Kevin might be the most patient person I know. He got stuck working with me for my first close, total luck of the draw. This man deserves way more than Hi Chews.
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March 5, 2011
Kevin
Big thanks for your patience the other night. You’re the best! I promise next time you get stuck closing with me I will be lightning fast! And in the meantime, an offering of Hi-Chews to show my appreciation. Marci said you liked them. :) Thanks again!
Lauren
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
March 1st was dubbed National Pancake Day (at least by the folks at IHOP).
The House of Pancakes served free short-stacks of buttermilk pancakes to its patrons in exchange for a suggested donation to the Children’s Miracle Network. Supporting a good cause certainly softens the blow of caloric intake, don’t you think? In honor of this “holiday” I wrote to the tried and true Aunt Jemima. I hope you squeezed some flap-jacks into your day friends.
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March 1, 2011
Dear Aunt Jemima,
I have such fond memories of you and that big toothy grin. You were a staple at my family’s kitchen table most Saturdays (always after sleepovers) and sometimes on Sundays too. I think I might have been the only kid who used my syrup sparingly (too much sugar in the morning made me feel crummy—see, I really wasn’t normal). And unlike other kids, I never felt pancakes were just a vehicle for your gooey, sugary goodness. A short stack had its own merits as far as I was concerned. But I could never deny what a great team you two made—breakfast harmony!
Here’s proof of my loyalty Aunt J, twenty plus years later: If you’re not on the table, I forgo syrup all together. Maple? No way! Flavored blueberry? Not a chance. You are the tried and true, the original, and the only one for me. I try not to think about the fact that I can’t pronounce most of your ingredients (or have any idea what they are for that matter). I’m living by the “everything in moderation” rule and hoping it all shakes out okay. So here’s to you, and Saturday mornings!
All the best,
Lauren
I’m on the hunt for a new dentist. They say 75 % of people feel some degree of dental anxiety, but not me. I got a good start with a wonderful childhood dentist. I was a patient of the senior Dr. McCorkle and then the junior, Dr. Mike.
Teeth cleanings were an excuse to dig in the ‘Treasure Cove’, a little nook devoted to those curios all mothers loathed (I was a sucker for the Trolls myself). But the best part was the Treasure Cove Drawing; every month they’d pull a name out of the mini chest and the lucky winner would receive a life-sized stuffed animal. Friends, at age five and three quarters my life began. My name was drawn and I was sent home with a sheep dog that was almost as tall as me. I don’t think I stopped smiling for a solid week. And, I haven’t won anything since-HA!
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February 28, 2011
Dr. McCorkle (Senior + Junior),
I’m on the hunt for a new dentist in New York and it got me to thinking about the wonderful memories I have of your office and semi-annual teeth cleanings.
I remember the awesome Highlight’s Magazines in your waiting room. I loved the hidden picture puzzles and the jokes. Sometimes, I secretly hoped you guys were running late so I could keep reading. And that Treasure Cove (pure brilliance)! Winning a giant sheep dog pretty much made my year! If that wasn’t enough, there was bubblegum fluoride and a new toothbrush every visit. No matter how hard I tried, I never could find the toothbrushes with the sparkles anywhere else—and believe me, I tried.
I’m proud to say I’m still taking excellent care of my teeth—never a cavity in my twenty-seven and a half years. I won’t fib and say I floss daily, but pretty close to it. That woodcut sign about loosing your teeth in Ava’s room put the fear of God in me. I miss your whole staff (special hello to the Gator fans in reception) and just wanted you guys to know how much I (and my gums) appreciate my good start in dental care. Hope all is well on Delaney Avenue!
Best,
Lauren
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.
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
My accountant Leslie prepared the last three tax returns I’ve sent to the IRS. Before Leslie it was me—all thumbs, calculator, curses and erasers on hand. I appreciate this man for good reason.
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February 23, 2011
Leslie,
It was a pleasure seeing you yesterday—but then again it usually is. You’re the closet thing to winning the lottery for me. And while my return is smaller this year than in years past, it’s still money in the bank! Three cheers! Thank you for making tax preparation so easy. Best of luck plowing through the remainder of the ‘season.’ See you next year!
Best,
Lauren
Jack and Lulu, circa 2006
Mary is the mother of a dear friend. She is a brilliant cook, a masterful orchid-grower and a complete delight to share a bottle of wine with. She is also a self-taught knitter—and an amazing one at that. For Christmas she knitted me a wonderfully soft snood and this week I was gifted an adorable beanie (with sequins, no less!!!). I’m ready to ditch the winter duds, but until spring comes, this little woolie will give my step some pep.
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February 18, 2011
Mary,
I am over the moon for this hat—did you know about my love-affair with sequins? The pink and grey combo is so perfect too. It is a tiny bit big (I heard you were concerned) but I kind of love that. It has this floppy effect that I find particularly charming. I’ve been wearing it all over town with a little skip in my step.
You are too good to me—two hand-knitted wonders in under two months?! What did I ever do to deserve this? Thank you loads for your knitting talent and extreme thoughtfulness.
I’m sorry I’ll miss the christening, but I’ll be thinking of the little peanuts. Hope to see you and Mark soon.
All the best,
Lauren
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
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.
