Happy Mothers Day from Parque del Amor (Love Park) in Lima Peru

“The eternal happiness in life is to love and be loved.”

—George Sand

This is the first time in recent memory that my beloved wife Cecile and I have been apart on Mother's Day. Fortunately, I am with our son, Jason, who was born out of love. This lover’s park in Miraflores is situated on El Malecon, a six-mile stretch of parks laid above the cliffs of Chorrillos. The sculpture of two lovers creates an illusion of floating high above the Pacific Ocean like the parasailing enthusiasts nearby. The colorful decorative walls are inscribed with love quotes that virtually exude romance. One would be hard pressed to find a monument on Earth dedicated for lovers.

The statue of El Beso (The Kiss) from Victor Dedfin features two lovers united in an intimate and passionate kiss. The park celebrates the joy of love openly. It is a favorite spot for people in love of all ages. The park emanates freedom for the unapologetically display of love without conventional brakes or boundaries. John and Yoko Uno came to mind during their iconic love in. Fortunately, some of the kisses will lead to marriage and children and grandchildren that many are blessed to have.

With this in mind Happy Mothers Day to my first love, my late mama Maria; my beloved Cecile, my sweet daughter Michelle who gifted us with three amazing grandchildren, and of course our son-in-law Kyle’s mother Kim who gave birth to him, for let’s face it, it takes two to Tango:) And, my sister Josie.

Postscript: Cecile, on our way back to our hotel, I spotted our initials D & C in a heart, Peru 2012 on the sidewalk.

An Amazing Visit to a Mystical Chinese Park & Lunch at Mangos Peruvian Restaurant Overlooking the Pacific Ocean

Jason and I managed to walk almost 15,000 steps this morning during our first day walking in Lima. One of our favorite stops was Parque China (Chinese Park). Created to celebrate Peru’s 200th anniversary of Independence as well at 172 years of Chinese immigration to Peru and 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The aesthetically pleasing park was inspired by the typical Chinese gardens radiating peace, tranquility, and harmony. There were an abundance of ornament and statues from Panda Bears, Chines Lions, and Buddha statures imported from China and donated by the Peruvian Chinese community that are thought to have mystic powers protecting this beautiful little haven from harmful influences.

Late lunch at Mangos in Larcomar commercial district of Miraflores Reserva where the locals tourists love to go. It offers a stunning, panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean on our first day in Lima, Peru. We started off with the classic Peruvian Pisco Sour to go along with our a whole Sea Bass that Jason and I split with a fresh avocado tomato salad and French fries and a bottle of Cusquena beer.

Holocaust Memorial Day (Yom Hashoah) A Day of Remembrance with a Heartfelt Poem "Unless You Know"

Yom Hashoah 2024 begins this evening of Sunday evening, marking the anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising serving as a memorial day for 6 million Jews murdered by the Nazis. Since the early 1960s, the sound of a siren on Yom Hashoah stops traffic and pedestrians throughout the State of Israel for two minutes of silent devotion. The siren blows at sundown and once again the following morning at 11 a.m. the following morning.

“This Yom Hashoa cuts us more deeply than any before...Things that we and the world vowed would never happen [’never again’] were committed against us—"again.”

—Chutney Klezmer Band

“Serving as witnesses to the horrors of the Nazis will give context to the roots oof antisemitism and help inform why we must continue to condemn antisemitism, from Eastern Europe to US college campuses.”

—Rabbi Ari Berman, Yeshiva University

"Unless You Know”

Poem by Rachel Lipetz MacAulay

Unless you know what it is to look at black and white proof at lambs led to slaughter,

At herds of the lost at ghosts of a people and know they were yours and know they are you.

Unless you know the deluge of tears for strangers not touched for a family not met

For babies not kissed for laughter not born and know they were yours and know they are you.

Unless you know the deluge of tears for strangers not touched for family not met for babies

Not kissed for laugher not born and know they were yours and know they are you.

Unless you know a childhood full of ghosts at the table of monsters in shadows of stories of suffering

Of prayers said in vain and know they were yours and know they are you.

Unless you know that guilt is ingrained that grief never ends that hate comes in waves that life carries pain

Do not tell me you know what is is that I feel unless you know they were yours and know they are you.

"Unless you Know"

Copyright 2016 Rachel L. MacAulay

Published by Reform Judaism.org

Shoreline & Baylands Nature Preserve & Lunch at Hummus Mediterranean Kitchen

“Biking through a nature preserve is like turning the page of a beautiful illustrated book, with each trail offering a new chapter filled with life and adventure."

