My daughter is passionate about dogs. For her 8th birthday, we planned a Puppy Passion Party. Each of the 8 girls that attended was asked to bring her favorite stuffed animal (dog preferably, but any stuffed animal was ok). They also were invited to bring a donation of dog food that we would then deliver to the local animal shelter after the party. Our first party activity was to create dog collars and dog tags for our stuffed animals. For the dog tags, we used pretty heart-shaped gift tags with metal trim that I found at a craft store. The girls used markers, faux gems, and other crafts to create one-of-a-kind dog tags. Colorful pipecleaners and beads were used for the dog collars. Then, we went to work on tie blankets.  The girls each made a small tie blanket (I found an adorable fabric with puppies on it) for her own stuffed animal, and then all of the girls worked together on two large tie blankets (red plaid) that we later donated to the local animal shelter for the dogs. Prior to the party, I had cut the fleece fabric for all of the blankets so that all the girls had to do was spread out on the floor and tie the knots around the edges of the blankets. We played music, and the girls talked, but it was one of the quietest parties I've ever planned because they were so engrossed in their work. After the blankets were finished we went outside and all of the girls lined up holding the blanket in front of them for a photo. They were so proud of their accomplishment and also knowing that a couple dogs in the animal shelter would have nice soft blankets very soon. We used that photo in the thank-you notes to the party attendees, and we also gave a copy of the photo with the first names of the girls to the animal shelter when we dropped off the donated blankets and dog food. Later when we returned to the shelter, we saw our photo pinned to the bulletin board - the animal shelter was very appreciative. Following the crafts and photos, we had cake and punch, and opened presents. As part of the goodie bags, each girl got to take home her own blanket, dog tag and collar as well as these cute water bottles shaped like dog bones, and a small dog bowl filled with little cookies that looked like puppy food. Our main expenses included fleece for the blankets, and the water bottles and dog bowls of cookies, which I purchased from an on-line company. But, since we held the party at our home, we saved quite a bit of money. All of the girls had a great time, and my daughter still says that was her favorite party.