This week was the Costume Run. That is the technical term for What Do You Think? It is the chance for the directors of Alice to lay eyes on the makings of the last two months. Four students and I have been pulling knickers and frocks from storage, adding lace here, and collars there, in the hopes of bringing the story to life on stage. 

 

Some productions require fresh garb. There simply weren't sixteen matching gray uniforms for maids hiding in the back. I feel confident in that assertion because last year I spent my winter break organizing twenty racks of tightly packed garments, and thrice as many boxes. But this time around there is an abundance of possibilities. Ornate Victorian gowns, and velvet coats in a wide palette of hues all waiting for their turn. I believe that the costumes, even the introverts, like to be worn. 

 

The directors seemed pleased with most of our choices. Some required minimal changes, while others are just right. It is a huge relief to match the costumes with the overall vision. The dress for the Queen of Hearts is frankly amazing. If I had had to create it from scratch it would have taken me fifty hours. Deep red and black, with a pointed waist, boned bodice, and eight yards in the skirt alone. But there she was, on a spindly wire hanger, when what she deserved was her own cedar chest. With a padlock. The wearer knows she looks fabulous in it, and wears it with the grandeur of royalty. Annoyed royalty. 

 

The other day I wanted to be somewhere. John was on a different time schedule, and because of the intersection of shared vehicles, I was tardy. While I waited, I pawed through the mental possibilities of what to say. 

 

The comments at the front were snarky. And probably what he was expecting. But deeper in there were more beautiful words. Ones that deserved to be spoken. As John climbed into the car I took a breath.

 

"Thank you for getting the tire fixed."

 

Just like that gratitude hit the air. The words were available without even the effort it takes to remember the combination on a lock. In fact they ached to be heard. I think John's shoulders relaxed. 

 

No one's head came off after all.