier birthday teens, host a backward party, when everyone comes dressed wearing their clothes backward. They turn their hats around, wear their shirts with the tag at the front and even put their shoes on backward. Turn all of your furniture, when possible, backward as well. For example, turn your TV to the wall, turn the furniture to face in the opposite direction and flip around the pictures on the walls so you see the backs of them. On the birthday banner, write "YADHTRIB YPPAH." Celebrate backward, as well. Start the party by first eating the cake, then unwrapping the presents and finish with blowing out some candles.

  Play backward-themed relay games where players have to race against each other while running backward. If you really want to commit to the theme, have everyone walk and talk backward for the entire party.

Ideas for a Ladybug Party Theme

• The small black-spotted insects can help inspire the most entertaining parties. Design Pics/Valueline/Getty Images

  The small winged insects known as ladybugs often leave children enchanted when they see them. If your little one has become interested in these creatures, plan her next birthday with a ladybug theme. That way, your child can enjoy a birthday party with plenty of colorful decorations, food and activities perfect for any ladybug enthusiast.

Decorations and Atmosphere

• You can't have a ladybug party without plenty of red and black decorations. Before the event, hang black and red streamers from the walls, wrapping them around each other to create a twirled look. Blow up some red balloons and with a permanent marker and color in several black spots. For a table centerpiece, gather up a flower pot and place some large fake sunflowers inside, and attach little plastic ladybugs found at a craft store to the flower petals. Dress the table with a red tablecloth and glue some black spots about 3 inches in diameter to the cloth.

  When your guests arrive, give each of them her own ladybug antennae, as suggested by Amazing Moms. Create these by gathering some red or black headbands. Create spiral shapes out of two pipe cleaners and glue one end of each pipe to either side of the headband. Then, glue two red cotton balls to the end of the pipes.

Refreshments

• Create a healthy spread of fruits and vegetables for your ladybug party. Make a fruit salad using strawberries and blackberries to follow the black and red ladybug theme. Cover the center of a celery stick with peanut butter then add raisins to create a ladybug on a log look. Make a birthday cake following the lady bug theme. Bake a dome-shaped cake and cover it with red-colored frosting. Add little black candies or cookies to the frosted cake to create a ladybug look. If you like, make one little cupcake and place it beside the large cake. Decorate the cupcake to look like a ladybug's head.

Activities

• You want to keep your little bugs happy during the party by planning plenty of activities. Before the party, place several black spots on the walls. On some of the spots write "winner" on the sides facing the wall. At the end of the party, have the kids all collect as many spots as they can. The guests to find the winning spots receive prizes. For another game, gather the players in a line some feet from a large red rug. Tell them the ladybug has lost her spots and needs them to put the spots back on. The players take turns throwing beanbags onto the rug. For more games, insert the ladybug theme into traditional birthday games like "Pin the Tail on the Donkey" and "Musical Chairs."

The Best Party Favors for a Child's Party

The best kids' party favors are those they can make at the party or play with before and after the celebration. When it comes to buying party favors, remember that imaginative use is far more important than the cost of the item.

Custom Teddy Bears

• A fun project for young girls is to decorate teddy bears in fancy clothes. Buy a number of small white or tan bears, fake pearl strands, lace and other materials from a crafts store. During the party, let the girls decorate their bears and have adults hot glue the accessories. At the end of the party, everyone can bring home their custom bear.

Personalized T-Shirts

• Buy one T-shirt for each child, along with fabric paint and sponges. Let all the kids decorate their shirt however they want and bring it home as a party favor.

Squirt Guns

• Squirt guns are a great favor for pool parties and are also fun outside. You can buy small, inexpensive ones from most grocery stores.

Coloring Books

• A small coloring book with colored pencils or crayons can let the kids play after they return home from the party. These can be purchased fairly cheaply at dollar stores or drugstores.

