Parker’s sixth birthday arrived on a bright weekend with heavy clouds moving slowly over the Hudson Valley.

He wanted a dinosaur cake, a visit from both parents, and a treasure hunt in the backyard.

I could arrange the first two only if Grant was willing to cooperate.

We agreed in writing on a short shared celebration, with Nora nearby and a clear end time.

I made the cake the night before.

Brielle helped place green paper leaves around its edge and insisted the dinosaur needed a friendly smile.

When Grant arrived, he brought a gift wrapped in shiny silver paper.