PACKING TROUBLE

Eight-year-old Tara loved soft toys.

- Vandana Gupta

She had names for all of the soft toys that belonged to her. Her dog’s name was Pogo, her squirrel, Tilly, her monkey, Rancho and her favourite teddy, Brownie. Whether she was playing, eating or sleeping, one of them was always in her arms.

When her winter vacation was about to begin, Tara’s father also had five days off. So he said, “Why don’t we go somewhere?”

Tara immediately said, “Dad, you promised to show me snowfall! I’ve never seen real snow. Let’s go to a hill station!” Seeing her excitement, her father agreed.

Tara jumped around happily. “It'll be so much fun! I’ll make snowballs for Tilly and Brownie!”

Dad smiled. “You can’t take them with you, dear. The less luggage we carry, the more comfortable the trip will be. And you won’t even have time to play with them there.”

Tara’s smile faded. A couple of days later, her Dad announced, “Pack your bags today. It’s very cold there, so make sure to pack warm clothes.”

Mom packed everyone’s clothes in a suitcase and kept another bag ready with food and other necessities. That night, while Mom was busy in the kitchen, Tara quietly placed Brownie and Tilly into the suitcase. But the suitcase wouldn't close.