Birthday parties

(sheepish grin)

Okay, the thread about pinatas got me thinking.

My 8 year old has yet to have a "real" birthday party. Her bday is
Feb. 14 so we've always just had the 4 of us do cake and presents
since there is no extended family around.

She's been wanting a party so I decided to have one perhaps just after
school is out, the last day will be May 29.

She and I want to have a party here at our house so I can keep it
outdoors.

Food would probably be hot dogs on the grill.... classic birthday
party type food.

Anyway, the push to use a venue for parties has taken away from the
birthday parties I remember going to. You know.... the ones where the
really fun games were played.

I have a few ideas for games like Pin the Tail and a balloon race
(where the kids run to sit on a balloon and pop it). I'm asking you
thoughtful folks for some ideas on games. Simple games are best, imo.

I don't want to over-script a party. I envision having the games to
play but if they all want to just play among themselves, I'll go with
whatever.

So.... what games did you play at parties as kids, and most
importantly, did you like or dislike them?

Thanks :-)

Nan