Packing for the Journey
By: Nicole Johnson
May 1, 2007
As you might imagine, I’m a pretty good packer.
In fact, if there were a Road Warrior Survivor TV show, I just might consider testing my skill. After all, I’ve been doing it for YEARS — over 30 or more on a regular basis. I know how to put things in a suitcase, check off a list, and think through what I might have forgotten. Whether it’s just for an overnight trip, a month long stay overseas, going to visit a friend, or for one of our fabulous weekend conferences… you name it, I’ve packed for it many times over.
But in my 40 years I have NEVER packed a bag like the one sitting in my closet right now. It is a small black bag waiting to go with us to the hospital. One day soon we’ll leave home with that bag and return a few days later with a baby boy. How does one pack for such a life-changing journey?
There are lots of practical things in my suitcase, but they aren’t the “usual” things I travel with. No curling iron, no gym shoes and not even my computer. No, the “practical” stuff has already changed: baby booties and swaddling blankets, comfortable clothes, clean underwear, and some snacks. What else do we need, really?
But let me tell you a few more special things I’ve packed for this journey:
The first thing in my case came from a special baby shower. It is a little cloth bag that contains some handwritten prayers, little pieces of advice and the well wishes of friends. These gems were written at the shower and then sealed. I haven’t read them yet—and the little envelopes are such a picture of the encouragement and support that goes with me.
I’m also bringing a little necklace of shells — given to me by my sister-in-law, Nancy. She gave them to me a couple of years ago as a tangible prayer for strength. She got them when she was competing in a triathlon in Hawaii. Nancy has two boys and I packed the necklace as a sweet reminder of her strength and the strength of other mothers who have gone before me and survived beautifully.
Also in my bag is a very handy list of the phone numbers of those closest to me. It amazed me as I worked on the list how often I have traveled without this in the past. Not only is it nice to have the numbers accessible, it’s such a meaningful reminder of the wonderful people in our life who care about us and our new baby.
I’ve packed my journal and my Bible — not to worry, I don’t have real thoughts of being able to write anything down in my journal (other than “Oww”), but as many of you know, I always have it with me, just in case. It’s an old friend and companion, as is my Bible. I’ve marked some special passages and Scriptures that someone can read to me if my eyes are crossed in pain or filled with tears of joy. God is so good to give us his word for this journey called life.
So I’m zipping my case closed and just waiting for the day. Trusting in the few things I’m taking, that I have all I really need. I’m so grateful for the love and care you’ve demonstrated with your emails and prayers. I’ve asked my staff to let you know when the big event occurs, because remember I’m not bringing my computer.
See you “on the other side” of motherhood,
Nicole
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