For birthdays:  If you have two children who are the same gender, and close in
Age (appx. 2yrs or less apart), have a combined birthday party for them.  Give them
four to five different themes to choose from, and TRY to get them to come to an
agreement on one theme.  Once they have chosen a theme, look through magazines,
and on the internet to find ideas supporting that theme.  I suggest that
you give yourself at least 2 months, or more before the birthday arrives to research
and prepare for the party.  I also do a lot of local dollar store shopping.  Most kids
under the age of ten are just happy to have anything to play with.  It seems that
the cheaper toys get the most attention anyway!

Leah, Mom of 4
Pittsburgh, PA