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Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Mimi & Maurice

My Mimi was the epitome of a Grand Dame.  She wore dresses or skirts, pearls around her neck, red nails as well as her lips.  She was perfectly coiffed.  My best memories as a child revolve around Mimi.  It was a different lifestyle in the '60s and early '70s.  She taught me how to live life - in a natural, loving way.  I was blessed to live "her way" when I visited.  My every day....was most normal.  Trust me.  I am blogging about it for a historical report so to speak.  Someday my family might read these posts.

One lovely day in The Hamptons, we were served lunch out on the loggia that looked similar to this picture.  It was here that I heard Mimi's love story.




Her first husband tragically killed himself...and Mimi found love in a BIG way with Eddie.  Her piece of wisdom this day:  "Don't marry for anything other than love and laughter."  I sat at her feet listening to her music and learning from it.  "Thank Heavens for Little Girls" was our theme song!  Aaaaah, we swooned to dear Maurice!  Mimi had another home in Palm Beach and I was introduced to Lily.  She was always generous, showering me with girly gifts with huge doses of love.  Those dresses of citrus hues, luscious colors were "it" in 1960.  If only I kept a few - they'd be vintage now.  Lily Pulitzer's story is fascinating. 

Her head was always in a book and I've definitely acquired that habit.  I hope perhaps a smidgen of Mimi has melded into my soul.  I don't have butlers or "help" but I can entertain.  Maurice Chevalier is not on my iPod but I NEED music.  I know by day's end if I haven't laughed.  My innards tell me so.  And, thank the Good Lord Above I am married to Love & Laughter!











12 comments:

Anonymous said...

LOVE Mimi stories...please keep writing about your
life and influences! Can't wait to hear the next one!
xoxoxo

Kelly said...

I am amazed how God leads me to the things that I need. Tonight, I needed your Mimi's stories of marrying for love and laughter... thus is my journey ahead when I am ready. I am so glad that you have that and your memories and stories. You know I love the way your write!
0x0x0 your other Kelly

Dianne said...

I know I would have loved Mimi too. She sounds so special and you love her so. How fascinating to have her influence in your life. As for prince charming Gary, he's a keeper fo sho! xoxo

Josie Kesler said...

You can really hear your "voice" in your writing, which is the something good writers do. This is a great way to get your thoughts down before you begin your book. (Make it a goal to start it this year.) I enjoyed reading your reflections of Mimi. Wouldn't it be great to have that impact in our own grandchildren's lives (if we ever have any).

MA said...

Hello V!!
Thanks for the link to your "new" blog....it looks FAB!! The pictures are great!! You know how I admire your eye!! :)
I love your Mimi stories -- such a grand life!! ...everyone needs a Mimi in their lives....And something tells me that she would have those ruby red lips peeled back in a huge grin if she saw you now!! I KNOW you'ver done her proud!

Dawn said...

VA...have you read the book "Notes from the Underwire - Adventures from my Awkward and Lovely Life"?? It is by Quinn Cummings a former child actress...well, after reading your blog I thought your book could have a similar format...in her book each chapter is about something completely different. Anyway just thought I would throw that out there!

Dawn said...

I also wanted to say, that It was fun to read because it was almost like short stories...which is why I thought of you! I own it, so if you would like to borrow just let me know. xoxo

Vava (aka Virginia) said...

Thanks Dawn for that recommendation. And Josie - for the encouragement. Maybe, maybe, maybe I'll TRY...writing. :)

Rebecca said...

Yummy new home, Virginia! Your blog reads like the ones that get lots of awards. Better get your mantel ready for some...
xoxo

Karen The Graphics Fairy said...

Hi Virginia,
Such wonderful stories!!
To answer your question about your header. You would need a program similar to Photoshop, in order to add lettering with more interesting fonts.
I hope this helps!
Karen

Denise said...

Virginia - I am just now getting a chance to really read your stories on your blog - and I love them! Mimi sounds enchanting... I know I would have loved her. And she was a friend of Lily?!?! OMG! Fascinating... truly! xoxo ~denise

Anna Johnston said...

That photo is from my great-great grandfather's house in Southampton.