Cydonia of @cydonia.boonshaft is a textile designer and an interior designer. Before her recent retirement, she worked at Stark Carpet designer showroom assisting designers and architects with rugs, carpet and mostly custom items. She loves working in sales with other talented people.

What moment in your life made you think that life would never be the same.
When my mother died suddenly of a heart attack in my apartment. I always think of her and a mother can never be replaced, but if you have a wonderful relationship, you will always miss it and the person. But life must go on.

What do you do when you don’t know what to do?
Pray and discuss it with my husband.

What would you do if you had the whole day to yourself?
After working for 50 years and I am now retired, I do have every day to myself. I can do anything I want or do nothing if that is what I want for that day. I do read a lot, I cook or bake because I love to eat. Travel is another thing my husband and I love to do and have done a lot.

What is the best thing about being a woman?
Being able to wear makeup, beautiful clothes and jewelry.

What is the one piece of clothing you cannot live without?
Scarves—they can double as jewelry, and add color to an outfit. It is like wearing a piece of art.