Walking in the Footsteps of Pope Leo XIV in Lima

by Dennis Augustine

As part of my three-week trip to Peru last year, Jason and I spent a memorable pre-trip in Lima—walking the very places that shaped Pope Leo XIV. As an Augustine, it struck me deeply to stand in spaces tied not only to my childhood faith but also to my namesake’s spiritual legacy.

We visited sacred sites woven into Peru’s Catholic soul:

Cathedral of Lima – where faith and history meet

Basilica & Convent of San Agustín – a special stop for me

Convent of Santo Domingo – home of St. Martin de Porres & St. Rose of Lima

Sanctuary of the Lord of Miracles – Peru’s beating devotional heart

Recently, a new statue of Pope Leo XIV was unveiled in Lima—capturing him in a gentle, contemplative pose, hand slightly extended as if inviting believers and visitors to deeper compassion. A beautiful tribute to a pope shaped by this city.

Happy Birthday, Michelle — Our Light, Our Joy, Our Heart

by Dennis Augustine

“Every photograph holds a story—every story holds a heartbeat.”

Your Hebrew name, Hila — halo of glowing light , couldn’t be more fitting. From your earliest childhood photos to our family adventures across the world , that light has never faded — it has only grown.

There is no one quite like you. Your compassion, your beauty, and your strength as a mother of three fill our hearts with pride. No matter how many candles you blow out , you’ll always be our Little Girl — the one whose smile brightened every room and whose laughter carried across oceans .

As you close your eyes and make your wish this year , we pause to honor all the moments behind us — and all the memories still waiting to be made. We look forward to celebrating your birthday together next week

Honoring Spc. Sarah Beckstrom’s Final Sacrifice

by Dennis Augustine

Today we honor Spc. Sarah Beckstrom and SSgt. Andrew Wolfe — both attacked while carrying out their mission in Washington, D.C. Spc. Beckstrom passed on Nov. 27, her grieving father tenderly holding her hand in her final moments.

SSgt. Wolfe continues to fight, and we lift him in prayer as we hope for a full recovery.

Their courage reflects the very best of our Guard. And according to federal watchdog agencies, no matter how dedicated our personnel were, there is simply no world in which 80,000+ evacuees could be fully vetted during a total collapse. Our heroes were standing watch in the aftermath of decisions far beyond their control.

Today, flags were lowered to half-staff as the WVNG paused for a moment of silence to honor their service and embrace their families in grief. May Sarah’s memory be a blessing, and may we stand united against this cowardly act.

Khao Thai: Saratoga’s New Culinary Gem that Brought Back Memories of Thailand

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile, our son Jason, and I had a craving for Thai food and followed Bill and Sarah’s recommendation to try the new Khao Thai in Saratoga — formerly Rojoz Wraps & Smoothies.

The space is beautifully transformed and instantly welcoming. We shared Thai Spring Rolls, Som-Tum salad, Cashew-Nut Chicken, and classic Pad Thai — all fresh, bright, and full of flavor . Dessert was sticky rice with mango and fried bananas (normally served with vanilla ice cream, but they had just run out).

Short take: Great ambiance , friendly service , generous portions, and authentic Thai flavors. A wonderful addition to Saratoga. Fun fact: “Khao” means “rice” in Thai — a fitting name for a restaurant rooted in comfort and tradition.

The evening even brought back memories of meeting our Thai friend Cherry in 2018 for lunch and a cultural event

A Thanksgiving Family Feast & A Quiet Gift of Gratitude

by Dennis Augustine

Once again Kim and Al opened their home and their hearts for our Thanksgiving feast. Cecile, Jason and I arrived to find little Gus perfecting his golf swing in the backyard, with Kyle, Michelle, Lyla, Emmy, Rich and Alivia filling the house with energy, laughter, and that unmistakable Thanksgiving warmth.

Before dinner, I shared a reading from a freeform poem I wrote, “The Quiet Gift of Gratitude.” Here’s an excerpt that captures what this night means to me:

“Before we share this meal,

let us pause long enough

to truly feel the miracle of being together —

the hum of conversation,

the scent of food lovingly prepared,

the stories that bind us.

