(cool) APPROVED

birthday

G U I D E

brought to you by the creative team at (cool) progeny

parties vendors gifts

COver photo BYLaura Black, Laura Black Photography

styling BYBridget Stickline, Wee Chic Boutique

locationThe Best of Luck, Power Plant

What YOULL FIND

party ideassimply charmedParty Ideas with lots of Baltimore flavor!

FoodiesThoughts and themes for pint-sized foodies, including our Kid in the Candy Store party.

Get ARtsyPerfect party options for your pint-sized Picasso -- plus goodie bag ideas.

SCIENCE FUNBeakers and goo, these parties are guaranteed to whip up the fun! Includes ideas for a DIY robot party.

GO GREENHost a party that s all about earth-friendly fun & learning

MOVING AND GROOVINGScore BIG with these get em moving party ideas.

GIRLY GIRLTwirly whirly girly fun.

ADVENTURINGThese ideas will charm your pint-sized pirate -- or explorer.

inside our guide!

planes, trains and things that goCelebration ideas for the kid on the move.

LET THEM ENTERTAIN YOUAll the worlds a stage with these ideas...

party tipsOut-of-the-PIZZA Box Catering IdeasWow guests with these fun catering ideas!

Who Takes the Cake?Who makes the best cake? Weve got thoughts...

Dressing for Party SuccessOur resident style maven shares tips for making sure your birthday boy or girl is stylish -- but party practical.

planning with pinterestIt might give you party envy, but if you keep your keeping up with the marthas in check, it s a great party planning tool!

ONE Client, 9 Charm City CakesCharm City Cakes has been making this kiddos birthday cake for the last nine years... Weve got photos!

Best Playgrounds and parksSometimes all you need is a cake, some friends and some swings. A round up of the areas best playgrounds.

tip sheet: Nab the perfect photoWhy you should forget matchy matchy and how to ditch the squints.

Tips for Making Your Party GreenIdeas for making your party eco-friendly.

Face Painters We AdoreNot all face painters are created equal. Here are our picks!

(Cool) Approved PhotographersThese photographers are kid-friendly. And we just love them.

Entertainers We {HEART}Book one of these acts for guaranteed party success!

gift guidePerfect gifts for everyone -- from your own kid to the one youve never met (but you know his mom). Yeah, you know what we mean.

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everythiNgbirthday.

according to us.

editors noteEver feel like there is just way too much information out there? And when you get past the overwhelming phase, you realize it s not even helpful information? Yeah. Me, too.

Thats why we started (cool) progeny two years ago. A web-based platform to provide the best of the best for raising fun, fashionable, active little thinkers around Baltimore.

It s the exact same philosophy we used when putting together our first annual birthday guide. We didnt want an everything guide. We wanted a curated guide. Every piece of information -- from the theme ideas to the recommended vendors -- came from a mom or dad we know. And trust.

Did we miss something uber (cool)? Let me know at heather@coolprogeny.com. We want to be sure to include it next year!

We had a blast putting this together. Hope you enjoy it just as much!

PS: Everything in this guide is hyperlinked to make it easy to connect you with area resources. Just hover over the name or website to link to it!

www.coolprogeny.com

HeatherHeather Walsh, editor-in-chief

Contributor Whether they have a byline or not, these creative ladies all contributed to the

content of this guide. We are so thankful they are part of the (cool) team!

Jennifer Cooper, Classic Play Bridget Stickline, Wee Chic Laura Beynon, Cupcakes & Lemonade

Madeline Comoglio, MLC Designs Chrissa Carlson, Urban Farmhouse Mary Alice Yeskey, Charm City Cakes

Claudia Towles, aMuse Toys Angela Mirra, Root & Bloom

Janelle Diamond, Baltimore Bride

Laura Black, Laura Black Photography

Heather Sand, Style House Realty Katie Robinson, BW Kids Consulting

Score big with the blast

Got a soccer lover at home? Theyd kick for a party at a Baltimore Blast game! Their birthday packages include tickets for eight people plus the birthday child gets a pre-game locker room tour. And they get to run on the field through the Blast sign with the player of their choice.

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More iNF0: www.baltimoreblast.com

party at the Orioles game

The Orioles do offer party suites at Camden Yards, but if thats a budget buster for a birthday party youre not out of luck. The good news? You can take your kiddo to an Os game for FREE during their birthday month. So grab their closest 5 friends, buy a few tickets and go! Bring hot dog and ice cream money, too.

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More iNFo: baltimore.orioles.mlb.com

N e w i n 2 0 1 2 , Wa t e r f r o n t Partnership of Baltimore now offers splash birthday packages at West Shore Park. Packages include playground toys, a semi-private party space, splashing in the fountain, and even a grill {if youd like it}. Double bonus? They provide goodie bags.

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iNFo: www.waterfrontpartnership.org

sondheim fountain splash

Youve seen Baltimore Hoop Love at all the festivals or under the JFX at the Baltimore Farmer s Market on Sundays. Now invite them to entertain at your kiddos next birthday party. Hula hooping is a sure-to-wear-them-out activity -- and the hoops themselves double as favors.

More info: find them on facebook

a little hoop love4

5 duckpin bowling funEveryone loves duckpin bowling! Smaller balls and pins make it perfect for pint-sizers. Throw in some bobby socks and 50s music, and youve got yourself a cool retro celebration! Baltimore has two options for knockin down pins: Patterson Bowling Center and Stoneleigh Lanes. More iNFo: www.stoneleighlanes.com

6 DESIGN It at THE BMITest your engineering skills at the Baltimore Museum of Industry! Working together, partygoers invent, experiment, and observe their work in action. Using the museums special collection of building materials, create and test unique roller coasters while exploring Baltimores Industrial Age.

More iNFo: www.thebmi.org

Party ideas with lots of Baltimore Flavor.charmed simply

More iNFo: www.pattersonbowl.com

7 sleepover at the national aquariumThe National Aquarium in Baltimore doesnt have a birthday party package per se, but you can buy group rate admission OR book one of their Dolphin or Shark Sleepover packages. {They also have encounter packages that dont require you to pack a sleeping bag!}

www.coolprogeny.com

More iNF0: www.aqua.org

ChARMIng Snack optionsBaltimore is really delicious, dont you think? Food ideas straight from Charm City.