What a fantastic and colorful way to experience the outdoors and the harmony of nature. It’s been quite a while since Bill and I rode our bikes on the Stevens Creek Trail leading to Mountain View as well as the Baylands Nature Preserves in Palo Alto. We stopped to take photos in front of the completed Google Headquarters, rode the very narrow trails of short rolling sand dunes with over six foot of blooming yellow wildflowers on either side of us. Thousands of Shorebirds on islets on the bay created a melodic symphony of sounds that contributed to the natural ambiance of coastal and wetland areas.

Their calls and songs are often complex and can range from melodic whistles to repetitive trills. Birds like white egrets, rhythmic peeping sandpipers, melodic whistles of plovers, screeching sounds of seagulls and the haunting calls of curlews each have a distinctive vocalizations that help them communicate, attract mates, and warn of potential threats. We took a moment to listen carefully to their symphony of sounds. It’s a beautiful and immersive experience that complements the peacefulness of a bike ride through the this very expansive and scenic area.

We paused at the rest stop in Bysbee Park where two guys were walking a pack of dogs on leash. We rode around the Palo Alto commuter airport and stopped to watch small craft take turns on the runway taking off in the bright blue skies. On our return we had lunch at Hummus Mediterranean Kitchen on their front patio on the closed-to-cars streets of downtown Mountain View before hitting the trails back to where Bill’s SUV was parked before heading home. We clocked about 27 miles round-trip during our half-day outing.

Happy Birthday to Serena Olweny in Kenya

Dear Serena,

My brother-in-law, and your dad Noel’s mentor and good friend Joseph McAllister and I and our families are wishing you the happiest of birthdays, or "Habari Njema Ya Kuzaliwa,” which as you know in Swahili means “good news on the day of your birth.” Your dad, Noel, shared with us that your birthday is Wednesday, May 1, and since Kenya is ahead of us on the time spectrum, I wanted to get this out to you as soon as possible.

Our gift to you is a little history about what the name Serena means and where it is derived from:

The name Serena exudes elegance and tranquility. It is derived from the Latin word “serenus,” which translates to “calm” or “clear,” like a calm and clear lake on a peaceful day. It implies a respite from the chaos of the world. It was a name that was commonly used in ancient Rome, continuing on to modern Italy, the roots of my ancestors. It has captivated the hearts of countless parents throughout history. Serena has been embraced by various cultures and eras. It was prominent during the Renaissance period and gained popularity among artists, philosophers, and poets who sought to evoke beauty, grace, and serenity through their work, and continued usage in modern times.

Renowned tennis player Serena Williams, who is known for strength, grace and calm under pressure, has undoubtedly contributed to the names popularity, inspiring parents to choose the name for their daughters. While Serena may be prevalent in Europe and the Latin America, Mexico City, and Brazil, it’s presence can also be felt in Asia, India, South Africa, and Kenya where as you may know Joe and I have travelled to on a few occasions. Serena’’s popularity in Africa reflects the continent’s embrace of global influences while celebrating its own unique traditions.

In closing we wish you and your family a wonderful birthday celebration on the day of your birth

Peace, Love, Blessings,

Dennis and Joe

Our "Cat Saving Neighbor" Gets our Vote on National Superhero Day 2024

“Compassion for animals is intimately connected with the goodness of character.”

—Schopenhauer

A Story I shared with our granddaughters Lyla and Emmy who learned about National Superhero Day in Preschool:

It was 1:30 p.m. last Thursday. Cecile and I made plans to donate some items to Goodwill followed by a late lunch. We barely made it out of our garage when we heard the sounds of a cat crying in distress. We looked everywhere, no sign of a cat. I decided to look up, and there it was, a black cat lying on the base of the limbs of a tree about 25 feet high from the ground.

Our neighbor Lucy Vaganov’s daughter Ksenia (pronounced Sen ya, the K is silent) came out to assess the situation and with the spirit and confidence of a first responder went into action mode. She and her father Vladimir brought out an extension ladder from their garage. He and I secured the top section of the ladder in between two tree limbs.

Before the long climb up, Ksenia put on a back brace, and anchored herself to the tree with a yellow cord. This was just the beginning of what became a three-hour drama. Unsure whether Ksenia would succeed and concerned for her safety, Cecile continued to reach out for help, making about 20 calls to every conceivable organization related to animal care and safety including the Los Gatos Fire Department to no avail.

