I told the kids not to make any plans for Friday night. Why? they asked. Because we are going to do something together as a family. What? they asked, piqued by the intrigue of the unknown "something". You will have to wait and see. Awwww!!! Tell us, please. No you will have to wait.

I discovered some time ago why we don't tell our kiddos about any special plans. There are two reasons, really. First is that we can't stand the over-excitement they show in the days, hours and minutes leading up to the special "something". We are constantly reminded that we are going to do "something" whatever it is, and that they, the kids, can't wait. It is worse than being stoked on sugar! Our walls can't handle it. Second, the disappointment that looms if the special "something" has to be cancelled. Then their world comes crashing down on them and there is no reason to go on. Oh, woe is me!

So we tell them we are going to do a special something, face the onslaught of questions, and let it ride itself out. Now, they still know that we are doing something special on Friday, but they accept it on face value and no more is said. In fact, they are telling others that they are unavailable on Friday night because we are doing family stuff.

Mom and Dad know something that the kids don't and we smile at their excitement because we know they will be pleased. Jeremiah wrote that God told him that He is going to do "something" special for us. That He has plans for us, good plans. Plans to prosper us and give us a future.

Tell us what they are! we implore. No, not just yet. You will have to wait. Awww, please?!?!