BERGER COOKIESWho needs cake with the quadruple layer of chocolate frosting on these?

utz potato chipsYou can only get these little numbers around here. So go ahead -- serve em up!

HARIBO GUMMY CANDIESAlthough the candies are made in Europe, Haribo America was incorporated right here in Baltimore in the 1980s.

Taharka brothers ice creamDelicious. Made locally. AND they give back through their work with at-risk-youth. Definitely worth supporting.

RHEBS BUTTERCREAMSHead over to their Wilkens Avenue shop for some of their ah-mazing chocolate. Perfect for parents, right?

SNOWBALLSBelieve it. Snowballs can be traced back to Baltimore origins. Want to really give them charm? Add marshmallow.

CHARMED goodie

BAGsby Jennifer Cooper, Classic Play

Planning a Charmed party? Send guests home with a little taste of Baltimore with Goetze's caramels or M&Ms in Oriole or Raven's colors. Other items (based on where you're throwing your bash) can include: a personalized baseball, Cracker Jacks, candy bracelets, hula hoops, or go all out and transform plain tee shirts into team bowling shirts with a transfer or stencil and fabric paint.

Foodiesparty ideas that are Lick the icing First good.{Yeah. Go ahead. We wont tell.}

Photo by Laura Black

Cookie baking at little hands

Head to Little Hands Cookie Company for cookie baking fun -- where they clean up the mess! Budding pastry chefs will spend an hour in the kitchen whipping up and decorating their favorite cookies. And the guest of honor? He or she gets to take home an apron or jar!

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More iNFO: www.littlehandscookie.com

cupcake wars with flavor

Flavor Cupcaker y, winner of Season 4 of Cupcake Wars, wants to bring the decorating fun to your party! Nab one of their DIY Cupcake Party Boxes and have all the frosted fun you and the mini chefs can handle. Party box comes with u n f r o s t e d c u p c a k e s a n d buttercream. YUM.

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More iNFO: www.flavorcupcakery.com

Little chefs will decorate aprons or chef hats and then prepare their own personal pizzas at Charm City Kids Club during this party! Kiddos will work up an appetite while playing in CCKC play town while the pizzas cook and then enjoy a pizza extravaganza.

More iNFO: www.charmcitykidsclub.com

make pizza At charm city kids3

4 KIDS in {your} kitchenHave a budding Thomas Keller on your hands? Then invite Cannelloni Kids Cooking School to your home for a kids in the kitchen birthday party! Hello, ginger noodle salad and dessert sushi ! Guests wil l decorate aprons, make an entree and dessert. Best part? They clean up, too.

www.culinarykidscookingschool.com

CLEVER FOODIE OPTIONSSurprise guests with one of these delicious out-of-the-pizza-box catering options!

Stuggys hot dogsServe them franks from Baltimores favorite hot dog joint.

SOFis CrepesSweet or savory, party goers will love whipping up a crepe creation!

Prigel Family Creamery Sundae BarSummer soire? Then consider skipping the cake and opting for a full sundae bar. With attendant. {They do rootbeer float bars and mini ice cream sandwich bars, too!}

Miguels nacho barWhat kid doesnt love fresh guacamole and salsa?

wheely good smoothiesEco friendly, healthy, and fun! They bring their bike-powered smoothie makers & ingredients.

STONE MILL bakery GELATOHomemade, fresh ingredients, and sold by the liter. YUM.

Ages Birth - 9

CHARM

CITY

Redefining the Childhood Experience

www.charmcitykidsclub.com

Charm City Kids Club is the ultimate destination for parents and children in Baltimore County. Charm City Kids Club provides children, birth through age nine, an educational and enriching experience in a child friendly, safe and clean environment. Sign up for a multitude of unique classes and camps, have a birthday party, role play in a pint sized town or come shop for latest childrens clothes, accessories and gifts not offered locally. Check our website for more details!

Themed Birthday

Parties

Minishakersmusic class

featuring music by

Milkshake & other kids

favorites

CLASSESPLAY

TOWN

1500 Riderwood Avenue, Lutherville MD 21093 410.337.2252 Become a fan of us on facebook!

Special

Events For Expectant

Moms, Parents and

Families

Camps

candy? ChecK Out Our kid in the candy store Party...

on the next page!!

Table Design: Everything Candy!Designed by Laura Beynon, Cupcakes & Lemonade. Shop Cupcakes & Lemonade online for the downloadable printables!

kid In the Candy stoRE

there is nothing sweeter than a candy-inspired party... and the perfect place to host it? The Best of Luck Candy Store at Power Plant! This retro-style candy shop has everything you need from the soda pop counter to sugar-coated inspiration. Add a craft, some music, and cupcakes and youve got yourself a sweet soire.

Kid in the Candy Store Photos by Laura Black

make candy necklaces

what you needstring or ribbon fruit loops peach rings life savers gummy fruit rings really, any candy with a hole in the center!

Cupcakes from Flavor Cupcakery in Cockeysville

WHO TAKES {er - makes}

THE CAKE?

Charm city cakes Baltimore City, Remington

Definitely a splurge... But the designs are amazing.

Flavor cupcakeryCockeysville and Bel Air

Dont miss their cupcake push pops! We like the rainbow ones...

SUGARBAKERSCatonsville

Hands down made the BEST Angry Birds cake we have ever seen. Or eaten.

Iced gemsReisterstown

They have a mobile cupcake truck. It can come to you. Sweet.

BALTIMORE CAKERYBaltimore City, Fells Point

Love their first birthday smash cakes!

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Youve planned the party. Now where do you get the cake (or cupcakes)? These six

bakeries topped our lists.

6 whole foodsMt. Washington and Harbor EastDelicious. Whole ingredients. Nuff said.

Today is your child's special day, you have carefully matched the decorations to the invites and hand punched confetti crowns until you thought your hands might bleed. The last step is to pick a party outfit that is deserving of all of your preparation. No matter what kind of birthday party you are hosting, your little birthday bean needs to look their best.

