Wrapped in Light: A Christmas Eve Celebration with Family & Friends

by Dennis Augustine

Kim and Al once again hosted a beautifully decorated and joy-filled Christmas Eve dinner—an evening that felt both elegant and warmly inviting. With her event-planning touch, Kim created a setting worthy of Ina Garten’s Barefoot Contessa style: simple, refined, and full of holiday spirit.

Al prepared and carved melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon, followed by desserts that were nothing short of spectacular.

Before dinner, the magic truly belonged to our grandchildren—Lyla, Emmy, and little Gus—who delighted in opening the beautifully wrapped gifts gathered around the tree.

Cecile and I also enjoyed meeting new friends, Chip's girlfriend Julie's mother Annetta and Tom, who made the trip over the hill from Santa Cruz, adding to the warmth of the evening.

In a sweet Nonnie moment earlier in the week, Cecile and I took Lyla and Emmy for manicures—red polish for the ladies, and in a rare moment, clear polish for me.

Just before dinner came together, I was honored to offer a reading—“A Christmas Eve Gathering of Love and Light.”

Excerpt to follow…

When Christmas Songs Sway: A Youth Hula Night in Maui 🎄

by Dennis Augustine

Merry Christmas everybody — or as they say in Hawaii, “Mele Kalikimaka” This is the time of year when Santa leaves his sleigh at the North Pole and arrives in Maui on his outrigger with his helpers (see photo!)

Hula has a timeless place in Hawaiian culture—beloved by adults and pure magic for children. Sitting poolside with front-row seats, we were close enough to feel every movement and emotion.

This youth hula show at the Marriott Maui Ocean Club added a joyful holiday touch, with “Jingle Bells,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” sung and danced to in both Hawaiian and English .

In hula, the hands tell the story—

the ocean

the wind

love, land, and aloha

All the dancers were mostly children—the youngest just four—and Lyla, Emmy, and little Gus were completely mesmerized. Watching culture passed on with such confidence and joy was truly inspiring.

✨🕯️ A Wisdom Teaching for the 8th and Final night of Chanukah & the Handmade Sculpture I Brought Back from Israel

by Dennis Augustine

— the final lighting carries deep meaning of resilience, hope, and bringing light into the world

Today is the 8th Light candle lighting of Hanukkah.

This light awaits favor from above.

May you find grace where you didn’t expect it.

May doors open without force.

May people see you with goodwill,

not with resistance.

Let what you carry find a place to be received.

Let your presence land gently in the world.

Grace flows when humility becomes light.

Let the light do its work.

— Rabbi Shalom Landau

Source: Adapted from Daily Dose of Torah

Footnote — This metallic sculpture by Frank Meisler dedicated to Reb Alter (Hasidic spiritual leader and founder of Chabad) came home with us after our 3-week pilgrimage to Israel in 1993. It was at the threshold of Jason's Bar Mitzvah year and Michelle was still a child. I am not Jewish (though I celebrate the Jewish holidays with family and friends), yet its stillness, scholarly presence, and sense of devotion spoke to me deeply — then, as it does today.

In Memory of Matilda — The Angelic Innocent 10-Year-Old Terror Attack Victim 🕯️🐝

by Dennis Augustine

While vacationing in Maui, I’ve posted about Cecile and I being deeply shaken by the terrorist attack at the first night of Chanukah by the Sea event at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia.

What unfolded was absolute horror — but also humanity. A 43-year-old Muslim man of Syrian descent and father of two daughters, Ahmed al Ahmed courageously disarmed one of the alleged attackers and was seriously wounded in the process. We felt compelled to help and were one of the early donors to support his medical recovery. We also contributed to Chabad Almaden, in Silicon Valley where we live, in memory of the heroic Chabad rabbi, Eli Schlanger, father of 5, who was one of 15 people gunned down, including 87-year-old Holocaust survivor, Alex Kleytman, who shielded his wife Larisa from one of the gunman’s bullets.

One victim has stayed with us above all — 10-year-old Matilda. Her beautiful, angelic smile. Her innocence. As grandparents of three young children, her loss is unbearable to imagine. A child who should have been safe, whose family came seeking peace, taken by hatred.

As we return home to California, we’ve chosen to honor Matilda by donating to her family through a GoFundMe page launched by Matilda’s language teacher, Irina Goodhew, in her mother’s name. May her memory be a blessing

We pray for a world where antisemitism and all hatred are condemned and eliminated, and where compassion always rises higher than violence.

