Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Jackie O and Mary Catherine












When I was 22 years old, I worked for the film department at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.  The film department at the Met made small films about visiting collections.  One day, the phone rang and a very little, breathless voice asked me what she should wear to the opening of the film that evening. Knowing that Jackie O was a patron of the department, I recognized her voice and suggested a smart pantsuit (wouldn't Jackie have a smart 
pantsuit?)  She thanked me and said goodbye. She arrived in a beautiful metallic Lanvin jacket and a pair of smoky grey cigarette pants. 
Months later, I was at my local deli and Jackie was in front of me buying some cold cuts with John Jr. (Who in the world would ever run into Jackie and John-John at their local deli?) Before I knew it I had given Jackie fashion advice and bought the baguette she had put down at the deli.  I told my friends that night our bread had been blessed.
I loved calling my mom in California and telling her the "Jackie O" stories - I knew she had always loved Jackie and Jack.  I have always connected my mom with Jackie Kennedy - they were both young moms in the sixties, had lots of style and smoked liked it was nobody's business!  When Jackie died, I remember feeling like I had lost a member of our family.
Today is my mom's birthday and I am so lucky to have her in my life everyday - her laughter, her wisdom and her love of life. I have had the pleasure of becoming great friends with my mom.  Happy Birthday Mom - you have always been an icon to me!

6 comments:

tam said...

Aww how sweet is that?!?! And what a cool experience to shre! Happy Birthday Mom!
~Tam :D

Sinta Renee said...

Great story! What a nice way to pay tribute to your mom. My husband has Kennedy stories also... he was an alter boy at the church they attended. I cherish those stories of a special time and special people too.

Anonymous said...

Thanks, Kaari...that's sweet and it really made my day!

Love you, Mom

Pat McIntosh said...

What a lovely story! Thanks for sharing.
-Pat

molly said...

oh, thats so cute, kar. i don't know if i've ever seen that photo of mom.

Jeanne Oliver said...

Who doesn't love a Jackie O story? How amazing and what a great story to share.