As you know, the most important part of planning a surprise party is the surprise. So no matter what, you’ve got to guard that secret—you guard it with your life. Whatever you do, do NOT tell your little sister. Little sisters cannot keep secrets.

Mom’s birthday is in a month. About a month ago, Dad and I began planning a surprise party for her. I was in charge of making all the decorations. I did it secretly in my room with the door locked. But one day I forgot to lock it. I was working on a big poster that said “Surprise, Mom!” when the door creaked open. My eyes widened—what if it’s Mom?

I was relieved to see Jenny’s head peeking inside. Not that I wanted Jenny in my room, I was just glad she wasn’t Mom.

“Jenny!” I yelled. “Get out of my room!”

From downstairs, Mom warned, “Be nice to your sister. Do I need to come up there?”

“No, Mom,” I called. “Get in here, Jenny, and close the door!”

“What is Mom’s surprise,” asked Jenny.

Uh oh, I forgot that Jenny had just learned to read.

I told Jenny about the party, carefully explaining why it was a secret. I told her that she can’t even use the word “surprise” around Mom—or else! Jenny nodded, her eyes wide as saucers. She said she understood. I found out later that she did not.

That night at dinner…

Jenny said, “Mom! I have a secret, but I can’t tell you what it is. And I’m not saying anything about a surprise.”

Mom looked at Jenny and cocked one eyebrow. She looked at Dad and then at me, a smile spreading across her lips.

“What’s going on? Are you planning a surprise party for me?” Mom asked.

Dad looked at me and narrowed his eyes. I slapped my palm over my face.

Dad and I answered: “No!” At least we weren’t lying. After all, it wasn’t a surprise anymore, was it?