Cathy

Cathy rises at 6am like clockwork. She begins her morning ritual of greeting the sun while sipping a cup of tea and petting her dog who’s been her best companion these last years.
The morning is crisp with a slight breeze that promises plenty of sun in the afternoon in her sleepy Wyoming town.
She is still feeling the thrill of the project she finished yesterday. Cathy scored an antique Colson bicycle that she dated to be from the late 1950s. All it needed was some love, affection, elbow grease, and some new tires. She even has a buyer stopping by this morning to collect it.
Her son would be proud of her that she found a home for it. While you really can’t call Cathy a hoarder, her house is full. Full of treasures and nostalgia from her 80 years of life.
Cathy wants to treat herself after the sale went through for the bike, and she heads to town for a special lunch.
Entering her favorite restaurant, the familiar smells envelope her senses. A meal of pork chops, mashed potatoes and peas fills her heart with joy. And the scoop of pralines ‘n cream puts it over the top.
Back at home, Cathy leisurely waters her plants and feeds her beloved dog.
She glances out the window and doesn’t think she’s ever seen a more perfect sunset.
That’s just when she feels a pressure in her chest. It grows, but she doesn’t panic.
Slowly, she makes her way to her la-z-boy and beckons her furry friend up with her.
The pressure continues to build, and she knows her body has finally worn out. A sense of peace and acceptance comes over Cathy as she closes her eyes for the last time.
Rest well Cathy.

This piece is in memory of my good friend who lost her Aunt Cathy recently. I’d like think her last day was something like this.