In the meantime, Ksenia tried to gently coax the black cat down. She understood the risks without any guarantee she would be successful. Fatigue began to set in. Nevertheless she persevered with the focus of an olympiad. On her third climb back up the tree, she carried a big basket with a handle and a little plastic bowl of food sitting inside of it.

I was holding a padded utility blanket to catch the cat if it fell. To our relief, Ksenia managed to grab the cat and place it in the basket. How she managed to hold the cat in the basket with one hand and climb down with the other is still a mystery. We all waited with bated breath for her to make her descent. As they say, the third time was a charm, and we all experienced a sigh of relief.

It took a lot of courage and determination to climb a huge tree to save a cat. This kind of act demonstrates not only a deep sense of compassion but also bravery in the face of physical risks. Climbing a tree can be challenging and dangerous, with the risk of falls and injury, especially without the proper equipment or training. It is a myth, that cats never get stuck in trees. Some do get stuck and they do die.

Ksenia showed a willingness to put the safety of another living being before her own. Her actions brought relief to the cat's owners—whom we discovered the day after— belonged to our neighbors Pam and Jim further down the cul-de-sac. Their cats’ name is Bob, and his rescue also brought warmth to the hearts of those of us who witnessed and assisted Ksenia in such a selfless act of kindness. Ksenia’s bravery also served as a source of inspiration, reminding us of the small acts of heroism that occur every day. As we showered her with praises she good-naturedly took a bow like a ballerina and smiled like a Cheshire Cat.

Dinner at Meso Mediterranean Restaurant at Santana Row with Friends

"Ocean hues and vast archways are always transportive. The large, two-room space features a wide bar with beautiful backlit bottles, tile work and sleek, modern touches.”

—Amber Turpin, The Mercury News

Santana Row in San Jose is a Food Lover’s Fantasy. Cecile and I had a Middle Eastern-style feast at Meso with dear friends, Nelson and Susan Bye who recently returned from a family trip in Costa Rica. This was our second time at the up-scale modern Mediterranean Restaurant. The exotic tapas-style servings did not disappoint, nor did the decor. Meso, which means “middle,” transports you with its’ calming, blue Mediterranean sky and sea that I remember from our travels. There is a bluish-purple lighted fountain in the spacious dining room.

We began our gastronomic adventure by ordering a trio of dips: Hummus, smoked eggplant, red beet, labneh, and house-made pita bread. Cecile and I brought a bottle of Rombauer Chardonnay for the table. We also ordered Meso’s featured Spice Lamb Flatbread with yogurt, sumac onions, spicy zhoug, oven roasted tomato and sprouts, Crispy Brussels Sprouts with a scallion and feta dip; Charred Eggplant and Salata Hara with red pepper, pomegranate, pistachio and serrano; and a bowl of roasted carrots and cucumbers. We were sufficiently sated all for an average price of $70 per couple and this included the corkage charge for the wine. We decided to pass on the dessert and hit the Dairy Queen for soft serve ice cream before heading home.

Postscript: The Mediterranean menu was designed by chef-partner Roland Passot and executive chef Gregory who spent years working at the French Laundry in Napa before taking the helm of Masa’s in San Francisco. They have a large outdoor front patio and there is a large outdoor Frog Garden that serves as a meeting place for any visitors to Santana Row.

Update: "Jerseys" from NJ Jersey for Joyful Kenya Students: In Loving Memory of My Late Niece Selina

Special Report

By Dr. Dennis Augustine

“May the gentle winds of the heavenly realm blow softly and whisper in your ear, how much we love and miss you and wish that you were here.”

—The McAllister & Augustine Family

Jambo, Jambo, everyone! As a reminder, my brother-in-law Joe and family founded the Selina McAllister Computer School, in memory of my late niece and goddaughter, Selena. She left us last December 28, at the age of 40, the same day her beloved daughter Zaila turned 13.

Today marked the second shipment of “jerseys" from New Jersey to arrive at the Masogo School in Kenya thanks to the generosity of my nephew Jake McAllister’s childhood friend Justin Stallard and his point man Jack who helped to make it possible. The first shipment also included blue, green, yellow and black jerseys, boots, socks, matching shorts, goal posts and soccer balls and nets. Today, Noel Olweny, the community leader of the Masogo School and member of the County Assembly joyfully announced that he was in receipt of 60 high quality black and white Addidas Jersey tops.

