“We can never know about the days to come
But we think about them anyway
And I wonder if I’m really with you now
Or just chasin’ after some finer day
Anticipation, anticipation
Is makin’ me late
Is keepin’ me waitin’…” Carly Simon
Whether you remember Carly Simon’s song, or just the Heinz Ketchup commercial from 1979, anticipation is a powerful experience for many of us. On our travels, Betty & I like to have a rough plan where we will go, what we will see, and whom we will meet. There is a sense of excitement and anticipation in preparing for the future.
But as Carly Simon also noted “We can never (fully) know about the days to come”. Circumstances change, weather changes, and as we’ve found, health is something else over which we do not have full control. We have to be prepared to accept what comes, and readjust our plans accordingly.
That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t plan. Betty and I have noted before that we try to balance spontaneity with planning on our overlandish odyssey. But as Robert Burns aptly noted in 1785 “The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry”.
But finally getting to the central point of this post: At Christmas 2022, Betty & I proposed to our family that we meet on South Padre Island in late January-early February 2024 for a late Christmas celebration, and an early celebration of Betty & my 50thwedding anniversary, Valerie & Kevin’s 20th wedding anniversary, Lisa & Adam’s 10th wedding anniversary, as well as numerous birthdays.
A January 26, 2020 post entitled “Hallelujah” reflects on a similar late Christmas celebration in Phoenix, Arizona. Since a great time was had by all, we thought we’d try it again!
In March 2023 we discussed a number of homes available for rent on the island, and settled on one that could accommodate all of us. It has a large pool, hot tub, basketball court, soccer pitch, putting green, billiards room etc., and is close to the beach – so lots of potential activities for everyone. The main goal is just to have some hugs and memorable times together.
Now we’re weeks away from our get-together. What will we remember about it? We anticipate great weather, safe flights and drives, good health for everyone, and a great time to be had by all. But which of our plans are fully in our control? Anticipation is keeping us waiting, and we can only hope and pray that we have the courage and faith to accept what is to come.
Here’s hoping that your plans are realized as you anticipate what the future holds for you!
Cheers!
“And tomorrow we might not be together
I’m no prophet and I don’t know nature’s ways
So I’ll try and see into your eyes right now
And stay right here ’cause these are the good old days
And stay right here ’cause these are the good old days
(These are the good old days)
(These are the good old days)
(These are the good old days)
(These are the good old days).” Carly Simon
