When I graduated from college I received a large, gray suitcase and a round trip ticket to work in France the summer before I started teaching. The trip changed my life forever. Travel to France taught me more than how to speak French.

You meet a co-worker, Christine. I introduce you to the baggage handler in Calais and the railroad clerk in Nice. You hear from the doctor who attended medical school in Switzerland in 1947 to help us understand how quickly we forget atrocities. My family makes a brief appearance. The return trip to Central France takes you through scenic beauty and inspirational situations.

Unexpected events, such as divorce, illness, and deaths change our lives. Flexibility, faith, and friends help us through hard times. As we travel through life we find new, meaningful ways to cope.

You can order Gift of the Suitcase through my website at www.ruthglover.com. Click “buy now” to go immediately to the order form. You can buy the paperback directly from me if you are local or from Amazon, Seattle Book Company, Nook,  IBooks, and Kindle.

When you register for free newsletter (Roving Ruth), download a free short story to help you plan your own trips for growth and enjoyment. Five Steps for a Blissful Trip is brief article to help you plan your travels. The next newsletter shows several uncommon people (both local and international) along with an exciting train ride in Switzerland. Register online at www.ruthglover.com for "Roving Ruth."