Cute and crazy cousins that my kiddos look forward to being with,
healthy parents and grandparents to enjoy ~ shopping, basketball, you name it,
siblings gathered from the corners of the country,
a sweet, new, Christ-loving fianceé for a brother, son, and uncle,
Kerbey Lane Cafe gluten free gingerbread pancakes…
picking up with old friends right where we left off,
games that bring tears from laughter,
Christmas light displays in nostalgic neighborhoods,
Texas tamales, fajitas, and way too much queso,
provision for blessing kids with gifts that will thrill them…
Color-coordinated (without trying!) family photos,
lots of new Nike gear to sport,
gift cards for coffee and books,
Joyfully gathered together around the tree,
Upscale wrapping paper and Grandad’s immaculate bows and tape…
hysterical, contagious laughter over old photos of adults who were kids in the 70’s,
Roast beef, green beans, garlic mashed potatoes and gravy, salad, and rolls,
Cut-out Christmas cookies, pecan, pumpkin, and chocolate pies with coffee,
Grandad and teen boys vs. Uncle, future Aunt, and cute girl basketball game,
Lots ‘o longhorn paraphernalia and visits to campus…
Searching for the missing baby in the manger,
Reading the Christmas story while wearing new Christmas pjs,
Visiting old stomping grounds,
Sunshine and trust falls ~ forward and back with strong men,
Courtship stories, and wedding plans,
Mariachis, margaritas, and more Mexican food,
Billions of lights lining trees, reflecting on the city river,
shared sarapes for evening shivers,
tourists and townies taking it all in,
joyful, gentle togetherness for days on end,
new dresses, new books, and stockings stuffed with chocolate,
hot tea, late nights, refreshing morning runs in new neighborhoods,
movies and read alouds while snuggled on couch or in car,
growing kids, maturing styles, and emerging personalities,
cards filled with photos and news from far and wide,
high fives, hugs, and family prayers to know the
God Veiled In Flesh,
carols, candlelight Silent Night, “snow” falling on worshipers,
fireplaces burning in 50 degree weather,
date nights, sleepovers, girl talk on phone and porch,
new friends, new adventures, refreshment, rejoicing, and rest.
“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy, which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.’ ”
Luke 2:10
Good news and great joy, indeed!
Hope your cup has been overflowing this week as well!