Cool Places For Dinner In Nyc

Bright lights, big appetite

New York City offers so many unique and interesting restaurants that you should never waste your time by eating somewhere dull. Known for its variety of authentic ethnic eateries, themed restaurants, and some of the best delis in the world, New York City is a foodie's paradise. Although choosing a dinner locale in America's largest city can be somewhat daunting, the restaurants featured below rank among the coolest the Big Apple has to show.

Ninja New York

If you're sick of the snooty, stuck-up waiters who populate New York City, go to Ninja New York for a complete change of pace. You will find no snobbery here-- only street tricks, hand-to-hand combat, smoke-blowing...and, of course, food. The experience begins when you are brought down the secret ninja path to your cave-like dining area and ends with you being amazed by Ninja New York's signature magic show. The restaurant fittingly serves Japanese cuisine, but the food is undoubtedly rivaled by the waiters. How often do you experience that?

Ninja New York

25 Hudson St.

New York, NY 10013

212-274-8500

www.ninjanewyork.com

Vynl

Rock star-themed bathroom stalls, homemade potato chips, and kitchy decor--what more is there to want in a restaurant? Vynl's bathroom stalls are individually themed with a different musical legend. In addition, its menus are made of genuine album covers, and the cuisine is just as creative as the decor. Be sure to try their mango pancakes, truffle mac and cheese, or create your own grilled cheese sandwich from a lengthy list of cheeses. Located in NYC's theater district, Vynl provides great food, a great theme, and a guaranteed great time.

Vynl

102 8th Ave

New York, NY 10011

212-400-2118

www.vynl-nyc.com/welcome.html

Park Avenue

Park Avenue is a restaurant that can easily become one of your favorites. The time of year that you visit determines the experience you have. Revolving around the seasons, Park Avenue's decor, menu, and overall atmosphere changes four times throughout the year. But the quality of the cuisine does not. Regardless of season, the food is always fresh, and the servers are always attentive. This is one restaurant whose menu fully embraces its theme. From the Haystack Shrimp Salad of Autumn to the Dr. Pepper Ribs of Summer, Park Avenue is a real treat for the senses. And a real treat for anyone in New York City.

Park Avenue

754 9th Ave.

New York, NY 10019

212-974-2003

parkavenyc.com/

Tags: Park Avenue, Ninja York, York City, bathroom stalls, real treat

Beach Scrapbook Ideas

A beach scrapbook is a great way to relieve winter blues or to remember a beach vacation. Keep the cover and pages a light sand-colored tone, and trim the corners with small shells or pieces of sea glass. Personalize your beach scrapbook as much as you can so you will have treasured memories for years to come.

Pick a Color Palate

The beach and summertime are synonymous with sunlight and colors like blue and green. Fabric weaves are loose and airy, and you will want to evoke that feel in your scrapbook. Cover your scrapbook with a light-colored piece of fabric in a loose linen or burlap texture. Tones like ivory will remind you of the sandy beaches, while choosing a light blue or green will remind you of the water.

Decorate the cover with embellishments such as palm tree cut-outs or surfboards and waves. If you collected tiny little shells at the beach during the summer, this is a perfect time to hot glue them in the corners, either on the cover or inside your scrapbook. You can also buy small bags of miniature shells at an art-supply or crafts store.

Beach Pages Ideas

Inside your scrapbook, organize by themes. Organizing your pictures by themes makes even less than spectacular pictures really stand out. Have a page or two with pictures from picnics at the beach, for instance. Even something as simple as photographs of beach chairs or flip-flops creates an interesting focal point when grouped together. Pictures of you and your friends sunbathing or swimming really personalize a scrapbook.

If you have children who like to draw and want to get them involved, let each of them decorate a page each with their drawings and ideas. Ask them what they liked the best and why to get them started. Make sure each child signs the page and paste a small snapshot of the child next to the signature.

Almost every summer there are popular songs that are played over and over again. Have a page with a list of the songs you love to listen to at the beach, along with some cool cut-outs of a radio, beach chair and umbrella. A page with beach menus will bring back those summer days as well, and be sure to list the drinks that are summer favorites, like margaritas or tropical fruit mixes.

Use plenty of beach-themed stickers, cut-outs and, of course, your own photographs. If there are postcards available from a beach you love, include one in your scrapbook. Shrink down a copy of a map of the beaches you stayed at and paste ferry tickets and beach entrance tickets on top of it on another page. In short, include every memory you can of the beach.

Tags: your scrapbook, page with, blue green, Have page, Have page with, will remind

Cocktail Dress Code Etiquette

Research is the key to dressing for a cocktail party.

If you are unfamiliar with cocktail parties, trying to dress for one can be very difficult. When it comes to dressing for cocktail parties, there is a lot of etiquette that is not necessarily common knowledge. It is helpful to prepare for a cocktail party properly so you do not feel under- or overdressed when you arrive. Does this Spark an idea?

Preparation

The trickiest part of dressing for a cocktail party is determining how casual or formal you need to dress. In this case, study the invitation. A lot can be learned by the formality of the invitation, the party's location, and the hours of the party. If the location is a high-class establishment, it is likely that it the dress will be more formal. If it is held outside or at a friend's house, the attire may be casual. Also, if the cocktail party is in the evening, it is most likely more formal than if it is in the afternoon. The invitation may even have direct instructions on dress, such as "black tie optional," or "business casual."

Men

If the cocktail party is formal, men are expected to dress as they would for any formal event. A suit and tie are probably the best bet, but a tie is absolutely necessary. The most common color for a formal dress code is black, or at least dark colors, although this can change, depending on what colors are seasonable for menswear.

If the cocktail party is casual, still dress in a professional manner. It is advised not to wear jeans to a cocktail party, although a button down shirt and khakis with no tie is acceptable. If you are uncertain of whether or not to wear a jacket and tie, bring one with you and leave it in the car or in the coatroom. It never hurts to be prepared.

Women

Women have many options when it comes to dressing for a cocktail party. For a formal party, there are many cocktail-style dresses available that are dressier and are perfect for this kind of event. If you are uncertain, a basic "little black dress" is always a safe choice and will work almost anywhere. Dress the look up or down, depending on the type of accessories you wear.

If you are attending a casual cocktail party or a business themed cocktail party, a business suit or dress slacks often work best. Also consider wearing a simple, more professional dress. If you are uncertain how dressy your outfit should be, bring a suit coat that matches your outfit in case you need to dress your look up a bit.

