Suitcase Signals

“Gracie, come here. Jump up in the bed and watch me.”

Hops in bed with boundless enthusiasm. 

“Gracie, see what I’m doing? I’m packing up my suitcase. Do you know what that means?”

Tips head curiously but has no idea. 

“I’m going on a trip, girl. Without you.”

GULP

“Don’t worry, I’ll be back. And the others will be here to take care of you. You’ll be fine.”

Ears droop. Shoulders slump. Eyes beg me to stay. 

* * * * *

I’m hoping that Gracie will soon learn that my suitcase means a temporary separation. I want her to understand what is happening when I need to leave her for a while.

And while the sight of my suitcase may send her sad signals, I also know that my faithful dog is learning to trust that I will always, always come back.

* * * * *

I spent an eventful week in Columbus with my second-born - here are all the details:

Suitcase Signals

Fox In The Snow

Picking Pumpkins

The Bean

The Gorilla And The Flamingo

Italian Village
Doughnut Vault
Wells Street Bridge
The Rookery
Flamingo Again

Wabash Arts Corridor
The Berghoff
Glossier Pop-Up

Bookcase Bonanza