(this is for historical document purposes for Daddy Mock and I to look back on as a reference, however, any insight, suggestions, and amendments would be gladly appreciated!)
We have two boys. Both born in March (along with their fabulous father). This brings up the issue of birthday parties. To have a joint party for the boys (assuming that they will have a similar group of friends since they're close in age) would make the most sense, however, I hate the pressure of the attendants to bring two presents. You can make some kind of suggestion for just "one" present, but then you have sharing issues (or make a suggestion for no presents, which will be likely if we ever choose this route). It snowballs from here.
You can do two separate parties, but that's just silly. Economically speaking, it just doesn't work. Not for us anyway.
Our goal/ plan for the boys currently is to have them get a party every other year. So, for example, Everett is turning one in a little over a month (can't believe it!). He will get the big festive party, as did Carter when he turned one. Carter, however, will take the "supporting" role this year and celebrate his birthday in a more subtle manner, with the grandparents, his family, and a cake. Next year he will get the themed birthday party that I more than love to plan for and go over-the-top in decorating (kids really don't appreciate handmade name tags, extravagant homemade cakes, and the like). What's fun about our "supporting" role plan is that that child gets a "special day" rather than a party. He can choose between a few options of a special day with Daddy, Mommy, or both. Options may include a day in the snow, fishing, the train museum, aquarium, etc.
(Carter's first birthday "Pirate Party" Cake)
The present issue coincides with our Christmas philosophy as well. We both believe that holidays and birthdays have caused somewhat of a toy-gluttony epidemic in our nation. Our kids are getting so many toys, they are constantly looking for something else to keep them entertained. (another reason why we choose to have no cable television) Our kids will get one present from us (for both Christmas and birthdays). We more than welcome spoiling from grandparents, because from experience, it feels good to be spoiled by someone, and they're not responsible for the actions of their grandchildren, so it's their right! As the children get older, we will be working together to make handmade gifts for one another. As our family grows in size, that may be all we can afford anyway. It brings the joy back to giving when you make it on your own, doesn't it?
This isn't to say that we don't believe in big Christmas celebrations, Santa, or big birthday parties every year. One of my friends loves the magic of it, and I love watching her excitement as she decorates for Christmas, picks her kids presents out and plans for birthday parties. Her kids will very much appreciate it as well (and currently do). Part of me questions our philosophy when I see the "magic" that her kids experience in Christmas. However, this is a route that we have chosen and we hope our children will come to understand and appreciate it.
In the long run, I think it will be more work. Handmade takes much more time than picking things off a shelf, and explaining to your children that Christmas is about giving isn't so easy when their friends are receiving the latest iPod or gadget. But we were both blessed to be raised the same way that we are carrying on, and our experience can attest to the principle behind it all.
I would love any feedback or suggestions for keeping our kids creative, grateful, and free-thinking as well as any other options for shared-birthday-month celebrations!
