Kelly's birthday

Tim Brady dressed as a clown for his daughter's birthday. “Happy Birthday” was written across his chest. All the children knew it was Kelly's father, but they easily put that information aside when he started doing magic tricks. Balloon animals and hats played in every child's hand. No one was left behind. Not even the parents that came. For most of them had funny balloon jewelry decorating their necks or arms. It was a big deal for the neighborhood. Tim had made sure of that.

Nepal laughed at the cute jokes. Tim's annoying laugh was endearing when he had that getup on. “Tim, you were born to be a clown,” he called out.

Tim gave him a wry smile that was exaggerated by the clown makeup. That made the kids laugh. So, he did some tumbles and little acrobatic tricks that parents should probably avoid. It looked like he pulled something there, but chose to ignore the pain.

Kelly was having the most fun of them all. Her little brother was next in line for the happy race.

“TIME FOR CAKE!” TimTim The Clown announced.

Happily they cheered and went to large bench. Kelly took charge of seat selection. She had designated each spot and which would be best, depending on who was going to sit by who. “I want you here and you here. You can't sit there cause you fight too much.” The parents watching her take control couldn't help but laugh. The other children obeyed her. No questions. Except of course for her brother. He wanted to be on her right side, just to be contrary. Kelly obliged without question.

Nepal thought it was a good party. He had never known as good a party when he was a child. Kelly was a strong willed, take charge little girl. Her little brother seemed like a quick study, mimicking her attitude and manerisms.

“They are going to make one hell of a team,” Nepal said to Crystal.

“I hope so,” Crystal said with more than a touch of pride.