Noel, seen in many of the attached photos informed the school projects committee. As a result special arrangements are being made for the school fraternity to officially welcome the “jerseys” and schedule a friendly soccer match with another school after Spring break to coincide with a “Boom Day Celebration.” To that end, Joe, the main benefactor of the school and community and Noel’s mentor graciously donated $1,000 for food and drinks for students, teachers, staff and aides. Of course, always by his side, is Noel's Mama, the matriarch of the family who expressed her joy and gave her blessings to all concerned.

We met Noel at the Kenya Safari Club in 2006. The following year Joe took Selina to Kenya, and years later he decided to fund Noel's post-graduate education in Land management. They have remained good friends ever since. Last March, Cecile and I decided to support Joe and his family by contributing a $1,000 to the Masogo school in Selina’s memory.

Postscript: Earlier in the month, Noel proudly anounced that his daughter Serena (wearing spectacles in the photos), accompanied him for the end-term school holidays which brought him even greater joy, as she witnessed what he described as “the noble act of beautiful people.” Serena's response was, “I love our friends in the USA.” As Serena entered the Selena McAllister Computer Classroom, and saw framed photos of her prominently and respectfully displayed on the walls of the classroom and her grandmother's home, she couldn’t hold back her tears.

Noel ended his email with the words “Asante sana rafiki, mango awabariki,” which translated from Swahili means:

Thank you, my friend, God Bless you!

Earth Day 2024: This Giant Plastic Tap Art Installation in Front of Ripley's Aquarium in Toronto was a Real Eye-Opener

While in Toronto in May of 2022, for our Great Lakes Cruise, Cecile and I, and our friends Nelson and Susan Bye, decided to visit Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada in the heart of downtown Toronto, which we had read was a must-see tourist attraction.

What caught my attention was a three-story-tall giant plastic tap art installation by celebrated artist and activist Benjamin Von Wong, that was spewing single-use plastic waste all over the entrance of the aquarium (see my photo). It is a symbol of the global plastic pollution crisis. Since 1950s global plastic production and consumption has grown exponentially. It is expected to increase by 70% by 2040 if changes aren’t made.

This plastic art installation was also featured at the United Nations headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya. As Earth Day 2024 puts a spotlight on the world’s climate crisis, negotiators from 175 countries are gathering for the fourth round of the United Nations Plastic Treaty negotiations this week in Canada, to draft a global, legally binding agreement by the end of the year.

It took awhile, but this exhibit had a profound effect on my using single-use plastic water bottles during the day and on my daily bike rides. I have cut my usage by over 95%. Like most people I thought we were doing our share by recycling, only to realize that wasn’t addressing the root of the problem.

Postscript: Some of the health problems associated with plastics include respiratory problems, asthma, diabetes, reproductive and hormone issues, obesity, cancer, and heart disease, and microscopic plastic particles are showing up in our bodies.

#TurnOffThePlasticTap

Dinner at lL Fornaio & an Evening with Comedian Bill Maher: The WTF? Tour

Before going to see Bill Maher at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, Cecile, our son Jason, and I enjoyed a fabulous, leisurely, early dinner at IL Fornaio Cucina Italiano located in the luxurious Sainte Claire in downtown San Jose. For starters we shared Piatto Di Salumi (an antipasto platter) with fresh oven backed bread.

Cecile had a delicious Casarecce Alla Norcina pasta with morsels of chicken breast, white truffle oil, porcini & champignon mushrooms; Jason feasted on Linguine Mare Chiaro: with clams, mussels, prawns & scallops, and I had Grilled Norwegian salmon with lemon & extra-virgin olive oil; served with sautéed spinach & roasted Yukon gold potatoes along with a glass of Chalk Hill Chardonnay from the Sonoma Coast. For dessert Jason had his favorite Affogato AL Caffe (espresso poured over two scoops of vanilla gelato & topped with fresh whipped cream and Cecile and I shared a strawberry sorbet).

After dinner we spent an evening with stand up comedian and political commentator Bill Maher: The WTF? Maher is known for his sharp wit, biting humor, and fearless approach to controversial topics on "Real time with Bill Maher" on HBO. Cecile and I, and Jason have been a fans of my fellow New Jerseyite since his first show "Politically Incorrect,” in the early 1990s.

Maher is a staunch advocate for free speech, and enjoys sparking heated debates that challenge societal norms with individuals from different political ideologies. He is skilled at balancing humor and serious content. He doesn’t shy away from critizing Democrats as well as Rebulicans when its called for. While I don’t agree with everything he says, I believe in a lot of what he has to say, and he makes me laugh in the process.

