Cecelia Kahn Reiss

We called her "Nannie" and the memories I have of her are cherished. I remember lots of laughs. I could always get a good laugh with Nannie. We would sit in the backseat and giggle. I remember going to her very neat apartment in Miami and always feeling so relaxed and happy. One time she served me sliced tomatoes and I always loved tomatoes after that. I only remember one time when she scolded my sister Julie and I. We were staying overnight so she had probably had enough of us by the time she scolded us. It was when we started jumping up and down on the beds. It was the first time she had gotten cross at me and was kind of a shock. Other than that one time- all memories were of a loving, kind, genuine person.

I remember she told me that she had once had a consignment shop. I thought that was pretty interesting. She also played the piano beautifully but unfortunatley in those days it was a bit harder for a woman to pursue her dreams.

When I was about 26, I showed her a collection of my artwork. She loved my art which pleased me very much. I often think of Nannie and the kind spirit of her heart. She was an inspiration to me in many ways.

-Suzette D. Reiss (granddaughter), 4/8/09