January 2

I had so much fun playing cards after dinner this evening.

Brady brought a quintet of his favorite animals down for the occasion, and there was plentiful laughter and silliness and general chicanery around the table.

But my favorite moment came as the very last hand drew to a dramatic close. Isaac, who finished last in nearly every round, unexpectedly won. He celebrated his victory as the unseated Abby shouted "no!" and the rest of us just laughed and laughed. 

I know I wrote this yesterday, but I do so love playing games with my family. Tonight I especially loved how well Isaac handled losing over and over again. He could've gotten frustrated, but he cheerfully made light of his misfortune instead. I know life doesn't always work this way, but it was a nice reminder that sometimes, even after finishing last over and over (and over) again, the Nice Guy does win. So if you're in a place where you're wondering if you're ever going to get ahead, just keep trying. You never know when you'll finally hit pay dirt.