Rachel arranged a table beneath the shade of an umbrella, and Daniel Cho brought a ridiculous inflatable giraffe that wouldn’t stay upright.

I checked with Hailey several times during the planning.

I did not want a party that looked cheerful to adults but felt overwhelming to her.

She insisted on choosing the decorations.

There were yellow streamers, purple napkins, and a cake with marigolds made from frosting.

She also insisted the dog wear a ribbon, which Pepper endured with admirable patience.

On the morning of the party, Hailey stood by the sliding door and looked at the patio.

“Daddy, can you stay near me outside?”