A season of expectancy

Seasons of expectancy trigger joy in our lives. Hope flourishes. Many of us look forward to Christmas, not so much for the gifts (as we did when we were younger), but in terms of family reunions. As many of my children have wandered far across this land, I wait with expectancy for their return over the next two weeks. The tree is ready and the Christmas village nestles on top of the piano once again. Soon I will put up the nativity....anyone want to move camels this year? I plough through my research paper prep trying to free up as much time as I can for... Christmas...a season of fun in the middle of winter....the snow is already here. My students are busy practicing for our recital on the 20th....so much to look forward to: viewing the Narnia movie "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" together, Boxing Day sales, dinners together, one son recording music with his friends, my daughter's friends dropping by, Christmas Eve service, late night movies in the family room, talking, reconnecting, chatting late at night (if I can stay up!),wondering how long my youngest's goatee has grown (!), playing music together, phone calls from relatives in far off countries, lights on the snow, hugs at the door...anyone want to add to the list?! Oh, probably some will add...cookies...I think gramma has started baking. May this season be a time of joy, family reconnection and spiritual peace for all as we celebrate the birth of our Saviour. Advent is a time of expectancy.