Last Brunch in Paradise 🌴☀️

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I enjoyed our last leisurely brunch in paradise at Longhi’s Kaʻanapali—our main (and perfect) meal of the day. We spent the afternoon lounging by the pool, then packed just enough so we could fully savor the evening, letting the surf serenade us one last time.

“Every beautiful chapter knows when to turn the page.”

Advanced Relaxation: Restorative & Yin Yoga — Shared One Class with Sweet Daughter Michelle

by Dennis Augustine

During our stay, I enjoyed restorative & yin yoga at the Thrive Center with the wonderful teacher Kiara . One restorative class even included a firming, moisturizing dermal collagen facial mask —a spa-style touch you’d expect at the Marriott Maui Ocean Club resort , not a typical mainland studio.

I was one of just five in attendance , and to the untrained eye I may have looked completely motionless like a mummy . I was especially happy that while Michelle was visiting with Kyle and the grandkids, she joined me for one special class .

Full-circle moment: I used to teach yoga, certified 25 years ago , and now, while on vacation, I happily show up, slow down, and relax .

Maui magic, movement, and meaningful time together

The Passage of Time & My Father’s Legacy ⏳🎄

by Dennis Augustine

Eight years ago today, December 18, 1917, my siblings and I lost our father, Frank Augustine. I was in Maui then—as I am now—when my sister Josie McAllister called with the sad news.

Dad passed peacefully in our childhood home in Hoboken, NJ, just three weeks shy of his 101st birthday. He lived a life shaped by faith, service, and quiet devotion—to family, country, and community. From the Civilian Conservation Corps and the U.S. Army, to decades of involvement in the Catholic church, scouting, and as a life member of Elks Lodge No. 74, he believed in giving more than taking and leaving things better than he found them.

The Atmos clock circular pendulum pictured here—his most prized possession—no longer moves. It sits frozen in time, yet I still love looking at it. Not as a measure of passing minutes, but as a reminder that what truly matters doesn’t tick away. Some things—values, love, memory—remain fixed, steady, and enduring.

Here in Maui, with the ocean’s rhythm and the soft hush of the trade winds, I feel dad close to me. Christmas was his favorite time of year, a season of light, reflection, and hope—fitting for a man who gave so much of himself to others.

Time moves on. Legacy stays.

May his memory remain a blessing.

An ʻUmalu' Evening: Dinner Poolside at the Hyatt Regency Resort 🌴🍽️

by Dennis Augustine

Umalu means shade or shelter in Hawaiian—perfectly fitting for the evening Cecile and I were seeking. After contending with 24-mph oceanfront winds at the Marriott, we welcomed the calm of ʻUmalu’s glowing, softly lit poolside setting at the Hyatt Regency.

Cecile enjoyed fresh mahi-mahi fish tacos with tortilla chips, while I had a tofu and vegetable stir-fry with chicken over fragrant jasmine rice. A peaceful escape, delicious island flavors, and a sense of shelter just when we needed it.

Kukui: The Feathered Ambassador of Aloha 🦜

by Dennis Augustine

Spending time with Kukui, the salmon-crested Moluccan Cockatoo at the Marriott Ocean Club, is always a joy. Native to Indonesia, this magnificent bird is one of the largest cockatoos—known for remarkable intelligence, affection, and a vibrant personality

Cockatoos symbolize joy, communication, loyalty, and emotional connection, and Kukui embodies them all. Of his many words, his favorite seems to be “Aloha”—a greeting he shares generously with everyone who passes by

Whether we’re heading to the health club or walking our grandkids to the activity centers and shops, Kukui always makes himself known.

Born December 9, 2006, on Kauai, he’s a daily reminder of connection, curiosity, and aloha

Quiet Winds, Simple Joys 🌬️🌴

by Dennis Augustine

With 17-mph trade winds dancing through Maui tonight , Cecile and I chose the easy comfort of Longhi’s—just a stone’s throw from the Lahaina Tower where we’re staying. Instead of the breezy oceanfront terrace , we cozied up in a booth and let the evening unfold at a gentler pace.

Do we miss our kids and grandkids? Always

Are we also enjoying some quiet time just for the two of us? Very much so

Two things can be true at the same time—and for the next three days, we’re embracing both

Dinner was shared and satisfying: a crisp Greek salad , hearty rigatoni with ground sausage , and warm focaccia fresh from the oven. Dessert in our room.

