I sit here

Reading

Thinking

Typing

I smell the comforting scent of fire and ash

Looking up from the computer on my lap my eyes catch the fire

Crackling playfully, bright orange in the hearth

I see my Mother next to me on out couch, my father on the armchair

We are quiet

The room filled with the turning of moms book pages, the fire’s song, and the live concert on TV

I think

Looking at them with a gentle smile

Watching my mother, her happy eyes as they absorb the words before her

My father’s peaceful and calm expression, happy over his day off being spent with his wife

We are content in our quiet night

Warm from firelight and peace

This is home, this is love

A warm fire and each of us entrapped by music, literature, and thoughts

Happy to be together

My brother’s shouting and laughter downstairs filters into our comfortable space

Making us grin, giggle, or shake our heads

He’s here too and it makes the night all the better even if he is downstairs

This is home, this is love

Odd remarks, giggles, and mock fights

Nights filled with firelight and joy

Warm smiles and quiet peace until the next bought of laughter or dancing strikes up

I sit here, in my warm living room

Mom and Dad to my side

Wet hair from my shower, and fire sparking with joy

The dog in the corner lazily gazing on us, or checking in the basement on her boy

I sit here, looking at them, before I turn my gaze downward and begin to read, think, and type again

This feeling

Smoky scent and firelight

Warmth and quiet comfort

I know this feeling in my chest

This is love

This is peace

This is family

This is home