I did something really, really stupid; I’m still so upset with myself I could scream. Here’s what happened:
Chris and I took the kids to New York for a quick trip after Christmas; this was everyone’s present so there weren’t any gifts under the tree. We had a great time–we saw “Chicago” on Broadway and watched the New York City Ballet perform “The Nutcracker” with Tiler Peck dancing as the Sugar Plum Fairy. We went to The Met twice because we all loved it so. We also hit Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and ate tons of yummy food. We packed a lot into three days, to be sure!
The terrible thing happened on Saturday as we were taking the train from Penn Station to Newark to catch our flight home. The train was crazy crowded with holiday travelers and I pushed my carry on bag way under the seat in front of me to make room for my suitcase. Then Chris said he’d keep my suitcase with him and I never pulled my bag out and put it between my feet like I usually do.
You guys, I got off the train at the airport and left my carry on bag behind.
Of course, my carry on was full of all the things that were too valuable to put in my checked bag as we flew home– my jewelry (including a few favorite pieces that belonged to my late mother), prescriptions, and makeup/toiletries, and my LAPTOP. Even typing it makes me want to throw up.
By the time I figured out that the reason I felt so unencumbered was not just because Chris was pulling my suitcase for me, we had already taken the Air Train to the airport and at least 20-30 minutes had gone by. We got in touch with the Port Authority Police at the airport and the NJ Transit lost and found people but nothing had been turned in. I’m still not sure if I should have sent everyone else home and stayed up there to try to track down the train and conductor, but we opted to continue home and trust that someone would do the right thing and turn it in. I’ll be honest and tell you that I spent most of the time before boarding in the restroom, alternating between crying and being sick.
I’m a really organized and efficient person and I just don’t lose track of my things, especially things like that. I’m the mom, so that means I also know where everyone else’s things are at all times. But when I mess up, I apparently mess up BIG. In that bag were my Tiffany necklace and bracelets. My mom’s pearl bracelet and gold hoop earrings. Expensive makeup in my Tory Burch cosmetic bag. Not to mention three years of work product on my not backed up laptop. I know, I know–I thought it was backing up but it wasn’t. My fault again for not checking. We back this blog up every 24 hours and that’s what I thought my hard drive was doing. Hold tight while I go get sick again.
The people at NJ Transit tell me when I call every day that because my bag was lost over the holiday that it might take a few days to make it to the Lost and Found department to be logged into the system. I think they’re just trying to be nice but I am praying for that to be true. I also have the Find my Mac option enabled through my iCloud, so if the laptop connects to the internet, it will lock down in addition to my usual password protection and display a message with my phone number and a reward offered. I am trusting in that because there was a ton of personal data on there, of course.
I’ve spent the past few days changing passwords and talking to Apple, our identity theft insurance company, our regular insurance company, and all the transit authorities around NY/NJ since it could possibly get turned in back at Penn Station instead of NJ. (By the way, it was the pretty Longchamp weekender bag I bought over the summer-sigh.) I didn’t feel very Happy New Yearish on Monday and I am having the hardest time getting things done on my son’s Dell laptop, but I am finally getting my rear back in gear as of today.
Here’s what I do everytime I pull up the Find My iPhone App and see that my poor MacBook Pro is still lost and offline: I pray for the person who finds my bag to do the right thing and turn it in, but I pray that I will shift my perspective and remember that in the end, these are only things. Precious as my mom’s jewelry is, I still have some of her other pieces. I have friends who are going through unimaginable struggles right now and this does not begin to compare to what they’re facing. I will likely continue to kick myself for leaving it in the first place but I’ll try to give myself some grace, just as I would do if a friend told me they had left a bag full of thousands of dollars of stuff on a train (OK, still working on that grace part!).
Thanks for letting me vent a bit; I don’t know about you, but I feel much better. Also, I do plan to be back in a few days with something lighter. I’ve started to pull Christmas down although the tree stays up until Epiphany, so right now the entire house is a Christmas explosion. If you’re like me then in a few more days it will be time to thing about getting organized for the new year. I’ll probably be laptop shopping, too (face palm).
The comments on Amy’s last post were lovely–thank you guys! I read them all tonight and they were just the encouragement that I needed. You all said you like that we “keep it real,” and I definitely did that today. I’m thankful for all of you.
UPDATE: I have been reunited with my bag! Read the happy ending post HERE.
Happy New Year, and thanks for stopping by~
Oh my word Christy, I am so sorry. This is more than a little tragedy, I think it is BIG. I will hope with you that someone is honest and turns it in.
Thank you, Marty. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate that!
I have some promising news–when I called today they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description and it’s at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me for the past eight hours and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the good thoughts.
XO,
Christy
It’s amazing but there are truly good people in this world. I know of more than once that items have been returned to people. Once I left my wallet with all my Christmas shopping money in it and only realized the next day. I called the store I had been at and the waitress turned it in to her manager and the wallet and all my cash was still in. So take heart it may still be returned to you.