There are a few easy steps you can take so the birthday outfit marries the fabulous and the practical.

dressing for party successby Bridget Stickline, Wee Chic Boutique

Milo is wearing Chaser s I am the Future Tee Shirt. Available at Wee Chic.

Photo by Laura Black

PRETTY VS. PRACTICAL Consider the activities the birthday boy/girl will get into throughout the day. If a bouncy house is on the agenda, then you want fabrics that will move when your child does. If a tea party is more the theme, then you can pull a crisp party dress right from the royal family playbook. Laser tag? Be sure to grab good shoes and a change of clothes.

*Hint* Give invited families a clue about how best to dress the mini-guests by including a list of party activities on the invite in a fun way.

NOT A DAY FOR CLOTHING PEP TALKS {ER - BATTLES}Remember what works well for every day at your child's age. 1st birthdays mean crawling, pulling up, and early walking. Don't inhibit with tight, restrictive clothing even if it does look awesome on the hanger. There are terrific options for boy & girl in soft, stretchy fabrics that don't come up short on style. If your soon-to-be 5 year old son won't wear pants with a button, today is not the day to take on that battle. It's his birthday and if he wants no button (you know where we are going with this), seek out dressy pants with a soft elastic waist and get the bang for your buck with a cool top. Everyone will thank you for it.

*Hint* Avoid the itch! Stick your arm inside of kids clothes before you buy, if the seams or inner workings feel uncomfortable to you imagine what they will feel like on sensitive kid-skin.

NEED MORE THAN ONE OUTFIT?The desire to preserve this special day for all eternity is programmed into your DNA. If you need a perfect photo op, embrace your high maintenance side and bring a photo outfit and a second play outfit so your kiddo can get down and dirty with their guests. Girls can always do a tutu over sensible leggings (= remove tutu for play) and boys could go from starched to rumble ready with a quick wardrobe change.

Christopher is sporting a polo and shorts by TOOBYDOO. Finley and Willa are wearing styles by Llum. All available at Wee Chic Boutique.

Elle is wearing a summer dress by TOOBYDOO. Available at Wee Chic Boutique.

Photo by Laura Black Photo by Laura Black

www.coolprogeny.com

get ArtsY 1

2 3fired up with

baltimore clayworks

puppet making at the walters Frame it with the

painting workshop

Head to Baltimore Clayworks Studio for everything you need to get kids creativity buzzing, through sculpture. Super hands-on fun for all!

MORE INFO: www.baltimoreclayworks.org

There are mythological creatures loose in The Walters! They have the heads of one animal and the tails of another! Count them up, then create your own mixed-up creature puppet.

more info: www.thewalters.org

The Painting Workshop encourages your childs inner van Gogh by

providing all the materials to paint a 4 by 6 inch wooden frame and artwork

to go inside!more info:

www.thepaintingworkshop.com

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mobile paintedpottery a-glazin

monet and MOREat abrakadoodle

The party stays at your place! Mobile Painted Pottery A-Glazin brings the pottery action right to your own house. Then they take the items with them to

glaze, fire, wrap, and redeliver!

more info: www.goppag.com

Abrakadoodle Art Studio will create a custom art party just for you! Name your

theme (yepp, even Angry Birds) and theyll create the art activity. No two

parties are EVER the same!

more info: www.abrakadoodle.com

have a pint-sized Picasso at home?Then painting the town -- literally -- might be the perfect party activity. Try out one of these area businesses or host your own colorific adventure.

DIY PAINTINGwall

Giant canvas (or multiple canvases) + lots of paint + kids = one amazingly

messy, fun time! The idea of making an art wall first caught our attention on the J

and J Home blog. Youll love it.

more info: www.jandjhome.blogspot.com

art goodie

BAGs by Jennifer Cooper, Classic Play

Creativity Sparker: Give the kids' creativity a jump start with a few basics to create puppets, mini books, or whatever they can dream up! Include small squares of felt, origami paper, rolls of brightly colored washi tape, colored pencils, and more. You can also add bits of modeling clay or small canvases to the bag.

felt oragami paper washi tape colored pencils modeling clay crayons watercolor paints brush

www.coolprogeny.com

www. funny facesw i thshar ik . c omparty planning with

It s a blessing and a curse. Pinterest, the image-based social media network can inspire you while making you feel woefully inadequate if your details arent magazine cover perfect. That said, it can be a fabulous party planning tool. If you keep your keeping up with the Marthas in tact.

Here are some easy tips for planning with pins:

Create a single board. Create one board specifically for your party. This will make it easy to pin images and visually organize your thoughts.

Use the Pinterest Search feature. Search Pinterest by your party theme, colors, or even the age of the child. Chances are someone has already pinned ideas related to these items.

Dont forget Google. Google search your party theme by image only. Pin anything that catches your eye. Be sure to label why it caught your eye.

Its INSPIRATION (not must-dos). Pins dont have to be exactly related to a particular theme -- just inspirational! It might just be a particular color that interests you or an invitation font.

DIY vs. ETSY? Youll find a ton of Etsy-pinned images on Pinterest. That means you have a choice: use that image as a launching board to recreate it yourself or purchase the handmade product from Etsy. If youre short on time and the price is right, dont stress yourself out. Buy it. Slaving over a homemade banner project for three hours doesnt earn you mommy brownie points.

science FUN

SCIENCE Mania with Eric Energy

fossil hunting with paleo jim

launch a rocket with mad science

Science center exploration

Eric Energy will make your little scientists party smoke -- literally. His action-packed parties are designed for children as young as two. We love his Yo Yo Party theme (ideal for kids over six), which incorporates microscopes, awesome tricks, and even a human yoyo!

An interactive science show perfect for your pint-sized rocket scientist! Mad Science comes to your door with chemical reactions, firework mysteries, and bolts of electricity. Rocket launching is a party add-on -- but it s just too cool not to mention.

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MORE INFO: www.madscience.org

More iNFO: www.ericenergy.com

Where can you dig for dinosaur bones, explore the human body, AND watch a hurricane form? At the Maryland Science Center! Their party package includes admission to t he cen te r, an IMAX mov ie, refreshments, custom cake, and a goody bag. No hassle. Sweet.

