sixty-two: a letter to the folks at General Mills

While I know breakfast is touted as the “most important meal of the day” it’s never been a real favorite of mine. Eggs and I aren’t really pals you see. This is especially problematic when your friends (and all of New York really) consider Brunch an institution. I’m a cereal kind of gal myself. I recently discovered Fruity Cheerios and have been eating it by the bowlful–sometimes twice in one day (someone may have to stage an intervention soon). It is so delicious with a splash of almond milk—the perfect amount of sweet. The only thing that would make this better is a prize in the box (remember those?)!

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March 3, 2011

Dear General Mills,

I am having a rather steamy affair with your Fruity Cheerios. Your promise of a “sweetened cereal with whole grain goodness” had me at first bite. I know this is a classic ‘kid’ cereal, but this grown up blames her mother. Don’t we all? You see, I wasn’t allowed sweet cereals as a kid so I’m making up for it now by the heaping spoonful. I think the orange ones are my favorite. I give the whole lot a standing ‘O’-vation. I actually look forward to breakfast now thanks to you guys!

Best,

Lauren

Jack and Lulu

sixty-one: a letter for Dr. Suess

March 2nd would have been the 107th birthday of the talented Dr. Suess. I’d be willing to bet I have the full collection of his forty-four children’s books in my parent’s attic. I couldn’t get enough of The Cat In The Hat as a kid. And to this day, I maintain The Cat In The Hat Comes Back is still the best sequel I know. Happy Birthday Theodor Suess Geisel!

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March 2, 2011

Dear Dr. Suess,

I don’t know if I can give you all the credit for teaching me how to read (I think my kindergarten teacher and my parents would feel a bit slighted) but I must give you some. The Cat In The Hat was the first book I read cover to cover—no memorization like Goodnight Moon, the perennial favorite of my pre-school days. I thought you were so clever, rhyming all the time and thinking up these completely fantastic places like Who-ville. My imagination ran wild! And all the while I was learning these wonderful little lessons, like “Oh the things you can think up if only you try!”

I think its only right that your birthday is also the annual date for National Read Across America Day. Reading was one of my favorite pastimes as a child and now I wish I had more time to get lost between the pages of a good novel. Thanks for starting me off right. You played a big role in my love of reading and for that, I am forever indebted. Tall striped hats off to you!

Fondly,

Lauren

fifty-eight: a letter for a special lady

I received my first “I Want A Letter” request from a nice chap named Mikel. He suggested I write his lady friend a letter, so I did. They have this funny little inside joke about the phrase “Mikel Loves You Though” –which made this request all the more fun for me. Thanks for reading Mikel. I hope Amanda likes her letter!

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February 27, 2011

Amanda,

I’m told you have a cat named Catfish—awesome and you can mix a mean cocktail. Total envy! I have to measure all my ingredients (like an amateur) to avoid shaking up something unsuitable for consumption. Thanksgiving dinner is child’s play, but a classic gimlet stumps me every time.

I know we’ve never been properly introduced, but you sound like a girl I’d like to know. And you must be quite nice, because you sure have a swell boyfriend—he thought you might like a proper letter. Best of luck finishing school in the “City of Colleges”—a little trivia I learned about Conway, Arkansas. How did a girl from South Korea end up in Arkansas?!

Mikel Loves You Though.

I’m sending you some good-grade karma by way of New York. And maybe you could think happy mixing thoughts for me?

Fondly,

Lauren

Crane Stationery

fifty-six: sincere thanks for a stranger

My Dad is a wonderful man with a tiny flaw—he loses things. Reading glasses, cell phones, receipts. I don’t know where it all goes. Lately, and despite my best efforts, I’ve been ‘misplacing’ a few things of my own. Are tendencies hereditary? Yesterday it was almost my cell phone. A kind stranger came dashing after me and in the bustle I forgot to ask her name (and mailing address) for a proper letter of thanks. This letter is very a la Missed Connections—here’s hoping she knows how much I appreciated her gesture.

