If you know Bootsie, consider yourself very, very lucky. I only know Bootsie from the stories her darling sister MoJo shares with me. Every tidbit is so adorable that I keep promising myself I’m going to write about Bootsie. So here goes:
Bootsie is in her seventh inning (Texas ladies don’t talk about their age). A widow, Bootsie decided to sell her house and move to an apartment in Dallas. She knew no one living in the building but Bootsie didn’t care.
Single-handedly, Bootsie packed up the house she had lived in for many, many years. Though her children suggested she move to the top of the building, Bootsie knew that Dallas has severe storms so she chose to live on the second floor in case the elevators went out.
Bootsie moved into her new home the day before her birthday. MoJo was planning to send her a bouquet of flowers but wanted to make sure the building’s doormen would get them to her. When MoJo called the building, not only did the doormen know who Bootsie was but they also knew the next day was her birthday.
Need I say more?
This woman knows how to make relationships. From the moment she moved in, she was eager to make friends. By her second month, she had established a regular hour where everyone was free to drop in and enjoy some snacks.
Not one to forget her old friends, Bootsie keeps up her lunch appointments so everyone is updated on her latest exploits. Her zest sounds irresistible. She’s irresistible. And remember, she’s in the seventh!
What’s the lesson to be learned from this enchantress?
Don’t be afraid of change. Cancel your subscription to AARP.
Initiate the hello (and serve low-calorie Mojitos once a week at five o’clock).
Broaden your bandwidth. Bootsie charmed those doormen the minute she landed on the doorstep.
Be positive. Bootsie’s energy and optimism is a magnet for like-minded people who enjoy having fun.
Be generous with yourself. I can still remember when someone told me “gates closed” when I asked to join her book club. Bootsie’s warmth says just the opposite. (Psst: Someone told me the club recently read the unauthorized biography of Johnny Carson. Such a shame I couldn’t join).
And keep flying. Bootsie’s oomph waves the flag for those of us who won’t let anything stand in the way of squeezing every minute out of every day.
Do you love Bootsie like I love Bootsie?
And pat comes the reply
loved.
Sreemanti Sengupta
Yes, I do! Go Bootsie!
Mrs. Bass, Bootsie threw a luncheon yesterday for eight people. The details were “hazy” and that’s the reason she entertains so much!
“”
I am ecstatic that this has been written. Bootsie is my great
Aunt and I love her So much. I always tell people up here on the east coast they need to meet my southern family especially my Mimi and her two ‘sisters’. My aunt bootsie and aunt shirley. They are quite possibly my absolute favorite classy southern women and I’m constantly proud every day to be a part of their family. Now I get to show my friends first hand how amazing my family is. Thank you.
Dear Stephanie: MoJo is such an admirer of your Bootsie that I flip when she has a new story! You are quite lucky to have Bootsie as your inspiration. Lucky Lucky Lucky. Thanks for writing! Regards, E.
STEPH!!! Thanks, Honey!! Boy, am I having fun with this `lil ole` “BLOG” – - Wish some of Ellen Lubin`s (OR Y O U R) talent would rub off on me now! (THAT would make “life” double-good…… )
NOW if I can just figure out what to H I T to send this on!!!
What a jewel Bootsie is! I love that gal and she has given me the chutspah to go for it too! Way to go and keep it up, Fondly dee
Dear Dee: I’ve not had the pleasure of meeting Bootsie but if she gave you the courage to go after what you want, she’s an inspiration! Keep it up Dee! Admiringly, E.
I am having the time of my life since Y O U made me “queen for a day!” – -( wish I were more computer literate and then I would know if anyone receives this note!!….)
Thrilled to know, however, that I inspired a few people to reach out!! One cannot have too many friends!
you are so cool aunt B! love you
you are so cool aunt B! love you
Your Aunt B. is having a blast with this love-in! Regards, E.
GET OUT!!! Who didn’t know that?!?!
AND she’s beautiful too!
Love the accolades. Bootsie deserves them!
G
Dear Gerre: Bootsie is rocking with these compliments! Now she knows: She’s the real deal. The fabulous one. Regards, E.