MORE INFO: www.mdsci.org

all the elements for a party with big bang.

If the word Paleozoic rocks your kid, a fossil hunting party may be in order. Paleo Jim comes with buckets of dirt and fossils to guide party goers through their own dig. Best part? Kids get to keep the fossils they find! {And theyll find about 100, between 5 and 24 MILLION years old}.

More iNFO: www.paleojim.com

kitchen science party

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Geo cracking & gem mining

You may have seen Mobile Mining Experience at various events around town, but they also do birthday parties! Who doesnt love rock cracking & natural treasure finding? If your budget doesnt allow for them to come to you, you can order one of their handy DIY kits.

iNFO: www.mobileminingexperience.com/ No doubt about it. Science is (cool).Double bonus? Science-themed parties incorporate -- gasp -- learning! Rocket launching, fossil digging, yo-yos, bubbling potions, and more, these ideas will definitely spark imagination and earn high marks in the fun category.

Want to keep the science fun low-key? Invite a few friends over and turn your kitchen into a laboratory! You can search for different fun (and easy) experiments online. But our favorite? The Kitchen Pantry Scientist blog. TONS of ideas -- including the jello experiment pictured.iNFO: kitchenpantryscientist.com

www.coolprogeny.com

Robot circuit loose. do the robot.

DIY

by Jennifer Cooper, Classic Play

partyRobot Design WorkshopGet the kids designing their own take home gifts with a robot workshop. Set out spray painted cereal boxes, cardboard tubes, and craft supplies and let the kids' imaginations go wild.

kids as young as three love squishy circuit making!

For half a century, robots have captured kids' imaginations and it's no wonder whythey're cool! Combine the cool factor with visions of a future where robots do all your chores and you've got yourself a party theme favorite. Hosting a robot party for your kid? We put together the nuts and bolts.

robot design

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TIPXT!GPS!DIJMESFO

TEAM:Ofx!Tipxt!Bwbjmbcmf" !!!XXX/FSJDFOFSHZ/DPN

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!521/447/93:6

Mad Science Playlist

Why Does the Sun Shine?They Might Be Giants

drops of jupiterTrain

science fairRecess Monkey

elementsTom Lehrer

blinded me with scienceThomas Dolby

fireworkKaty Perry

weird scienceOingo Boingo

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Play dough CircuitryRobots cant run without some circuitry! Get kids as young as 3-years-old learning circuitry basics with a hands-on activity using play dough and a mail order kit from squishy circuits.

Bristle Bot RacesLeroy Jetson may have had a robot toothbrush, but he didn't have a racing robot toothbrush! This mail order set from Maker Shed includes everything kids need to make their own set of bristle bots. Make 'em and let 'em zoooooom!

Robot DanceWhat's more fun than the classic freeze game dance? A robot freeze game dance. Get the kids to bust out their robot moves and get grooving until the music stops. Styx won't be the only ones singing "Domo Arigato Mr. Roboto."

move the circuit juices with this easy snack mix!

nuts & bolts snack mix

Ingredients

Pretzel Sticks (bolts)Honey Nut Cheerios (nuts)Dried FruitM&Ms or Yogurt Covered RaisinsRice Chex Cereal

DIRECTiONS

In a large bowl, combine the ingredients. Best part? Youre in charge! Put as much or as little of each as youd like or add in additional flavors to suit your tastes. You could even have party goers create their own blend. Just give them the ingredients!

one client, 9 birthdays, 9 cakesBlair and Gene Giannini ordered their first cake from Charm City Cakes in 2002 to celebrate their son Witt's first birthday. Duff created a whimsical baby blocks themed cake and delivered it to their house in Washington DC. They loved it - so much so that they have asked Charm City Cakes to make Witt's cake every year since then. He'll be 10 this October. The cakes usually tie into the theme of the party. Watching Witt grow up has been an absolute joy for the Cham City Cakes Team and they hope he'll never be too old for a cake from them!

Year One: Blocks Year two: PUG Year three: convertible

Year four: donkey Year five: surfer dude Year six: dude ranch

Year seven: wittywood Year eight: casino Year nine: pokemon

Go Greenhost a party that s all about earth-friendly fun & learning

chrissas fresh herb veggie dipencourage healthy eating with this fun, fresh herb dip from Urban Farmhouse!

Ingredients

1 cup (packed) fresh spinach leaves 1 cup low-fat or non-fat plain yogurt 1/4 cup light mayonnaise 2 Tablespoons fresh dill, chopped2 Tablespoons fresh basil, chopped3 green onions, chopped 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar teaspoon hot pepper sauce

directions

1. Place spinach in a blender with yogurt and all remaining ingredients and puree until smooth, thinning with more yogurt or water, if desired.

2. Transfer dressing to bowl. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.

3. Serve as a dip for your favorite vegetables.

whooos at carrie murray

bit of spice: urban farmhouse get outside: irvine nature center

Get up close and personal with owls, snakes, and hissing cockroaches at Carrie Murray Nature Center! Select which five species youd like to invite to your party and take the fun

from there! MORE INFO: www.carriemurraynaturecenter.org

monkey around at the zoo

Think outside parties are just for warmer weather? Think again! Irvine Nature Center offers an outdoor winter exploration adventure. with their Jack Frost and Suzy Snowflake or Scavenger Hunt parties! Bundle up and just add hot cocoa. {They have a ton of outdoor birthday party themes for warmer weather, too!} Dont miss their nature-inspired

playground! MORE INFO: www.explorenature.org

If your kiddo loves monkeying around, why not have their birthday celebration at the Maryland Zoo? Cant beat the live entertainment. Really. Packages are available for members

and non-members. MORE INFO: www.marylandzoo.org

tips for going greenwildlife Adventures Bring the "wild" to your party with Wildlife Adventures. Their fast-paced and fun presentation allows time for petting and holding most animals. Animals used are always age

appropriate! MORE INFO: www.wildlife-adventures.com

Contact Urban Farmhouse for a full sensory birthday party experience! Exploring plants and herbs, Urban Farmhouse will bring fresh culinary, gardening, and craft activities right to your door. Curious about the types of activities? Check out the garden stake spoon tutorial on the next page!

