Unexpected News

I expected to talk a bit about a good work-out at the gym that wrapped up with a fantastic set of stretching that felt great, but was floored by some unexpected, tragic news.

While walking home, I saw an email to all Firm personnel that a co-worker of mine with whom I worked with regularly died tragically on Sunday in a freak accident. Catherine died while trying to save a friend who fell out of an overturned canoe on her farm's pond. Catherine was a strong swimmer and it is not clear what exactly happened. See http://www.wtop.com/?nid=25&sid=1752239.

I, like so many, was shocked to hear of this tragic loss.

I worked with Catherine on a number of projects and we had a standing weekly meeting to catch up. We regularly shared insight, firm gossip and just funny junk that happens at work. Catherine was a wealth of information about the Firm, given that she had a 22-year tenure at the Firm that included positions in three major departments.

Catherine had a booming and natural laugh. She was quick-witted, loved a good joke, was the first one to curse like a sailor and give you a good ribbing. I truly believe that the "f-word" was her favorite word in the English language and Catherine always found a creative and unexpected way to weave a good curse word into normal conversation.

Catherine loved parties --- hosting them and planning them. Everyone knew if Catherine had a hand in planning a particular party because they were always a success.

Catherine was an animal lover who especially loved her horses. Her eyes lit up when she talked about the farm and she would do ANYTHING for these beautiful creatures. Catherine rode and showed horses at her Upperville farm and stable. I loved hearing her nutty stories about the horses and we all were excited when Catherine recently --- with much persistence --- was able to add a Budweiser Clydesdale named Big Jim to her stable.

So...as you can see...there will be no stories of sneakers today. Instead, I raise my glass to Catherine b/c for a red-headed Irish New Yorker like Catherine a stiff drink is what is required. No tears, just a good party.

Catherine was an original...an institution. She will be truly missed.