Tags: cocktail party, dressing cocktail, dressing cocktail party, casual cocktail, casual cocktail party

Bingo Card Rules

Bingo Card Rules

Bingo is a popular group game played at parties and halls. It has been around for years, bringing young and old together alike. It is a very easy game to learn and play. Continue reading to learn about the rules and possible strategies of playing bingo.

Begining the Game

Players will take one or more cards. You will also have playing pieces to cover the numbers on your card. The announcer (the one who will draw the number balls) will tell everybody what kind of bingo game it will be--whether the numbers will have to be all covered across, vertically, four squares or a blackout.

Playing

All players must listen and watch for each number ball that is drawn. They then look at all of their cards to see if the number is there and is in the area that can be covered to win a "bingo." For example, if the announcer has announced that the current game will be "four squares," and then calls out a seven, then the players must look for the number seven in all four squares of their cards. If it is there, they cover it with a playing piece.

Patterns

Blackout is when all of the numbers on the bingo card are covered. A four square round is when only the four corners of the bingo card has to be covered. Diagonal is when all of the numbers across your card are covered. Sometimes announcers may only call odd or even numbers as well.

Winning

Players call "bingo" once all of their numbers have been covered according to the set pattern. When a player calls out "bingo," the announcer will usually check the card to make sure it corresponds with the numbers that have been called. If all of the numbers are covered, that player wins the round.

Strategies

If you are going to play in a bingo hall, it is best to arrive early so that you can choose your desired amount of cards. You can also have time to set up and organize your playing area for easier access. Also, sit as close to the caller as you can, so that you can hear all of the numbers that have been called. Always stay alert and aware so that you do not miss out on that possible winning number.

Tags: card covered, four squares, have been, also have, announcer will, been called

All Inclusive Trips To Dubai

Burj al Arab in Dubai, the world's first seven-star hotel.

Like other beach and sun destinations, many of the deluxe five-star resorts that make Dubai the glamor destination that it is feature all-inclusive packages for a supplemental rate and some even operate on an all-inclusive basis. Taking advantage of this option is a great way to visit Dubai and save.

Jebel Ali Palm Tree Court & Spa

Wealth and privelege in Dubai.

The luxurious five-star Jebel Ali Palm Tree Court & Spa is set within the grounds of the award-winning Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa along the palm tree filled Arabian Gulf beachfront. Resort amenities include nine-hole golf course, equestrian center, spa, restaurants, bars and shops. Suites feature private balcony or terrace, SAT TV, fine furnishings and great views. When booking the all-inclusive option for an additional supplement, guests are provided with accommodations in any level guestroom or suite, all meals, soft drinks and local water, house pouring spirits, wine and beer (from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.), free windsurfing, catamaran, laser, kayaking and camel rides.

Palm Tree Court & Spa

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa

PO Box 9255

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

+971-4-814-5555

jebelali-international.com

Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort

Dubai is a thoroughly modern city.

This new all-inclusive resort hotel run by the Spanish Iberotel brand stands right on the Indian Ocean some 90 minutes from Dubai. The Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort features two swimming pools, wellness center, three restaurants, shops, two tennis courts, live entertainment and a disco. Guestrooms have air-conditioning, TV, balcony or terrace, and modern furnishings. As an all-inclusive resort the Miramar Al Aqah Beach resort provides all guests with all meals, soft drinks, house drinks, and waters.

Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort

United Arab Emirates

PO Box 5218 Fujairah

+971-9-244-9994

iberotel.com

Jebel Ali Hotel

The stark beauty of the desert at sunset.

The five-star Jebel Ali Hotel is self-described as a family beach hotel and is located 15 minutes from Dubai Marina. The hotel features 800 yards of private beach, endless gardens, three heated swimming pools and 15 restaurants and bars, nine-hole golf course, spa, seaplane trips and a diving center. Guestrooms are very large and have deluxe amenities.

For an added supplement guests are welcome to select the hotel's all-inclusive option accommodations in any level guestroom, all meals, soft drinks and local water, house pouring spirits, wine and beer (from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.), free windsurfing, catamaran, laser, kayaking, and camel rides.

Jebel Ali Hotel

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa

Sheikh Zayed Road Exit 13

00000 Dubai

United Arab Emirates

+971-4-814-5555

jebelali-international.com

Tags: Aqah Beach, Miramar Aqah, Miramar Aqah Beach, Aqah Beach Resort, Arab Emirates, Golf Resort, Jebel Golf

Cruises From Los Angeles To Hawaii

Cruise into the islands

Cruises are a convenient way to see multiple islands of Hawaii, while also enjoying the all-inclusive amenities of a hotel at sea. Instead of unpacking and packing at each destination, you can hop on and off the boat and only pack once. If Los Angeles is your chosen embarkation point, there are three main companies that dominate that route, in addition to the private charter option. After cruising the Pacific for days, you'll enjoy day excursions onto the lush, beautiful islands of Hawaii.

Princess Cruises

On the more affordable end of the spectrum, Princess Cruises offer much for the traveler looking for a more budget Hawaiian holiday, but still wanting many amenities. Both the Golden Princess and the Sapphire Princess ships sail 14-day cruises from the port of Los Angeles in San Pedro, California. The Golden Princess sails more frequently with bi-weekly cruises in the spring and fall, while the Sapphire is usually monthly. They both follow the same schedule, with five days at sea followed by stops at Hilo on the big island of Hawaii, Honolulu on Oahu, then onto Kauai, ending with Lahaina. On the return home you'll have four days at sea, followed by a brief stop in Ensenada, Mexico, then back to the port of L.A. on day 15. Princess boasts a first-class spa, big-screen movies, production shows, and myriad dining options.

Cunard

The name Cunard is synonymous with lavish luxury, as their line boasts the Queen Elizabeth II, thought to be the fanciest cruise in the world. Their Queen Victoria ship sails from Los Angeles to Hawaii infrequently, often only three or four times a year, and follows the same pattern as Princess. Five days at sea begins the journey, followed by stops in Hilo, Honolulu, Kauai and Maui. They also stop in Ensenada on the five-day return. The ship's Grand Lobby is reminiscent of the Titantic and the rich British history of this cruise line.

Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises offer first-class treatment and accommodations. They are a jump up in price and luxury from both the Princess and Cunard Hawaiian cruises. Crystal offers two round-trip Los Angeles to Hawaii cruises a few times a year, in addition to cruises that depart Los Angeles, makes stops in Hawaii, then venture onto Australia or French Polynesia. Their L.A. to Hawaii round-trip cruises are both 14 days. The Grand Hawaiian Holiday departs from Los Angeles with five days at sea, followed by stops beginning with Maui, then Oahu, Kauai, ending with Hilo. On the return there is a stop in Ensenada, Mexico before arriving back in L.A. on day 15. Their Hawaiian Dreams cruise is similar, except the island order begins with Hilo and ends with Maui. Their large staterooms all have at least one window (most have stately verandahs), Frette sheets on the beds and plush robes for lounging.