MORE INFO: www.urbanfarmhouseonline.com

minimize trash. Skip the paper goods and go for reusable plastic plates, cups, and silverware.

Go digital. Send an evite rather than mailing paper invitations. Guests can RSVP right online. Want a more sophisticated electronic invitation design? Try paperless post.

Double Duty. Rather than sending kids home with a bag stuffed full of candy, have a craft or toy that works as a party activity and a favor. {No one -- especially parents -- will mind if you skip the sugary send-off!}

Recycle. Need to use drink boxes? Recycle!

www.coolprogeny.com

garden stake spoons

Perfect for elementary/middle school students, this garden stake spoon activity is a fabulous combo of up-cycling/recycling and growing. Send guests home with their spoons and a packet of seeds.

STEP two: Place spoons in jars and set aside to dry for at least 20 minutes. Open presents, eat cake, or play a game while you wait!

by Chrissa Carlson, Urban Farmhouse

STEP FOUR: Paint Mod-Podge onto the face of the spoon and place picture on top. Smooth the picture to avoid bubbles or creases.

STEP Five: Paint over the entire spoon with Mod-Podge, including over the applied picture.

STEP six: Place the finished spoons back in the jars and set aside to dry for at least 20 minutes. More time for party activities!

STEP THREE: Have each child pick out a fruit, vegetable, flower, or herb picture from the catalogue. Help them cut out the picture. Younger children will need more assistance. Older children may enjoy carefully cutting around the intricate shapes of the vegetables.

STEP ONE: Have each child paint a spoon in a bright color. They may choose to paint it one solid color, or incorporate designs. Have them hold the spoon by the bottom of the handle and leave this part unpaintedit will be hidden in the soil.

Things youll needwooden spoons (i per child)shop thrift stores and yard sales for cheap, recycled spoons

Brightly colored, non-toxic paintstempera or acrylic

Seed catalogues with color picturesrequest catalogues from Seeds of Change or Johhnys Selected Seeds, allow a few weeks for delivery

mod-podge

paint brushes

safety scissors

cups for rinsing brushes

newspaper for covering tables

plates to use as palettes; pick up cheap plastic plates at thrift store to avoid using disposable

jars to support spoons while drying.

we urban F a r m h o u s echeck out their classes & parties online!

Each child can take their garden marker home to mark plants in their garden, or to serve as colorful garden art work!

MovING &groovING

sports play at coppermine

One of the areas best places to play also has GREAT sports and game-themed birthday parties. From lil kickers soccer parties to tumbling fun to summer pool parties to dance fever parties, Coppermine Field House is a go-to for energy burning festivities.

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More iNFO: www.copperminefieldhouse.com

Tumbling fun at hoppin tots

Perfect for young kids! Gymnastics parties at HoppinTots include 30 minutes of instructor-led gym fun -- and you have the whole place to yourself! Your pint sizer can jump on the trampoline, swing from the trapeze, balance on the balance beam, and more.

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More iNFO: www.hoppintotsgym.com

Babe Ruth Birthplace and Sports Legends Museum is probably the only Baltimore Museum where kicking balls inside the exhibits is not only allowed -- it s encouraged! Party goers can try on famed Ravens players gear, score a goal, and walk through baseball history.

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More iNFO: www.baberuthmuseum.com

get kicking at sports legends

Yoga Imaginarium gets your kids moving -- and their creativity flowing with their energetic yoga parties. Using an eclectic mix of stories, music,and yoga poses, this is one party your kids will be able to get down with. Down dog, that is. With a side of pirates and snake slithering.

More iNFO: www.soilsound.com

Stretch... with imagination4 5 mobile tumbling on tumblebus

Dont want to have the kiddos tumble at the gym? Have the Tumblebus come to you! Rain or shine -- hot or cold -- the Tumblebus is climate controlled and lets your kiddos zipline, balance on the beam, tackle uneven bars, slide, and more! Everyone gets olympic medals, too.

More iNFO: www.tumblebustime.com

6 host your own tour de franceHave every kid bring their wheels and set-up your neighborhood --- or local park -- as a bike track. Have the kids make their own musettes with fabric markers and fill them with snacks (just like the real Tour). Then, let em ride! Dont forget to cheer. Thanks to Classic Play for the idea!

More iNFO: www.classic-play.com

outdoor playgrounds We

mt. vernon childrens park Mt. Vernon

stadium place playground Waverly

meadowood regional parkLutherville, MD

thames street parkFells Point

Federal hill parkFederal Hill

Patterson ParkPatterson Park

Annies playgroundFallston, MD

linkwood playgroundRoland Park

irvine nature centerOwings Mills, MD

A few slides, some friends and a cake? Well, thats a party! Here are our fav playgrounds:

7 DIY Classic Carnival gamesGood old-fashioned carnival games are a great way to get the kids moving and grooving in your back yard or a local park. A little imagination can make this a wallet-friendly alternative to a packaged party, too. Here are some game ideas, courtesy of Jennifer Cooper at Classic Play:

Spray Away: Get out those water guns and try to knock lightweight balls off of golf tees.

Ball Toss: A mason jar take on the classic goldfish game. Parents might appreciate giving out Swedish Fish as a prize rather than the live fish....

Fishing: Kids cast a line over a sheet. An adult on the other side pins a prize to it. Kids then pull the line in to see what they caught!

Tin Can Knockdown: A few tennis balls and tin pails are all you need!

More iNFO: www.classic-play.comCarnival Game Photos by Dave K. Cooper

www.coolprogeny.com

girLy girLgirLy girLsparkly party fun for twirly whirly girls.

Photo by Laura Black

pink door spa treatment

The ultimate girly-girl party can be found at SparTea! Pint-sizer mani/pedi, yoga, zumba, and bracelet beading parties complete with strawberr y lemonade and palette-per fect cupcakes. Fancy Nancy meets Eloise right on Falls Road. Too cute.

