When my sister asked to throw her son’s birthday party at my house, I didn’t hesitate. Her apartment was too small, and I was going to be out of town anyway. I stocked the kitchen with snacks, left out party supplies, and even set out a big gift for my nephew—feeling like the world’s best aunt.
But when I came home early, what I walked into was not a kid’s party. There was a pink balloon arch and a banner I’ll never forget.
It all started when Sue called in a rush while I was folding laundry.
“Livvy, please let me use your house for Ethan’s 7th birthday—just this once. He invited his whole class, and I can’t fit them in our tiny apartment. But your place is perfect.”
She was right. My place had a backyard, pool, grill—plenty of space for a crowd of kids.
The only problem? “You mean this Saturday?” I asked. “I’ll be out of town at that Philly conference, remember?”
Her voice wavered with panic. “Oh no… I forgot! What am I going to do?”
Despite the bad timing, I gave in. “Use the house. Just keep the kids safe around the pool.”
“You’re amazing,” she gushed. “You won’t even know we were there.”
Wanting to make it special, I bought snacks, left plates and napkins out, and set a huge wrapped LEGO Hogwarts set on the table with a note: Happy Birthday, Ethan!
I couldn’t be there, but I wanted him to feel loved.
Then, during the conference, a sweet text from Sue pinged my phone:
“The party’s amazing! You’re the BEST aunt!”
If only that was true.