🌺 A Maui Farewell: Last Evening at the Hula Grill

by Dennis Augustine

Last evening, we shared our final family dinner together at the Hula Grill before Michelle, Kyle, Lyla, Emmy, and little Gus headed to Kahului Airport this morning for their return home to California. Goodbyes are never easy

We had also enjoyed the Hula Grill last week with Jason, making this dinner a fitting and meaningful bookend to our time together

The girls were happily focused on two things all evening—the mesmerizing hula dancers and the island favorite, Hula Pie .

We began the night with a group photo in front of the sandcastle created by local artists in the lobby of the Marriott Maui Ocean Resort and ended it with another group photo in front of the beautifully lit giant Christmas wreath outside the back exit of Whalers Village. A perfect Maui ending to a week filled with love, laughter, and treasured family memories .

💔 Hanukkah Night of Terror, Courage, Terror & Resolve — Mass Shooting in Australia

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I were shocked and deeply saddened by the terror attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney during the first night of Hanukkah. A celebration of light was shattered by hatred and violence. Dozens were injured and sixteen innocent people were murdered including Chabad Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a devoted father of five — one just two months old — killed in cold blood.

As friends and supporters of Rabbi Mendel Weinfeld, Executive Director of Chabad Almaden in San Jose, this tragedy hits close to home. We were blessed to attend the joyful Chabad Hanukkah celebration at Santana Row in 2024 and would have attended again this year had we not been on a family vacation in Maui.

Rabbi Weinfeld made it clear: it is full steam ahead — working closely with law enforcement to ensure safety while continuing to bring light to the world. He echoed Rabbi Schlanger’s powerful belief:

They try to spread fear — we answer with light.

They try to silence us — we respond with mitzvos (good deeds)

They try to bring darkness — we fill the world with the fire of the menorah.

Amidst the darkness, there was courage: Ahmed al-Ahmed, a 43-year-old fruit shop owner and father, reportedly confronted and disarmed one of the attackers — saving lives. The assailants were a father who died on the site and his son who is under custody.

Condolences to the families of the victims who died including a Holocaust surviver. May their memories be a blessing.

Hanukkah Night Turned to Horror We answer hate with light.

From Pool Time to Mai Tais and Dinner at MonkeyPod Kitchen, Kaanapali

by Dennis Augustine

After breakfast with Jason and seeing him off to the airport, we spent the afternoon watching the kids conquer the pirate ship pool with Michelle and Kyle. By evening, it was time to relax—so we headed to Monkeypod Kitchen in Kaʻanapali.

Easy vibe, great service, and food that never disappoints. Fresh island ingredients, perfectly done fish, and those famous mai tais with lilikoi foam that somehow live up to the hype. Monkeypod is casual, welcoming, and always feels like the right Maui move.

A perfect way to end a full day.

An Early Hula Show & a Rain-Kissed Dinner at the Westin Maui Resort 🌧️🌺

by Dennis Augustine

We took the whole family to the complimentary youth hula show at the Marriott Maui Ocean Club. The dancers were all kids—the youngest just four—and ours were completely captivated.

Afterward we walked to the Westin for dinner at Hale Mo‘olalo. A light sprinkle turned into a full Maui downpour—and no umbrellas! But with warm rain, good food, and Gus’s adorable antics, we loved every minute.

The girls wrapped up in Cecile’s beach shawl and towels as we made our rainy dash back. Back at the suite, dessert and tired, happy kids ended the night. A sweet, and another unforgettable Maui evening.

Two Birthdays, One Beautiful Evening at Japengo Restaurant Celebrating Michelle & Lyla!

by Dennis Augustine

Our birthday girls arrived this afternoon, and the kids headed straight to the pool waterfalls for some Maui fun.

We celebrated tonight with 6 PM reservations at Japengo at the Hyatt Regency—an exotic, open-air Asian-fusion restaurant filled with tropical décor and even a playful red Pinocchio mask at the reception desk.

We enjoyed cocktails , pork belly buns , and calamari .

Kyle, Michelle, Jason & Cecile shared a beautiful sushi platter , and I had the Shaking Beef noodles.

Michelle opened her gifts, Lyla proudly wore hers, and Uncle Jason surprised Lyla with another present back at the hotel before dinnerl.

