As long as I can remember, in the few days before Christmas I am consumed by an unbearable desire to have everyone I love under one roof as soon as possible. I know that the family togetherness is imminent. But can’t come fast enough.

I love the rituals of Christmas. I love the trees and the presents with glittery bows. I love the lights and the ornaments. The music and the foods are like a warm blanket on a cold day, comforting and soothing.

Most of all, I love the family gatherings. In one single day, I will see my core group of family. The people who are closest to us and who shaped our very beings will be together again. We will eat, and laugh. I will shower them with gifts they likely don’t need, because it gives me joy to honor them. And for a brief moment in time, all will be right in the world.

The anticipation is sometimes visceral. I wake early and pace, wondering when they will arrive. Will a storm keep the plane from flying? Will they have car trouble? I keep worry at bay with baking and cleaning and music. In my heart, I know all is well, but time seemingly stands still. I feel as if I will burst from waiting.

My happiness is complete when all the cars are in the driveway and everyone is asleep under one roof. Sometimes, I stay up all night just to relish the feeling of contentment for as long as possible.

Christmas morning will move too fast. The presents will be opened and the base of the tree will again be empty. In a matter of hours, the house will again be silent as my cherished ones will go back to their lives in places far away. But for those few treasured hours, my whole world is together in one place. Christmas magic.