The house is quiet today. Too quiet.

Just a few days ago, it was filled with tiny feet pattering across the floor, laughter echoing through the kitchen, and the unmistakable sound of plastic tiles, cardboard tokens, and the occasional triumphant shout of “Qwirkle!” or “JENGA!”

But now? The game boxes sit still on the shelf. The candy-colored trail of Candy Land hasn’t seen a gumdrop footstep since the weekend. And I find myself walking past the Pretty Pretty Princess crown still perched gently on a windowsill, catching a bit of afternoon light, as if waiting for its next royal wearer to return.

My niece and nephew—my two brilliant little game testers, rule benders, and joyful companions—have gone home and I miss them.

We played so many games this month. Some were old favorites from my childhood (Hi Ho Cherry-O, Guess Who?, Operation!). Others were new delights I’d never shared before, like Dixit with its dreamy cards and wild stories, or Qwirkle with its cheerful tiles and quiet strategy. Every day felt like a new adventure, and every game was a doorway into a tiny world we built together.

I learned so much from watching them. The way they interpret rules, the joy they take in patterns, the stories they invent, and the fierce concentration that turns even a game of Connect 4 into a masterclass in tactical thinking.

I am excited for their next visit where we can revisit old favorites and try some new games.