Reflection

Yesterday I came home from the last long day of hauling. I looked at myself in the mirror while removing my contacts. Lobstah Gal stared back at me. Her baseball cap was spattered with mud and bait flecks. Arms, chest and face sun-kissed and blushing with dehydration. Utter exhaustion in her eyes. She looked defeated and burned out.

I tore off my stinky clothes and cap, dashing into the shower without a second to spare. Upon emerging I saw a different reflection. A young woman returned the glance. She was strong, toned and . . . pretty. It had been too long since I last recognized these qualities in her. I saw a sparkle of excitement in her eyes. I saw potential and enthusiasm for life. I saw myself. Goodbye, Lobstah Gal. Hello Katherine.

I don't know exactly what life holds for me. Possibly graduate school. Perhaps a career in marine science. Hopefully, a retirement running the family cottage business in years to come. Yesterday I saw some little girls running with a dog and laughing. I would like to see that scene in my yard some day, if the future holds a family for me. I feel, once again, that I'm on the brink of a transition. I feel the quiver of possibility in the air. I feel hopeful and prepared. I am ready.