$5 for each, madame, or 5 for $20 if you'd like

I used to see this man a lot. He sold vegetable peelers in Union Square on days when the Greenmarket was open. Last year I bought 5 of them ($5 each or 5 for $20) as stocking stuffers for my family. Sounds like a goofy gift, but these particular peelers are magic. You should see the things you can do with one of these peelers!

He gave demonstrations. His hands were rough and always a bit red, especially in the cold. He wore nice suits (always a suit) and called everyone "madame" and "sir". His classy British accent made his pitch all the more compelling. His voice was deep and strong and you couldn't help but stand and listen to him awhile, even on days when you weren't going to buy a peeler.

I dropped the peeler I bought for myself behind our sink a few months back and it's hopelessly lost. Last month I was passing through Union Square and the peeler man was there. I bought a replacement. He asked me to be careful with this one and then wished me good luck with the baby. It was a brief, kind exchange.

He passed away on Sunday. He was a fixture in my personal New York City. Every person has their own version of NYC, you know. The peeler man was always part of mine. He'll continue to be part of it. Every time I peel a potato or julienne a carrot (it juliennes!) I'll think of him. I already do that. Now I'll just add a knowing smile to my little routine and he'll live on in my personal NYC forever.

"This is not your average vegetable peeler, ladies and gentlemen, I assure you. You've not seen anything like this in your homegoods shops or your corner stores. This peeler is not your typical made in China waste of money that will break on you or become dull after one use. This peeler is Swiss-crafted from stainless steel that will never go dull or leave you disappointed." Now picture him saying all of that while he peeled a potato and made a carrot garnish on the board in front of him.