We also have the problem of the expense for out-of-the-home gigs... most people I know that do it still have to manage some form of organizing (getting people there who's parents can't drive them, bringing a cake or other snacks/drinks because the party package cake is stupidly expensive, etc.) This all stresses me out too much. Then with three kids, if you do it for one kid, you're gonna have to do it for all three (or something equally awesome), or someone feels slighted.

I think sometimes that maybe I just don't like being around other people's kids all that much. :) We usually only invite the besties or the neighborhood kids. One year I let my oldest just have a sleepover with a couple of friends instead of a party... we made personal pizzas for dinner with pita bread and toppings, and they entertained themselves all night with our movie collection while I slept. That was probably the easiest celebration ever. :P