Birthday with Barbie

This all-girl party is a dream come true for those who love to pretend that their "big sister" is real.

To make, fold a piece of 9"x 12" pink construction paper in half and trim the edges with scallop-edged scissors. Cut a heart from a piece of purple construction paper and glue to the upper right-hand corner of the card. Place a Barbie dress (or accessory) on the card. After you position it, use a pin to punch two tiny holes in the pink paper on either side of the garment's waist. Attach to the card by threading pink ribbon through the holes and tying it around the dress in a bow. Cut a 3 1/2"x5" rectangle out of the remaining piece of purple paper, fill in party info, and glue inside the card. Mail in a padded envelope to protect the dress. Be sure to ask guests to bring their favorite Barbie and maybe a couple of outfits.

• As kids arrive, have them make tea-party miniatures (food and accessories) from Sculpey or Fimo clay. Have a few finished samples on hand to give the girls ideas. When everyone is finished, bake items to harden according to the directions on the package.
• String edible necklaces using licorice strings and O-shaped candies or cereal.
• Have the girls sit in a circle and each tell a story about her doll. They may also want to play dress-up with their Barbies.

Fill a Barbie-themed cup with a cellophane bag full of logo novelties; tie with pink ribbon.