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February 25, 2011

To The Woman Who Rescued My Phone,

I cannot thank you enough! I know it’s a dramatic declaration, but my life is in that phone. I would be totally lost without it. I always believe in the kindness of strangers and you are a glowing example. I hope your little act of courtesy inspired those in line behind you. Thank you again! If I had smartly gotten your name you’d know my gratitude…

Best,

Lauren

P.S. I really liked your hat and didn’t have a chance to pay you a proper compliment because I was so frazzled. Sorry about that—it was really lovely.

fifty-five: praise for Flex Mussels

I had an epiphany a few weeks ago. I ate a donut and I liked it.

I’ve never really appreciated donuts and I think its because I always attempted enjoyment at breakfast. Or I’ve never had a really good one. In either case, after a few of the gooey-filled variety at Flex Mussels*, I’m a convert. It should be noted that these donuts are not the stale, crumby variety from your local Dunkin’. They’re served warm, with a vanilla dipping sauce that’s liquid heaven. It’s the perfect end to a scrumptious dinner.

I went to Flex for the mussels, and boy were they good. But last night I returned, this time for the donuts. And I had the same awesome server.

*I’m usually reluctant to make recommendations, but I can say with confidence if you like mussels you will love Flex. Save room for the donuts!

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February 24, 2011

Tuck,

Just a quick note of thanks for another wonderful dining experience—your wine recommendation was spot on, the mussels were hot and delicious, and the donuts… I just don’t have words for the donuts.

I hope my insistence of introductions didn’t freak you out. At least we didn’t wink at you for the liquor filled donuts, right?! Thanks again for a delightful dinner.

Best,

Lauren

old school kate spade

fifty-three: condolences for New Zealand

Martin Hunter/Getty Images via The New York Times

 

Today an earthquake struck the South Island of New Zealand. My heart goes out to the people of Christchurch, especially the victims of this deadly natural disaster. It’s times like these when I wish I could send a warm embrace via the post.

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February 22, 2011

Words cannot describe the horror of your reality. My thoughts and prayers are with your families as you face this horrible tragedy and the aftermath. Sincere condolences for those who have lost loved ones—my heart breaks for you. May the missing be found and may the rebuilding of Christchurch be swift. Your country has faced great adversity, but I am confident with the support of hundreds of thousands around the world, you will prevail.

Fondly,

Lauren

Make a Donation

fifty one: a letter for a woman I’ve never met

My maternal Grandmother died on February 19th over thirty years ago and before I was born. I have seen pictures of her, heard wonderful stories and even read from an old children’s book that belonged to her. But more than anything, I wish I had a chance to know her.

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February 20, 2011

Grandma,

I wonder if I would have called you that, or if you would have preferred Nana or something unconventional and flashy, like Gigi.

I have a picture of you on my dresser, from the 1940’s I believe. You’re visiting Grandpa at the army barracks and you have this lovely little flower tucked behind your ear. You look so youthful and happy. When I picture you in my mind you’re usually wearing that amazing feathered gown you wore to Mom and Dad’s wedding. I know you were so sick then, but the photos don’t show it–at least to me. You were a portrait of style and elegance.

Mom told me we could have shared shoes. I’m 5’11”, just two inches taller than you (and quite tall for a lady)! I have Mom’s nose, which I think she got from you. And her smile (a Grandpa trait) only the space between my teeth was closed with the help of braces. Mom and I have a lot of the same mannerisms. I’m guessing she got a lot of those from you.

If you were alive I’d ask you what Mom was like as a kid—no as a teenager. Did she always do her homework? Did she ‘neck’ boys in your basement? I’d want to know everything—your version of the stories of course. I’d want to hear your stories too. I bet you have lots of good ones.

