ANTICIPATION!!

The suitcases are out. The final loads of laundry are finished. It's about time to get everything packed, so another adventure can begin. Ahhhhhh. Anticipation. Plans. A Clipboard of Fun.

I have some great friends who are "fly by the seat of their pants" kind of people. They get up in the morning and just follow their whims and their moods. I, however, could not be more opposite. When I have a chance to explore new territory, researching and, yes, anticipating, are almost more fun than the actual going/doing/experiencing. I love talking to people who have "been there," and I take great pains to read travelers' reviews and such. I reason that I would hate to spend several days in a place and find out after I leave that a wonderful spot had been just a few blocks away, and I didn't know.

Tomorrow morning Steve and I are driving down to Savannah for a few days to celebrate our 41st anniversary (which actually was last week, but this week was just better for our schedules). Because of many mission trips, veterinary seminars, and all kinds of celebrations that I've been able to dream up through the years, we have had glorious opportunities to see much of the world and this country. But, somehow, we've never made it to Savannah.

After much deliberation, we selected a great-sounding Bed and Breakfast in a prime location, and I have narrowed restaurant choices down to six that fit our criteria. We have a rule on trips like this -- We never eat at chain restaurants just like the ones we have at home. We really enjoy sampling the local culture and cuisine. We're hoping to walk, explore, take pictures, shop, eat, laugh and relax. I have my maps and confirmations printed out, and the car's navigation system is already set to go. Steve actually gets a lot of pleasure out of letting me do the homework and planning and then just watching me reveal the "Clipboard" to him little by little as we go along. You might not believe this, but we went all the way to Hawaii once when he only had "a dollar and a dime" in his pocket . . . and he still had it when we got back!!! He doesn't want to worry about the costs or paying the bills. He just wants to be able to savor the sights, sounds and tastes. I, on the other hand, Mrs. Control Freak of the Universe, LOVE to be "on top of things" and keep the trip running smoothly.

Don't worry. I really don't have an hour-by-hour itinerary ready. Mine has more of a Breakfast -- Morning possibilities -- Lunch -- Afternoon possibilities -- Dinner -- Relaxation kind of look to it. See? There is flexibility built in . . . if you look very carefully. :)

I'm planning several blogs entitled "Savannah with My Silver Fox," so be watching for those in the next few days.

I'm so happy about the fact that we've been married for 41 years and are still in love and hoping for 41 more anniversaries. The weather is gorgeous. I expect the flowers to be spectacular, the buildings to be incredible, and the seafood to be scrumptious. You'd think I was a kid going to Disney World. :)