I wake up and step out of my room first thing in the morning to see Tami standing there, fully dressed—practically giving me a jump scare.
Tambara: It’s my birthday, Daddy! You know what that means!
So, she’s starting on me already. I know exactly what’s she talking about, but I play it off.
Wade: I actually don’t.
Tambara: You’re so funny, daddy.
I didn’t think I was being funny, but Tami enjoyed it either way.
I distract Tami for the moment by telling her I want to take some pictures of her pretty outfit. But she’s not distracted for long. We grab food and sit down to eat.
Tambara: So, did you get me a big horse or a pony? I’m okay with both of those.
Wade: What if I didn’t get you either? What if I bought you a video game console instead?
Tambara: *laughs* You’re hilarious, daddy. I better start coming up with names.
This girl is relentless.
We finish eating, and Tami cleans the dirty dishes—probably as part of some ploy to show me she’s responsible enough for a horse. But maybe not. Responsibility hasn’t been an issue for her. She takes good care of Maj, keeps her room clean, and never leaves a mess in the kitchen. I can give her a few points for that.
I finish the rest of the cleanup, then grab Hiro and take him out for a run. He’s getting older and can’t run for long, but I believe there’s still some benefit to getting him outside and moving as much as possible.
Tambara follows her dad outside to enjoy her newfound freedom. She’s learned to ride her bike, so the entire neighborhood is hers to explore. She hops on and takes off as fast as she can, popping a wheelie or two along the way. The joy of the ride almost makes her forget about wanting a horse.
Maia is up, dressed, and ready—with enough time to visit her brand new workshop to search for another freelance job. There are no longer any red lights to stop her from succeeding. The thought puts a smile on her face.
I return from my jog, hot and sweaty, with barely enough time to get showered and dressed for Tami’s birthday party. We have to make it to Chestnut Ridge by 2 pm, so I shower at record speed. I text Tami to make sure she’s back, then we start the drive out of town.
We have 30 minutes to spare when we arrive at Duke’s Hall in the New Appaloosa neighborhood of Chestnut Ridge. We take off in separate directions, setting everything up before the guests arrive. I prepare grilled chicken, corn, and baked potatoes, while Maia organizes the birthday cake, drinks, and snacks. Meanwhile, Tami walks around like a princess, giving everything her nod of approval.
Just as I finish grilling the food, my cousins Terra and Brianna arrive. I haven’t seen either of them in a while. Terra still looks the same, but Brianna is expecting another baby.
Tami greets each guest arriving while secretly judging their attire for her ranch-themed party.
Tambara: Hi, Auntie Zoe.
Aunt Zoe’s dress is simple but cute… although stretched out some by her pregnant belly. Tami approves.
Zoe: Hi, Tami! Happy birthday. You look so pretty.
Tambara: Thank you.
Next up is Mr. Xavier, who probably wins the day, aside from her, of course, with his full western ensemble.
Tambara: Hi, Mr. Xavier!
Xavier: Hi, Tami. You look as beautiful as ever.
Tambara: I know, but thank you!
Finally, Tami approaches who she’s been waiting for—her cousin Gia, who she met the day before Mase and Zoe’s wedding.
Tambara: Ah, there you are! I like your outfit. You understood the assignment.
Gia: Thanks. I like yours too!
Gia’s twin brother is the next to walk over. His outfit leaves a lot to be desired. It doesn’t fit the ranch theme, but at least he doesn’t look bad.
Tambara: Do you two like to dance?
Gia: It’s one of our favorite things to do.
I greet my brother Mase with the biggest hug. I haven’t seen him since the wedding.
Wade: I’m so glad you both made it. Congrats on the pregnancy!
Mason: Thanks! We’re glad to be here.
Wade: How long before I become an uncle?
Zoe: I have one more trimester to go.
Tami leads her cousins to the dance floor, but the dance party doesn’t last long. The last guests have arrived. It’s time to blow out the candles! Tami walks over to her lit cake and makes her wish.
Tambara: *quietly* Please, please, please give me a horse for my birthday!
Tami opens her eyes and blows out her candles.
(Generation 4 Chapter Summaries)
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