Eternal crossings travel journal

The inspiration for the Eternal Crossings Travel Journal began when my dear mother-in-law, entered hospice. At the time, I was an active hospice volunteer serving terminally ill patients and their families for over two years. I had recently completed professional End-of-Life Doula training in hopes someday I would be able to start my own practice. With my training and experience, I was confident I would be able to guide my mother-in-law, my husband, and his family through what’s to come. However, I didn’t realize just how difficult having a conversation could be with a loved one about death and dying. It was as if suddenly, I was allergic to the “D” word. 

I remembered during my hospice volunteer training and seeing first-hand how dying people use “travel” metaphors or symbolic language when they are approaching end of life. Dying people may talk about standing in line, packing for a trip, or making references to a place they need to 

be. 

Symbolic language serves as a powerful tool for individuals to articulate their feelings about the end of life, making the process more relatable for themselves and their loved ones. I realized I needed to communicate to my mother-in-law using the same “travel” metaphoric language. 

At first, I wondered the best way and what type of symbolic journey I could use to gently guide end of life conversations with my mother-in-law. But then, the idea came to me. My mother-in-law would embark on a “road trip” through the mountains of Colorado to her favorite fishing spot. The very same place of her honeymoon, and where she would soon be reunited with her beloved husband who crossed before her. The Eternal Crossings Travel Journal was born.

In the days following, and with the help of an incredibly talented illustrator, Piper MacLeod (pipermacleoddesigns), I carefully designed the Eternal Crossings Travel Journal. I incorporated “travel” metaphors as prompts such as Travel Reflections and a Journey Map (Life Review), Travel Memories (Legacy Projects), Packing List Planning (Vigil Plan), Travel Companions (Conversations with Loved Ones), and several more. Using this guided journal for her final journey, my mother-in-law could find peace and closure in reflecting on the formidable moments that shaped her life. She shared meaningful dialogues about values, personal legacy, and her final wishes with her family. From that day forward, the Eternal Crossings Travel Journal served as a poignant tool and cherished keepsake for our family. 

Thank you for joining me on this journey of love, remembrance, and eternal crossings. J ~