Our family has been planning a celebration for some time now. This celebration was supposed to occur during the first COVID year, but was postponed until this fall. We've all put a lot of time into this celebration, a celebration we will share with many family members and a few friends. When you spend so much time planning one big event, there is always a bit of trepidation that the event won't live up to your expectations. I have a similar experience when planning big trips. The truth is that no event goes exactly as planned, but if you prioritize your expectations prior to the event, you will likely be pleased. So what are my expectations for this event?
Anticipation is half the fun
Many expectations have already been met since the anticipation for a celebration of love and friendship is half the fun. This anticipation has motivated us to complete countless loving, creative tasks together which have been lots of fun and truly helped the first COVID-19 year to be more meaningful and engaging. Most of us enjoy planning a big party including all the creative tasks to make the event special.
Being together brings us joy
To simply be with those I've loved most throughout my life will bring me pleasure. I look forward to simply taking a few moments out now and then throughout the celebration to simply watch my family members interact and have fun. I have always enjoyed having a big, loving family, and more than anything, this celebration will be a celebration of family.
Celebrating special occassions
I believe it is important to celebrate life's special occassions. It is celebrations like that that make life meaningful, enjoyable, and strong. These special recognition ceremonies and parties are touchstone events that we look back on to draw strength and renew loving connections throughout life.
Specific Moments
Before any big celebration or trip, I make a list of special moments I want to make sure I make time for. Just before my wedding, several decades ago, my husband-to-be and I sat down and talked about these special moments as we wanted to be present for our special day. For this special celebration, I want to make sure I do the following:
- Be well prepared so I can have the luxury to simply enjoy being surrounded by loving family and friends
- Be flexible and ready enough to let the small snafus that will likely occur pass without worry. I'll have a few friendly retorts should challenging conversations occur and I'll bring a few extra items to appease a disgruntled child, replace a torn/broken piece of clothing, and leave time for error with regard to getting from one place to another.
- Stop, look, and listen as the more serious moments of the ceremony occur--I want to be fully present for those.
- Get out on the dance floor and enjoy the music and cheer.
- See this event as one of many past and future that will bring our family together in significant and meaningful ways.
- Leave the trials and tribulations of life behind for a few days to simply relax and enjoy this special event.