Marilyn–it was!! You can read all the details in today’s post, but I have it back and not a thing was missing! So very grateful!
XO,
Christy
I never comment on blogs but I had to say, I feel for you! Ive been in almost this exact situation (losing personal items before a flight and not realizing it until it was too late) and I know that sick icky feeling all too well. Just know that you’re human and these things happen to the best of us! I too had to learn that all material things are ultimately replaceable or if they aren’t we can usually live without them. I’ll cross my fingers for you that someone turns your items in!
Thanks so, so much, Holly. It honestly does help to know that I’m not alone, and yes, that sick icky feeling is the perfect way to describe it!
I have some promising news–when I called today they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description and it’s at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me for the past eight hours and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the good thoughts.
XO,
Christy
So sad to hear your news. This sounds exactly like something I would do. You were undoubtedly having a great time with your family, and sometimes, that causes our brains not to focus on the mundane little details of life. I once withdrew money from an ATM during a moment like that, only to drive away with my card and receipt, but the money still hanging out the front of the ATM!!! I hate that your precious memories were in that bag, tied to your mom. Ugh. I still have faith that someone is going to turn it in. Best of luck to you.
Oh, Uta–thank you for sharing that! It does make me feel a little better. Yes, we were having fun and going in a million different directions. It truly does help to hear everyone else’s stories (and I sure hope you didn’t drive away from too much money at the ATM!).
I have some promising news–when I called today they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description and it’s at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me for the past eight hours and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the good thoughts.
XO,
Christy
I’m so sorry about your things, praying that they get turned in.
Thank you so much, Valerie.
I have some promising news–when I called today they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description and it’s at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me for the past eight hours and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the prayers.
XO,
Christy
oh Christy- so sorry to see this. hoping and praying that the most honest person sat in that seat after you and turned it in. I am big believer that there are many good people out there in the world. Happy New Year. keep us posted,
Thank you, Laura. You might be right; I have some promising news. When I called today they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description and it’s at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me for the past eight hours and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the prayers. Happy New Year to you, my friend!
XO,
Christy
I bet your bag of treasures will turn up in good time! Keep the positive thoughts flowing.
Thank you so much, Mary! I have some promising news. When I called today they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description and it’s at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me for the past eight hours and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the good thoughts.
XO,
Christy
I am so sorry to read about your loss…..while they are just things, they were important things to you and I think you need to give yourself some grace but also time to grieve over the loss….I know the majority can be replaced but know you were doing your best and things happen sometimes….we are all praying for you and for the person who found the bag…and the people working hard to get it back to the rightful owner.
KittyLuvr :), I read your lovely comment a few hours ago and it made me cry because you are right, I am grieving, even though it wasn’t a person who was lost. Thank you for the grace and the encouragement! Then right after that, I called to check in like I’ve been doing every day, and they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me for the past eight hours and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the prayers.
XO,
Christy
Christy,, I know that it’s difficult to reconcile your feelings of loss and your reality that they are just things. It’s OK ,for however long it takes, to morn their loss if in fact they are lost. God blessed you with those items as a blessing and not a burden. Being sentimental is a gift and it is one you should feel lucky to have. Not everyone has those emotional attachments to things. God wouldn’t want you to be sad for to long. He does have good plans for you. I recently lost an item just the same way you did, sheer absentmindedness.. Something I dearly cherished. But I still have it’s significance in my heart and memories. But unfortunately it’s gone.
(((((hugs)))
Lezlie Renee’ Pipes
Oh, Lezlie, I’m so sorry! You know exactly how I feel–the sadness at the loss and then just wanting to kick yourself for losing it. Your words are absolutely beautiful and so very comforting. Thank you for taking the time to write them and to pour balm on my wounds. I will admit that they brought me to tears when I first read them earlier today.
A few hours ago, I called to check in like I’ve been doing every day, and they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me ever since and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the prayers.
XO,
Christy
Oh my gosh! i am so sorry this happened to you! (why this is in all caps?) Anyway, regarding your mom’s jewelry…I had my wedding ring stolen (thru a stupid move on my part) after I was widowed. Have to keep saying it is only a “thing”…not “the” thing…but the work product…omg…
Oh, Toni–I can’t even imagine that and I am so, so sorry that you lost your ring. I cried for you when I first read your comment earlier today. I know the sick feeling you must have had for a very long time after (maybe even still?) but I hope it has eased some with time.
I might have some good news: a few hours ago, I called to check in like I’ve been doing every day, and they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me ever since and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the thoughts and the comment.
XO,
Christy
Oh Christy! I am so sorry. I know how you feel. I pray you get your bag with all it’s contents back soon.
Heidi–thank you, my friend. What a roller coaster of emotions over the past few days!
I might have some good news: a few hours ago, I called to check in like I’ve been doing every day, and they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me ever since and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the prayers. Happy New Year to you and yours.
