liven up the party with finger puppets

Utilize your creativity, liven up your kid's birthday party with finger puppets. You could make-do with used clothing and other scrap materials at home and use them as give-aways, prizes, or a game/contest in which you provide the materials so kids will get busy making their own finger puppets and win fabulous prizes.

b'day party at school!

Schools have different policies regarding the celebration of birthday parties. I know of one school that discourages the holding of birthday parties anywhere on campus. This is to avoid discriminating those who do not have the resources to host a birthday party.

Having the party at school may prove to be more economical for you only prepare for the number of classmates your kid has. You may order the food from any food outlets or you may prepare the food yourself which does not need to be that lavish. Here's a list of food kids will surely appreciate at parties:

1. spaghetti (may be messy but kids love this)

2. chicken joy

3. steak

4. hotdogs on sticks

5. cakes, candies

6. tocino on sticks

7. colored sandwiches

Question: Is there a need to prepare invitation cards if the party is to be held in school? Of course, simple handmade cards will do or if you have some extra, you can buy them by the dozen at any department store.

courtesy words to be used at special occasions

When we attend formal gatherings we are expected to be at our very best in clothes, words and deed. Earlier, we have gone through some of the things to do and avoid while at such gatherings. My dear boys and girls, when at parties where adults are also invited, make sure that you avoid talking loudly or shouting. When you have a message to tell a friend across the hall, go up to him or her and not shout out the message. That's a no-no. This also holds true about laughing. It is rude to laugh loudly while at a gatheing. Show your breeding while maintaining conversation with friends or other guests. Greet everyone with a smile and use the following words or expressions that exhibit good manners.

Good evening, ma'am/sir. (to those older than you) Otherwise, just say "Good evening" to everyone.

Thank you. (after a favor has been done to you like being served something)

Please. (when asked if you want something and you want to say yes)

Excuse me. (when you want to call the attention of someone )

You're welcome or It's a pleasure. (when someone says "Thank you" because you've done her or him a favor)

I am sorry. (when you have wronged someone like when you step on someone's shoes)

May I.......Could you please.........(in asking for favor)

b'day gifts for 14, 15, 16 yo

Moms sometimes find it hard to look for the perfect gift for their kids who are turning 14, or 15, 16. Of course, the usual questions to be asked are:

1. What does she want?

a. music

b. books

c. clothes (blouses, bags)

d. writing

e. accessories (jewelry, friendship bands)

f. cologne

2. What is it that she already has but still wants more? Does she have a hobby? Is she collecting something?

From observation, teens ages 14 to 16 love new things such as new blouses, wallets, bags, and they like to change the look of their cellphones. Those who love to read will appreciate a good book. And yes, any piece of jewelry like a bracelet, pair of earrings, or a necklace will also be appreciated.

Summer splash at Sea Forest

No, it wasn't a birthday party but the culminating activity of ABC Kiddie Learning Center which happened with a big splash at Sea Forest, between Sibulan and San Jose, Negros Oriental, Philippines. Photo shows Dewey, Chula, gramma, and right behind are Pia and mom Christina. Sea Forest is one of the best places to visit in Dumaguete City. It is where you, friends , and family can have loads of fun.