I lined the bags up as we got out of the van. It was like a colorful parade. Soon enough they were on their way to the belly of the plane as we went off on our last remaining days of vacation before the long run to Christmas. Three people and too many bags. It was because we were going backpacking in the Adirondacks in search of a Highpoint (Mt, Marcy) and then canoeing on a route ominously called the Seven Carries in the St Regis area of New York. Then on to Niagara Falls and finally a couple of Broadway shows.
I love our colorful bags because it means that as they come up on the baggage conveyor belt, I can see them. So many bags are dark and bland. So often the bags are mirror images and I watch people pulling bags off and putting them back on when they realize their mistake.
When we got off the plane in New York, we made a long walk to baggage claim and then waited. Nearly an hour later four of our bags had arrived, but one blue one was AWOL. Occasionally, a bag would lumber out onto the silver sidewalk and spin away on the carrousel. People rushed away when they got their bags. Still, a few of us waited. Finally, I saw a flash of blue, it was a reflection down into the maw of the beast. The bag emerged. It was not mine. It was a similar color, but the wrong shape. Then my blue bag came sulking out. I think it has to have been the last bag off the plane.
After a long delay at the rental car place and over two hours past our hoped schedule, we finally headed north toward adventure. We got into a bed after 2AM. We were exhausted, but excited. I cherish every day I can spend in the woods and the mountains. I love the sound of a rushing stream and a crooning bird. We will see you next week, ready for the next adventure in Athens. Please sign-up for Alpha - I believe it is going to be an important movement in our church to help us evangelize Athens.