Tags: Angeles Hawaii, days followed, followed stops, stop Ensenada, Cruises offer, Crystal Cruises, days followed stops

Cheap Resorts In Hawaii

Find your inexpensive Hawaiian resort just a block or two from the beach.

Visiting Hawaii does not have to be an expensive proposition. Depending on the island, you can find affordable resorts that are beachfront, across the street from the water or just a short block or two away. No matter where you stay, don't forget that the amazing scenery, colorful sunsets and strolls on the beach are free.

Oahu -- Queen Kapiolani Hotel

Find an affordable resort hotel in Waikiki by just stepping away from the beach. One of the area's landmark properties, the Queen Kapiolani Hotel offers not only resort amenities, but it also sits across from the spacious park of the same name. The hotel and the park were named after King David Kalakaua's queen. Relax in the free-form swimming pool on the third-floor deck, or enjoy a meal at the Garden Lanai restaurant. Choose an ocean-view room and watch the sunset from your private balcony. The most affordable rooms are the city view, but if you want to spend a bit more, book a deluxe studio. These units have kitchenettes and you can save money by eating in. The Queen Kapiolani offers discounts to military personnel, seniors and AAA members as well as various night free specials throughout the year. This hotel is only one block from Waikiki Beach.

Queen Kapiolani Hotel

150 Kapahulu Ave.

Honolulu, HI 96815

800-533-6970

queenkapiolani.com

Kauai -- Islander on the Beach

Stay in your own beachfront bit of affordable paradise on Kauai's Coconut Coast. Choose an ocean-view or oceanfront room at this low-rise property and welcome the dawn from your furnished balcony. The beach along the property is great for long walks but the water is too rough to make it a good swimming beach. Instead, take a dip in the pool or soak in the hot tub and look out at the ocean at the same time. Book an island tour or a luau with the on-site activity consultants. Walk the two blocks to the Coconut Marketplace for a bit of shopping or a visit to a local restaurant.

Islander on the Beach

440 Aleka Place

Kapaa, HI 96746

808-822-7417

Maui -- Pioneer Inn

Combine your hotel stay in Maui with a bit of Hawaiian history when you stay at the Pioneer Inn. Not only will you lay your head in the same property that entertained Jack London, Spencer Tracy and Frank Sinatra, you will have the entire resort town of Lahaina at your feet. Despite its claim to fame, this century-old property is still one of the best bargains on Maui. Managed by the Best Western hotel chain, the remodeled guest rooms still feature the old-fashioned bathrooms, high ceilings and vintage furnishings. Rooms overlook Lahaina Harbor, a short 50 feet away, and the town. If you are looking for quiet, request a courtyard room or one overlooking the huge banyan tree next door. Lahaina is, after all, a party town. If you are looking for food, drink, music and song, you will not be disappointed.

Best Western Pioneer Inn

605 Wharf St.

Lahaina, HI 96761

808-661-3636

pioneerinnmaui.com

Big Island -- Kona Islander Inn Hotel

In the midst of historic Kailua-Kona town, the Kona Islander Inn & Hotel offers a resort-like setting at reasonable rates. Best of all, it is across the street from one of the sandy beaches right in town. While on the property enjoy manicured tropical gardens, swimming pool and hot tub and a place to hold an impromptu barbecue. The three-story inn offers units with ocean views, and all rooms come with furnished balconies. This is a laid-back, friendly resort with front desk personnel eager to tell you about their island paradise. You are even welcome to pick the bananas in the garden when they are ripe.

Kona Islander Inn Hotel

75-5776 Kuakini Highway

Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

808-329-9393

konaislanderinnhotel.com

Tags: Queen Kapiolani, Islander Hotel, Kapiolani Hotel, Kona Islander, Kona Islander Hotel

About Places For Kids To Go For Birthday Parties

Birthday parties are extra-special events for kids. While having a birthday cake and ice cream at home is always a good idea, there are many other places to hold a birthday party that will make the event even more memorable. All it takes is a little extra planning. Does this Spark an idea?

Age

The most important thing to consider is the age of the children attending. While parents may be eager to celebrate an infant's first birthday, he is probably too young for a party at the local fast-food restaurant. Likewise, a pre-teen has probably outgrown the pizza parlor with the ball pit and climbing apparatus.

Interests

The next important consideration is the interests of the birthday boy or girl and the guests. Mom and grandma may have dreamed of a princess party, complete with crowns and wands, but it won't come off well if she is more interested in soccer. Dad and grandpa may want a hunting party, but their boy may be more interested in video games.

Budget

An equally important consideration is budget. While there are storefront companies that specialize in children's birthday parties, they can be quite expensive. If money is an issue, consider whether you can pick and choose which of the party company's features you can use.

You may want to do similar activities at another venue. For example, have a pop star theme at the local bowling alley by bringing dollar-store jewelry and feather boas and having the guests dress up between frames. Have a military theme at a picnic by bringing the Super Soakers along with camouflage tableware.

Travel Time

When choosing a party destination, consider the travel time involved. It is likely you will be transporting many of the items and guests yourself, so consider whether the event will be worth the distance, in case there is a forgotten item or if the children get restless.

Season

Depending on the region you live in, the weather can be a major factor in choosing a party destination. A picnic in a local park can be wonderful or terrible, depending on local weather. Be sure there is an alternative in case of last-minute weather changes.

Also, consider the season and the venue. A zoo party is delightful when the baby animals are arriving. However, in the heat of summer, the animals may be sluggish or hidden away in their cooler dens. An autumn nature center party can be glorious in the fall colors, or a big mud fight once the rainy season hits.

Uniqueness

While every birthday party is special because of the guest of honor, it does help to use imagination when planning a party. If everyone else has a pirate party or a princess party, consider going to a science museum instead.

Try to think outside the box a little. For example, consider miniature golf or go-karts. Perhaps the little girls will enjoy visiting a nail salon. A tour of a bakery or a chocolate factory may offset the cost of a cake. Visiting a ceramics studio may take the place of party games and goody bags.

Tags: birthday party, choosing party, choosing party destination, consider whether, important consideration, more interested, party destination

Couples' Shower Ideas

Couples' showers are a fun alternative to the traditional bridal shower.