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More iNFO: www.spateaparty.com

Get Charmed with my pretty princess

My Pretty Princess Mobile Parties will come to your home for a combination spa plus charm shopping party. Or choose one of their other adorable mobile spa packages like a Hollywood Glamour Tea Party or American Doll Party. A fun add on? Ribbon flip flops!

MORE NFO: www.myprettyprincessmobilespaparty.com

woodland fairy tea party3

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Whats better than a tea party? A fairy tea party with Irvine Nature Center! Your pixies will build fairy shelters, toast with tiny tea cups and meet woodland animals. You can gather in the fairy-filled trees at Irvine or they can bring the party to you. Just add some pixie dust.

More iNFo: www.explorenature.org

A Gaggle of Giggles and more4

Make your own spa lotion with Gaggles N Giggles as part of their posh spa package -- or pick one of their other glitzy girl birthday party themes. Were kind of partial to the Project Runway theme or Rock Star ideas... And we just LOVE the tropical smoothie bar add-on option.More iNFo: gagglesngiggles.com

twirly songs

Girls just wanna have funCyndi Lauper

DANCING QUEEN ABBA

COME DANCINGThe Kinks

PUT YOUR RECORDS ONCorrine Bailey Rae

Bottle of SunshineMilkshake

PARTY IN THE USAMiley Cyrus

BORN THIS WAYLady Gaga

HEY SOUL SISTERTrain

Just like a rockstarThe Fresh Beat Band

Almost thereDisneys The Princess & the Frog

Lets DanceVanessa Hudgens

Dress for Success: Avoid small prints, pencil stripes, and plaids.

bring on the color: A white outfit looks great on the beach but this is a party. Bring the color!

Hello, SUNShine: Take your shots outside in natural light, but stay in the shade to avoid the squints.

forget matchy matchy: If a family picture is on your agenda avoid matching the whole group. Need some help pairing up killer colors? Check out pro tool www.colorschemedesigner.com to photograph like an art director! {Yes, this means ditch the uniform white shirt and khakis look}

timing is everything: The day of the party can be hectic for you and your wee one. Think about snapping that perfect pic the day before or before the party starts to avoid the over stimulated meltdown.

TIP SHEET: Nab the perfect photoby Bridget Stickline, Wee Chic Boutique

Photo by Laura Black

MODERN PIXIE PERFECTION.

Just {heart} this invitation design from MLC Invitation Design Studio!

face painterswe simply adore. you will, too.

Stunning! Funny Faces Face Painting by Shari K.Photo by Laura Black

Funny Faces Face Painting by SHARI k.Located in Harford County. Travels Baltimore Metro area.

Shari is absolutely amazing with kids and parents. Her designs are just as fabulous -- plus shes lightning fast. A MUST for parties.

monsters and mermaids face paintingBaltimore

Simply stunning designs. That pretty much sums it up.

Faces by DesignLocated in Harford County. Travels Baltimore Metro area.

Alison offers several different face painting packages -- from princess packages to wacky tacky makeover. FUN.

no mess cupcake

Push popsfind them at

Flavor Cupcakery

Photo by Laura Black

ADVENTURing

arrrggghhhh, matey! these parties will charm your pint-sized adventurer.

Photo by Laura Black

AHOY, MATEY!urban pirates

Sai l ing, rous ing pi rate songs, entertainment, pirate eye patches, and a treasure chest: all the makings of a swashbuckling good time! Sail around the harbor with Urban Pirates on Fearless -- privately or semi-privately. They even have an add-on option for cake on the boat.

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More iNF0: www.urbanpirates.com

ZIPLINe At terrapin adventures

Great for older kids! {Kids must be eight years old and weigh at least 60 lbs.}. Schedule some high flying fun at Terrapin Adventures! Each member of your party will scream with delight on the 330 foot Zip Line and then experience 2Gs of force on the Giant Swing.

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More iNFO: www.terrapinadventures.com

You dont have to go to the mountains for a climbing adventure - just head to Earth Treks in Timonium! Their birthday party packages include access to a private climbing area with enthusiastic instructors. Two of our team members said this was the best party ever!

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More iNFo: www.earthtreksclimbing.com

GO CLIMB AT EARTH TREKS

State-of-the-art laser tag system in a 6,000 square-foot multi-level futuristic fog-filled industrial cityscape? Sounds perfect for elementary and middle school age adventure seekers. Dont miss the glow in the dark urban golf or Lightspace play floor at Red Zone Adventures!

More iNFO: www.redzoneadventures.com

laser tag: red zone Adventures4

5 Super hero parties at CCKCRun, jump, and fly like your favorite superhero at Charm City Kids Club! Bring your own cape, or choose one from CCKCs extensive masked crusader collection. Party goers can choose to make masks or capes, all materials provided. Then soar into play town for extra fun!

More iNFo: www.charmcitykidsclub.com

6 Bounce and more at kiddie CrusoeMonkey around on Kiddie Crusoes HUGE indoor playset that includes rock climbs and castle forts! Your mini adventurer will love their pirate bounce house and tube slides, too. Kiddie Crusoe Party packages include a private party room and they offer several add-on options.

More iNFo: www.kiddiecrusoe.com

PIRATE PLAY : Have your little pirate tackle bad guy balloons with pool noodles. We found that adding a little water to the balloons helped in the battling (and doubled the fun!). Haba Pirate Hats available at aMuse Toys.

Photo by Laura BlackPhoto by Laura Black

adventure

goodie BAGs

by Jennifer Cooper, Classic Play

comic books gold coins carabiners jute bracelets adventure notebooks pens compasses

Goodies that scream adventure are perfect for active kids. Send party goers home with: comic books (Tiny Titans are perfect for the younger crowd), tubes of glow in the dark bracelets (only $1.00 each), gold coins, carabiners, jute bracelets, or blank books to write down their adventures.

www.coolprogeny.com

birthdays

Splash!

West Shore Park

are a great

Bigfountain fun, goodie bags,

games & morecontact beth@waterfrontparrtnership.org to schedule your party!

