Charlie’s mother arrives a day early. She is surprised at his enthusiasm as he hugs her.

Charlie’s mother surprises him with new sneakers. He thanks his mother even though they aren’t Air Jordans, and she talks with him about the family reunion, telling him not to take money from his relatives if they offer it to him. Secretly, he hopes that someone will give him enough money to buy the sneakers he really wants.

Charlie describes the Fourth of July party, which includes music, food, dancing, and relatives.