Welcome to my new website, Mad for Business. I am finally technologically organized! Here you may find the entire line of vegan, all-natural Arbonne products, a way to save on your energy bill with Ambit Energy and this blog.
I spent the last two weeks fretting over this blog. I thought about writing something hip, trendy and witty to reflect my new status in cyberspace. I certainly didn’t want to write a sentimental piece. That is so last year. Yet, every time I thought about writing, only one thought came to mind – my grandmother. She passed away on February 16th at the age of 98. So, to steal from Meryl Streep’s Oscar acceptance speech, I say, “Whatever – I’m writing about Nanny.”
Madeline Massi grew up in lower Manhattan, where her parents ran the local grocery store. Her social life revolved around her older brother and sister and she helped raise her younger brother, seventeen years her junior. She met my Poppy, Frank Massi, in her teens and married at twenty-one. Their sixty-year marriage remains a love story for the ages.
Nanny always reminded me of a butterfly, often seen as the most beautiful, gracious creature in nature. She would almost glide into a room as if on the heels of a gentle breeze, never meaning to startle or to surprise.
When any of us had a problem she would rush to our side or pick up the phone, hovering until she knew that the problem was solved or at the very least, we were comforted. Not unlike the butterfly that hovers over the flowers to make sure nothing interrupts their right to bloom.
Sometimes, all that was needed was for one of us to be heard. Nanny would sit perfectly still, maybe even stroke our hand, and listen until I felt better. It wasn’t until many years later that I realized how often she never even said a word for her love bathed us in so much warmth and understanding, no words were needed.
Her grace and charm were legendary. Poppy’s career allowed them to travel the world where she met all sorts of people, even kings, queens and presidents. Your status in life meant nothing to Nanny. She simply wanted to know and appreciate the real you.
Her clothing tastes were impeccable and her hair was always perfectly in place. The bag, jewelry, shoes and coat were always appropriate. Again like the butterfly, one’s eyes would always search for Nanny in anticipation as she arrived. While many women used the tools of beauty to portray themselves as important, Nanny simply believed that she owed those around her to always be her best and look her best. She never failed.
Butterflies have always been a symbol of hope for me. I can see the butterfly in my mind’s eye whenever I need to be reminded that beauty remains in the world. For all of those blessed enough to know my Nanny, she will always be our personal butterfly.
Each week I will highlight a business whose goods or service may be of use to all of you. My inaugural “shout-out” is to Beverley Delay, who most wondrously created my new website. Beverley knew what I wanted even when I didn’t. Her services are so reasonable and everything can be done by computer and by telephone. Please do think of her for the web design needs of you and your friends.
Take a look at a sampling of Beverley’s work at www.beverleydesigns.com.