(cool) approved photographers

laura black photographywww.laurablackphotography.com

cara walen photographywww.carawalenphotography.com

B. Chase Photographybchasephotography.com/blog

The WaireHousethewairehouse.com

Modern life portraitswww.marygardella.com

lil blu dragonflyhttp://www.jsjursen.com/

Whether you want a pro to capture your party or you want an amazing portrait of the birthday boy or girl, these area photographers are fantastic with kids of all ages!

Get them a present theyll love.

Local Boutique Shopping with gifts for all ages!

... weve got the cards, cake and ice cream, too.

10749 Falls Road, Luthervillewww.greenspringstation.com

PLaNes,T r a i N Sand things that goparty ideas for the kid on the move.

B&O Railroad MuseumHow cool would it be to have your birthday party inside a historic rail car? Wander a long the b ig locomotives at The B&O Railroad Museum and even take a train ride (if your party happens between April and December). Add Carousel or Choo Choo Blue rides for a bit more.

More iNF0: www.borail.org

Head to the Fire Museum of Maryland for a party that includes firemans gear, fire engine rides, and even a visit from a real fireman (additional fee). Parties may be scheduled all days of the week (a great option for a weekday play group birthday party, no?)

More iNFo: www.firemuseummd.org

FIRE ENGINE RIDES? YES!

AVIATION ADVENTUREHead to the College Park Aviation Museum for high flying birthday fun! Their party packages include d ress ing up l i ke an av iato r, controlling a World War I era Jenny, flight simulators, and more. Sure to get your kid zooming. A fun add-on? Lego Airplane kit activity!

More iNF0: www.collegeparkaviationmuseum.com

Head to the Baltimore Museum of Industry for floating fun! Using a compass and map, explore the museums historic waterfront then make a replica of the BMIs 1906 tugboat to take home. All parties include museum admission and you can even rent out the theater for a private film screening.

More iNFo: www.thebmi.org

BOATS AFLOAT

www.coolprogeny.com

Celebrate your

Birthday with

Irvine!

Need a hands-on birthday party your youngster wont forget? Weve got you covered. Parties at Irvine:t"SFBQQSPQSJBUFGPSBHFTBMMZFBSMPOHt"SFQSJDFEBPSEBCMZXJUIPOTJUFPTJUFPQUJPOTt)BWFHSFFOUIFNFTUPUBJMPSQBSUJFTUPZPVSDIJMETJOUFSFTUTFWFOPWFSOJHIUDBNQPVUTt*ODMVEFBOJNBMJOUFSBDUJPOTOBUVSFXBMLTDSBGUTFOUIVTJBTUJDMFBEFSTBOEUPOTPGGVO

Every birthday party supports Irvine Nature Centers environmental education e!orts!

Contact Courtney Sagal at CourtneySagal@ExploreNature.org or 443-738-9224 to reserve your date today.

Just 20 minutes from Baltimore City! 11201 Garrison Forest Road Owings Mills MD 21117 tXXX&YQMPSF/BUVSFPSH

Modern transportation. This two-sided invitation from MLC Invitation Design Studio moves!

entertain let them

Sign language : stories by hand

Bring a little sign language -- complete with stories and songs -- to your next party. Kathy MacMillan from Stories by Hand has several different signing based birthday themes available. Dont see yours? Just ask ! She l l come up with something.

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More iNF0: www.storiesbyhand.com

pretend fun at port discovery

One of the country s best Childrens Museums offers lots of different options for lets pretend -- and just as many birthday party packages. Were partial to their rock star package, which includes karaoke style performances and designing your own microphone.

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More iNFO: www.portdiscovery.org

The National Pinball Museum does birthday parties! Enjoy private access to their party room and 45 minutes to 1 hour of pinball playing fun in their pay to play area. You can book an off-hours event and have exclusive access to all of their exhibits, too. Includes pizza!

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iNfo: www.nationalpinballmuseum.org

perfect for pinball wizards

All you need is a movie on DVD, standard electricity and guests! FunFlicks will bring a 2-Story inflatable screen, projection, and state-of-the-art sound system to your backyard (or area park with permit). Add one of their popcorn machines and viola! Private outdoor movie showing.

More iNFO: www.funflicks.com

outdoor movie night4 5 see a show! pumpkin theatre

Check out Baltimores best childrens theatre for your next birthday! Pumpkin Theatre offers discounted ticket pricing and your party will have its own section at the show. Your kiddo will also star on stage as the theatre sings happy birthday! Party room available for rent, too.

More iNFO: www.pumpkintheatre.com

6 party at the joke house

More iNFO: magoobys.com

A fun party idea for the comedian in your family! Head to Magoobys Joke House for one of their Kids Comedy Sunday shows. Many of their kids shows also feature free face painting -- double bonus. Check the schedule call for party package options.

{your guests}

www.coolprogeny.com

Silly goose and valMagical puppets and contagious dancing. Need we say more?

ellis woodwardLots of high energy music, laughing and dancing with Ellis! Entertains the parents, too.

its groovy babyOne of Baltimores favorite mini music classes does birthday parties. Includes a toddler-sized jam session.

MAGIC JOEJoe brings everything (including a sound system) for a magical balloon show. Great for kids between 4 and 12!

milkshake private concertLisa and Mikel from grammy-nominated kids band Milkshake perform acoustic house parties! They also have a relationship with Charm City Kids Club if youre throwing your shindig there.

entertainers

DuBurns Arena is the perfect blank canvas to create your own circus, just like the Diamond Family did for their Three Ring Circus birthday party last winter. Catch all the details on (cool) progeny.

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More iNFO: www.coolprogeny.com

DIY CIRCUS

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Any of time year, head to Claddaugh Manor for the perfect hoe down! Their indoor arena works beautifully in winter or summer. Check out this party styled by Laura of Cupcakes and Lemonade!

