There was excitement in the air, and a certain magic filled the small countryside home. Balloons swayed in the breeze, streamers danced from the ceiling, and a delicious scent of cake wafted from the kitchen. Today wasn’t just any day—it was Lala’s birthday! And more than anything else, Lala wanted to celebrate it with the children in the family.
Lala wasn’t an ordinary birthday girl. She was a bright, curious baby monkey who had been raised like family by Cutis and the rest of the household. From her tiny hands to her expressive eyes, Lala had a way of bringing laughter and comfort wherever she went. So, when her special day arrived, the children knew they wanted to make it a celebration to remember—not only for Lala, but for themselves too.
Cutis, always thinking creatively, suggested turning the event into a joyful family day for all the kids. “Let’s let the children be part of the fun,” he said, carrying Lala on his shoulder while she clapped her hands excitedly. Lala may not have understood the concept of birthdays the same way humans did, but she certainly felt the love.
Preparations started early in the morning. The kids were full of energy—each had a task. Seven-year-old Srey was in charge of blowing up balloons, though she ended up wearing half of them as hats. Her brother Vannak helped decorate the garden with colorful garlands, while little Rith lit up with excitement at every new decoration that appeared.
Lala, meanwhile, was given a birthday outfit—an adorable pink dress with a tiny bow. At first, she tried to tug it off, but after seeing the children’s happy faces and hearing their giggles, she decided to keep it on. She loved attention, and even more, she loved being a part of the group.
Soon, the yard transformed into a vibrant party zone. A picnic-style area was set up with mats, snacks, and handmade games. The highlight, of course, was the birthday cake. It wasn’t just any cake—it was a homemade banana cake, Lala’s favorite. Cutis had spent the night before baking it with help from Grandma, who added her signature coconut cream topping.
By late morning, the guests arrived—mostly cousins, neighbors, and a few animal friends too. A baby goat named Momo joined the fun, bleating happily as he trotted behind the kids. The children loved Lala like a sibling, and today they made sure she knew it.
The party started with singing. Lala sat on a wooden stool, wide-eyed and smiling as the children gathered around her, clapping and singing “Happy Birthday” in Khmer and English. When it came time to blow out the candle, Rith helped Lala by holding her tiny hands close to the flame and blowing gently with her. Everyone cheered!
Then came the games. The children played “Banana Toss,” a game made especially for Lala. Instead of a pinata, there was a hanging bunch of bananas tied to a tree branch. Each child took turns swinging at it with a stick. Lala, always clever, snuck underneath and managed to snatch one while no one was looking. The kids burst into laughter when they saw her hiding under a table, munching her stolen treat.
There was also “Musical Mats,” a fun version of musical chairs. Lala didn’t really understand the rules but danced joyfully in the middle of the circle each time the music played. Her energy was infectious—soon everyone was laughing, dancing, and simply enjoying each other’s company.
When it was time for gifts, the children didn’t bring toys or expensive items. Instead, they gave Lala handmade presents: flower crowns, painted rocks, and even a tiny hammock made by Srey. Lala sat patiently as each child handed her something special. She touched the items, sniffed them, sometimes even tried to eat them—but every gift brought a smile to her face.
One moment stood out among the rest. Srey had written a short poem for Lala and stood nervously before the group to read it:
“Lala, our monkey, you make us smile,
You swing and jump and play with style.
Today’s your day, and we just say,
Thank you, Lala, for every day!”
Tears welled up in Grandma’s eyes, and even Cutis looked emotional. Lala didn’t understand the words, but as the children hugged her, she seemed to feel the warmth of every syllable.
As the sun began to set, the garden glowed with golden light. The children settled down to eat snacks—rice cakes, fresh fruit, and of course, slices of banana cake. Lala shared bites with the youngest toddlers, gently feeding them small pieces as if she were their big sister. It was a simple gesture, but it touched everyone.
After the meal, Cutis sat with Lala on his lap and spoke softly to the children. “You know, birthdays aren’t just about cake and presents. They’re about love, togetherness, and giving thanks for the ones we care about. Today we celebrated Lala, but really, we’re celebrating all of you too—for your hearts, your kindness, and your joy.”
The kids nodded, feeling proud. Lala, now a bit sleepy, rested her head on Cutis’s chest and closed her eyes, a gentle smile still on her face.
As night fell, the lanterns lit up the yard, and soft music played in the background. Parents arrived to pick up their kids, and everyone left with hearts full of happiness. The children couldn’t stop talking about Lala’s birthday, the games, the laughter, and how it felt to be part of something so joyful
Lala’s first birthday party with the children was more than just a celebration. It was a reminder that love has no species, and happiness is greatest when shared. That day, a little monkey showed everyone what it means to belong, and in doing so, made a memory that would last a lifetime.
Happy Birthday, Lala!
