Tag Archives: silver

Special Occasion Shopping…For You!

I think most of us do far more “special occasion” shopping for others than for ourselves.  I definitely know this to be very true of me.  Every once in a while, it’s OK to shop for yourself.  In fact, it’s another celebration of you… an important expression of the art of being alone.

“If you want to live a memorable life, you have to be the kind of person who remembers to   remember”  Joshua Foer

When I finished my career of 25 years at The New York Times, I wanted to mark the event, by making a purchase of something that would remind me of the special occasion.  Most people chose personal patterns of china, silver and crystal for their engagements, weddings and anniversary registries.  Not having ever had a registry, I had rarely received gifts in any of those categories, but I certainly had shopped for these gifts for countless friends and family.

Beautiful Tiffany Audubon Silver Server and Spoons

Beautiful Tiffany Audubon Silver Server and Spoons

Over time, I developed a fondness for particular patterns, dreaming of a day that I might be able to create a list of my own for these gifts!  I have a great love of the outdoors and so I’m frequently drawn to colors and patterns that are evocative of nature.  There’s a particular pattern of silverware at Tiffany and Co. that I fell in love with years ago.  It’s called Audubon and I’ve always imagined how stunning it would be to set a table, inside or out, with this gorgeous pattern.

Tiffany Audubon Treasure "Reminders"

Tiffany Audubon Treasure “Reminders”

One Christmas, my mother lovingly gave me a serving piece in the Tiffany Audubon pattern, because she knew how much I loved it.  So, when I left The New York Times, I decided to shop for my special gift for this outstanding occasion.  I bought 2 large Audubon spoons that I knew would be great for multiple uses.  I keep them on a shelf with colorful bowls and such.  No-one else would notice, but every time I walk by them, I smile.  Their beauty reminds me of my mother’s special gift and my years of hard work and happy days at The Times!  (Maybe someday, I’ll even have a full place-setting or two…something to look forward too!)

 Copyright 2015 Marion O’Grady