Next to sleeping, one of my very favorite things to do in the whole wide world is travel. I was infected with the travel bug at a very young age. As my grandmother regaled me with stories of her adventures, my explorer's heart was born and I developed a strong appreciation for discovering other cultures. As soon as I could I became a wanderer. My dream is to see as much as my heart desires, just as my grandmother did, although it is doubtful that like her, I will be hiking Machu Pichu when I turn 80!
Today my youngest nephew and I will be leaving on a jet plane with our sights set on a new adventure. All of the planning and anticipation of what's to come has brought me almost as much joy as the trip will. There is something about the process of researching, mapping the route, building a rough itinerary, budgeting, and imagining what awaits that makes my heart sing. Skipping those things would rob me of the slow build of anticipation. Knowing that something good is coming if I only wait teases me with hope and wonder. It is immensely more gratifying to me when I anticipate something for a bit, sit with the longing, and live in the hope of it before it actually transpires. The wondering, thinking, and waiting all build to a beautiful crescendo and when I finally taste the reward I am satisfied on the deepest level.
As Advent approaches and the holidays beckon, I hope you too find ways to slow down and anticipate what's to come. Learn to enjoy the process as much as the reward.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a plane to catch!