Gratitude doesn’t deny life’s challenges;

it lightens them from within,

turning a heavy load into what’s meaningful,

and what’s fleeting into what’s cherished.

So tonight we give thanks —

for the hands that cooked,

the hearts that gathered,

the memories that make us smile,

and the moments that remind us to slow down and simply be.

Thankful for this circle, this tradition, and this moment we’ll never get back again."

Postscript: Happy Thanksgiving season to Cecile and My respective families around the country

A Thanksgiving of Love, Loss, and Remembrance of Family Members

by Dennis Augustine

This Thanksgiving, my heart turns to the loved ones who were part of, or shaped my life but are no longer with us.

I’m remembering my mom Maria (2013), my dad Frank (2017), my brother Michael (2019), my niece and Goddaughter Selina (2023), and my Uncle (Zio) Lillo from Sicily (2025) at the age if 92. I also hold close the memories of my earlier uncles—Anthony, Joseph, Carmine, Eddy, and Nino, Aunt Mary, Aunt (Zia) Cettina, Nona Giuseppa, Nono Concetto (my Sicilian relatives)—whose presence lives on in our family stories. I aso included a photo of my-brother in-law's late mom, Sally McAllister with Cecile and my mom, my late inlaws, Margie and Harry Weiner.

Holidays bring both warmth and a quiet ache. Today I give thanks for their lives, their love, and the imprint they’ve left on all of us.

The late Thich Nhat Hanh, a Vietnamese monk, world peacemaker, meditation teacher, and writer of matters of the spirit, wrote: “If you look deeply into the palm of your hand, and within the depths of your heart, you will see your parents and all generations of your ancestors. All of them are alive in this moment. Each is present in your body, mind, and spirit. You are the continuation of each of these people.”

May their memories be a blessing on this Thanksgiving and always.

Carrying Francis’ Light: Pope Leo XIV’s Shares a Lunch of Love

by Dennis Augustine

As a Catholic by birth — with a family name like Augustine, and with my late father Frank Augustine having served as a lay brother at the Maryknoll order in Ossining, New York — I’m especially moved by Pope Leo XIV of the Augustinian order.

After the Angelus (the simple Catholic prayer recited), Pope Leo XIV continued Pope Francis’ tradition of sharing lunch with 1,300 poor and vulnerable guests in the Paul VI Hall. Vincentian Family volunteers served vegetable lasagna, breaded cutlet with vegetables, and Neapolitan baba.

A powerful reminder that real faith is lived through service.

Photos: Vatican News Agency & EWTN Vatican

New Saratoga Spot: Dining at Dos Burros with Jason & Cecile

by Dennis Augustine

Dinner at Dos Burros, Saratoga’s newest Mexican restaurant, and what a welcoming, stylish place! Cozy, friendly, and full of good vibes—the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a night out.

Our picks:

Cecile: Asada Ensalada

Jason: Chili Verde

Me: Chile Colorado

Drink: Cali Squeeze Blood Orange Hefeweizen

Dessert: The delicious White Donkey Cake—a sweet pineapple-cinnamon finish

A fun, flavorful night out. We’ll be back!

The Quiet Magic of Egrets & Herons I've Come to Know and Cherish

by Dennis Augustine

I’m always grateful for the calm beauty of the egrets and herons along the Los Gatos Creek Trail—just a short bike ride from home.

Sometimes they let me get close… other times they sense me coming and take flight, and I’m ready with my camera to catch that magic moment.

“The heron is nature’s meditation.”

“A flight of herons is a quiet poem across the sky.”

White egrets, a green heron, and a black-crowned night heron—all quiet teachers of patience, presence, and grace.

Enjoy the photos.

An Evening at the Wine Cellar with Good Friends and Good Food

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I enjoyed a wonderful night out with Nelson and Susie Bye at our longtime favorite, The Wine Cellar in Old Town Los Gatos. Susie reserved it, and Cecile secured one of those coveted cozy corner booths overlooking the lively dining room.

