Hi, I’m Cathy. This is my journey.
Last trip, January 2021
Graduation Day!
Hands across the aisle
My prior chapter of life was high in the sky.
After 30 years as a graphic designer, I traded in my computer for a pair of wings. Hired at 55 years old, I adored my new gig as a flight attendant. It offered my husband Rich and I opportunities to see the world that otherwise probably would have never happened. It brought me lifetime friends and experiences that I will never forget. After 10 exciting years, I retired in January, 2021. It was my time.
The unexpected is never expected.
My beloved Rich passed away in September, 2019. All of our future plans together disappeared. Trying to redefine myself without him has been a giant challenge. The emptiness has been despairing. Everything I do feels like a lame attempt to fill the void. Doing nothing, however would certainly lead me to a faster demise. Because Rich taught me how to hike and tent camp and appreciate nature, it seems comforting to wake up in the great outdoors...sans the tent these days.
“I just want to live, happily ever after, now and then.”
Chaing Mai, Thailand!
First Class to Amsterdam!
On our way to Roma!
It’s been quite the journey.
I didn’t know where to start. I took a three month leave of absence only to drag myself out of bed, put on Rich’s robe and stare at his pictures through tears every day. The outpouring of comfort from family and friends eventually gave me strength to make it back to work. I know it was good for me, but definitely not easy. There was no one waiting at home to hear all of my dramatic recounts.
If you are curious to know more about the creation of Stargazer, check out the blog post I wrote about her.
My first glimpse of Stargazer, delivered July, 2021