the days before Christmas

filled with tradition

brimming with anticipation

family together

home with twinkling lights and a warm fire

the days before Christmas are among my very favorite of the year.

tonight as we gathered together as family---

poised for a game night,

my brother (who lives in AZ) walked in the front door with his family.

they were so quiet (or we were so noisy)

that i didn't notice until my cute nephew said,

"hi guys!"

i looked down in surprise.

they had told us they weren't coming.

to have us all together---

is more than i anticipated~

i am still grinning from ear to ear.