Journey Preparations

~The Taking~

Packing in two separate travel trunks, I am a bit nervous with a mixture of anticipation and longing, contemplating, leaving on this journey. I have made lists that are written and then rewritten. I have cleaned and polished the old trunks until they are shining, along with my shoe gear for the trip.

The first trunk has the clothes I have chosen with such care as I want to look my best. I have carefully wrapped each item in delicate tissue paper.

- a fisherman’s cream colored sweater and corduroy trousers in a khaki shade

- a hooded wool coat, the color of forest ferns, full length, and a matching scarf

- an altered wool suit jacket, wool trousers to match, a cashmere turtleneck, and a highbuttoned Victorian blouse with tiny buttons made of mother of pearl

- faded jeans, well worn and a bit torn around the knees

- five white tee-shirts

- a black party dress, floor length and flowing with a matching cape made in velvet, black satin slipper shoes trimmed in silver for dancing

- three nightgowns and a new chenille robe with ballet shoes for bedroom slippers

- various unmentionables and a limited amount of jewelry

- a cosmetic case which holds brush and comb, brush blow dryer, makeup and toothbrush and toothpaste

- warm thick socks

- eyeglasses, both pairs

- body lotion, hair products and soap

The second case has reading materials, art supplies, a small easel, book light and writing supplies, my journal and fountain pens, my alter shelf things, a wood beaded rosary, a cross and statue of Mary, a photo of my Grandmother and last but not least a music box that plays, ~Silent Night~, full of angels and gold glitter.

I pick up a cloth journal bag I made by hand, that brings to mind a bright orange sunset in the middle of summer. I will carry this with me at all times across my shoulder. It contains fresh coffee in a thermos and peanut butter smothered on crackers for the train ride. 

I take one last glance at the Christmas Wreath in my foyer, I catch my reflection in the large mirror and know for the first time in my life I will not be home for the holidays. I place my hat upon my head - it gives me a sense of security along with the leather gloves that wrap my hands and quietly close the front door.

~ by Patricia Hine Stewart on November 29, 2006.