The Old Woman.

This week's task; to write about someone totally different to who you are.
This is who I chose.


The Old Woman.  

The old woman shut her eyes, as the air was thick with a pungent spray. The smell of hair lacquer filled her nostrils and sat in a sticky layer over her. She sighed deeply, as the hairdresser put down the can. They had known each other for many years and no words were needed.

As the hairdresser left the room she gave the old woman a warm smile.

The old woman sat for a few moments longer, taking in the face in the mirror. Familiar eyes still sparkled back at her, but the wrinkles told another story, that of a long life, with much love, pain and too much sadness that were the curse of living so long.

There were an awful lot of things yet to do, and she gathered up the dogs and left the room to dress. As usual, it felt as if her life was not her own, but was being constantly being pulled in all directions. Her family needed her, even though the children were long since grown up their need of her wisdom and approval was something they never seemed to grow out of.

Her beloved husband who had been so strong for so many years was now weak, and in hospital. Without him by her side she grew anxious. How could she continue to do this on her own? Her legs ached, her head felt fuzzy with the details of the day. This had dragged on for so long and she didn’t know how much more she could bear.

Day merged into day, and now weeks became months the past year had dragged on endlessly. She wore a mask most days now her smile a fixed brooch pinned on to hide the feelings of exhaustion.

She changed in to her chosen outfit of pale blue, the cool smoothness of the silk feeling gentle against her skin. She kept an eye on the clock - it wouldn’t do to be late.

            The big moment was getting closer and now the rest of the family had arrived. The usual hugs, kisses and greetings were duly observed. They had a relaxing cup of tea, warm and familiar bringing comfort before things kicked off. She stretched her legs, the calf muscles burning and complaining. Her grandson came to sit beside her and politely enquired how Grandpa was doing. The old woman filled in details that the hospital had given her ‘Nothing to worry about, all routine’. Easy words to say, but she could not relax until he was safely home again and the whole thing was over.

Now the time had finally arrived, and after a last glance in the mirror she adjusted her hat and pronounced herself ready to go. The door was held open for her and the family to step through. It was Tuesday 5^th June 2012 at 3.28pm exactly. As they stepped out on to the balcony into the grey drizzle the crowd roared, she raised her hand and waved gently, as the red arrows soared overhead.