A couples' shower is a great way to include the groom and all of the couple's male friends into a traditionally female celebration. People sometimes call a couples' shower a co-ed or Jack-and-Jill shower. Instead of a formal, girlie celebration, a couples' shower is a relaxed, casual affair. What was once considered a strange shower idea that strayed too far from tradition is an acceptable option today. Does this Spark an idea?

Planning

Before you begin planning, be sure a couples' shower is something the bride and groom want to do. It is, after all, their special day and you want to be sure they are comfortable with your plans. Since men and women will be invited, feel free to involve the groomsmen in the party planning. It is appropriate for all of the shower planners to divide the costs equally. Be sure the groomsmen understand this ahead of time.

Invitations

Be clear on the invitation that men are invited to the shower too. Couples' shower invitations are available, but if you choose a traditional bridal shower invitation, write something inside stating that couples are invited. For single friends, be sure to let them know that they are welcome to bring a date.

Themes

Casual themes work best for a couples' shower. The vibe is closer to that of a cocktail party or dinner party, according to The Knot. Consider a picnic in the park, pig roast, cook-out in someone's backyard, pool party or casual restaurant. The menu choices should be simple, such as pizza or hamburgers and hot dogs. You may choose to forgo a meal entirely and serve finger foods and appetizers, according to the Web site Bliss Tree. If the couple enjoys a mutual activity together, such as camping, NASCAR or cooking, create a theme around that.

Games

Play games that include men and women at the couples' shower. Ask the bride and groom a series of questions ahead of time. Read their answers and ask guests to guess if he said it or she said it. See how well the couple knows each other by interviewing each about the other. Ask guests to predict how many questions each one will get right. For a simple game, randomly set a timer while the couple is opening their gifts. When the timer goes off, the person who gave the gift being opened receives a prize. Nix the games altogether if you think that the co-ed crowd would not enjoy them.

Prizes and Favors

Choose unisex prizes for your games, since you won't know if a man or a woman will win them. Some ideas include gift cards for restaurants, bookstores or big box stores like Target or Walmart. Favors should also appeal to men and women. For a fun idea, make personalized candy bars and give each guest an empty container to fill up.

Tags: couples shower, ahead time, bridal shower, bride groom, couples shower, traditional bridal, traditional bridal shower

Games For Church Ladies Banquets

Church ladies and banquets seem to go hand-in-hand.

When church ladies gather at a banquet, the atmosphere sparkles with feminine energy and dynamic energy invested in their church causes and activities. As they celebrate achievements and catch up on each other's spiritual, professional and personal lives, entertain them with games to break the ice, to focus on the banquet theme or to send them away with laughter and perhaps a prize. Adapt secular games to a religious or spiritual theme. Give women's daily meditation books or calendars as prizes.

Door Prizes

Refreshment and stretch breaks offer opportunities to give away door prizes. Involve the ladies in a light-hearted door prize activity. Hand out numbered tickets as the women arrive. Place a large bowl of matching numbered tickets in a central location with a bell beside it. Announce at the beginning of the event that any woman may ring the bell during breaks -- one ring for each break. When the bell rings, the ringer picks a ticket from the bowl and gives the winner her door prize.

Icebreaker

Many of the women gathered will know each other in varying degrees. Engage them in conversation with a spiritual tone. Ask each attendee to write a spiritual conversation topic on a piece of paper and one letter of the alphabet. Suggest topics, such as prayer, tithing and communion. Place the slips of paper in a bowl. Pass the bowl around the banquet tables, asking every third woman to pick a paper. She and her two immediate neighbors engage in a conversation about the topic on the paper. The website Victorian Parlour Games suggests a twist. Each sentence must begin with the letter of the alphabet on the paper. The women must work through the alphabet from that letter, sentence by sentence. They stop when they make their way back to the letter with which they started.

Lenten Games

Ash Wednesday can be an occasion for some Christian women to gather at a banquet to enjoy Fat Tuesday and to plan their spiritual activities in their congregation for the next 40 days. Play a break out game to test the ladies' knowledge of the Stations of the Cross. Divide the women by table or by groups around a table. Ask them to write down the Stations of the Cross in order. The women at the table who get the answers correct win rosaries. Bring rosaries for all and give the rest of the guests theirs as they leave the banquet.

Departure Games

As the day or evening winds down, test the ladies' memories with a quick game. Invite everyone to stand up and mingle for a stretch break before closing ceremonies. Ask the women to spend 90 seconds with another person, each woman tells the other one new piece of information she learned during the banquet. Use a timer and ring a bell when 90 seconds is up. Ask the women to talk to someone new, telling each other another piece of interesting or new information gleaned during the evening.

Tags: each other, door prize, gather banquet, letter alphabet, numbered tickets, ring bell, Stations Cross

Easy Hawaii Games

Traditional sliding games involve sledding down Hawaiian hills.

Traditional Hawaiian games often involve skill-based individual competition to help prepare people for battle, notes the Hawaii History website. In addition, many traditional Hawaiian games focus on available native resources such as banana stalks used as sleds and taking advantage of the ocean for competitions. While many traditional sliding and water games are easy to replicate today, two other games of accuracy, Ulu Maika and O'o Ihe, are easily replicated as well.

O'o Ihe

O'o Ihe, a traditional game of spear throwing ability, helped Hawaiians practice their accuracy at throwing spears across a long distance in preparation for battle. This game requires little setup and a foam pool noodle is used in place of the spear. To play this simple game, clear a large open area and designate a throw line, which competitors can not cross. Each person throws his spear as far as he can. The person who throws the farthest is the winner.

Ulu Maika

A bowling game, Ulu Maika gave Hawaiians the chance to practice their accuracy at rolling small items and their strength in sending a stone to the proper distance according to the Hawaii History website. This game involves placing two wooden stakes in the ground, eight to 10 inches apart and allowing each participant to roll four stones through the sticks, in an attempt to get the stones to pass through the sticks. The distance between participants and the sticks vary with ability level and should be decided before starting the game. Hockey pucks, bean bags or small balls of yarn may be used instead of stones.

Sliding Games

Taking advantage of Hawaii's hills and mountains, children and adults both took part in sliding and sledding games. While adult games often involved constructed courses and specific equipment, simple Hawaiian sliding games can be played today by sliding down a hill on a coconut fronds or banana plant stalks. Competition includes seeing who reaches the bottom of the hill fastest or who travels the furthest.