XO,
Christy
Christy ~ There are good people out there! Once when our kids were wee ones and money was much tighter, I cashed a large (for me, then!) check at the grocery store, and then left the cash on the customer service counter! I remembered it maybe 15 minutes ,after, when we were in the very back of the store! Racing to that front counter, I was amazed to see it still sitting there! I told the clerk, took our $$, and thanked God for saving me any difficulties from my “unthinking” mistake. I’m really Hoping your forgotten items have the same outcome as mine!
Oh my goodness, Kathleen! That gives me chills! Of course you still remember it vividly to this day; I would, too. Thank you for the encouragement; I promise you it gave me a lift this afternoon when I first read it.
I might have some good news: a few hours ago, I called to check in like I’ve been doing every day, and they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me ever since and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the prayers. Happy New Year to you!
XO,
Christy
Hey Christy. Man… I’m so sorry that this happened to you. And I’m so proud of you for sharing that it did, with all of the vulnerability that it takes to say, “Ya… that was me. I did that.” We are all human, my friend. Stuff happens. And Know we are all praying for you that your things are returned safe and sound to you. In the meantime – take it in stride, don’t beat yourself up, and know that you’ve already started out this year in an incredible way by sharing this story. So many of us relate. Many Blessings.
Patricia–thank you so much for taking the time to write that–it really does help and I so appreciate the prayers! It’s been just a blessing to read everyone’s comments today; I’ve been feeling so rotten and they have really comforted me.
I might have some good news: a few hours ago, I called to check in like I’ve been doing every day, and they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me ever since and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the encouragement and the comment.
XO,
Christy
Oh Christy, I am so sorry this happened! Please don’t continue to beat yourself up, everyone makes mistakes. It’s definitely a challenge and a huge loss & I would never minimize it. NYC is an amazing city and I love it at Christmas! It’s also hectic and crazy making at times. Obviously you are a typical Mom and feel responsible for far too many things. ? I think it’s ingrained in us with the first born. The fact that the laptop has not been used is a good sign I think! Seems to me that if anyone had it they would have tried to use it immediately. I will hold you in prayer for the return of your precious items. I know how important your mom’s jewelry is especially. ?
xo
Pat
Pat–it’s so good to hear from you. How are you, my friend? Hearing from you made my day and your comment was so very comforting–thank you. You are right that part of “momming” is being responsible for so many things; I just dropped the ball this time.
I might have some good news: a few hours ago, I called to check in like I’ve been doing every day, and they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me ever since and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the encouragement and the prayers. Happy New Year to you!
XO,
Christy
Christie I am so very sorry for you and your loss…my prayers are with you and for the finder of your treasures. May the person who discovers your bag have a moment in their conscience to do the right thing and return your things. I can only imagine how heartbroken you must be.
Marti, what a lovely comment–thank you! I won’t lie, it brought tears to my eyes when I first read it a few hours ago.
I might have some good news: a few hours ago, I called to check in like I’ve been doing every day, and they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me ever since and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the encouragement and the prayers.
XO,
Christy
Christy, pRAYING THAT AS THINGS QUIET DOWN, GOOD PEOPLE FIND YOU BAG AND RETURN IT..
Marion, thank you. Reading the comments today has been so incredibly comforting, almost like a hug or pat on the back from each of you. Thanks for taking the time to write and encourage me!
I might have some good news: a few hours ago, I called to check in like I’ve been doing every day, and they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me ever since and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the encouragement and the prayers.
XO,
Christy
Praying your bag will be returned to you. All we can say is “I’m really very sorry it happened”.
Nita–
Thank you so much. Everyone has left the loveliest comments today and they have been so encouraging. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate it!
I might have some good news: a few hours ago, I called to check in like I’ve been doing every day, and they said there was a bag with a laptop in it that matched my description at the lost and found. The only problem is I’ve been trying to call the direct number they gave me ever since and it rolls to voice mail every single time. I’m this close to hopping on a plane tomorrow and just going there in person!
I will keep you posted and so appreciate the prayers.
XO,
Christy
Christy, I’m so sorry. This is everyone’s travel nightmare. I’ve had my purse stolen twice on Vacations ~ and Of course, my phone was in it, And I’ve left things in uber, but I’ve never lost what you did. I’m always hesitant to bring my good jewelry on vacation. You never know what my turn up. Hopefully, a good person found your bag and will turn it in. This is a word of warning to us all. Good Luck.
Thank you, Carol. Everyone’s comments have helped so much. As you were typing this yesterday, I was just getting off a plane in New York and picking up my lost bag! All the details are in today’s post, but not a thing was missing! I am so, so, so thankful!
XO
Christy
Christy, I pray that your bag will be safely returned to yo soon. Jesus said, “There is nothing hidden that shall not be revealed.” So we ask You Jesus, to reveal her bag to Christy. NOW!
Thank You, Jesus. God bless you, Christy!