Another form of doll party is where the children bring dolls dressed by themselves. The doll whose gown is most neatly made receives a prize.
There may also be dolls made of beets, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, etc., by using sticks, cloves, etc., with the vegetables named. The results are very funny. These are put on exhibition on the table and an umpire decides for which prizes are to be given.
PEANUT GAME
The little hostess or host selects two leaders. These choose sides. Two large rugs are placed near together on the floor. A bowl of peanuts is placed in the center of each. The little players which can soonest dispose of their peanuts two inches apart on their rug, are the winners. The hostess gives the signal at the beginning and end of the contest. The sides may work simultaneously or singly, according as the game is played, individually or by sides as a whole. The peanuts are eaten at the end of the game, and a prize of a box of candy is given the winning side or child. This is passed about to the guests.
PEANUT HUNT
Some peanuts must be secretly hidden in out-of-the-way places—in bric-a-brac, etc. Give a pretty bag or box to be used as a receptacle for the peanuts, and then the hunt begins. The one getting the most peanuts, receives a prize. He may eat all the peanuts he finds, after the contest is decided, but a lesson in unselfishness is here possible. The hostess may suggest sharing the peanuts with one who tried hard to find many nuts, but did not succeed; or, if there be a lame child, or one deformed, he or she should receive some of the nuts of the winners, and of those the others find.
A PEANUT PARTY
The invitations have peanuts painted on them, so have little menu cards, which are placed at each plate at the table. These designs are often funny, and even grotesque, as they represent brownies, etc. Peanuts are strung as necklaces, bracelets, etc. Some of the sandwiches are made of mashed peanuts—called peanut butter—and they are delicious. Peanut candy is served, and at the end peanuts are jabbed for with hat pins. For this all gather at different little tables, or turns are taken at one table, the peanuts being piled up in the center. A box of candy is given the winner. This he or she, of course, passes among the guests.
A CHILDREN'S FAIR
This may be made not only enjoyable, but charitable as well. Tables holding fancy work—preferably the work of the children—candies (home-made), groceries, aprons, pen-wipers, iron-holders, hand-painted cards, capes, etc., etc., may be sold. Rebecca sits at the Well—a well of lemonade. A grab-bag, an orange tree, with saleable parcels on it. A post-office, where letters are sold, and finally a refreshment table or tables, the little girls and boys serving as waiters, in costumes.