Water Games

Being an island nation, many Hawaiian games focus on water skills. So long as you have access to water, these games are easily replicated today. The game of lele kawa involves jumping into water in an attempt to make the smallest splash, while lele pahu is the opposite, where competitors must make the largest splash. Aho loa has players compete to see who can hold their breath underwater for the longest amount of time, and kaupua tests competitors skills to see who can find and return with an object from the sea floor the quickest.

Tags: Hawaiian games, easily replicated, games focus, games often, Hawaii History, Hawaii History website, Hawaiian games focus

Flowers For Tropical Wedding Centerpieces

Emphasize the bold colors and lines of bird of paradise flowers in your arrangements.

Accessorize your lush, tropical wedding theme with blossoms and arrangements dripping in exotic lilies, hibiscus, birds of paradise, cheerful daisies and classic roses. Glittered or natural halo sticks -- spiral-shaped wooden picks that accent centerpieces and arrangements -- add height, while feather plumes and sprays of jewels or pearls add extra flair. Fill clear vases with sliced citrus fruit to bring color throughout the centerpiece, and use bold colored vessels for artificial flower centerpieces.

White Flowers

Classic white orchids, lilies, ginger and tuberoses form an elegant base for brighter, bold flowers and help prevent the colored flowers from becoming overpowering. Use artificial blossoms to keep costs down or fresh blossoms for a more uniform look to your arrangements. White blossoms present a blank canvas for you to build up with other elements including feather plumes, sprays of pearls and crystals, glitter or natural halo sticks or other accents.

Brightly Colored Flowers

Colored flowers bring the lush shades of the tropics into your decor and can offer a wide range of hues. Oranges, reds and purples mimic the colors of a bright sunset, while blues and greens re-create the vibrant ocean and rich sky. Customize your flower choices and color selection according to the symbolism of the flowers and their shades or by your personal preferences. Calla lilies, orchids, protea and Gerber daisies are available in a wide range of colors and make bold statements in centerpieces.

Greenery

Greenery adds contrast to your bold blossoms and makes their colors even brighter. Ti leaf, ferns, seaweed and grasses work together to make naturally beautiful bases for arrangements or to fill in the bottom half of a centerpiece. Palm leaves are an excellent way to tie in the island culture and, coupled with other foliage, can create a soft and pretty foundation for your centerpieces.

Artificial Flowers

Artificial flowers offer longevity and versatility, as well as color options or combinations not found in nature. Silk blossoms are also valuable alternatives for couples with allergies, as the combinations of flowers can wreak havoc with the pollen and scents. Mix artificial and real blooms, use artificial blossoms with fresh foliage, or use strictly artificial items and experiment with bird of paradise or calla lily pomanders since you will be able to manipulate the flowers more easily.

Other Centerpiece Elements

Jewels, feathers, crystals and pearls, as well as kona coffee beans, macadamia nuts, coconuts and pineapple add island flair to your centerpieces and can be incorporated next to the flowers, mixed into the vases and vessels, or scattered around the bases of centerpieces to further accessorize the table. Glitter or natural wooden halo sticks add height to your centerpiece, while sprays of pearls and beads create dripping, cascading effects.

Tags: halo sticks, artificial blossoms, bird paradise, feather plumes, feather plumes sprays, natural halo

Easy Baby Shower Cake Ideas

Depending on the mom-to-be, a simple strawberry cheesecake may be ideal.

A baby shower cake should start with the cake recipe that the mom-to-be likes best, which makes that part fairly easy to decide. Actual decorations for the cake may pose more difficulty, but they do not have to. Hostesses should let the personality of the mother-to-be guide the cake. A high-energy mom calls for a very festive cake, whereas a laidback mom who likes to keep it simple might prefer a simpler cake. Does this Spark an idea?

Themed Cakes

It is true that themed cakes can be complicated. However, with the wide variety of baby-shower-appropriate pans available in houseware and department stores, anyone with an oven has a lot of choices to make cake-shaping easier. Baby bottle-shaped pans can work equally well for boys and girls, or can be gender-neutral if mom does not know yet. Alphabet blocks, rubber ducks, giant cupcakes, teddy bears, rabbits and doll-shaped cake pans are just some of the options a hostess can choose from. Once the cake is baked in the shape of one of these pans, it is only a matter of applying some frosting. Hostesses can use a treasured recipe, or can even use cake mix if they prefer.

Simple Cakes

Simple cakes may be round or square, depending on whatever pans a host has on hand. However, since the shape is simple, a knockout cake recipe is a good idea to balance out the simplicity of the cake's shape. If a host has a treasured heirloom cake recipe from Grandma, this is the time to use it. Frosting can be as simple as a poured ganache (rich chocolate or white chocolate pourable cream frosting that coats a cake smoothly), or can be piped buttercream.

Hosts who want to involve other people who will be attending the baby shower can plan to make a best wishes cake. This cake is frosted simply in a neutral frosting, such as white vanilla buttercream. Guests attending the party should be asked to arrive early to help decorate the cake, taking turns writing their good wishes for mom and baby (or babies) in icing on the surface of the cake, much like a group greeting card.

Diaper Cake

A diaper cake may, in some ways, be simplest to make of all; there is, after all, no baking involved whatsoever. Instead, a diaper cake is a nice way for a hostess to gather a number of essential items a new mom will need, especially during those hectic first few months with the new baby. Depending on the size of the diaper cake, hostesses should gather between 50 and 70 diapers, along with baby shampoo, baby wipes and other assorted necessary baby care items. Diapers are rolled tightly into little rolls, which are then stacked next to each other and interspersed with other baby care items to form the tiers of a "cake." A giant baby bottle is often used as the center, coming up through the middle so that the cap forms the top cake tier, but, ultimately, the hostess can decide if she likes that particular design element. The cake is then festooned with ribbons and is often used as a centerpiece, much like an edible cake. Hostesses interested in this option should check discreetly to find out whether the new mom prefers cloth or disposable diapers, and may also want to serve a simple edible cake alongside this cake for shower guests.

Tags: cake recipe, diaper cake, baby care, baby care items, baby shower, care items

Does Florida Have A Free State Tuition Program For Residents

The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program makes college affordable for state residents. This program, open to students who graduate from a Florida high school, reduces the amount of tuition that students pay out of pocket. It does not make college free for state residents, however. The amount of money a student earns depends on his academic credentials and the school he enrolls in.

Financial Benefits

Florida groups Bright Futures applicants into four areas, depending on their high-school academic record -- Academic Top Scholars, Florida Academic Scholars, Florida Medallion Scholars and Gold Seal Vocational Scholars. Academic Top Scholars, the highest-achieving students, earn $178 a semester hour at Florida schools. Florida Academic Scholars receive $125 a semester hour, while Medallion Scholars earn $94 a semester hour at four-year schools and $58 at two-year schools. Finally, students enrolled at career and vocational schools earn the designation of Gold Seal Vocational Scholars and receive $94 a semester hour at a four-year school and $58 at a two-year school.

