When There Are 100+ Candles

I know that I have covered the topic of birthday entertaining before. But I do believe that celebrating the birthday of someone who is 100+ years-old, does deserve some special consideration. After all, at what other age does the birthday boy/girl need to be reminded whose birthday it is? So to help you prepare for that upcoming 100+ birthday party, I've provided a few key tips below that should help make the party a memorable one (for most of the guests, that is).

First, most people who are celebrating their 100+ birthday are quite proud of that fact. They have gotten over the hill of middle-age and survived the tumble down the other side. And now they proudly stand (or in some cases lean) at the base of the hill, celebrating what some so aptly call - the twilight years. So, when planning such a birthday party, be certain that every decoration, cake, and party favor reads, “Happy 100+ Birthday (insert appropriate name here)!” Not only does it get everyone into the festive spirit, but it also helps remind the birthday boy/girl of some critical information – namely: who they are, how old they are, and why they're here.

Second, purchase an appropriate gift. Most people 100+ years-old already have all the toys and gizmos they need to entertain themselves. And with little interest in today's newest technology, it can be quite difficult to purchase a gift for someone celebrating a 100+ birthday. That's why I recommend purchasing very practical gifts like canned foods, house cats, and underwear. Let's face it, if someone is 100+ years-old he/she lived through the Great Depression and has learned to pinch every penny. That means, the birthday boy/girl is probably still wearing underwear that reads “I like Ike.”

Third, keep the menu simple. Sure, it's a celebration and you want to show off your culinary prowess, but let me ask you – have you ever seen what Thai curry does to a 100-year-old colon? Trust me – you don't want to know. So stick to simple foods like oatmeal, prune juice, and Milk Duds.

And lastly, (I should think it would be obvious, but just in case) never throw a surprise 100+ birthday party. Regardless of how heart-healthy a life the birthday boy/girl lived, that ticker has been going for over 100 years - now is not the time for a stress test. In fact, I recommend asking the birthday boy/girl to RSVP for the party by sending in a copy of his/her most recent EKG. That way everyone knows about the party. Nobody will be surprised. And should something go wrong, you have the name and telephone number of the birthday boy's/girl's cardiologist at the top of the EKG report.