Alex sighed as he peered out from under his blanket. Today was supposed to be a fun-filled day, but the rain had other plans. "I can't go out and play," Alex grumbled, watching the rain dance on the pavement.

Cheered by the change in weather, Alex raced outside with his swim trunks in hand. "Finally, I can swim!" he exclaimed. But as he approached the pool, he stopped short, staring at the debris. "Oh no, it's all dirty!" Alex sighed, a frown replacing his earlier smile.

Daddy turned the key again, but the car refused to start. Alex's excitement for the new Minecraft movie turned to frustration. "We’re going to miss it!" Alex groaned, crossing his arms.

Mama offered a slice, but Alex shook his head. "I don't feel well," he mumbled, clutching his tummy. "Oh, Alex, I'm sorry you have to stay in," Mama said soothingly.

Alice, Alex's best friend, sounded disappointed. "I can't make it to the pajama party tonight," she said. Alex felt a surge of anger and sadness. "This is a sad, bad, teeeerriiiiibleeeee day," he exclaimed.

As he opened the door, the lights flicked on, and a chorus of voices shouted, "Surprise, Alex! Happy Birthday!" Friends and family filled the room, balloons and streamers hanging from the ceiling. Alex's heart swelled with joy. "Wow, I didn't see this coming," he beamed, all his earlier disappointments melting away. "We love you so much!" Mama added, wrapping him in a warm hug.