Everyone tells me how lovely you were, always full of class and grace. I heard you were an excellent piano player too. Every time I hear the song “You Are My Sunshine’ I think of you. I really love the stories about you and your sisters–they are always full of laughter and joy. And I know you were a great mother because you raised a wonderful woman who’s been the best mom a girl could ask for. I am so grateful for that. She’s my best friend and my biggest supporter. I know it’s hard for her, not having you around. But I like to think you’ve been watching over us all this time.

I hope to know you, someday, somehow. In the meantime I will keep your memory close to my heart.

With love,

Your Granddaughter

forty-eight: praise for a masseuse

People love to complain—we all want to rant when we’ve been wronged, justified or not. So often we forget to pause and applaud good work. I recently joined a service oriented industry and know how nice it is to receive a kind letter of praise for a job well done.

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February 17, 2011

To the Spa Manager:

I am writing to share with you the wonderful experience I had at your spa on February 13, 2011. I live in New York City, but return to Orlando at least once a year. I always try and pay your beautiful facilities a visit, and I am never disappointed.

On Sunday I indulged in a massage with Andrea Ulloa. She was professional, poised and had wonderfully strong hands. In under an hour she worked out all sorts of kinks in my neck and upper back, applying just the right amount of pressure. She made an excellent recommendation at the end of my visit, Arnica patches, which I’ve been using, and really enjoying. Please let Andrea know how pleased I was with my experience.

I also enjoyed your spa pool and I am crazy about that Blue Crab salad at the Café. Yum! Thanks for maintaining such a lovely oasis with such wonderful service. I look forward to my next visit.

Best,

Lauren

Cranes

forty-seven: a thank you for the bakers

Publix is a leading grocery store in the Southeast. Their tag line: Where Shopping is a Pleasure–and boy is it ever. The staff is friendly and always eager to help you and your bags to the car (a service you appreciate ten-fold when schlepping heavy paper bags home by foot). And if you frequent any one location long enough, they’ll start welcoming you by name. True story.

This was the grocery store of my youth. I was mad for their chocolate chip cookies as a kid and admittedly still am. I never leave Florida without picking up a couple dozen. A few years ago they changed the recipe and panic struck. Luckily they’re making both varieties now and I am ever so grateful.

I could encourage you to pick up a dozen next time you find yourself in the sunshine state, but you’d probably find them incredibly ordinary. The extra special ingredient of nostalgia is what makes them so tasty for me.

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February 16, 2011

To The Ladies Who Bake The Chocolate Chip Cookies,

Your chocolate chip cookies (the old recipe) are instant nostalgia for me. I don’t even mind that you have to buy two or three dozen at once now—they’re that delicious!

I remember being part of the esteemed “Cookie Club” as a child and looking forward to grocery store visits. I kept my official Club Card in my pink Hello Kitty wallet and was on a first name basis with the staff. I never won a cookie cake, but boy did I try.

I moved from Florida nearly ten years ago and sadly there’s not a Publix in sight north of the Mason Dixon Line. When I do return ‘home’ I make a beeline for the bakery and those familiar cookies that taste like childhood, with every chewy, chocolatey bite. Thanks for making them so delicious.

Fondly,

Lauren

MoMA kids note cards, circa 1994–I felt it was very apropos, no? I found them in a box in the attic while I was in Orlando for the weekend.

forty-one: a letter for artist Will Ryman

Artist Will Ryman has teamed up with the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation and the Paul Kasmin Gallery to create an enchanting installation on the Park Avenue Mall. Thirty-eight giant rose sculptures (complete with thorns and beetles) charm to bits! They’re not to be missed friends.

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February 10, 2011

Dear Will,

I am just besotted with your giant roses lining Park Avenue. Those pops of fuchsia and pink delight, and I am especially fond of the colossal beetles and bees!

Congratulations on a brilliant installation and thank you for bringing spring to New York a few months ahead of schedule. Your posies are doing a darn good job of staving off my usual winter doldrums.

With sincere gratitude,

Lauren

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William Arthur