New Thoughts on Words
Aging & Attitude
Valise, I like its sound. Valise is of French origin from the Italian word valigia and reminds me of my grandfather. Pop-Pop called a small piece of luggage a valise. Something larger was a trunk, as in steamer trunk, the type slapped with vacation stickers and seen on cruise ships, headed towards the old country.
The definition of valise is a small overnight bag, a size manageable with one hand by ladies. Today’s equivalent would be a tote or backpack
My grandfather said, “Where’s your valise?” Never asked what was inside or if I had everything. We were treated as adults but I recall instructions on how to fold pressed dresses with tissue paper to prevent creases during travel. It works.
What was in the valise?
A toothbrush, no toothpaste, that was provided by the host. Other toiletries were not necessary, we bathed once a week at home and shampooed our hair at the kitchen sink with bar soap if need be. I did not need six different skin care products to prevent face wrinkles, nor numerous medications.
What was in the valise?
Perhaps one extra pair of underwear but pantyhose washed, rolled in a hand towel, and left in the bathroom to dry overnight. Certainly, I packed a nightgown and house coat not to be indecent.
What was in the valise?
Probably an extra sweater, put under your coat when real cold. We wore a scarf around the neck. The scarf protected the coat collar from grime and make-up, and doubled as a head cover. If the weather turned hot, the sweater replaced your coat.
Life was simple.
Make-up consisted of blue eye shadow, pink lipstick, and white nail polish and stored in a handbag, along with a rain hat, two aspirin and a wallet.
What was in my wallet?
An orange library card, five dollars, and yes, my social security card.
I may have carried a bubble umbrella.
What was in your valise?
….just saying
claudiajustsaying 