Emily had just arrived home from school, her backpack heavy with books, when her mother greeted her with a mysterious smile. 'Happy Birthday to Daddy soon! I have a very special mission for you, Emily. Would you like to help me with a surprise gift?' Emily beamed, nodding eagerly as she loved surprises.
Emily’s mom took a shiny box out of the closet . 'Your father will be home soon,' she said. 'Let’s make this birthday memorable for him. Your cheerleading uniform will be perfect for a fun photoshoot!' Emily, though puzzled, trusted her mother. They giggled as they found the uniform, but Emily noticed the skirt was shorter than usual.
As Emily changed, she saw a fluffy white pom-pom and bright cheer shoes. Her uniform looked different today though, the skirt shorter, and there was an added white thong. 'It's part of the surprise,' her mom said with a wink. 'Dad's going to love his personalized cheerleader cheering just for him!' Emily wasn't sure, but she tried to be excited.
Mom helped Emily with her hair, pulling it into high ponytails. 'You look adorable!' her mom exclaimed. 'Now, remember, it's all for fun. Just enjoy the photoshoot with Dad. He’s been very curious about your cheerleading!' Emily smiled, imagining how surprised her dad would be. Photoshoots were fun, and it was all in good spirits.
Emily’s father arrived and was delighted to see the living room transformed into a mini studio with the camera set up. 'My two favorite girls have been scheming, haven’t you?' he laughed. Emily blushed under the attention, standing proudly in her outfit, ready to be the best birthday present her father could wish for.
With a burst of courage, Emily started to cheer, pom-poms shaking, voice loud and clear. 'Go Dad, it’s your day! We cheer and say hooray!' She twirled and jumped, feeling the energy of her performance. Dad chuckled, snapping photos. 'That’s my girl! Such spirit!' he encouraged, and Emily was glad to see him smile.
The photoshoot continued with dad directing her into different cheer poses. 'How about one with you jumping in the air?’ Emily tried. Or another while doing a cartwheel? Her skirt flared but her smiles remained wide. With each snap of the camera, she felt more like a star, and her father kept praising her efforts and spirit.
Towards the end, Dad asked for a pose with Emily standing on one foot, other leg extended. Emily wobbled, but managed. 'Excellent balance!' Dad said. 'Just one more pose, sweetie.' Emily, now laughing at how silly the pose felt, complied. She trusted her dad, and this was just a fun and silly birthday activity.
After the final pose, the camera was put away, and Mom brought out a homemade birthday cake. 'The best gift is spending time with my girls,' Dad said, hugging them both. They ate cake, and Emily felt happy. The day was about family love, and she was grateful to have parents who cherished these moments as much as she did.
Reflection Questions