With Sammy's first birthday right around the corner, I have been totally stressed with all of the details of the party planning. I know that he won't remember anything, and that this year, it is more of a big deal for the parents than the kiddos, but it is a big deal for me. We are definitely keeping it simple, just cake and presents, toys out for the kiddos, and a BBQ for the adults, but...I have been thinking, and wondering about present opening.

A fun thing to do instead of a cake for a party is a giant cookie. My son always liked me to make the orginal tollhouse recipe, but be sure to use unsalted butter; you will be surprised how much better it is. Spread the dough into a large pizza pan or into several small pans. Bake until still slightly soft in the middle. Let cool. Now the fun starts and the mess. Give the kids decorating tubes of frosting and let them personalize the cookie. They will have fun doing this and then eating their creation.