what NOT to do for the 4-year-old’s party:

don’t make a rule that she can invite only 4 kids because she is 4
don’t secretly rejoice in your introverted heart that your extroverted kid decided to invite only her 3 best friends. At least two will be on vacation or sick (it IS January after all).
don’t have a baby in January (see above)
don’t panic at the thought of your child sitting at Chick-Fil-A surrounded by goodie bags, balloons and ONE guest
don’t invite kids your child hasn’t seen in months the day before the party because of the above. Awkward.
don’t forget to charge the camera battery
don’t assume that Chick-Fil-A will have a working helium tank. Do assume they will spend the entire party blowing up balloons with their own lungs.
don’t forget that she does not care how much money the party cost or how many kids show up. She’s FOUR. Not 14. Stop projecting your personal phobias.
don’t forget to stop freaking out and enjoy yourself… hey! there are cupcakes!