My kids are grown-youngest 30- & I too feel all the parties & proms etc have gotten out of hand. I think the birthday party that Jan Tx describes above is the way they should be!! It sure looks like they had a lot of fun, are happy, had plenty to eat & what a great idea with the doughnuts! I would have been happy attending that party;).
I also love the idea of bringing canned goods as a party donation! I don't know how things have/had gotten so out of hand, but I'm glad to see some people can still throw a fun party without going nuts!!!
Maybe these ideas should be sent to some mags. in their "HINTS" section so others can see how to do a great party without going overboard.