Party time

Yesterday, my cousin asked me if I remembered any of my birthday parties when I was younger. I told him I couldn't recall the event itself but remembered a few tiny details - like how I realized that the staple Justice League superheroes that were always on top of the heavily white frosted mocha chiffon cake were not made out of candy, as previously thought. How did I find out? I tried biting off the head of one of the characters and my taste buds weren't greeted by the sweet satisfaction of sugar. So much for that. Aside from the cake, there were also lots of balloons tied to those not-so-stable wooden chairs with plastic weave and lots of children's party spaghetti. And depending on who your mother was, your party could be themed. For my cousin Gabby's birthday (was it your birthday, Gabs?), it was a costume party. I came as an astronaut. I still remember the smell of that stupid plastic visor. The plastic wasn't exactly crystal clear enough so I always had to look up so I wouldn't bump anything or anyone. Anyway, my nephew celebrated his first birthday party at The Conservatory at the Manila Pen and it was different compared to the children's parties of yore. In true classic Steph style, she had the entire place dressed up for her only son's special day. She also had hosts for the kids (who were really cheerful) who played games with them and got Gymboree, too. Kids went home with Animaland plush toys which they personally chose. They even had a ritual on how to insert the "heart" of their new friend. You wish, turn around, jump, and kiss (and do all sorts of things). Matthew's cake didn't have any ceramic figurines on top but it was several cakes that looked like wooden blocks of letters.