Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Fort Worth, TX

You don't need a king's ransom to make your daughter princess for a day! You just need a little advance planning. At Let's Pretend Tea Parties, they've got it all figured out and - WOW - what a great idea! I took my 3-year-old in for a "Mommy and Me" tea. The price seemed a bit steep, but for making a girl's dream come true for a day, it was a real bargain.

They have dress-up clothes for the kids, along with make-up, shoes, bonnets, and other accoutrements.  We smeared red lipstick, pink blush, and blue eyeshadow on - kinda reminded me of the '80's!

It was pretty busy. Although the staff tried to keep order, it was wild with all the little princesses in a glamour frenzy! We took pictures (the lighting wasn't all that great though for this) and finally got ourselves all made up "just so".

Next was tea time. I love high tea. My mom and I love to have a girl's day and have high tea. My expectations were a little high probably. The tea was fine, the adult food was fine - the real star was the Princess Picnic.  Chocolate soup was, of course, the hit of the ball. They also served a pb&j tea sandwich, little cookies, and some fruit. My daughter thought she really was a princess!

So, now the hard part: how do I explain that "no, you don't get to wear make-up again"..."I know mommy does, but that's for when you get older"..."yes, honey, I know you got to wear it today, but..."  And, she couldn't really understand why she had to change back into her clothes, instead of keeping the pretty dress and shoes. Transition back to reality was harsh!

We plan to go back probably for a birthday party when she's a little older. It's the ultimate for girls: dress up, make-up, high heeled shoes, pretty china - this makes for a lot of giggles and a fabulous mommy and me bonding time.