Celebrating Bill's Belated Birthday with Lunch at San Pedro Square Market in San Jose

There always something a little funny about a person who’s birthday falls on April 15, the dreaded Tax Collection Day like Bill’s does. Birthday or not, we are all in the same boat. As comedian Conan O’Brien once joked, “Just taught my kids about taxes by eating 38% of their ice cream.”

We decided to have lunch at San Pedro Square Market in Downtown San Jose. We took a short cut by riding our bikes on the Los Gatos Creek Trail, and then hopping on the Three Creek Trail near downtown Willow Glen, allowing us to avoid off-trail car traffic.

The ride was pretty uneventful until we we reached San Jose’s Plaza de Caesar Chavez Square where the United Service Workers West (USWW) under the banner of "Justice for Janitors" who were threatening a three-day strike. USWW is America’s largest union of immigrant property services workers. Across California alone, there are more than 25,000 janitors seeking better jobs and wages, access to quality health care, and a crackdown of reported sexual and other physical abuse in the workplace.

A welcome diversion to the loud voices amplified by raspy microphones, was the iconic fountain of geysers that has sprung back to life after two years of being dormant during the COVID-19 pandemic.

We finally made it to the large San Pedro Square street Arch that leads to the market where I ordered Bill and I fresh Vietnamese Chicken salads from “On a Roll” restaurant before heading home.

The Enchanting World of Bike Riding During Sunset with Fiery Cloud Formations

“Riding through the golden hues of a sunset, every stroke of the pedal is a moment of pure bliss."

Night riding adds another layer of enchantment and mystery to the sport. Witnessing the magical hues of the evening sunset painting the sky with clouds forming intricate patterns overhead holds its own charm and allure. Riding the Creek trails with no cars to worry about, makes it an extraordinary sensory experience that is hidden to daytime riders. The air is cooler, the city noises are subdued and there are less pedestrians and dog walkers out and about that brings about a nuanced sense of serenity.

One would think that riding during early evening or twilight is isolating and lonely, but there are always a few of us sharing the secret of the night and it helps when you enjoy your own company to boot. The mysterious darkness amplifies the sense of adventure and thrill of exploration, creating a captivating experience all of its own. For safety, I always wear a helmet and I have a powerful headlight that illuminates the trail in front of me, and an attention grabbing red taillight and I usually make it home before it gets pitch black. Even when the sun goes below the horizon line, there is always enough natural light in the sky to see the city bike lanes we are blessed to have here in bike-friendly California to make it back home safely.

A 20-Mile Bike Ride on the Ford Ord National Monument Trails Located on the Monterey Bay

Bill and I followed our biking buddies Jimi and Jennifer Hunter from Los Gatos, CA to Marina State Beach, and exited the Reservation Road off Highway One for a brief rest stop. This part of the beach is called Shark Bar Point where I used to take hang-gliding lessons over the sand dunes back in the 80s.

We then continued on to Fort Ord where we hooked up with six more of Jimi and Jen’s long-time friends, making us a ten person pelaton-esque group psyched with anticipation of riding on this mild sunny day. Fort Ord, once the Jewel of The United States Army is located on Monterey Bay on the Pacific Ocean. It was originally established as a military installation in 1917. Its military operations ceased in the early 1990s.

Ford Ord National Monument offers breathtaking biking trails. The landscape boasts rolling hills, many steep inclines reaching elevations of over 2,000 feet and exhilarating descents approaching speeds of over 30 mph. Cyclists can enjoy winding paths that traverse through oak woodlands, and hidden caves and circles around the Laguna Seca Raceway. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or an adrenaline-pumping bike ride, Ford Ord National Monument offers unparalleled beauty and adventure for outdoor enthusiasts.

We ended our day with a late, delicious leisurely lunch at Las Cazuelas Taqueria in Marina, and bid our interesting a affable crew farewell.

Postscript: Ford Ord underwent a transformation in 2012, when President Obama designated a portion of the former military base as Fort Ord National Monument, preserving over 14,000 acres of land for public use and conservation.

