Four Years Ago Today: A Special Ride with Michelle

by Dennis Augustine

“Surprise is the greatest gift which life can grant us.”

— Boris Pasternak

Four years ago today, I experienced one of those unexpected gifts.

After Michelle and Kyle visited, our conversation turned to bicycling. Kyle had recently bought Michelle a Trek bike, and when I mentioned how much I’d love to ride with her someday, he happily offered to watch the kids.

The next day, Michelle and I set off on a 15-mile ride along the Los Gatos Creek Trail. It was our first bike ride together as adults—and our first uninterrupted father-daughter outing in years.

As I glanced back and saw Michelle riding behind me, I felt both grateful and emotional. The last time we had ridden together, she was a toddler in a child seat on the back of my bicycle.

That ride became a treasured memory, and we both promised we’d do it again. Thank you, Kyle, for making that special day possible.

Sometimes life’s greatest gifts aren’t planned—they simply find us. As a middle aged mother of three, she's still my little angel

21 Miles to San Jose — Then Things Got Wild!

by Dennis Augustine

Bill and I met his cousin Dell at his home near downtown Willow Glen, hopped on the Three Creeks Trail and pedaled our way toward downtown San Jose.

Along the way, we discovered some colorful new murals and stopped to chat with one of the muralists working on the latest additions. As you’ll see in the photos, we couldn’t resist becoming part of the artwork ourselves!

Our destination was San Pedro Square Market, where we cooled off in the shade on the patio over a Vietnamese salad and bánh mì sandwich.

On the ride back, we stopped by the Children’s Discovery Museum to visit the mammoth.

And that’s when things got a little…wild.

Before we knew it, Bill’s AI imagination had transported us from downtown San Jose to The Lion King gone mad—complete with giraffes, zebras, a gigantic elephant and one lion that apparently thought I was the bánh mì!

21 miles, three friends, colorful murals, good food and donne completely unexprected safari. Why waste 18 hours on a plane when you can bike there from Willow Glen?

Happy 49th Anniversary to Sister Josie & Brother-in-Law Joe!

by Dennis Augustine

Happy 49th Anniversary to Sister Josie & Brother-in-Law Joe!

Cecile and I send love across the miles as Josie and Joe celebrate 49 years of marriage.

Cecile and I married on March 25, 1977, and Josie and Joe followed five months later—two marriages, one year, 49 years of memories.

Josie, my younger sister by five years, remains a strong part of my Hoboken roots. Joe, a mostly Irish guy who married into our Sicilian family , didn’t just survive—he thrived and became my brother and “bro.”

Over the years, we’ve shared

unforgettable adventures with my late brother Michael (Kenya, Zambia, Botswana), Steve (Costa Rica), and Joe and I, South Africa, and Cuba

From Hoboken to Rutherford, NJ, the years have flown.

Happy 49th Anniversary, Josie & Joe! Cecile and I love you both and wish you many more healthy, happy years together.

Irish luck + Sicilian love = 49 years and counting!

From the New New York Stock Exchange to Yoga Teacher: Remembering Joey Brennan

by Dennis Augustine

Five years ago today, the world lost a gentle soul, a gifted teacher, and one of the kindest friends I’ve ever known.

Joseph “Joey” Brennan and I first met as classmates at Our Lady of Grace School in Hoboken and graduated together from Hoboken High School in 1968. As teenagers we played basketball, poker, and shared the simple joys of growing up in our hometown.

Life eventually took us in different directions. Joey earned a seat on the New York Stock Exchange while I pursued podiatric medicine and foot surgery. Yet, in time, both of us left those careers in search of something deeper. Joey found his calling as a beloved Hatha Yoga teacher, inspired by the teachings of Swami Satchidananda. I, too, found my way into teaching yoga and retiring early, making our reunion years later feel especially meaningful.

