My Secret Weapon

I know this isn't the post you've all been waiting for (you're like--what's up with all the pumpkins and a secret weapon? wah?) , but I promise the one where I talk about Justin's 1st b-day is next. I just had to do this post first because, without what I am about to talk about, Justin's party would not have been possible. The secret weapon I am talking about is a woman who saved me a lot of grief and stress over what to do for Justin's 1st b-day and was none other than the domestic goddess herself (dgoddessblog.blogspot.com)! What started out as a shot in the dark in the form of an email tentatively asking if she had any ideas turned into her becoming my very own personal party planner. seriously, how have I lived without this woman and her ideas for so long? She is creativity incarnate and she volunteered lots of time and energy on my behalf (and justin's too of course!). She made these uber cute invitations that had "hooray for J" on the front (a lot of you will know what I'm talking about since you probably got one in the mail. sorry people, the secret is out, I didn't make them!) and she also made Justin a happy birthday banner:
She also made a take home favor for the kids and gave me an awesome idea for a treasure hunt that the kids LOVED (my 4 year old is already planning one for his b-day!). She also called around to find me the best deal on sandwhiches and balloons and came up with the color scheme of light blue and brown that looked great. My party planner also had connections in the form of a cousin, Katie, who made Justin the sweetest little cake:

Not to mention she also got the cousin to hook me up with some cupcakes that I decorated with light blue M&Ms "J"s (also her idea :):

My party planner also emailed detailed instructions on how to make my own veggie and fruit trays which turned out rather beautiful if I do say so myself!:I'm so glad I sent that email out, I never dreamed I'd have so much help! Having the Domestic Goddess on my side truly made all the difference in how Justin's 1st b-day turned out. She's the best party planner ever and she has my eternal gratitude :)