He was not sure at first, but finally agreed. "What are we going to do?". he asked. Do you know, I had not actually thought about that? I just thought it would make him happy and maybe Mom, too. Who knows? July 9th even I told Mom about Freddie's birthday, but she just looked sadder than normal. I was so disappointed. I'd tried to make things better but, as usual, Id just made things worse. But a few hours later I noticed that she was writing lists on a piece of paper. "We need a cake," she said, "and some sandwiches and music. Oh, and you have to talk to your English teacher, Safi, and see if we can use the community center. I could not believe it. L She. was starting to sound really excited! "Do you remember my surprise party last year, darling?" she said. "You made me feel so happy. Well, Freddie does not have anyone here to do that for him, does he? So we'll have to be his family and make his birthday as happy as mine was. Then she gave me a big hug and said, "Thank you for taking care of me, Safi. You've been very strong,