During the Industrial Revolution, the working classes of northern England flocked to work in coal mines, pits and cotton mills to make a living. Not the most likely place for the birth of a traditional pastime? Well actually, yes. It was among these cobbled streets that the English tradition of clog dancing was born.

I found this poem by Gina Sangster over 10 years ago in the Hill Rag. It speaks to me even more now that I’ve planned a Greek getaway with girlfriends.

I love this poem by Stephen Dunn. I can feel the joy and beautiful chaos that ensues when the door closes.

Years ago I went to a lecture given by Lonely Planet. The ever present wander lust was upon me, and I wanted to know how to travel “right”. What I gleaned from that pre-internet talk was to connect with as many people as comfortable and follow your heart. I loved the idea of meeting someone in a hostel, hearing about their adventures and taking off in that direction the next day. I noted the suggested packing list, thankful for details that would literally take a load off my back(pack). The list has lived securely taped into the front of my address book, a guide that informed my choices the past three trips to Italy. I always ended up cramming more crap than I needed into the bag, schlepping useless pounds. The list suggests taking only 4 pairs of panties, but nun uh! This Crone is taking 10!

This time I am following the guidance of a family that is traveling to Europe in the Winter with only a small backpack. Instead of tshirts, I’m taking dresses that I can cut short when I get to Switzerland for my gardening WorkAway. If I need other clothes, I’ll shop at a local thrift store or a flea market. I’m taking my kite because I promised myself that I’ll fly it in every country that I visit. I have a bag of notebooks— daily journal, meditation journal and creative writing, some colored pencils for sketching, and photos of my family. Oh, and Shirleen and Peanut, my tiny stuffed bear and dog for bedtime snuggles.

Check out my packing inspiration: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C1IDxAeIBrU/?igsh=amRxNTk3MW53dGp2

See what I actually ended up taking, minus a few things.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/jtZWfCQtV6yFq6di6

“Presumption 8: Mothers are the only ones who can care properly for a child. “