A New Day! A New Way!

For those of you who remember, and it's been a long time since I've even seen one of his movies, but the picture is of Sabu, who was probably well known more for his roles in "The Elephant Boy" and "Jungle Garden", and the lady leaning over and to his right, is my Grandmother...formally known as the 'Seamstress to the Stars' and to her friends, 'Miss Vicki'! She designed the turbans worn in his films. In one of his films he wore a jeweled turban, which he gave to my GrandMom shortly before he died and she in turn, left it to me, where a room in my home, holds her most precious memories.

The ladies pictured with my GrandMom were her life-long friends, and 'probably?' recognizable.

She also designed gowns worn by many famous 'divas' from her era and her halls and walls were adorned with photo after beautiful photo of her creations.

Born in Chamonix, France, she met my GrandFather while on holiday in Capri, they married and sailed for New York. She raised 5 wonderful children; the youngest, and her baby, being my Father.

Hers is an inspirational story, born from hard work and endless sacrifice and someone who helped shape me into the person I am today, due to her courage and sheer boldness to tell every little girl, that all of her dreams can come true.

Miss Vicki was a soft spoken, unassuming and confident woman who broke all barriers for the times she was living in.

Independent and strong willed, she carried herself with the grace of a Queen. And never faltered even when she was asked to step down by other members of the family, due to her association with the 'higher ups' (Grandpop language) that her husband, my wonderful Grandfather, disapproved of.

But that didn't stop Grand Mere or even slow her down. She was so ahead of her time, as she did not believe in and showed no signs of permissiveness, and this caused quite the stir.

Her Birthday is today. Happy Birthday GrandMom, and I honor you in many ways besides sharing your story to some fine people who will appreciate your contribution to society and to the growth of women everywhere, to a society you helped change in their attitude towards women and their greatest strengths. Women and their strengths were not recognized at that time unless they were bold enough to be heard. And you were heard.


I still hear you, GrandMom! I Love & Miss you....Lil Jillee (My dreams 'did' come true!!!)