Izzy's Birthday Parties Past

First Birthday Party: Since Izzy was born in Manhattan, I decided that we would celebrate his first birthday party in Central Park. After all, we had wondered around the park for 6 months until we moved to Jersey City. Granted this was my celebration because what does a one year old know from birthdays? Yet I knew he would at least have the picturesque memories which would then become part of his childhood story.

I invited 30 people to meet us on the grassy hill above the sailboat pond at 72nd and Fifth Avenue. I prepared a picnic of Deviled Chicken, potato salad, deviled eggs (made by L.) Asparagus vinaigrette, guacamole (also prepared by L.) and of course pastel -frosted cupcakes. I piled all of these provisions into a granny cart and schlepped it (along with I. and A.) on the Path train and subway, up to the park. The weather cooperated and so did Izzy, who managed to stay awake for almost the whole party. Afterwards, we strolled through the park and came upon some musicians. Somewhere floating about is a mini-video of Izzy bopping to the music.

Second Birthday Party: The invitations were sent out for a party by the Central Park Carousel, followed by a picnic. The day before the event, it seemed that the weather would not be nice enough so we switched the party to our house. Again I invited about 30 guests. I decided to make a tea party of sorts. Guests were greeted with platters of scones with jam and clotted cream. This was followed by an array of sandwiches: Chicken Salad, Goat cheese with Caramelized Onions, and Egg Salad. Of course the ubiquitous cupcakes, finished the meal. Kids just ran about underfoot and there was no specific activity other than eating.

Third Birthday Party: This time, Izzy played a role in designing the menu and selecting the guests. He knew specifically what he wanted to me to prepare. On the menu was:

Egg Salad Sandwiches
Green Beans Vinaigrette
Blue Cupcakes

He also knew who he wanted to invite. So we composed the guest list together. As a surprise, I hired his music teacher to come and play the guitar and sing songs with the kids. Izzy seemed overwhelmed by the whole affair, almost as if he were awestruck to have "Jessie" in our house.


Fourth Birthday Party: Coming right up..tune in to the party planning segment, up shortly.