More iNFO: www.coolprogeny.com

wild west hoe down : claddaugh Manor

More iNFO: www.coolprogeny.com

Photo by Kory Chase

Photo by Jen Dalton Limoges

Sometimes, all you need for a party is a little entertainment. These folks score high on our fun meter.

we

Coming November 2012:

(cool) approved:

wanna be included? email heather@coolprogeny.com

HOLIDAY GIFTS 2012

gift gu i d e

make birthday magic with these gift ideas!

active little thinkers

smart gifts for

SPANISH/ENGLISH FLASH CARDSby Mudpuppy, ages 4+Urban Baby Runway

Pride & Prejudice Board Bookby Little Masters BabyLit, birth+The Childrens Bookstore

Matchy matchy gameby Jonathan Adler, 18m+The Pleasure of Your Company

zolo Creativity Setsby Kushies, ages 5+The Pleasure of Your Company

EARTH BALLby Earth BallaMuse Toys

brain noodlesby Brain Noodles, ages 3+Marbles, The Brain Store

MAGNETIC ACTION FIGURESby MudPuppy, ages 3+Greetings and Readings

TOBBLESby Fat Brain Toys, ages 2+aMuse Toys

eco greenhouseby Hape, ages 3+online

www.coolprogeny.com

all of those classmates?

what to do about

MINI Q-MAN MAGNETSby NUOP ages 5+Shananigans Toy Shop

BRICK STIXby BrickStix, ages 4+aMuse Toys

candy Scented ipod touch coverby Dylans CandybarThe Lily Pad of Towson

TEGU POCKET POUCHbyTegu, Ages 3+aMuse Toys

JIBIBUTSby Noferin, Ages 3+Atomic Books

COLOR YOUR OWN PLUSHby mightMIGHT, ages 3+Etsy

rorys story cubesby Gamewright, ages 7+Barstons Childs Play

MAGNETIC TANGRAMSby Mighty Minds, ages 3+aMuse Toys

www.coolprogeny.com

artists and architects

perfect gifts for

Constructiblesby Mudpuppy, ages 4+Urban Baby Runway

make art mistakesby MoMA, all agesUrban Baby Runway

ZOOB BUILDING SETSby Infinitoy, ages 4+Barstons Childs Play

hand stitched onesieby Amy Tangerine, ages 3-24mEtsy

Tie Dyed Dressby Splendid, ages 18m-6yWee Chic Boutique

Villa julia cardboard houseby Magis Me Too ages 3+Online

my giant busy boxby Alex Toys, ages 3+aMuse Toys

www.coolprogeny.com

MAGFORMERSby MagformersaMuse Toys

wooden MARBLE RUNby QuadrillaaMuse Toys

STACKABLE crayonsby Playon, ages 3-6yTrohv

minnie foodie what to buy for the

GRAPHIC EVERYDAY TRAYSby French Bull, all agesThe Pleasure of Your Company

farmers market activity kitby Molly SmithShananigans Toy Shop

AIR FORK ONEby Fred, 9m+The Pleasure of Your Company

Cookware & Dining setby Green Toys, all agesaMuse Toys

Burger & DOG GRILL PLAY SETby Hape, ages 3+aMuse Toys

coloring placematsby DuoPress, ages 2y+DuoPress Online

Pretend gardening kitby Melissa & Doug, ages 18m+Greetings and Readings

A BEARY BALANCED BELLYby Beary Balanced Belly, ages 3+online

Silver spoon for childrenby Phaidon, ages 5+online

Monogrammed chef setages 2+The Monogram Shop

Visit us in our new location!915 West 36th StreetRight on the Avenue in Hampden

Baltimores boutique for the naturally loved baby!

www.softandcozybaby.com (410) 446-4525

Take $5 off

Specializing in Cloth Diapers, Baby Carriers, Breastfeeding and Maternity Supplies. We rent breast pumps!

Strollers coming soon!

any purchase of $50 or more. Use code coolprogeny online

or mention code in store.expires 8/31/2012

always moving

for the kid who is

the spooner$49.99 by Spooner, Inc, all agesBarstons Childs Play

SK8TER TEEby Appaman, 12m-8yrsWee Chic Boutique

Billiboby Kid O, 2-8yrShananigans Toy Shop

Mini kick Scooterby MiniKick, ages 3+aMuse Toys

CROSS BOULEby Zoch Verlag, ages 3+aMuse Toys

Appaman aviators$22 by Appaman, 2-6yrWee Chic Boutique

POGO STICKSby SBI, ages 5+Barstons Childs Play

Personalized Superhero set$48 by Copus Hagen Designs, 3-6yEtsy

www.coolprogeny.com

Fells Point1623 Thames Street410.342.5000

Quarry Lake2576 Quarry Lake Drive410.415.0000

Store Hours10am - 7pm Mon - Sat10am - 5pm Sunday

www.aMuseToys.com s www.aMuseToysBlog.com

Baltimores Neighborhood Toy Store

the girly girlwhat she really wants

TAKE ME ALONG PRINCESS FANTASY CHESTby Playmobil, ages 4+Barstons Childs Play

MODAL PAJAMAS$58 by Esme, ages 2-12Wee Chic Boutique

PINK PONYby HabaaMuse Toys

UGG FLIP FLOPSby UGG, sizes 8T-6Petit Feet Footwear

MAGNETIC DOLL PLAY SETSby Melissa and DougThe Lily Pad of Towson

SAFETY PIN BRACELETSBy Klutz, Ages 8+Online

Rainbow tutu Custom MadeCharm City Tutus and Accessories

personalized princess teeBy Red Envelope, Sz 2-16Online

many thanks to ALL of our advertisers!

OGO DISK RAQby OgoSport, ages 3+aMuse Toys

hes all boywhat he really wants

THe nutty squirrelby Kid O, ages 18m+Urban Baby Runway

hexbugsby Innovation FIrst Labs, ages 3-6Barstons Childs Play

Beastie Boys Chaser Tby Chaser, ages 2-8yWee Chic Boutique

automoblox truck and trailer comboby Manhattan Toy, ages 3+Shananigans Toy Shop

FIRE TRUCKby Green Toys, ages 18+aMuse Toys

REMOTE CONTROL MACHINESby Thames & Kosmos, ages 8+Online

ZErG LITTLE MONSTERby Cotton Monster, ages 12m+www.cottonmonster.com

show them some and buy local.

birthdays are

Natures way of telling us

to eat more cake.

cheers to that.

www.coolPROGENY.com