The last time we had a reunion was back in December of '04. It's been almost 5 years.

Since then I have gotten married and had another child. My older brother has a mortgage to pay and had another child as well. My mom left her life in Texas behind and is now living with my younger brother. The brother who is now working his way up to becoming a doctor. And my dad. My dearest Dad is once again attempting to reconnect with all of us.

So much more has happened in the last five years, but what matters most right now is that we're having another reunion. My mom, dad, 2 brothers, sis-in-law, and 4 nephews will be here for the week of Thanksgiving to join Dave, the 2 girls and I.

I'm a little on edge because I'll have 6 kids in my house all at once, but I'm excited. Our little 3-generation family tree has grown to 13.

The thing is, I'm a little creeped out. My parents have been divorced for over 20 years. Because there isn't enough room for everyone here, they'll be sharing a 2-bedroom suite at a hotel 3 miles from my house. For a week.

Next week is so close, yet so far away.