HELP!

[LynnH]

I delivered the invations to my exchange last weekend. I left one at every house on the street (apx. 25). This is a new development. I used the wording on the sample invation, and put it was Lynn H's house. I DID not put NO kids (I didn't include "the rules.) This development does a TON for the kids, so I thought this would be a good thing for the "girls".

Well, I got a message today on my answering machine from one of my neighbors. I think she "got it", because she said SHE would be there, but unsure what kind of cookie she's making.....BUT there is a single dad up the street who plays ball with her husband...HE wanted to know if this was for the ladies or for the families.

What do I do? Do I call her back and tell her "girls" only ....He could come if he wants, but I wanted this to be an adult type of thing. IF I invited the kids, there would be apx. 20 kids! YIKES....

My question....do think by reading the invation, they would "get" that there are no kids invited? Should I allow kids, and just have them decorate sugar cookies......What would YOU do?

[Cathie]

Hi:

Why don't you simply type out another paper and say hey I forgot to give the rules of the exchange and say This is a Girl's only event and let it go from there and put one in each mail box.

Honestly, I would not want 20 kiddos there. A cookie exchange is alot of work and it would be nice for you just to get to know the other gals in your new development.
There are many other events during the year that involve kids and the Moms would enjoy time just with the girls too.

Good Luck and I am sure everything will be great.
Cathie

[Bonnie]

I agree! There are far too few things that are just for ladies and we deserve a break during the holidays. I would just explain that you left off the NO KIDS rule. I bet most of the moms would love to hear that and the few that aren't don't have to attend. I would rather have fewer ladies than have every lady attend with their kids.

[MrsP]

He might suprise you - and bring some of the best cookeis around. It's your call, but I would keep an open mind on him. Hey, if he loves to bake, he already has one thing in common with the rest of your guests. About the kids, I agree with Cathie, I think you should just make a few calls and say "I was hoping everyone could get a babysitter, or leave kids home with hubby."

Best of luck, and remember, HAVE A BLAST.

[Susan]

Lynn,

I agree. I would rather have a few less people than worry about kids running around sticking their hands in the cookies after wiping their noses, double dipping in the veggie tray and spilling hot cider all over the place.

This is a ladies only event. Invite the single dad if you like but be clear this is a grown up party.

My invitation mentions "please arrange child care ahead of time so you can enjoy the afternoon out." I don't feel guilty about it. There are plenty of times thru the year when we have kids at the house. This just isn't one of them.

I think Cathie's idea of dropping of the "rules" list isn't bad. I call mine: "Cookie Exchange Guidelines." It's a little softer and gets me the same result.