Academic Requirements

Academic requirements determine how much money Florida students can put toward their college education. Florida Academic Scholars must have a 3.5 high school grade point average and a 1270 on the SAT or a 28 on the ACT. Academic Scholars earning the top grades and test scores in their region earn the designation of Top Scholars. Florida Medallion Scholars have to earn a 3.0 GPA and a 970 SAT score or 20 ACT score. Gold Seal Vocational Scholars must earn a 3.0 GPA in 16 core high school courses and minimum standardized test scores.

Other Requirements

Florida Bright Futures recipients have to graduate from a public Florida high school or a state-sanctioned private school. Students who aim to be Florida Academic Scholars must complete 75 hours of community service; the other designation levels have no community service requirement.

Participating Schools

Students can use their Bright Futures scholarship money at most Florida colleges and universities. Large state schools like the University of Florida, University of Central Florida and Florida State University accept Bright Future monies. Smaller colleges like Rollins College and St. Leo College also participate in the program. Students who are on the career or vocational track can put their money to use at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, Atlantic Technical Center and Dade Medical College.

Tags: Academic Scholars, Bright Futures, Florida Academic, Florida Academic Scholars, high school, semester hour, Gold Seal

Cupcake Decorating Ideas

Use seasonal candy as toppers for your cupcakes.

Holidays, birthdays, season changes, family gatherings, bake sales and even weddings are perfect excuses for cupcakes. Instead of throwing away money for pre-made cupcakes, decorate your own this year, tailoring them to your family and the occasion. Whether you bake yours from scratch or use cake mixes and pre-made icing, you will save money and have cupcakes perfect for every occasion. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Animals

If you want to make animal cupcakes, for a fundraiser or a zoo-themed birthday party, you can use the cupcake as the face of the animal, the body or the landscape for the animal. Decorate the cupcakes with icing and use candy and cookies to make the details of the face. Use smaller cupcakes as the head, while the rest is the body. Form the face with chocolate chips, candies and icing. Use licorice for the tail and wafers for the ears. Mold the animals out of fondant or marzipan and place it on top of the iced cupcakes. Use piping tools to make details out the icing and candies to mimic the animals' features. If decorating with icing is not your forte, buy some icing toppers (in the baking isle of the grocery store) and frost the cupcakes with sky blue and grass green icing for the background.

Seasonal

Make heart-shaped cupcakes for Valentine's Day, bunnies for Easter and spiders for Halloween. Pumpkins and turkey cupcakes fit into every Thanksgiving dinner, while Rudolf and wreaths work for Christmas. Top the cupcakes with seasonal candies and cookies if you are strapped for time. Decorate the tops as flowers for spring, the sun for summer, leaves for fall and snowflakes for winter.

Food

For barbecues make cupcakes that look like corn on the cob. Ice three cupcakes in white or yellow icing and top with rows or white and yellow jelly beans. Set the cupcakes side by side, put corn holders on the ends and a square of yellow taffy on top as a slice of butter. Create hamburger cupcakes with vanilla wafers for the buns, chocolate-cover cookie for the patty, green-tinted coconut for lettuce and red and yellow icing for ketchup and mustard. Nestle the "hamburger" with sesame seeds on top of a frosted cupcake, add some colorful sprinkles and treat the kids to the meal and dessert in one. Split a circus peanut for a hot dog bun, shape a caramel square into a hot dog shape and top with yellow icing piping for mustard and chopped up green gumdrop for relish.

Sports

For sporting events, make cupcakes that reflect the sport. Decorate the top of the cupcakes as the balls, with brown icing and white piping for a football, white icing and red piping stitches for a baseball, white icing and black designs for a soccer ball and orange icing and black piping for a basketball. Top plain cupcakes with sugar or plastic toppers of sports images if you don't have much time or patience with the icing. Decorate the cupcake as the basketball goal, position a basketball candy on top of the rim and attach a cookie, piped with icing for the lines, for the backboard.

Tags: cupcakes with, with icing, yellow icing, cupcakes that, Decorate cupcakes

Cheap Attractions In Hawaii

You can have fun in Hawaii without spending a fortune.

Hawaii is a beautiful and popular tourist destination. But once you have your hotel, airfare and rental car booked, often there isn't a lot of money left for tourist attractions. And even if you do have a sight-seeing budget, a luau for the entire family or a whale-watching tour can make funds disappear fast. Fortunately, there are fun things to do in Hawaii that don't cost a bundle.

Free Activities on Oahu

Oahu may afford the most opportunity for free or reasonably-priced fun in comparison to Maui or the big island of Hawaii. Additionally, the public transportation on Oahu is better and more expansive. The Queen's Beach in Waikiki has free movie night every weekend featuring a 30-foot screen right on the beach. The movies are family-appropriate and you can enjoy live music prior to the show. The Marketplace in Waikiki with its many shops and stores is fun to explore. You can also enjoy free street performers or hula dancers nearby. The U.S.S. Arizona Memorial is a place that anyone visiting Oahu should try to see. The ship, sunk during the bombing of Pearl Harbor is visible below the memorial and many of the brave soldiers that gave their lives remain entombed inside it.

Free or Nearly Free Activities on Maui

You will need some form of transportation to visit most of the activities on Maui since the tourist areas are widely spread and public transportation is limited. Although whale-watching and snorkeling are popular activities on Maui, you needn't book tours to enjoy either of them. There is very good whale-watching almost anywhere on the island during February or March, and if you'd like to know more about whales, you can visit the Whaling Center of the Pacific in Lahaina which offers free tours. Snorkeling equipment is reasonable to rent and Maui affords several great places to explore under the water.

Activities for Free on the Big Island

The big island of Hawaii is the one to visit if you don't enjoy crowds. In order to sight-see affordably, you will most likely need a rental car since arranged tours can be very expensive. By touring the island with your own vehicle, you can visit many of the same destinations that booked island tours go including Akaka or Rainbow Falls, Liliuokalani Gardens, Lava Tree State Park and Punalu'u Black Sand Beach. If you are a history buff, find about the tsunamis that hit Hilo in the 1960s by stopping at the Tsunami Museum in downtown Hilo.

Simple Island Attractions

Apart from touring and hiking, no Hawaiian vacation is complete without enjoying the most simple attractions of all such as walking on the beach, photographing the beautiful foliage, boogie-boarding or body-surfing in the clear blue ocean, and best of all, sitting on the beach and enjoying a breath-taking Hawaiian sunset.

