jakorte's blog

Well rested, and rescued from the hotel, I headed for church, even though all I had was jeans and t-shirts. I hadn’t bothered to bring make-up or dress shoes either. I just knew I would never make it home, change and still get back to church on time. So, me and my steel-toed boots and flannel jacket went to church. I figured I’d be a little uncomfortable and have some explaining to do, but I went anyway.

Strangely, it didn’t seem like anyone really noticed or cared too much. In fact, this may have been the most dressed-down Easter I have ever experienced in this congregation. And, I was comfortable. Knowing where I was coming from, and beginning to understand who I am, factored into that contented feeling. I was happy to be there in familiar surroundings, and happy to be one step closer to home.

The delay in jumping back into my regular routine, changed the way I felt when I finally did make it home after church. Yes, there were still three foot snow drifts covering my driveway. No, I couldn’t get in the front door because it was snowed in. I trudged around back through mounds of snow, and crunched up the un-swept stairs. I found there was too much snow piled up against the gate to force it open.

So, I set down my luggage and climbed over the porch rail. After I had cleared enough area for the gate to swing, I grabbed the one bag I had taken from my vehicle and got myself inside. Fred the Cat sniffed at my snow covered pants, boots, jacket, and luggage and just shook her head.

Since I had left the majority of my luggage outside in the trunk, I didn’t have to jump into unpacking everything all at once. I didn’t shovel either. I went through the mail, listened to the phone messages and took a nap. I don’t think I started unpacking until mid-week. I think some of that laziness was based on emotional denial.

I also left quite a few items for next time in my bag. Yeah, there’s going to be a next time. It’s one of the very few things I am absolutely sure of.

That, and the fact that I probably should have brought that frilly little pink Easter hat I saw in Tennessee. Would’ve made quite a statement with my flannel.

jak