EM

E had long gray hair, a jutting chin complete with whiskers and mouth sunken in from no teeth.  Top that with a witch-like nose sporting a permanent scab on the tip and you have every child's nightmare.

E spent her days cruising the halls, picking at her pet scab, and abandoning a variety of food and drinks on the handrail or in a random plant while staring into space.  On a good day she had a sparkle in her eyes and would cast a sly grin your way or throw out an odd comment.  E practiced the 5 second rule.. in otherwords 5 seconds after something happened, she forgot.  Seems like a convenient way to survive in this place, let alone the vast wasteland that must have been her mind.

At 93 years old, E decided she had enough living and with what little decision making ability she had left, she ceased eating and drinking.  In less than 5 days time E slipped peacefully away in her bed at approximately 6:15 am.  E died alone, the relative close enough to arrive and collect her things just a few hours later was someone I had never seen visiting.

The last time I saw E alive she was clapping her hands and tapping her feet to The Old Time Fiddlers monthly visit.  Music made E come alive... loneliness and a mindless existence made her die.  I didn't get to say goodbye to E, she passed the morning I returned from my weekend.  They loaded her up in a white, Toyota minivan, her frame appearing tiny under a cheerful quilt.  I hear there are lots of fiddles in heaven.

E, you are missed much.