Scavenger Hunt Ideas for a 21st

• Incorporate a scavenger hunt with a 21st birthday pub crawl. Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images

  A person's 21st birthday is a milestone that marks the coming of legal drinking age in the U.S. For this reason, many people choose to go out to clubs, participate in a pub crawl or spend the night bar hopping. Scavenger hunts are a fun way to get people moving from place to place and to spark a little competition. They also provide entertainment for the people who want to join in the festivities but who choose not to drink.

Photos

• One idea for an item on your scavenger hunt list is to get a picture with a stranger. Make this more difficult by being specific, such as a photo with a stranger who looks like a famous singer or a television celebrity. You could also include obtaining a picture of the team in front of each bar or club they visit, or a picture of the team in front of a local landmark.

Drinks

• If you have a group that enjoys having a few cocktails, and there's a designated driver, you may want to include finding the certain specialty drinks at each bar. Call ahead to find out if the bars you plan to visit have a signature cocktail or shooter, and include these on your scavenger hunt checklist. Don't tell the participants where they can find each cocktail, let them try and figure it out.

Autographs

• Bring along a notebook or pad of paper, and ask the players to get autographs from strangers. Make it specific by asking for autographs from people with the same birthday as the guest of honor, bartenders from each bar you visit or someone visiting from another country. You could also have players collect autographs along with "kisses" by having them convince strangers to put on lipstick, then kiss their books.

Memories

• Including visits to the guest of honor's old haunts, such as his elementary school, favorite ice cream stand or childhood home works when the scavenger hunts are not taking place on a pub crawl.

Collecting Items

• Have the players collect items such as matchbooks or coasters from restaurants, items of clothing or a karaoke song list. Adding difficult to find items such as plaid socks, a baseball cap, a Christmas card and glittery lipstick will have the players talking to lots of strangers to get the desired items.

Tasks

• You could also add tasks that the teams must complete. They must record themselves doing the task, or collect something to show proof that they did it. For example, you could have them find someone to teach them a magic trick, find a jukebox and play the guest of honor's favorite song, or find a man willing to let them braid his beard. Many digital cameras can record short videos to prove they accomplished the task. The players could collect proof that they completed certain tasks, for example, have them visit the library and take out a book or stop at a rest stop and collect a road map.

How to Adapt a Kegerator for 3 Kegs

A standard kegerator can satisfy most people's desire for draft beer at home, but beer enthusiasts may prefer a variety of brands available through their tap system. The ability to add additional taps to an existing kegerator depends largely on how much space is available in the refrigerator. With a standard size refrigerator, at least three half kegs should be able to fit inside without needing to create additional space with shelves. Adding the two taps to your existing kegerator should be a familiar process, since it is very similar to the installation of the initial tap.

Adapting the Kegerator

• 1

  Mark the spots where you want each new tap to be located on the refrigerator door before drilling guide holes at both locations through the door. Replace the guide bit with the hole saw bit and drill the two faucet holes at their respective guide holes.

• 2

  Install both shank/faucet units by holding each faucet in place and securing the hex nuts to each of the shank ends of the units within the refrigerator. Secure the new pour trays under their respective faucet unit in line with the original tap's pour tray.

• 3

  Turn the valves on the existing keg coupler, C02 tank and regulator to the "Off" position. Remove the existing C02 hose from the regulator before taking the regulator off of the C02 tank and replacing it with the new C02 regulator with three outputs. Leave all valves in the off position for now.

• 4

  Attach the keg couplers to the kegs being added to the kegerator system after turning their valves to the "Off" position. Using the beer hoses, connect each of the new kegs to the newly installed taps by connecting each shank unit to their respective keg coupler. Connect each coupler to the C02 regulator with a C02 hose. After fastening each connection with snap clamps, turn on the valve of the C02 tank before turning on the couplers and regulator. The regulator should not exceed 30 pounds per square inch (PSI). For domestic and light beers, 7 to 12 PSI will suffice, while heavier, stout-type beers will require the higher end of the recommended PSI range.

• 5

  Place the new kegs into position in the refrigerator with the existing keg and C02 tank.