Sunday Family Brunch at Jack's & Baby August's Loving Soulful Gaze & Smiles

"Grandchildren are the dots that connect the lines from generation to generation.”—Lois Wise

“Perfect love sometimes does not come until grandchildren are born.”—Welsh Proverb

Cecile and I arrived at Jack’s kid-friendly restaurant first, to secure a table. Shortly after, Michelle, Kyle, Lyla, Emmy and baby August arrived. I stood up and motioned with my hand where we were, and the girls joyfully ran across the room to greet us. Emmy ran into my arms and I lifted her up into the air and Lyla ran to Nonnie Cecile. You can’t beat that kind of welcoming. August was sleeping in his stroller but just about after we ordered brunch he made his presence known.

We’ve all been told that staring is rude, but as any parent and grandparent will tell you when babies stare at you, it’s downright adorable. Of course as parents, Michelle and Kyle’s loving attention to all of August’s needs has taught him that the world is a safe place, such is the gift of innocence. Newborns love to look at faces and by this time in his development, baby August has perfected the "soulful gaze." Add the soulful grin, and gentle, warm, snuggle, and it becomes a truly magical moment that warms your heart.

And yes, August is talking too. Sort of. It’s those wonderful earliest coos and grunts that are first directed at the parents and then other trusted caregivers in the family as a way of saying, I love you too.

Celebrating the Most Festive & Joyful Gender Reveal Baby Shower: Congrats to Sphoorti & Aniket

When the invitation to a baby shower and gender reveal party arrived, it was an offer Cecile and I couldn’t refuse. Our gracious neighbors and friends, Sphoorti and Aniket are getting ready to welcome baby number two, and we were invited on their behalf by their beloved hosts, Shrishti and husband Jammu to get ready for an "unforgettable celebration to shower the mommy-to-be (Sphoorti) with love and blessings." Well, the organizing culinary wizards (Ray & Mike) who also arranged for the colorful decorations at Rinconada Hills didn’t disappoint. The inside and outside tented event that took place on Sunday was indeed a magical afternoon bursting with joy and we felt honored to be invited. We were serenaded by the enchanting tunes of a band called “Radio Gatsby,” while sipping our mimosas, wine and beer enjoying delectable savory Indian and Mediterranean appetizers that were later followed by a buffet-style spread of delicious Indian cuisine with naan bread.

Other highlights were when Sphoorti and Aniket made their entrance as they danced to the music, advancing to the front of the room and welcoming all their guests and family for attending the event. This is a couple who are kind and thoughtful, generous, and comfortable being in the spotlight with the people they love. After dessert, many of us watched the band leader coax the children to come up front to dance to Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars. At first a little timid, they overcame their shyness, and the band leader had them repeat some of the catchy lyrics.

An announcement was made by the band leader that the Gender Reveal was about to take place outdoors. You could feel the excitement and anticipation building. The Gender Reveal Cannon launchers took their positions on the side of a big green lawn that guests were standing on. The countdown began 10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1 and the explosion of blue powdered confetti that filled the air made it official: “It’s a boy!”

Postscript (2 short video clips at the end of the photo gallery).

Congratulations Sphoorti, Aniket and your first born Veer! He is going to love having a baby bro. Thank you for including us!

Peace, Love, and Blessings,

Dennis and Cecile Augustine

Happy Easter From Carmel to Friends & Family However You May Celebrate It

“Easter is meant to be a symbol of hope, renewal and new life.”—Janine di Giovanni

While Cecile and I were sitting in Devendorf Park in Carmel, a charming rest stop after browsing the several blocks of shops on Ocean Avenue, there was a couple with their little daughter holding her Easter basket, humming and skipping in front of them. I was feeling nostalgic for the holiday of my youth.

Having been born a Catholic and having attended Catholic schools, though not very observant as a religious holiday, I was taught Easter is the celebration of the resurrection of Christ following his crucifixion. That said, many Easter traditions are purely secular and not found in the Bible. I still remember my first Easter basket and easter eggs, oval shaped jelly beans that resemble an egg, marshmallow-flavored chicks, and chocolate bunny rabbits. The Easter bunny, was reportedly introduced to America by German Immigrants. They brought their stories of the egg-laying hare. Decorating eggs dates back to the 13 th century and the Easter parade dates back further. Easter candy are more modern additions of this springtime holiday.

Though my wife isn’t a Christian we use to help our children color/dyed the egg shells of boiled eggs. That tradition has carried on at our daughter Michelle’s in-laws who are of the Christian faith. Our son-in-law Kyle often dresses up as an Easter bunny as does his step-dad Al. The girls love Easter egg hunts. The jelly bean, oval shaped like an egg that comes in different colors, became associated with Easter in the 1930s was called a Turkish Delight in the Biblical era.

