At Inspīr Carnegie Hill, we celebrate the unique lives of our residents, each enriching our community's vibrant tapestry. Among these remarkable individuals is Lorraine, whose journey from a small Nebraska town to New York City exemplifies the spirit of adventure and resilience that defines Inspīr. Described by her children as fearless and endlessly positive, Lorraine's life story is a testament to embracing new opportunities and finding joy in every chapter. From teaching in a one-room schoolhouse to becoming an accomplished seamstress and entrepreneur, Lorraine has shaped her vibrant identity. In this conversation, she shares her inspiring journey and how she continues to thrive at Inspīr Carnegie Hill.
Q: Can you tell us about your early life and career?
A: I grew up in a tiny Nebraska town with just 120 people. My teaching career began in a one-room schoolhouse, which was quite an adventure! I married my high school sweetheart, and together we embarked on a journey that took us far beyond our rural roots.
Q: What inspired your move to Wyoming?
A: We were young and eager for new experiences. My husband landed a job with JC Penney, in Casper Wyoming, and became store display manager at just 20 years old. We felt there was more to life and were drawn to the idea of seeking our fortune elsewhere.
Q: How did you end up in New York City?
A: My husband dreamed of pursuing a career in commercial art in New York. I was supportive and excited about the adventure, even with our two-year-old daughter. He went first, hustling to make money, while going to school. After he found permanent work with the JC Penney store design team, our daughter and I joined him, arriving by train at Penn Station.
Q: What was your first impression of New York?
A: Our first home was a tiny basement apartment in Coney Island. Rather than feeling homesick, I remember watching the Queen Mary pass by our window at sunrise, symbolizing the promise of a bright future. That optimism has stayed with me throughout my life.
Q: You've lived through significant changes in New York. How did you approach them?
A: We moved to Manhattan in the 1970s when many people were leaving the city. President Ford famously told New York City "Drop Dead." But we saw potential where others saw decline. We bought a large apartment with a view of the East River, believing in the city's future. That decision paid off when we later sold this Sutton Place home during the real estate market turnaround and moved nearer to Central Park.
Q: You've had quite a diverse career. Can you tell us about that?
A: After teaching, I worked for Scholastic and then leveraged my life long practice of designing and creating my children’s clothes to gain a position at Vogue within their pattern group. Later, I started a business with a friend, providing temporary reception services to midtown companies. I've always believed in seizing opportunities and trying new things.
Q: What's one of your most memorable adventures?
A: After we retired, our Wyoming family encouraged us to buy a motor home. We were still based in NYC and also had our house in Columbia County, but we did buy that motor home. Over the next ten years, we managed to travel every road on the Rand McNally US map! It was an incredible journey before cell phones and email. We never let fear of the unknown hold us back – we just rolled with whatever came our way.
Q: What brought you to Inspīr Carnegie Hill?
A: During the pandemic, I spent an extended time with my daughter and her husband in Massachusetts and realized how this wonderfully supportive and social time was making a big difference in my outlook on life. I didn’t plan on lingering with them when the pandemic ended, but wanted to find a place in my NY neighborhood where I could have a strong network of support and community bonds. After quickly realizing that Inspīr offered what I wanted, we made the arrangements and planned a visit to confirm. My children were amazed to hear the news, but this was another adventure I was eager to embark on.
Q: How would you describe your approach to life?
A: I'm always looking to try something new or meet someone new. My children describe me as fearless, optimistic, and endlessly positive. I believe in embracing opportunities and not letting worries about what could go wrong hold you back.
Q: What do you enjoy most about life at Inspīr?
A: I love welcoming new residents, participating in thought-provoking lectures, and enjoying intimate dinner conversations. Sometimes, I simply sit quietly, taking in the sights and sounds of the city I love. There's always something new to experience or learn here.
Q: You've mentioned overcoming some health challenges recently. Can you tell us about that experience and how Inspīr supported you?
A: Absolutely. I was feeling really down and ready to give up after I had my second fall in two months. My kids were telling me to work harder so I wouldn't end up in a wheelchair, but I ignored them. It was the amazing care team here at Inspīr that made all the difference. They got me started on the road back to recovery. They put together a care plan and encouraged me daily, telling me "You can stand, you can walk, it's time to get out of bed and back to living." I started with physical therapy and began working out. Today, I feel good again. I am back, and without a wheelchair! I credit the service and care here for my rebound. The Inspīr team truly helped me get back on my feet, both literally and figuratively.
Lorraine's story embodies the spirit of Inspīr Carnegie Hill, a community where life's adventures are embraced at every stage. Inspīr is more than just a residence; it's a place that nurtures curiosity, fosters connections, and celebrates each resident's life experiences. Here, individuals like Lorraine have countless opportunities to continue their personal growth, pursue new passions, and write exciting new chapters.
Whether through engaging lectures, welcoming new neighbors, or enjoying intimate conversations over dinner, Inspīr invites you to rediscover the joy of living in a dynamic urban environment. Explore the Inspīr Lifestyle, uncover the extraordinary world within our doors, and see how you too can thrive in a community that values lifelong learning, fearless exploration, and the endless possibilities each day brings.
