Baby Got Books

Whitney and I have been friends since we were five. We are pictured below at our kindergarten graduation. The year was 1996, and the theme was The Olympics. I’m the southern belle at the bottom right and Whitney is the runner with the large bow at the bottom left.

Almost a year ago, I threw Whitney a baby shower for her first child. I LOVE throwing a party, and I LOVE a theme. The gender was a surprise, so I had to take that into account. I REALLY wanted to throw a Parks and Rec themed shower, BUT the majority of the guests were women from the Southern Baptist church that we grew up in so my mom strongly cautioned against that. Since Whitney and I are both elementary school teachers, I decided on a children’s book theme.

For the tables, I had a small floral arrangement then I used some favorite books for the centerpieces. I also learned this trick from Momfessionals.com-use cute, fun wrapping paper as a tablecloth overlay.

It’s not a themed party unless all the food is themed. I refuse to have something that doesn’t fit. I kind of become Angela Martin when planning a party.

This cheese spread is always a hit at any party or gathering, and look at that presentation.
Fits the theme? Check
Makes Club crackers look elegant? Check.

This cheese spread recipe is courtesy of our good friend, Alison.
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar chese
8 oz. cream cheese (room temperature)
1 oz. package of dry ranch dressing
1/2 c. mayo
1/4 c. milk
Mix well and refrigerate overnight before serving.

Mini pretzels, white chocolate, and green M&Ms make Caroline’s beloved Dr. Seuss come to life (Caroline HATES Dr. Seuss). We made a variation of the Pioneer Woman’s Sandwich Rolls.

Did anyone else feel a deep sadness when they learned of Tomie dePaola’s death in March? When will it end, 2020?!? We took his beloved classic, Strega Nona and made pasta salad. Here are two great recipes that we’ve previously shared.

Self explanatory. Caroline’s three year old has this book memorized. You haven’t lived until you’ve heard her say “And on Friday he ate one cutcake, one lami, one wadermelon.”

I love these strawberry oatmeal bars, and they can be adapted and used with a variety of different preserves to fit your preference.

Is there anything better than a warm chocolate chip cookie? Answer: no. This recipe is one of the best ever. A secret though is adding a sprinkle of sea salt to the top.

Chicken salad for Chicken Little. Is that wrong? Maybe. I actually threw Whitney a bridal shower after the tv show, Friends and had a Chick-fil-A nugget tray to go with the episode “The One with the Chick and the Duck.” What’s wrong with me?!?

If you’re my friend and are having a baby, you’re going to get a crocheted blanket. Just go ahead and mentally prepare for all the yarn.

I can’t believe it has almost been a year! I need all this nonsense in the world to wrap up, so I can plan another party soon.

That is the face of a boy who wants to go to one of his Aunt Kitty’s epic parties.

May all your parties be themed and your chocolate chip cookies always be warm.