As the new year unfolds, our family has embraced a theme of intentional planning, inspired by the endless curiosity and enthusiasm of my daughter, Lily. This year, we decided to embark on a journey that not only promises adventure but also teaches valuable lessons about looking forward and setting goals. Each month, we’ve committed to planning an event or activity that Lily has eagerly anticipated, starting with a delightful trip to Hershey’s Chocolate World this January.

The excitement in Lily’s eyes as we planned our visit was a reminder of the power of anticipation. The joy of selecting which attractions to explore, including the promise of a delicious milkshake and the much-awaited Hershey’s Chocolate Tour ride, brought an energy to our family that was both uplifting and contagious. This anticipation isn’t just about the event itself but about fostering a sense of wonder and excitement for what’s to come.

Our visit to Hershey’s Chocolate World was more than just a day out; it was a lesson in the joys of planning and the rewards of patience. Lily’s eager countdown to the day and her gleeful immersion in the chocolate-making tour underscored a broader lesson we often overlook in the hustle of daily life: the importance of having milestones and treats to look forward to, much like businesses set quarterly goals or landmarks to gauge their progress.

This intentional approach to planning family events throughout the year serves a dual purpose. It not only ensures that we have dedicated family time amidst our busy schedules but also instills in Lily the value of looking forward to and working towards something exciting. It’s a way of teaching her that the journey, with its ups and downs, is worth it when there’s something to look forward to at the end.

Moreover, planning these events in advance has a surprising effect on how we navigate challenges. Knowing there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, or in this case, a milkshake waiting at Hershey’s, makes the difficult days easier to manage. It’s a reminder that there’s always something good on the horizon if we plan for it and work towards it.

In essence, “Lessons with Lily” this month is a testament to the power of forward-thinking and planning. It’s about building excitement, teaching patience, and enjoying the rewards that come from anticipating the joys life has to offer. As we continue to plan our monthly adventures, we’re not just marking our calendars; we’re enriching our lives with experiences that bring us closer, make us stronger, and remind us of the sweetness of life’s journey.

As we look ahead to the rest of the year, we’re filled with excitement for the memories we’ll create and the lessons we’ll learn. Planning might seem like a small act, but its impact on our lives, much like the effect of a simple milkshake on a child’s heart, is profound and lasting.