The Easter Day Parade dates back to the middle 1800s. In fact in 1948, the popular film “Easter Parade” starring Judy Garland and Fred Astaire. Women would go to church sporting their decorated easter bonnets and hats. Easter Lilies represent the purity of Christ and the dormant bulbs in the ground symbolize the rebirth of Christ’s resurrection.

Postscript: Many of the photos were taken in Carmel and some images I have archived on my laptop, and still others with, or of, people we met, and were wearing rabbit ears.

We Attended 117 Days in Gaza: A Firsthand Account from the Front Lines by Yonatan Haber at Chabad Almaden

"If Israel were to rest the security of the Jewish State on international approval, there would be no Israel. Choose security over popularity!”

—Congressman Ritchie Torres

A Special Report by Dr. Dennis Augustine

Yonathan Haber, 23, is a member of the 55th Paratroopers Brigade on the Israeli Defenses Forces (IDF). He spent 60 days in the Gaza strip, one of two Palestinian territories on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. On that fateful day of the October 7 massacre, this young man who has lived near the Gaza border for years, found himself battling Hamas terrorists with his team after receiving news of the attacks from his superiors on Telegram Messenger and WhatsApp. The 23-year old Israeli Defense Force (IDF) reservist who returned to service after the vicious and deadly attacks by Hamas, was invited by our friend, Rabbi Mendel Weinfeld, the CEO of Chabad House Almaden in South San Jose to share his front-line war experience with over 40 attendees including Cecile and I at 7:30 PM last evening.

Yonatan and his team arrived in a village next to the Gaza border to rescue families and dogs and bring them to a place of safety. He confirmed what had been reported in international news outlets around the world: beheaded corpses, babies placed in ovens, torture, rapes, scores of dead bodies, burned homes, weapons used by Hamas, including rocket-propelled grenades, evidence of kidnapped hostages from the village resulting from systematic house-to-house searches using maps provided by traitors of the Israeli residents noting where everything was. For two hours Yonathan had our undivided attention. He did a slide show presentation, showed us a video clip him and his team, and was eager to answer any questions.

Following three days of fighting, Haber and his unit cleared the village, resulting in the deaths of over 100 Hamas fighters. During their searches, weapons, cell phones of hostages left behind were discovered inside school and mosques as well as books about the Nazis. Though, he didn’t witness humanitarian relief being caravanned into Gaza, he did say that under international law the area must be declared a war zone. That said, he did witness the dropping of leaflets in Gaza, warning residents that any place suspected of hiding places for Hamas terrorists would be bombed and warned Palestinians to evacuate. He spoke about the painstaking method of engaging Hamas, who had no qualms in shooting civilians attempting to evacuate. The IDF has to evacuate most of them before entering any homes.

He showed us a map of Gaza and Israeli border, and pointed to Khan Yunis, the second largest urban area, after Gaza City, the Gaza Strip, notably the home of 55 year Yahya Sinwar, second most powerful member of Hamas after billionaire Haniyeh, who refuses any kind of compromise with Israel. He has made it known he would rather die a martyr.

According to Pew Research Center published on March 21, 89% of U.S. Jews say Israel’s reason for launching a war against Hamas are justified, compared to 58% of Americans overall. 68% of American Muslims said Israel’s conduct in the war was unacceptable.

According to "Hamas-run" Gaza health ministry, more than 31,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war. However, Israel says more than a third of those are combatants and blames Hamas’ hostage taking terrorists for embedding themselves in civilian populations and using their own people as human shields.

When someone asked where does he see the war going, he said his personal opinion is that if there are still hostages in Gaza, it's their duty to free them. They can’t back down. It’s war, and they try their best to avoid civlian casualties. If Hamas releases the hostages, there is room to back down.

Before heading home, Cecile and I thanked Yonathan for his presentation and wished him well, and gave him some cash, as did a few others to continue educating people as to what’s going on behind the scenes.

The Eclipse: Thanks to A Professional Photographer We Saw the Light but Missed the Dark & the Cultural Myths of the Ancients

Bill asked if I wanted to go the Vasona Lake Reservoir on the Los Gatos Creek Trail and I said I was all in. While we didn’t achieve “Totality,” thanks to a thoughtful and kind photographer we met on the way he invited us a see a filtered view of a partial eclipse at around 10:30 AM PST through his camera—set to the proper coordinents—on his tripod. We also got do a 13-mile ride to boot, stopping to see the reservoir that had been totally drained for repairs that made it look Apocalyptic, though the water is slowly being filled to capacity.

