It's that time of year. The days are growing shorter, the weather is cooling (some places), and the anticipation (or dread) for the first day of school is in the air. My daughter loves school, and loves preparing for school. I learned some significant lessons this year for simplifying back to school that I thought I would share with you.

Two words strike terror into the hearts of many parents: birthday parties. The thought of having hordes of children running amok under your supervision and in your home can be downright scary. Add in all the things that parties have started to "require": entertainment, bouncy houses, treat bags, activities and more, and most of the parents I know will run for the nearest all-inclusive package at the local laser tag building. But it doesn't have to be that way. Birthday parties can be simple and easy, and still be enjoyable. Here's how...