Dearest Reader,

There is a great deal to be said for having something ahead of you.

Not necessarily something impressive.

A journey may do, certainly. So may a celebration, an important opportunity, or the arrival of someone whose company you enjoy. But people are often mistaken in believing anticipation must be reserved for occasions worthy of photographs.

A breakfast you have been thinking about since Tuesday can be remarkably effective.

So can a book waiting beside the bed. A parcel expected in the post. A garden beginning to bloom. An evening for which you have made no plans beyond enjoying it.