Beach Party - Ideas wanted!

My soon to be 9 year old daughter has just informed me that she would like to have her birthday party at our local beach. I like this idea, because I won't have to worry about my poor little house!!

I'm looking for some beach themed ideas, I think she is leaning towards a hawaiian theme..

Also, she wants to invite her whole class - I told her no, but am I insane for re-thinking this?? We'll see what Daddy says about that ;)

If you go out in the woods today...

Yesterday was my youngest daughter's dance recital. She is 4 years old and begged us to put her in ballet.

I have to say, she is really interested in dance, and followed along quite well through the whole recital, I was quite impressed. They danced to "Teddy Bears Picnic". Next year she says she wants to do "fast dance", so either Jazz or Hip hop.

One thing that I noticed, is that in previous years of attending dance recitals, they costumes were always very racy, almost too revealing. That was not the case this year, in fact, I'd even go so far as to say that they were very boring. I would like to think that there could be some middle ground, not sleazy, but at least some sparkle and pizzazz for the $60+ you pay for your costume. Her costume is one of the nicer ones with the tutu - but some of them just looked like spandex dresses - boring!!

Adventures in Wonderland.

This past weekend, the family and I went to Canada's Wonderland. Known formerly as Paramount Canada's Wonderland. Unfortunately, Paramount, you will be sadly missed. I'm not sure who thinks that Snoopy is cool with kids these days, I'll assume that there is a really cheap licensing fee.

It's really amazing how much the characters add to the magic of the place. It was still a fun day, but I guess when you have grown up going to "Hannah Barbera Land" and then taking your kids to the "Nickelodean" theme park, "Planet Snoopy" just seems kinda lame.

Also, they have changed a lot of the height restrictions, so my youngest wasn't allowed on a lot of the rides... not even White Water Canyon, a very mild water raft ride (it's my favourite).

We did have a fun day, and we do plan on going back, as we have season's passes this year... and well, I guess the plus side is that there is less of a temptation for the kids at the gift shop!