Cathleen Allison/Nevada Appeal
Kelsey Bryant, 11, is hoping for "joy, peace and fun" in 2009.
The Eagle Valley Middle School sixth-grader was granted at least the latter part of that wish during the Borders Books and Music's New Year's Eve kids party Wednesday afternoon.
"I've had fun making hats and playing with everyone and meeting new people," she said.
About 30 children showed up for the activity where they made hats, clocks to count down to the New Year and noisemakers. It culminated with a parade through the store.
Sales Manager Jill Furedy said the store has been hosting story hours and different events to entertain their younger patrons.
"We've had some pretty good turnout," she said. "This one brought more than we've had for the others."
Coming up on Jan. 17 is a family play day for toddlers in the morning and an inauguration party that afternoon at 2 p.m.
"Celebrate America and democracy with a scavenger hunt and art projects. Then take the oath of office," the flyer announces.
Brothers Diego, 7, and Jesse Lopez, 10, reflected on 2008 and looked forward to 2009 while decorating their hats.
Diego looks forward to turning 8 in the New Year because then he can "go on different rides at Disneyland."
Jesse wasn't sure what to expect from 2009, but remembered the highlights of last year.
"I wanted to try something new," he said. "So I tried football for the first time, and I was really good at it."
Jennifer Whorley brought her four children Brianna, 12, Brenson, 10, Don, 8, and Christian, 6, to the pre-New Year's celebration.
"We look for fun things for them to do," she said. "We're really into reading. We do a lot of reading at home, so anything Borders has going on, we look forward to it."
The Lopezes planned on spending the evening with relatives, Jesse said. He intended to wear the hat he made to the party.
"It's a symbol to New Year's," he said.
- Contact reporter Teri Vance at tvance@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1272.