River's Surprise Party

It was a warm, sunny day in the jungle, and River the Tiger was enjoying a peaceful stroll along the familiar paths he loved so much. Today felt like any other day—except, there was something different in the air. He couldn't quite put his paw on it, but he shrugged it off, figuring it was just the breeze rustling the leaves.

Meanwhile, Gail was busy at her house, putting the final touches on a special surprise for River. She had spent days planning a birthday party and had invited all of River’s friends—Alisha the tiger, Monkey, and Wolfy. And Gail's friends- Little Robin and Little Lori. The house was decorated from top to bottom with bright banners, colorful balloons, and a huge sign that read, "Happy Birthday, River!"

Everyone had arrived early, hiding behind furniture, under tables, and behind curtains, eager to surprise their favorite tiger friend. Monkey, of course, had a hard time staying still, giggling and bouncing around in excitement. The snacks were laid out, the cake was in place, and everyone was ready for the big moment.

As River padded closer to Gail’s house, he noticed that all the windows were shut, which was unusual for such a lovely day. “That’s odd,” he thought, but being the curious tiger he was, River decided to investigate.

He stepped up to the door, and as soon as he pushed it open— **“SURPRISE!”** —The entire room was filled with cheers.

“Happy Birthday, River!” everyone shouted, jumping out from their hiding spots.

River froze, wide-eyed and stunned. For a moment, he couldn’t believe what he was seeing. The room was filled with all of his friends, smiling and cheering just for him. Gail, Alisha, Monkey, and Wolfy were all there, beaming with excitement. The walls were covered in decorations, and right in the middle of the room was a huge cake shaped like a jungle.

River’s heart filled with joy. “You all did this... for me?”

“Of course we did!” Gail said, walking up to him with a huge smile. “We wanted to make sure your birthday was unforgettable.”

Monkey somersaulted across the room, unable to contain his excitement. “Yeah! We’ve been waiting all day to surprise you!”

Wolfy wagged his tail, howling happily, “Now it’s time to party!”

River was so overwhelmed with happiness that his tail started moving back and forth. “This is amazing! I don’t even know what to say.”

“You don’t have to say anything,” Gail said, placing a birthday hat on River’s head. “Just enjoy yourself!”

And that’s exactly what River did. They played games, like pin the tail on the tiger, and they danced to River's favorite music. They laughed, ate cake, and even sang a special birthday song that Gail had made up just for River. Every moment was filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of friendship.

As the sun set and the party came to a close, River looked around at all his friends. He realized that this surprise wasn’t just about the balloons or the cake—it was about how much his friends cared for him.

“This has been the best birthday ever,” River said, smiling contentedly. “I’m so blessed to have all of you in my life.”

Gail and the others gathered around for a big group hug, and together they all shouted, “Happy Birthday, River!”

And as River stood there, surrounded by his friends, he knew that this day would be one he’d remember forever.

That night, when River said his bedtime prayers, he thanked God for each one of his special friends. He truly felt blessed.

River fell asleep with a heart full of joy, knowing he would never forget this perfect day.