reader question of the week #1

"We are throwing a party for my son's first birthday (this coming Saturday), and we will have family members from both my husband's and my side of the family. The majority of family members do not live near us or each other and so do not know one another that well. I am trying to come up with things to do at the party that won't feel too orchestrated but will prevent everyone from sitting in silence (during those moments the one-year-old is not providing the entertainment). There really won't be any other children at the party to liven it up, either. I am trying to balance playing hostess with just enjoying all the family and our little birthday boy. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you! -Amber"