I plan ahead, and sometimes that is good and sometimes that's not so good. Why do I do it?
First, planning ahead generally means that the people you want to get together with are available, and this typically refers to my young adult children and their significant others as well as my siblings, nieces and nephews. Their work/school schedules are busy, so to gather them in one place demands lead time.
And, by planning ahead, I can afford a good time. When I'm looking forward to a good time with the people I love, it is a lot easier not to spend the dollars I have on more frivolous activities. Also, sometimes you can land a good deal by planning ahead, yet I'm finding that to be less and less true these days.
So, as I consider the year ahead, I find myself thinking of the holidays, special celebrations, and vacations that bring us happiness--the times that bring us together, and the events that give the year a positive structure.
The events we typically plan for include the following:
- Birthdays
- Anniversaries
- Mother's Day, Father's Day
- Thanksgiving
- Christmas
- Family reunions
- Periodic get-aways and vacations