I squeezed all of my journal provisions into this 8 x 12 plastic box. Inside, a stray piece of crumpled red crepe paper, brads, small brown envelopes sent from a friend, a collaged folder another friend gave me years ago, fancy paper clips, a photograph of a door knob I took in Mexico, an old roll of tape, water soluble crayons, rub on letters, stickers, labels, a whistle just in case, a couple of rubberstamps, assorted pieces of scrap, a piece of string. And other things: An old army compass from my dearly departed cousin Hughie.
Here's what's not in the journal box: a pair of my pop's old socks, a matchbox of tiny buttons Mama Moss thought I needed once. I like to carry things with me when I travel. I like to bring things back too. My water & soil samples to go in the bottles with the others. Things I will find on the bus, in the trams, on the street. I like to pick up things people leave behind. You know, stuff. Of course there are the stories I'll be collecting. Let's not forget those. Everything gets arranged somehow in my small tired suitcase for the journey there and back. It all fits.
Well… think of me, taking off at the crack of dawn. Then think of both my sister and I tomorrow evening as we leave North America and head out across the north Atlantic headed for parts unknown. Neither of us will sleep in the dark cabin as it flies through the starry sky and over the wide ocean, but we'll both be dreaming.
I'm wondering about the night breezes coming through the tall
apartment windows in Lisbon. Will they be balmy or cool there at the
38th parallel? Hmmm… plenty to wonder about tonight. Instead of writing in my journal I wrote it down here. Thought I'd take you along with me on the circuitous route through my head..one last time before I hit the road.
Aren’t you back YET? I’m missing my regular blog fix but hope you’re having a wonder-full time. But hurry back. please.
I do hope your trip is lov-er-ly! xox
I love to imagine you unpacking your box of journal provisions (and finding wonderful things to add to it) at a cafe under the portugese sun, basking, watching the folks, scribbling and spilling and stamping…
our hearts are with you & wish you a safe & spectacular adventure!
We sure would love to see some picture on your journey to Portugal. Have a blissful trip
That’s a lot of stuff, have a great trip with your sister.
Have a great trip. I love the Alfama barrio in Lisboa. Be sure to get to Sintra and see the castle or palacio. The last trip I took with my sister was to Oaxaca and Puerto Escondito. We took a bus from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondito through the mountains and then down into the jungle. It was very memorable. The federales stopped the bus and demanded un poco de dinero when we left Oaxaca City. The bus broke down a couple of times in the mountains. My sister is a real trooper or is it trouper? Nothing phases her.
The only portugese I remember is obrigado. Obrigado for your blog, miss moss.
Via con dios! Have a splendid time….I’ll be dreaming of you in the Lisbon apartment, pen in hand, gazing at the beautiful sites! Have the best time EVER! xo frannie
Go forth with splendor in your eyes and laughter filling your soul.Remember all the minutest details and quickly forget the small inconveniences. Blessed be your trip.
Wishing you traveling mercies and many memorable moments. Live it up!
Yippee!!!! Post when or if you can…enjoy!
Have a wonderful time, Mary Ann. Can’t wait to see the visual splendors you bring back!
Bon voyage, my friend and make your next trip to London. Almost the same spelling and more of us speak English!
OLE!! just have a wonderful adventure…..we will be waiting quietly here in the back of the class……can’t wait for next class so fill up!!
missy from the bayou…
Have a safe and artistic trip! First time here at your blog…I spent most of the morning reading your past posts and still didn’t get through all of them. I love love your journals and other art!! I want to take your next class.
have a fabulous trip to Portugal!!! I’m so jealous but I’m going to live vicariously thru you.
Love the new header!
Suzanne
“Neither of us will sleep… but we’ll both be dreaming.”
Perfect
¡Boa viagem!
Dear Mary Ann – I wish you a blissful trip to Portugal.
Weather should be OK. All things bright and beautiful.
What a gift, to journey with your Sister! I truly envy you.
Take care of yourselves –
Chrissy
Have a safe journey my friend and don’t think of a thing back in the old USA… Have a good time!