Happy 101st, Cornelia

Did you imagine you'd be 101 some day? That you are today - December 1st, 2010!

You died at 97. You nailed your departure from this world on the day of your birth, 2006. How many people can manage that?! You had style, Lady Cornelia.

You style maven! I still wear your jewelry as often as I can. There is plenty of it -- much of it, as you know, was costume jewelry. But now, 50-60 years after you bought it new,  it's the hottest thing: crystal earrings and necklaces and bracelets. People are always commenting on my jewelry, and I think, thank you.

You celebrity in waiting! -- I still think of you sitting on my living room couch, in front of a roaring fire, holding your martini glass just so, digging the atmosphere and reveling in the moment. "I'm just a party girl," you insisted. At age 95, you were the ultimate party animal. I loved your spirit. Still do.

Happy birthday, Cornelia. I miss you terribly so. I pledge to carry your torch.