Inside the crate, packed in laboriously constructed layers, were five original works, including the piece to be donated to the people of Jersey, as well as the seventy-five artist's proof reproductions of the image which we were taking with us to be signed by the three Canadian World War II fighter pilots at the ceremony in Jersey. Behind us in the line gathered the rest of our party. There were three of the four fighter pilots depicted in my painting. Their wives, and two of Len's grown children completed our expectant party. The excited air of anticipation in the check-in line suddenly gave way to one of moderate foreboding.
Trouble comes in bunches.
After some more annoying crate lugging and lining up we are finally waiting to depart Toronto in an Air Canada 767. And, of course, the plane is delayed thirty minutes for a late passenger. Time to spare, go by air. It already had a familiar ring. My eyes won't close on the trip over.