My Aunt Lenore's birthday was last Thursday. She would have been 79. She is missed! We celebrate her by going out for lobster - or at least some oysters - some favorite summer treats she would allow herself to indulge in once in a while. She hated noisy restaurants and we often had to ask to have the music turned down. She had great style and poise as well as a wonderfully loud laugh. You always knew where you stood with her – I admired her for that. She lived in the same apartment on the Upper East Side since graduating from Juilliard in the '50s. Teaching dance was her passion and her students were inspired by her even if dance was not their passion.
The Paper Chain pattern was inspired by Lenore. The contrast of the pattern reflects her boldness and kindness; the silver evokes her creative and stylish side. I am reminded that she taught herself to knit as well as needlepoint and collected buttons and fancy beads to put on special gifts to friends and family.
She ate 5 raw almonds a day to ward off illness. Sadly that did not cure what ailed her. But she is still here with us in her button collection my daughter now covets, the various bakelite pieces I enjoy, and the vintage chair we couldn't give away and that my son and husband both like to sit in. Through her generosity and inspiration, I will always give a portion of the proceeds from my business to various organizations including Housing Works in NYC, a charity she lovingly supported.