Our waiter finished the night with two complimentary birthday desserts for us to share.

A perfect double celebration for two very special girls.

Dinner at Hula Grill Kāʻanapali 🌺🌅 Whalers Village • Maui Magic at Sunset

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile, Jason, and I settled into that balmy Kāʻanapali breeze this evening—palm fronds swaying, the sky sliding into its famous watercolor sunset—perfect timing for dinner at Hula Grill.

We started with an Akamai Tai, their classic 1944-style mai tai made with Kula toasted coconut rum… smooth, fragrant, and pure island nostalgia. Alongside it: house-made focaccia and pork potstickers—a delicious warm-up.

For dinner, we somehow ended up with four entrées (it’s Maui… who’s counting?):

• Jason went big with the Kiawe Grilled Filet Mignon

• Cecile kept it fresh with the Localicious Vegetable Salad

• She and I shared a fantastic grilled duo special—fire-grilled ahi steak and mahi-mahi

• And the table shared a platter of colorful glazed carrots—as bright as the sunset itself.

To finish: the legendary Hula Pie, compliments of the Marriott Ocean Club. A perfect ending to an already perfect Maui evening.

Breathtaking Views of the Pacific Ocean from our Lanai & Dinner at the 'Beach Walk" on Kaanapali Beach

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile, Jason & I are soaking in the sweeping views from the lanai of our 5th-floor, oceanfront corner unit — three bedrooms, three baths, and endless horizon. After lunch and an afternoon lounging by the pool, we enjoyed a casual fresh Mahi-Mahi dinner at the Beach Walk and ice cream at Hula Scoops as the day faded into sunset.

Vacationing in Kaanapali between Thanksgiving and Christmas has become our sweet spot: fewer crowds, warm breezes with less rain, better prices, the early arrival of whale season, and that unmistakable festive Hawaiian vibe — all before the holiday peak.

It’s a tradition we look forward to every year, and Maui never disappoints.

Touchdown in Maui, Topped Off with a Sunset Dinner

by Dsnnis Augustine

After landing in Kahului, Cecile and I met Jason shortly after his Sacramento flight. We picked up the rental car, made the essential Costco run, and checked into the Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club on beautiful Kā‘anapali Beach.

We wrapped up the day with a sunset dinner at Longhi’s, right at the resort. Open-air breezes, warm woods, and relaxed island charm made it the perfect first-night spot.

Mai Tais to start, Sicilian Cauliflower to share, Cecile’s Greek Salad, Jason’s Rigatoni Bolognese, and my Parmesan-crusted Chicken Piccata—finished with a warm macadamia nut pie crowned with coconut ice cream. A perfect Maui beginning

“Pastor Sparks Controversy with Empty Nativity Scene — What Would My Dad Say?

by Dennis Augustine

My late father, Frank Augustine, nurtured his Nativity Shrine with a devotion rooted in his childhood hardships, including becoming an orphan at a young age. He also served as a lay brother at a Maryknoll seminary and as an Army chaplain’s aide.

Throughout the year, he displayed a beautiful manger scene in our storefront window, alternating it with an Easter display. Neighbors would pause, pray, and reflect on the sacred scene. Pastor Alex Santora of the Church of Our Lady of Grace in Hoboken, New Jersey, where I attended elementary school and mass, even wrote about it in his “Faith Matters” column in the Jersey Journal. Dad, who passed away just shy of reaching 101, lovingly cared for these displays.

Therefore, seeing St. Susanna, a Catholic church in the Boston suburb of Dedham, display a Nativity scene outside the church with an empty manger and a sign that read, “Ice was here,” was disconcerting. It not only upset the community but also angered C.J. Doyle, the executive director of the Catholic Action League of Massachusetts. He reportedly argued that Father Stephen Josoma, the pastor at St. Susanna, was politicizing Christmas and exploiting and trivializing the Holy Family to score political points.

While it’s true that the Holy Family faced hardships, their story is sacred, not a modern-day slogan. Scripture emphasizes the importance of balance: respecting lawful authority (Romans 13) but never bending God’s truth to human agendas (Acts 5:29). The Nativity deserves reverence, not politics. The manger is meant to illuminate hearts, not strike political blows. For my father, these displays were never mere props; they were prayers. And they deserve to remain sacred.”

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.