The Apron That Became a Pouch

In LALATOWN, even aprons apply for new jobs.

It started with a gift —

a bright red Asiana Airlines apron embroidered with lotus flowers.

I loved it instantly but never wore it.

Too elegant for cooking, too shy for storage.

So one day, years ago, I gave her a promotion.

From apron to pouch. ✈️

I kept the pocket — of course.

That’s where secrets belong.

And I lined her with yellow cotton covered in tiny white flowers —

the kind that instantly forgives all bad moods.

When I finished, she clicked shut like she meant it.

That little snap! was her way of saying,

“I’m ready for my next flight.”

And then she waited.

For years.

Until today, when I finally gave her a passport to this journal.

Welcome, apron-pouch.

You’ve officially cleared customs into LALATOWN. 🌈