Tags: Free Activities, island Hawaii, public transportation

Foods For Afternoon Baby Showers

Foods for afternoon baby showers should be tasty and light.

When planning foods for an afternoon baby shower, first consider what the mommy-to-be likes. Then consider the guest list and anyone who might have dietary restrictions. Include a variety of foods. Accommodate people who don't eat meat, for example, or who don't drink soda. Stick with light fare, whether offering a full meal or snacks. Does this Spark an idea?

Main Dishes

For a shower that is given closer to lunch time, serve something a little heavier than snacks. Chicken, shrimp and vegetable kabobs can be grilled outside when the weather is nice. Use cookie cutters to create finger sandwiches in shapes that fit the baby shower theme. Choose the most common meats, such as turkey, ham, tuna and chicken salad. Include at least one vegetarian option, such as soy meat and soy cheese or cucumber sandwiches. Complement your finger sandwiches with fresh cups of fruit and chips.

Desserts And Drinks

Fresh baked chocolate chip or oatmeal cookies are quick desserts for a baby shower. Homemade mints are a refreshing addition to the sweets table. A cake with a baby theme can be purchased in advance from a bakery. Offer ice cream on the side. For drinks, include a variety of juices, sodas, water and a light wine for the non-pregnant in the crowd.

Cheese, Crackers And Fruits

Serve a lighter meal or a variety of snacks for a baby shower given after 2 pm. Slice and dice an assortment of cheeses and serve with a variety of crackers or light breads. Cut up vegetables and serve alongside a hot or cold dip. Complement with fresh-cut strawberries and grapes or other fruit in season.

Tags: baby shower, finger sandwiches

Cheap Motels Around St Anthony Id

There are several hotel choices around St. Anthony.

St. Anthony is a town located in Dubois County, Indiana, approximately 90 minutes west of Louisville, Kentucky. While there are no hotels or motels located directly in St. Anthony, the surrounding towns, particularly Jasper, offer a plethora of cheap accommodations for the budget traveler, ranging from large national chains to local establishments.

Hampton Inn Jasper

The Hampton Inn in Jasper, about 20 minutes from St. Anthony, has 73 rooms and is part of the Hampton Inn chain of hotels. It has received a three diamond AAA Hotel Diamond rating and is a Category 3 Hilton HHonors Reward hotel. Amenities include a swimming pool, fitness center, business center, high speed Internet access and a meeting room. The hotel is wheelchair-accessible.

Holiday Inn Express Jasper

The Holiday Inn Express in Jasper, also about 20 minutes from St. Anthony, has 77 rooms and is part of the Holiday Inn chain of hotels. Twenty-five of its rooms are single-bedded while 52 contain double beds. Amenities include a whirlpool, a fully-equipped business center with a meeting room for business travelers, high speed internet access and a Jacuzzi available to all guests. The hotel is conveniently located near popular area attractions.

Days Inn Jasper

The Days Inn in Jasper, also located in Jasper, is a winner of the Chairman's Award, as well as a recognized Property of Distinction hotel. Rooms with single beds or two beds are available. Amenities include free wireless high speed Internet, a business center, a Daybreak Breakfast, as well as a fitness center for guests. The hotel is conveniently located near popular area attractions.

Quality Inn Huntingburg

The Quality Inn Huntingburg is located in Huntingburg, Indiana, also near St. Anthony. Rooms with single beds or two beds are available, as well as suites. Amenities include free wireless high speed Internet, a business center, a free continental breakfast, as well as a pool and hot tub for guests. The hotel is conveniently located near popular area attractions.

Tags: Amenities include, business center, high speed, area attractions, conveniently located, conveniently located near

Gay Hotels In Honolulu

Several hotels in Honolulu welcome gay tourists.

The United States is becoming increasingly tolerant, friendly and welcoming to gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered tourists. Hawaii is particularly inviting toward GLBT travelers, and boasts a number of gay beaches, bars and clubs as well as a yearly gay pride festival. When staying in the capital of Honolulu, GLBT vacationers have a number of gay-friendly hotels from which to choose. These hotels are not only gay friendly, but also gay owned

Waikiki Place

Waikiki Place offers guests tropical luxury studio apartments for budget prices. The studios are across the street from a gay bar and dance club, and within walking distance to several beaches, including Queens Surf, Kapiolani Park, and Waikiki Beach. Every room has a full kitchen, free parking, free Internet access, local and long distance phone service, and, if you stay more than seven nights, free airport pickup. Waikiki Place prides itself on its central location amidst so many beaches, bars, shops, and restaurants. You could feasibly stay here without renting a car. Couples and singles are welcome.

Waikiki Place

364 Seaside Ave.

Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96815

808-271-4800

waikikiplace.com

Ali'i Bluffs Windward Bed and Breakfast

Ali'i Bluffs Windward Bed and Breakfast is on the quiet Windward Coast of Honolulu. This bed and breakfast is a luxuriously-furnished private home overlooking Kaneohe Bay. It offers two double bedrooms, each with a private bath. Guests have use of the living room, library and swimming pool. Your stay includes a breakfast of fresh fruits and juices, cereals, homemade banana bread, toast, and tea or coffee at your convenience, as well as an afternoon tea. If you get tired of the quiet beaches and coves nearby, the bars and clubs of Waikiki are only 30 minutes away.

Ali'i Bluffs Windward Bed and Breakfast

46-251 Ikiiki

Kaneohe, Oahu, HI 96744

808 235-1124

hawaiiscene.com/aliibluffs

Cabana at Waikiki

The Cabana at Waikiki is Hawaii's first gay owned and operated hotel. It is a small, gay-owned hotel featuring 15 one-bedroom suites with fully-equipped kitchens. Although the Cabana is only one block from Waikiki Beach, it is off the beaten path on a quiet side street. From the Cabana, you can walk to beaches, bars, clubs, restaurants and shopping, as well as Kapiolani Park. The Cabana is also pet friendly, offering competitive prices and an attentive staff. It is perfect for travelers who want to experience the nightlife of Honolulu, but still get a good night's rest.

The Cabana at Waikiki

2155 Cartwright Road

Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96815

808 926-5555

cabana-waikiki.com

Tags: Waikiki Place, bars clubs, beaches bars, Bluffs Windward, Bluffs Windward Breakfast

Facts On The Hawaiian Flower

Several types flowers are associated with Hawaii, and innumerable flower species thrive in the tropical climate. Flowers are abundant in Hawaii and have cultural significance, such as the tradition of making flower leis. Does this Spark an idea?

