Then and Now

Layers upon layers. Each one adding warmth and weight. Boots go on last.

Should I have peed first?

Door opened, breath catches sharply, nasal passages clench. I question the wisdom of stepping out.

Thrust myself out the door!

Summon winter spirit, memories of childhood snow days. Red cheeks, flushed from cold and glee. Hours spent knee deep in drifts, never noticing the cold.

Reality of years passed.

Step carefully, don’t break a hip. Who’s going to find me in the snow? No mailman anymore.

It’s beautiful, so peaceful and quiet.

I remember when it wasn’t quiet though, children laughing, hurling snowballs until someone got an icy one in the head.

I scooped some powdery snow.

Should I? I can still do this, right? How will it feel? Screw it, embrace your inner child.

Whomp! Snow Angel achieved!

Now, I’m glad no one can see me. Crawling back up is harder in the snow. Dignity is lost. Standing accomplished awkwardly.

Batteries faded, lights went out. Oh well.

The wind picked up a little, wispy swirls blow across the diamond sparkled base. Chill begins to creep, fingertips first.

How far did I walk?

My short outing turned into a trek. A benefit of living alone is that the only footprints are mine, one step at a time.

My door at last.

My inner child is happy. She deserves hot chocolate with whipped cream AND marshmallows!

Warms the heart.

My old self deserves brandy, a steamy epsom salts bath and some analgesic rub!

Both can be true.