My former boss Deborah recently asked me for tips on planning her son Kenny's birthday party. Kenny is turning 10. For this age group, an activity — a soccer tournament, a day at the ball park, a trip to an interesting place — is essential to a successful birthday party. After chatting with Kenny, we've decided to spend a couple of hours on Alcatraz! He and his buddies, along with parent chaperons, will take the ferry to the infamous ex-jail. They'll go on a walking tour, play games, and have a picnic with birthday cake. Before the party can begin we have to send the invitations. To see how I made these jail-inspired invites, read more.

To make a similar invite you will need the following supplies:

• transparent paper
• black cardstock
• image of Alcatraz
• scissors
• glue
• computer and printer

To assemble the invite:

1. Start by creating a new document in Microsoft Word. Insert a large textbox. Change the format of the textbox line to resemble jail stripes.
2. Drag the Alcatraz image into the textbox. Center and situate the textbox evenly around the image.
3. Write the details of the party. Keep things informal and uncomplicated with a message in Times New Roman, size 12:
   

   Kenny is turning 10!
   To celebrate we would like to take you
   on an exciting adventure to Alcatraz.

   Saturday, August 16, 2008
   11:00 am meet at Kenny’s House
   12:15 pm ferry departs for Alcatraz
   4:30 pm catch return ferry home

   Please RSVP to Deborah (Kenny’s mom):
   415.777.7777
   

   Print out on plain white paper and check for grammar and spelling mistakes.



4. Once satisfied with the look and feel, print out on the transparent paper.



5. Cut down to size and mount on the black cardtsock, being careful to only glue the outer edges.



6. Cut the black cardstock down to size, slide into an envelope, and send.