While we had a little taste of the eclipse, Bill’s sun Clark who lives in Austin, TX sent him a short video clip of the eclipse that he experienced from his vantage point (see attached).

According to the New York Times, Thales, a Greek philosopher 2,600 years ago, is celebrated for predicting a famous solar eclipse, and in the process discovered what came to be known as the science.

During this same time period an eclipse stopped the a six-year war between the Lydians, and what followed was a peace treaty that was quickly signed.

Humans have always seen solar eclipse as bad omens. For example the Inca civilization (Sun worshipers) believed it was due to the wrath of God. The solution: Human sacrifices.

In Hindu mythology, it was said that a cunning demon disguised in women’s clothing invaded a banquet to drink the nectar of the gods and achieve the state of immortality but was caught and beheaded. The decapitated demon’s head floated across the sky and steered the sun. The ancient Chinese blue celestial dragons were said to be devouring the sun like little Pac-Man. They believed the only way to save it they created a ruckus by banging their drums and yelling at it.

Parting Shots of Carmel: One of the most Romantic Coastal Getaways

The quaint little village of Carmel-by-the-Sea oozes European charm and is one of the most romantic coastal getaways. It is just one square mile, and Ocean Avenue is the main street that runs From Highway One through the village all the way down to Carmel Beach with stunning coastal views, long sandy beaches, fringed with cypresses.

One of the places to visit in the Carmel Mission which is a National Historic Landmark. Established in 1771, it was the second of the missions built in California by Spanish missionaries led by Father Junipero Serra, who is buried here.

Lined with picturesque shops, galleries, cafe’s, restaurants, Ocean Avenue is a must-stroll. Cecile and I had lunch the Carmel Bakery (same owner of Pepe’s Vesuvio Restaurant) along with the best soft pretzels we have ever tasted. There is also the charming Cottage of Sweets, which has British-style candies and other chocolate and candy treats. Other Carmel Fairytale Cottages dating back to the early 1900s, feature high pitched roofs with moss, stone chimneys, and timbered details. We loved Carmel Plaza for its one of a kind boutiques and shops. In front of Kate Spade is a whimsical sculpture of a man wearing a hat, with his palm out called “Rain” by Richard Macdonald.

One of the charming features of Carmel are its numerous “secret” passageways dating back to the 1920 as seen in my photos. Many are lined with stores, galleries, tasting rooms, and eateries. There murals like the shell murals at Paloma Furnishing in Carmel. Ocean Avenue isn’t the only place to stroll. There are an abundant of side streets lined with interesting shops worth seeing. We rested at Devendorf Park named after Frank Devendorf, known as the father of Carmel-By-the-Sea. This well-maintained oasis is shaded by several massive live oaks.

Dinner at Pepe’s Vesuvio in Carmel-By-The-Sea whose Owner Grew Up in Hoboken NJ Just Like Your’s Truly

Rich Pepe calls himself a "baker by trade and a chef by passion.”

Back in the day he worked in a family bakery with his older brother and sister. He moved from NJ to the Monterey Peninsula in 1974, a year before Cecile and I moved to San Jose.

Vesuvio is named for the volcano that gates the Amalfi Coast, an area I spent some time in during my youth and early adulthood staying with my late mother Maria'’s friend Rosa and husband Mimi in their villa that overlooks the very same coastline. Mimi was also a baker (pastry chef).

Experiencing Italian Cuisine through the lens of Pepe and his family, who came from Naples, through Ellis Island before world war 1, and settled in Hoboken and Cliffside Park New Jersey was a real treat.

There was no mistaken that Vesuvio was the “real deal,” an authentic Southern Italian restaurant including a Napolitano wood baking pizza oven, that loyal patrons helped turn into a thriving enterprise. The Pepe family also owns the historic Carmel Bakery and other restaurants nearby.

Cecile and I shared Spring Bruschetta: Grilled Carmel Bakery sourdough, stracciatella, peas, asparagus, lemon zest & arugula;

Di Stefano: Crispy goat cheese, roasted beets, mixed greens, fig-balsamic vinaigrette, and split the entree: Al Forno ‘Sinatra:' Baked rigatoni, house sausage, mushrooms, goat cheese, mozzarella, pangratatto. And why not name it after Sinatra? It is Hoboken’s favorite son, now, and forever.

Buon Appetito! Or, as Rich Pepe would say, “Alla Salute!