More Preparations to Leave
The kind and friendly villagers were aware that our Father... [was] already in the USA and offered to help Mother with packing and disposing of our possessions. Their help was beneficial in many ways. The kibitzing and the general conversation [were] lighthearted and joyful, calming Mother and freeing her to give the five of us children the necessary attention; and [their help enabled us] to travel for our last visit to her Mother and brother in Kamenetz, Litovsk...
[original page 30] Suitcases and wardrobe trunks were not in fashion or available in the village, and they cost money. The packing was done in large bundles. Everything to be shipped was placed on heavy sheets and down-feather comforters and tied with ropes made by a local rope maker. The rope maker would set up a portable wooden machine in front of his house. The finished product would be stretched out on the street and cut to desired lengths.... To watch him was another form of entertainment for the youth.
In the center of our all-purpose room was a clutter of bundles. Our wooden board box-like beds were not disturbed. The straw in the beds in which we slept was covered with heavy muslin sheets and remained for the lucky purchaser... The bundling of our possessions was so expertly done that everything arrived in the USA in perfect condition, including the glassware, china, copperware, and sealed bottles of Vodka for Father, as well as the musty ocean odor that penetrated everything for a long time.