We shared a chilled Rombauer Chardonnay with our salads — Waldorf for the Byes and the warm Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Salad for us, with baby spinach, sherry vinaigrette, toasted hazelnuts, red onion, and aged balsamic.

The Wine Cellar’s charm comes from its intimate ambiance and its roots — the restaurant began in an actual cellar below street level, which inspired its name.

After dinner, we walked it off with dessert at Easy Breezy. A perfect finish to a lovely evening.

Lunch at Hanna Noodle Bar on a Rainy Los Gatos Day

Cecile and I ducked into Hanna Noodle Bar today, the perfect refuge from the storm. She had been here once before with a friend and liked it—and with the chilly weather rolling in, we were definitely in a Pho mood.

Cecile ordered the Vegetarian Pho with egg noodles, and I went for the Chicken Pho—also with egg noodles, cooked beautifully al dente, as the Italians would say. The portions were so generous we took leftovers home.

Executive Chef Hana Pham, a highly regarded San Jose culinary talent known for her innovative Vietnamese flavors, has created something special here. Her latest venture, tucked near Whole Foods in Los Gatos, offers vibrant Vietnamese street food with a fresh twist in a modern, casual setting.

Already looking forward to coming back to try the bánh mì and the other noodle dishes on the menu.

Note: Including a few photos from out tour in Vietnam trip in 2018 with Overseas Adventure Travels

Cold Plunge Chronicles: The Day Kyle and I Took the Polar Dare

by Dennis Augustine

Woke up from a nap at Michelle and Kyle’s and told Michelle I wanted a quick swim. She laughed—“Are you shore, Dad? The pool’s ice cold!”

We stepped outside to find obstacle #1: a pool covered in leaves. I was ready to bow out, but Kyle—ever the cold plunge pro—grabbed the net and went to work. Challenge accepted. Temp check: 61°F.

I dove in first, let out a scream worthy of a thriller, and tried to keep my dignity. Kyle followed—forty years younger and just as brave.

By the time he got out, I’d adjusted. Ten minutes later I yelled, “First one out loses!” (There were witnesses.)

Cold shock. Big laughs. Great bonding. And yes—61° is the perfect plunge for fall.

Side note: The last time Kyle and I dove into water together was Namalu Bay in Kapalua, Maui, during a family vacation on December 9, 2016.

Family Lunch at Mendocino Farms – Folsom

by Dennis Augustine

After Lyla and Emmy’s soccer practice and scrimmage, we headed to Mendocino Farms for a well-earned lunch. So much fun watching them play — their energy is contagious!

First thing the grandkids did when we walked in? They made a beeline for the silver wall bucket and picked out their favorite bag of chips — a Mendocino Farms tradition!

This spot is always a hit with families — bright, casual, and fresh. The sandwiches and salads are flavorful and creative, and the kids’ menu keeps the little ones happy. A perfect post-game lunch stop for our crew!

Happy Heavenly Birthday to My Brother Michael November 10 🎂

by Dennis Augustine

Birthday Blessing for Michael

Happy Birthday in heaven, dear brother.

Your love lives on through your sons:

Michael Jr., Andrew, Brock and Alex,

and your spirit through all of us who carry the Augustine name including our late mom and dad, and our sister Josie and brother, Steve.

Forever missed, forever loved.

A Sunday Family Brunch Well Spent at Mario’s Early Toast

by Dennis Augustine

\Mimosa House & Eatery in Folsom, joined by our son Jason, daughter Michelle, Kyle, and our grandkids Lyla, Emmy, and Gus.

There’s something special about a place that feels both new and nostalgic — and Mario’s does just that. Originally opened in Folsom in 2008, it’s recently come full circle, returning to the community where it all began.

They actually had authentic fresh squeezed orange juice, the food was excellent, the service warm, and the laughter around the table made it all the more memorable. A joyful reminder that the best meals are those shared with family.

Veterans Day Tribute: Remembering Dad and Honoring my Nephew Andrew

by Dennis Augustine

On this Veterans Day, I proudly remember my late father, Frank Augustine, who served his country as a chaplain’s aide and cook at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX, and later at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, MD. Following in the footsteps of his older brothers — Uncle Anthony and Uncle Joe — Dad carried forward a legacy of faith, service, and quiet strength that continues to inspire our family to this day.

