Barbara J. Hamby

Confession

Today I emptied the purse I’ve been carrying to put the contents into a smaller shoulder bag more convenient for traveling. I was flabbergasted to find an extra car key at the bottom of a hidden pocket inside. Not only am I disgusted that I didn’t think to call AAA and, instead, spent money for a locksmith to get into my car when I locked my keys inside recently, but now I discover I had an extra key with me after all. Duh.

I choose to take this as a warning to keep my wits about me on our forthcoming trip. It’s much easier to get distracted in unfamiliar surroundings, or in airports, even if they are familiar. Those security lineups can frazzle the calmest traveler with luggage, shoes, coats, laptop, etc., scattered here, there and everywhere.

Having done enough traveling over the last ten years to become familiar with some of the pitfalls, I hope to remember what they are and avoid them. I now have a transparent cosmetic bag; and the three bottles in it contain three or fewer ounces of liquids each. I’ll put them in the required zip lock bag before I pack. I have a lighter weight briefcase for my laptop with a shoulder strap that should make it much easier to handle.

Focusing on preparations for the cruise is helping to keep me from thinking about my most recent bout of senior forgetfulness. Maybe I can even forget about it.

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