[justmeTammy]

I just thought I'd let you know that this really didn't cost me too much. I always bought a bag or 2 of candy each week from the end of September- so I wouldn't feel the "punch" all at once. Then like I said, every family brings some to mix in. My kids and I made the snacks (cookies, etc) and if any friends have a finger food that is their specialty, I ask them to bring enough to share. Others who are non-cooks bring juice, cider or chips.

Decorations are always home-grown, too. I have the bonus of living in the country, so we just use corn stalks & pumpkins (and whatever else I can find that works) from the garden. Stuff on the walls is just decorated posterboard or cardboard, scraps of fabric and other do-dads that we throw together over the week before the "big day". The first year was the most hectic because I tried to get the whole thing ready the morning of the party instead of pacing myself.

I keep my eyes open for games all year- birthday party games, shower games, reunion games- can all be altered a little to fit a dress-up party! I NEVER spend money on games- I mean, I guess I bought 2 dozen doughnuts and some crepe paper, apples to bob for- but other than that I can't think of anything I had to buy for games.

All in all, its about how much fun you and the kids have. It isn't about making a good impression or becoming the next budding Martha Stewart. All you need is imagination, odds & ends (plus elbow grease to put them together), and friends... well, candy doesn't hurt either! LOL