Cathy's Creative Corner: 'Cuse Me (The Setup)
It had been raining for three days. Although the storms were not torrential downpours, they were enough to keep most people inside to stay dry. Sonya was beginning to miss her evening exercise. The monotony of coming home to an empty house, fixing a so-so meal and finding something engaging to watch on tv made the thought of having a male friend more appealing. With a male friend, Sonya would put more time into the upkeep of her humble abode. She would also come up with recipes to make the kind of meal that would get to his heart. Sonya had always heard, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” But what if…. and then, what if…. ? After careful consideration, Sonya concluded she would be putting in too much work. She likes her life just the way it is, at least, for now.
Suddenly, from nowhere, came a vision of Amber Marie running her own household crazy from being confined inside! During their few encounters, Sonya could tell by the youngster’s mannerisms that she is quite energetic! Hopefully, she’s the youngest child in the house. Sonya’s never gotten to the subject of Amber having siblings. Frankly, their conversations have been so limited during the yard-length power walks that Sonya knows very little about Amber or her family. She’ll have to remedy that during their next chat.
On day four, the sun was beaming and everything seemed bright and cleansed. Sonya even appeared to have a little more pep in her step as she headed out on her route. Once on 4th Street, she could see Amber Marie sitting on the porch with an adult. Amber sprang from the chair when she spotted Sonya. “Hey, Ms. Sonya,” she called and waved. Just as excited, Sonya waved back. That’s when she noticed the adult also coming out to the fence. She was about to meet one of Amber Marie’s relatives.
“Hi. I’m Amber Gayle, Amber Marie’s mom,” the woman said as she extended her hand to shake. “My daughter is intrigued with your exercise routine,” she added. “I don’t think she’s seen anyone power walk before.”
“Come to think of it, I haven’t run into any others in our neighborhood either,” Sonya laughed. “I think everyone is a jogger or cyclist.” As soon as the words left her lips, Sonya realized something was different. Missing was Amber’s means of transportation. No Big Wheels or tricycle to ride. Were she and Amber Marie not going to be allowed to have their “power walk ride-beside” powwows anymore? She could feel a lump forming in her throat. Sonya hoped it didn’t show on her face.
“’Cuse me but, Ms. Sonya, can I walk with you today? I can do it! I promise I can! See, watch this! Watch this!” proclaimed the little girl as she high stepped all the way to the porch and back.
Never before had Sonya experienced both the release of anxiety and rush of excitement she felt after hearing that request. “Sure, you can as long as it’s alright with your mom! I’d love to have you come along.”
“Of course, it’s fine with me,” Amber Gayle chimed in. “I’d never hear the end of it if I said no. She’s been anticipating this all day.”
“Do you want to put my number and address in your phone?” Sonya asked.
“Girl, please. I found out everything I needed to know when my child came in talking about Sonya, the stranger,” Amber’s mom kidded. “Now, you listen to Ms. Sonya and enjoy your walk,” she said turning to her daughter. “Try not to put any Clydesdales to shame.”
“Okay, Mom. Tell Grandma Marie I’ll be back.” After a few steps, she looked up to Sonya and questioned, “‘Cuse me. What’s a Clydesdale?”
