Packing & Anticipating

Aug. 13, 24-plus hours to liftoff. We are 95% packed, and the crates containing our bike are screwed shut, wheels attached, ready to go. Robb built them, regulation airline size (26x26x8"), out of plywood, attached handles from two mail order boxes, wrapped strapping around... He disassembled the bike and carefully, strategically arranged the pieces in each box. He took a photo of each box, packed, and taped each inside the appropriate crate to remind him how to repack. Observe attached photos - he deserves much admiration!

As for me, Barbara, I am channeling father Herb, who died three years ago this month. Thanks to being unable to walk well or far in his later years, he became a master packer and always took the absolute minimum. He would crow that everything he took could be washed out in the sink and with the addition of a clip-on tie, looked positively natty! His suitcase resembled a simple overnighter, from which he would whip out the latest find with a triumphant sense of glee. He was awfully fun to travel with, and most especially, in France, which he adored. For my part, I will think of him in Paris, sailing toy sailboats in the Tuilleries as a boy with his brother Bill. I will think of him at Luxembourg Gardens, where we spent time just enjoying the passing scene, and at the Pompidou where we laughed at the performance artists. I will raise a glass of vin rouge in his honor. Ah, Paree!

Also note photo of Oliver, who will be guarding our house for the next month. Owner Rebecca will share the space, albeit in her own bed...