Audrey: I am originally from Rumson, New Jersey. I have lived in Riverside for 16 years, with a 4 year break in the middle when we lived in London.
I have 2 children. Fred is 19 and Lily is 11.
When Lily and I go shopping we always hit Anna Banana on Sound Beach Avenue in Old Greenwich. They have beautiful dresses and also casual clothes that are trendy enough for an 11-year-old fashionista, but still mom-approved. When I need furniture, I always consult Sandra Morgan. Her business, Sandra Morgan Interiors, is on Arch Street. She is an interior designer with a beautiful home store. We have been working on one project or another for 16 years and I think she is the best decorator in Greenwich. For shoes? Clearly I go to Lily, my new shoe and accessory shop in Old Greenwich.
Some of my favorite events in town are movie night and the Fourth of July in Binney Park. When we go I am reminded that sometimes the simple, old-fashioned pleasures are the best ones. I also love the annual town party for the great music in a laid-back environment.
My favorite restaurant in town is Le Fat Poodle. The food is delicious and the atmosphere is lively, fun and friendly. Somehow, it always seems festive, but I never feel like my privacy is being intruded on. When we take the kids out, we always love going to the Beach House and Asiana.
Luckily my kids are intrepid eaters, but when they feel finicky I always make pasta sauce. This recipe is delicious and also pleases the adults. Chop one onion. Saute in olive oil until translucent. Add one package of chopped pancetta (available at Balducci’s, already chopped!) and saute for about 4 minutes. Add 2 large cans of Muir Glen fire roasted chopped tomatoes (available at Acme). Add salt, pepper and red pepper flakes to taste. The red pepper gives it a kick. Heat and serve over spaghetti or bucatini. It’s the best!
When I get a rare bit of free time, I try to go for a run or power walk with a friend. The much-needed exercise is almost painless when I can have some girl-time at the same time. I also love to read. My Kindle is almost full!
Right now I am living and breathing my new business, Lily, a women’s shoe and accessory store on Sound Beach Avenue in Old Greenwich, which opened in September. Our mission is to sell shoes that are stylish, wearable and practical, at an affordable price point. We also have a large selection of handbags, scarves, gloves and other accessories. I want the shop to be a community and social hub, for friends and neighbors to come, have a cup of tea and hang out a bit. Earlier this week we hosted a holiday party and children’s coat drive for Neighbor to Neighbor, and I hope to host other events to support local causes.
