it seems that attending every kids' party going has become a priority for my friends.
this has happened 3 times to me now, I have invited friends and dcs for lunch on a Sat or Sun, they've accepted but then said their dc have a party to go to, so they'll have to leave early - but they'll come earlier, so we can spend a bit of time together. Inevitably they arrive late. So I've found myself hanging round at home for the morning, friends eventually arrive, 30 mins later sit down to lunch, have lunch, 30 mins later they leave to get dc to party. Leaves me feeling like a catering service. One lot stayed for barely an hour!
AIBU to think that if they've accepted my invitation they shouldn't accept the kids' party one too? If they've accepted the kids' party, they say they can't come to me and we find another date?
Everyone I know with kids in Reception, Yr 1 or Yr 2 seems to spend nearly every weekend going to children's parties! And are horrified at the idea that their dc should now and again "miss out" on a party.
Another friend had a go at me as we can't make her dd's 4th bday party as we have already accepted an invitation to see some other friends. (I do have young dc btw, perhaps I will change my mind once ds starts school? 
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