What is this?

You may see an old Samsonite suitcase, but I see a very special man in my life. This is the suitcase I gave Joe for our wedding. He was giving me himself & a future together, and I gave him the means to provide that future.

When we got married we had little if any money, but I knew that the military would be a huge part of our life together. Little did I know at the time, just how big the travel part would be!

Joe missed our first wedding anniversary - Anne I hope you & Derek can celebrate together! Joe was sailing on the HMCS Athabascan towards parts unknown. At that time, we only had a recording on Ships' movements to let us know what was what. The evening of our anniversary, I got a telegram and if that doesn't stop your heart, nothing will. It wasn't bad news, just a quick note from Joe (on his way to Russia) saying he was thinking of me. Stop.

Anyways, the travels continued - England, Norway, Denmark, Africa, Mexico, Costa Rica, Bermuda, Japan, Hawaii and a few other destinations.

Back to the suitcase. We were cleaning out our cold room and we came across the case and we ALMOST got rid of it. That isn't our marriage, but why can't I let it go? It's a bit on the small size by today's standards...I guess I'll slip it back into the cold room for another day.

6 comments:

Alli said...

It is something you held on to and when you saw it it helped bring back many happy memories. So don't ever get rid of it, pull it out and use it. Ever think of coming to Toronto? LOL.. love ya Auntie Berta and Uncle Joe. Alli Ed & Boys

Alberta said...

Actually - YES! Because we didn't have enough time this past summer to stop in southern ON, we are planning a trip there next year if the vacation gods allow! Will keep you posted on our plans as we figure them out.

Can we get your email address so we can communicate sans the blog? I think you still have ours, it hasn't changed.

Have a great Tuesday!

Love Aunite Berta

Alli said...

Katimavik24@hotmail.com

Lucie & Co. said...

I have Grandmere Doiron's old suitcase that Mom gave me, and I keep historical stuff in it such as front section of Calgary Herald
on Jan. 1, 2000, Sept. 11, 2001 and of course when the Flames won the Stanley Cup. It's just sitting on top of the closet in the spare room. Maybe you could use your special suitcase for something like that.

Karen said...

What a sweet story. Thanks for sharing it 'Berta.

Anne said...

That is such a wonderful story. I would not be able to part with somwthing that had such sentimental value either. You can always use it to put special cards and notes into. Like birthday cards, anniversary cards, special letters, etc.