Make it Work

This weekend is the big co-birthday party. We planned a simple, casual, layed back (as in no paid entertainment or organized activities) kind of celebration. We were counting on the big Show Stoppers being the kiddy pools, water table and sand box. Maybe we’re naïve but I don’t think at such young ages (four and one) things have to be so structured and regimented (i.e. No juggler, magician, Elmo with a guitar). I hope I don’t regret saying this.

I am concerned about the weather though, as our “entertainment” is so weather dependent. And of course, Sunday’s forecast says scattered thunderstorms. Also, we have a decent sized house but it’s not huge. And we are expecting a fair number of people. Repeat after me: It will be what it will be. Or to quote the words of my boyfriend Tim Gunn, we just have to “make it work.”

It’s going to quite a mix of people. We have friends coming from our old life in Brooklyn, families from Leo’s school (all of these kids have DS), and families from Leo and Ellie’s daycare. And Erin has invited some work people. It will be interesting to see the other kids with DS who are Leo’s age. I really don’t spend much time with kids with DS besides Leo so of course I’m sure I will be doing lots of (secret) comparing.

There is so much to do in preparation for the party that I almost don’t know where to begin. What did I say about it being simple? I know it will all get done but right now I am just feeling overwhelmed. But it’s not like I have to do it all by myself or anything so I don’t know what my problem is.

Erin’s mom arrives from New Orleans tonight. I’m excited for her to see Ellie walking and to see Leo and his new hair cut (not so new anymore but new to her) and to appreciate how much progress he’s made in just a few months. He’s so much more verbal than he was even since April, which is when she last visited. Also, it’s nice to have family around. Erin and I are both thousands of miles from any immediate family and although I am sure we would be driven insane if any of them actually lived nearby, it makes having them visit all that more precious.

Did I mention Erin ordered five-dozen balloons for the party? Um, yea. This better end up being outdoors.

Monday I will torture you with pictures.