Through Lulu's Lens
In The Beginning
Hello, Everyone, Welcome
Before I post the stories, I'd like to give you some history as a starting point.
In January 1990, I worked for a corporate law firm after selling my baking studio—a workspace. They needed to downsize, so six of the last hires were given pink slips.
As a single mother, I was worried. I didn't have the luxury of thinking, "What would I like to do next?" I didn't have a plan for this.
Exiting my car to pick up groceries at our neighborhood market, I noticed a crumpled sign that read, "For Rent." I walked up to the window, cupping my hands to be able to see inside. I saw a diminutive space with large old fixtures, shelving pieces, and boxes, all covered in a film of dust and neglect. It looked like the set of a Fellini film. Then, as I looked further, I saw wainscotted walls and a beautiful tin ceiling. I fell in love.
Walking to the back counter, I asked the butcher, "Are you the owner of the space around the corner? Jim told me his father owned the building. Would you like to see the space? After a phone call to his dad, we agreed to meet a few days later.
The landlord, also named Jim, asked me about my background. When I told him I was a former pastry chef and Willie Mac's daughter, he said, Lu. Your father is a great man. I've known him for thirty years, so I must warn you, no one has made it in this space.
Each tenant lasted no more than six months. It's been empty for four years. I won't give you a lease in the event it doesn't work out.
My landlords were honest, honorable people. I shook his hand that day and took the key. My lease was a handshake. I was there month to month for 17 years, but when they decided to sell the building, Jim came to me and said, "Dad and I are going to give you a lease now to protect you. The new owners may try to evict you. They want your space.
The landlords gave me an airtight lease, much to the chagrin of the new owners, who, two weeks after taking ownership, sent me "A cease and desist letter hand-delivered by our local sheriff." The sheriff apologized, saying, "I'm so sorry, Lu.
But I was protected thanks to Jim and his son—an airtight lease. The anger from the new owners was palpable. They hired attorneys trying to find a loophole; they even tried to threaten me, pulling out all the stops, but they couldn't break that lease.
I was in that space for a total of 25 years.
Do I have stories for you. You will find the stories and memoir will run the gambit of emotions.
Fear, Joy
Playfulness
Jealousy, Treachery, Vendetta
Love, Loyalty
Empathy, Kindness
Frustration
And most of all, Resilience
Thank you for reading. Suggestions are welcome. I'm still working on the site, including a podcast, but it's a labor of love.
Lulu