164: race car birthday part 2: the day

So here are the events of the day in approximately chronological order.  

First, I'll say that we decided to have the party on weeknight for various reasons, and that was so cool.  Even though it meant providing a meal for the guests, it was great to be able to stay up uber-late and not have to wake early.

The craft project for while everyone was arriving was simply painting with matchbox cars.  I rolled the paint out in the tops of egg cartons.  The kids' smocks are adult t-shirts from the thrift store.  I love that I could color coordinate them with the decor.

 

Next up was matchbox derby.  I made and painted the plywood track.  They put the cars in the top and then we pulled up the starting gate so they all went at the same time.  

Of course, later it was more of a free for all, which was fun too.

Now it was time for rides in a "real" race car.  I can't tell you how much my inner (outer?) stylist wanted the car to be red.  But none to be found.  But it was a Porsche.  I mean, come on.  Oh, and I didn't mention that it rained that day, which was a bummer.  I really wanted most of the festivities to be outside.  But it stopped long enough for the top to be down.  We added the vinyl number and stripes to make it look authentic. 

A checkered flag finish line was a must.  Theo loved it.  Jon just took them one at a time for a spin down the drive and around the cul-de-sac.  It was really about crossing the line and everyone cheering.  While waiting for their turn, everyone had to stay in the tire circle in the driveway.

 

Afterwards it was time for dinner and cake and general playtime.  Food was baked ziti with caesar salad and chicken nuggets.  I did make the cake.  It was my nemesis.  I. Do. Not. Like. Fondant.  I had never tried it before and at 4 am, it sucks unless you know what you're doing.  But it came out pretty cute (And I photoshopped out some of the cracks).  

The drink station was fun.  There were three choices in water dispensers (I cut a hole in the back to put the drinks and ice in.).  They poured into funnels and then your cup at the bottom.  One bit of advice is if you're doing it indoors, put a tray underneath to catch the drips and spills.  I had originally thought to use small gas cans as pitchers, which would have been cute too.  But since he's a bit young I worried about them knowing the difference between those and actual gas cans which they should NOT drink out of.  :)

As far as planning, I stressed out and took on too much this time around (including work commitments) so I didn't feel in balance.  I asked a lot of my family and friends and while I'm not sure exactly what I would have done differently...it wasn't easy to pull off.  Tears were shed, but, all in all, it was a great day and Theo had an awesome time.

JT
 

All photos by Christianne Ebel

Comments

[Sofee]

Such a great idea ! I have to put it in my mind idea box for my son's birthday ! Have a great crafty day :)

[Doris]

Genius, as usual. I love the activity while kids are arriving, and the plywood racetrack looks like it could entertain for a long time.

[Luci Gray]

I am just sitting here saying to my husband you are the coolest mum in the world!! You are me times a million!! My wish is to make my kids parties this FABULOUS in the future!! Thankyou for having this blog! PS I hate fondant too!!

[Lyz]

Jessica, I keep coming back here because you are so real. Thanks for admitting to photoshopping and crying. It makes you and your crazy birthday parties much more relatable.

AND I LOVE that car painting project! Totally going to steal it. You really are all kinds of awesome.

[baby gifts]

What a great party you had planned for your son! I know your little boy had a lot of fun on that day. I wish I am creative like you, so I can throw a party like that.

[Robyn]

What an incredible birthday party!! You are amazing!

[shelli]

As awesome as this is, aren't you afraid of setting yourself up to 'top yourself" for the following years? I mean, it's GORGEOUS, and heck, I'd have loved a birthday party like that, but I know a few friends, some games, and cake is all you really need...

[Vanessa]

I love the matchbox derby! I want my hubby to make one. . .would you care to share how you made it or post the supply list? :) I loved everything about ur party! Great job!!

[Wendy]

I would love to know where you had the vinyl stripe and racing numbers made! Fantastic party!!

[Cars Party Supplies]

Race car birthday parties are very popular birthday themes for boys birthday parties. But this one is awsome.

[סמנכ"ל כספים]

It's really creative ideas to celebrate such parties. I like it too much. I will celebrate my daughter's party next week.

[Amber S]

Oh please please please make a tutorial for the race track....

[Tyra Shortino]

I'm glad you guys had fun racing. Everyone did a great job. I love the finish line flag! Who made it? Wish I could have joined you guys in your dinner party, LOL. I want to grab a bite of that cake!

[compensation whiplash]

the resolution reaffirmed their understanding of the cultural importance of collector cars

[supagard protection]

My kids loves painting. Actually they are responsible in the art painting in my car. I'l post the pics soon.