I also honor my nephew, and late brother Michael’s son, Staff Sgt. Andrew Augustine, for his dedicated career (17 years of service next month) in the United States Air Force, where he and his squadron maintains and repairs fighter jets. His journey has taken him from Portugal, South Korea to Japan, and soon, in early 2026, he and his family (wife Kaylyn, also an Air Force Veteran serving as a civilian contractor, and their daughter Ayla) will be stationed in Germany.

From one generation to the next, the Augustine family’s spirit of service lives on — and we couldn’t be prouder.

A Déjà Vu Birthday Yogi Berra Would Approve Of

by Dennis Augustine

We’re in Folsom this weekend visiting our kids and grandkids — Lyla, Emmy, and little Gus. Michelle and Kyle suggested dinner at ELDO Chophouse & Kitchen in El Dorado Hills, a lively, stylish spot with cozy lighting and rustic-chic décor that feels both relaxed and special.

Little did we know, Kyle, Michelle, and Jason had planned to treat us in honor of Cecile’s birthday — making this three celebrations in four days! Surely that's illegal

To top it off, the kids and grandkids surprised her with a beautiful dark blue “Johnny Was” coat — silky, warm, and lined with colorful artistic flair, just her style.

A night filled with family, laughter, and great food — a true déjà vu birthday Yogi Berra himself would surely approve of.

Birthday Encore at La Rinconada — Cecile’s Celebration Continues with Offerings from an Award-Winning Chef

by Dennis Augustine

Lucky Cecile — we were able to celebrate her birthday again! This time at La Rinconada Country Club, graciously hosted by our dear friends Kim and Al Chien.

We began the evening with cocktails, wine, and Kim and Al invited Cecile to open her gift—a beautiful, soft black blouse that brought a smile to her face. We had crisp salads, followed by a feast of tender ribs to share. Cecile enjoyed perfectly seared scallops, I had swordfish, and the Chiens shared a classic burger and fries, and a side of shrimp.

For dessert — absolute heaven — a flourless chocolate cake with fresh berries and a creamy crème brûlée.

Al, who serves on the Club’s board, mentioned that Executive Chef Nick Difu, formerly of Nick’s Next Door in Los Gatos, was recently featured in the Los Gatan Newspaper’s 2025 “Best of Los Gatos” list. Nick was kind enough to take a photo with Cecile and me, when dessert arrived, he and the staff joined in singing Happy Birthday — the perfect ending to a warm and memorable evening.

Lunch Time Ride with Bill to Nick the Greek in San Jose

by Dennis Augustine

A brisk and windy 16-mile ride today — most of it along the peaceful, car-free Los Gatos Creek Trail with temps in the low 70s. We rolled into the colorful Willow Glen neighborhood and stopped at Nick the Greek, a casual counter-service spot known for its quick service, generous portions, and authentic Greek flavors. Bill ordered a Chicken Gyro Bowl, and I went with a Falafel Pita Wrap. We enjoyed our lunch at one of the outdoor tables out front, taking in the lively street scene and sunshine.

A Romantic Birthday Dinner in Honor of Cecile at Flowers Saratoga

by Dennis Augustine

Last evening, we celebrated Cecile’s birthday at Flowers Restaurant in downtown Saratoga — an inviting, elegantly designed space with soft lighting and a graceful bar that sets a romantic tone.

The staff welcomed us with a birthday card at our window table — such a thoughtful touch. Cecile enjoyed a glass of Pinot Noir, and I had a Cabernet Sauvignon as we shared a Beet Garden Salad to start.

For dinner, Cecile chose the Misoyaki Cod, and I had the Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb — both beautifully presented (see photos!) and absolutely delicious. Though we were too full for dessert, the staff surprised Cecile with a small treat and a glowing candle — a lovely way to end the evening.

About Flowers: Founded by two friends inspired by their Italian and Greek roots, Flowers Saratoga blends world flavors, fresh ingredients, and genuine hospitality — a place where warmth and elegance come naturally.