Somehow, a feeling of expectancy made it seem different from other days.

He wanted it to last just as long as possible, so he lay there thinking about it, and wondering what would happen first.
As soon as he was dressed, Mammy sent him to the spring for water.

He was gone some time, for he had a faint hope that the birthday Santa Claus whom he had met at Miss Hallie's party might come early, and he spent several minutes looking down the road.
Breakfast was ready when he reached the house, and he set the pail down in such a hurry that some of the water slopped out on his bare toes.

His wistful eyes scanned the table quickly.

There was a better breakfast than usual--bacon and eggs this morning.