Lei

Leis are symbolic of Hawaii. A lei is a garland worn around the neck and is often made of flowers.

Plumeria

Plumeria is the most common flower used for leis, and grows abundantly on the islands. Despite its association with Hawaii, plumeria is not native to the South Pacific region.

Pikake

Pikake is a species of jasmine prized for its strong scent and ornamental value. Its smell is evocative of the Hawaiian islands.

Hibiscus

Although there are 200 species of hibiscus, only seven of them are native to the Hawaiian islands. Several species of Hawaiian hibiscus are listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The hibiscus brackenridgei, which has bright yellow flowers, is the official state flower of Hawaii. It is named ma'o hau hele in Hawaiian.

Flower in Hair

In Hawaiian culture, a flower placed in the hair behind the left ear means a lady is taken, a flower behind the right ear means she is single.

Tags: Hawaiian Flower, Hawaiian islands, with Hawaii

Babysitting Games For Kids To Play Online

Babysitting is a popular activity and many kids enjoy playing virtual babysitting games. There are a number of online babysitting games available. Most are entertaining while building time-management and problem-solving skills at the same time.

Nanny Mania and Babysitting Mania

Nanny Mania and Babysitting Mania (see the References section)are popular online babysitting games. As the nanny, you must help clean the house, cook the meals, and feed, change and entertain the children. As the babysitter, you must perform similar tasks. The game begins with one infant. As it proceeds, additional children are added and the levels become more challenging. You can play these games free online, or purchase them from different sources. Most online sources will allow you to try the game for an hour before you purchase it. Nanny Mania 2: Nanny Goes to Hollywood is also available.

Baby Care Rush

While some online babysitting games involve sitting for children in a "home" setting, there are also games that involve a day care or camp setting. Baby Care Rush (see References) is set in a day care, and has a bit of a revolving door approach: children come in the door, are placed in beds, given whatever they need to be happy, and sent out the door. If you make enough children happy and you advance to the next level. Diaper Dash is another babysitting game with a daycare setting.

Let's Babysit Baby Krissy

The Barbie (www.Barbie.everythinggirl.com) website features a simple babysitting game that allows you to care for Baby Krissy. There are a variety of tasks you may be given, such as bathing the baby, dressing her, playing with her, building sand castles and shopping for the baby. Upon successful completion of the game, you can print out a certificate of accomplishment. This game requires the least amount of skill of all those discussed here and is ideal for younger children.

Tags: babysitting games, Nanny Mania, online babysitting, online babysitting games, Baby Care, Baby Care Rush

Cheap Tablecloth Ideas

An inexpensive tablecloth can show style and set the tone for a gathering.

An inexpensive tablecloth can offer visual appeal for everyday use or a special event. Unconventional materials such as wallpaper or gift wrap under clear vinyl can give a home a whimsical tone that can change with the occasion.

Cloth Alternatives

An inexpensive table cover can include fabrics with other household uses. For example, bed sheeting and some curtain materials can offer crisp and smooth covers. Large fabric scraps from quilting or sewing projects can piece together quickly with machine sewing.

Novelty Table Cover

A unique view or story can top a table for the cost of a couple yards of clear vinyl and old printed materials. Favorite articles or comic strips set on large paper under a layer of protective vinyl can make a table cover with content that changes by the week. A traveler could set a postcard collection or large travel poster of a dream destination over the table surface. Completed jigsaw puzzles can also showcase under the easy-care vinyl.

Sources

A fabric store with a clearance section can offer stunning tablecloth materials, including sheeting and clear or patterned vinyl. Inexpensive polyester lining can offer a subtle sheen. Discount stores, auction houses or liquidators sometimes sell tablecloth materials. A restaurant or hotel that disposes of used linens can prove an inexpensive source.

Tags: clear vinyl, inexpensive tablecloth, table cover, tablecloth materials

Goodie Bags Tips And Ideas

Goodie bags are traditional parting gifts to thank your guests for attending an event. Finding party favors to fit your theme and budget, however, takes planning and time. Applying creative solutions (like buying in bulk, making your own bags and mementos or replacing pre-packaged bags with interactive items) saves time and money. In addition, goodie bags that have more hand-crafted aspects supply a personal touch that portrays an appreciation of your guests. Does this Spark an idea?

Themes and Budgets

Goodie bags should reflect or complement the theme of your party. Following a theme makes the selection and assembly processes easier. When using a party theme as a guideline, however, consider the age-appropriateness of your party favors. For example, a beach theme could include sand pails and shovels for younger party-goers, or decorative margarita glasses for an adult crowd.

Setting a budget for your goodie bags determines what and how many items you can include in each set. You may choose to combine several smaller items or give each guest a higher-quality item. Along with the main item(s) in the bag, you can include "filler" items such as candy, stickers, bookmarks or pens and pencils. If you have a small number of guests, or a larger budget, you can order party packages from online sellers. Buying goodie bags online saves you time and trips to the store. If you prefer to assemble or hand-pick your goodie bags, you are left with the choice of pre-made bags or interactive party favors.

Pre-Made or Interactive

When planning and purchasing goodie bags, choose whether your party favors will be handed out to guests as ready-made parting gifts or will be included in the festivities. Pre-made goodie bags require assembly time before a party. Calculate how much time you can devote to your goodie bags, then choose from: decorated gift bags and boxes, or plain bags to be embellished by you or the guests. Holiday and party templates are available online if you wish to print and assemble your own bags. If your party is following a popular theme (like cartoon characters, Disney movies, television shows, heroes or princesses) general supply stores such as Target, CVS, Walgreens and Wal-Mart stock bags fitting those themes. Purchasing items in bulk usually provides the widest variety or most amount of items for the lowest prices; bid on party lots on eBay or buy multi-packs of items that can be split amongst several bags.

Interactive party favors are the best choice for activity-driven events. If you are viewing a movie during your party, opt for plastic popcorn tubs filled with treats and small items instead of separate goodie bags. For an outdoor or garden party, have your guests decorate flower pots or vases; garden supply or dollar stores sell low-cost containers and seeds that you can distribute to guests. A general party favor and activity that fits all themes of birthdays or honorary events is a picture frame. Have your guests decorate plain frames or assemble ones out of popsicle sticks, foam board or light-weight modeling clay. Using a digital camera and printer, or an instant camera, take a picture of each guest with the honored celebrant; everyone takes home a personalized and memorable party favor.

Tags: party favors, your party, goodie bags, your guests, goodie bags