Lunch

Mom always made his lunch before she was off to work. Sometimes dad made it. Mom knew exactly how to fold the paper bag. She put his name on it just so. Not too big so the other kids would notice. The bag was folded down once, twice, three times to make a perfect seal and perfect handle. Inside, a sandwich on dark rye or wheat bread. Sometimes it was left-over meatloaf from Sunday dinner, with lots of ketchup and a slice of lettuce. Fresh. Other times, liverwurst on rye with spicy mustard and a slice of lettuce. Fresh. There was always some fruit and carrot sticks and maybe a little green box of raisins especially for lunches. Maybe a little note that said Hi, honey. Have a good day, or There's a surprise in the cupboard for you when you get home or Remember -- feed the dog.