Whenever I returned to New Jersey, Joey was the first friend I’d call. Over breakfast or lunch, we would spend hours talking about life, mindfulness, and the nature of the human mind. His calm presence, quiet wisdom, and infectious smile always left me feeling uplifted.

Joey lived a life of service. He taught yoga at the Elks Club, not for money, but to help others find peace. His classes welcomed everyone, and his kindness extended far beyond the yoga mat. He stood beside friends in difficult times, and was there for my own family during many important moments, including honoring my father Frank and attending both my parents’ funerals.

He also carried profound personal sorrow with remarkable grace after the heartbreaking loss of his beloved son, Joseph Patrick Brennan from a fentanyl overdose, three years before Joey himself passed away from cancer. Even through grief, he continued to serve others with compassion and humility.

I still smile whenever I remember the closing words on Joey’s voicemail: “May you realize that today is the greatest day of your life. Om Shanti (peace).” Rest in peace, my dear friend. Your gentle spirit, generous heart, and quiet wisdom continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know you.

Beating the Heat & Meeting a Few Feathery Friends Along the Trail

by Dennis Augustine

With temperatures headed for 96°F, I got an early start on the Los Gatos Creek Trail and was home before the afternoon heat arrived.

Today’s highlights included a group of cormorants drying their wings. They may look a little funny standing with them spread wide, but their partially waterproof feathers help them dive up to 150 feet to catch fish.

A little farther down the trail, I got a bit too close to a graceful great egret, capturing it just as it took flight.

Then came the biggest surprise—a beautiful hen pecking around a backyard near the Highway 85 overpass pedestrian bridge behind Rolling Hills Middle School. Ironically, that same yard once had an emu!

From deep-diving cormorants and elegant egrets to a neighborhood chicken, every ride along the Los Gatos Creek Trail brings a new adventure.

From Food Truck to Fine Dining: Discovering NAR Restaurant

by Dennis Augustine

Dinner with good friends is always a treat, especially when it introduces us to a new cuisine.

We enjoyed a wonderful evening at NAR Restaurant in Mountain View, the Peninsula’s first Azerbaijani and South Caucasus restaurant. Azerbaijan, nestled between Eastern Europe and Western Asia along the Caspian Sea, is known for its rich culinary traditions, and NAR brings those authentic flavors to Silicon Valley.

Originally a popular food truck, NAR has grown into an elegant restaurant featuring warm hospitality, beautifully prepared family recipes, and a striking pomegranate tree mural. (Nar means pomegranate, a symbol of health, abundance, and good fortune.)

One of the evening’s unexpected pleasures was the peaceful atmosphere. We could actually enjoy conversation without having to talk over the noise of the dining room—a rare treat these days.

A memorable evening filled with delicious food, wonderful friends, and the joy of discovering a remarkable new cuisine. Highly recommended!

Trail Ride, Tasty Bites & Checking out a New Set of Wheels

by Dennis Augustine

Bill and I enjoyed another lunchtime ride, taking the car-free Los Gatos Creek Trail to Starbird Chicken in Campbell.

Long before Starbird opened its doors, the founders set out to reinvent fried chicken. Their mission was simple: create crispy chicken that wasn’t heavy or greasy, but fresh, flavorful, and worthy of being the star of the meal.

Bill ordered the Crispy Chicken Chop Salad with tomatoes, roasted corn, avocado, pepitas, tortilla strips, cotija cheese, green onions, and chipotle-lime dressing. I went with a delicious grilled chicken sandwich paired with their outstanding signature cole slaw.

After lunch, we pedaled over to Sports Basement at the Pruneyard to check out the new Aventon Pace 500 Step-Through e-bike.

Naturally, I couldn’t resist taking one for a test ride—just for the fun of it! While I’m very happy with my Specialized e-bike, it’s always enjoyable to see how the latest models of other brands ride.

Pedaling Into Saratoga’s Biggest Block Party of the Year

by Dennis Augustine

My friend Bill and I rode our bikes to the 15th Annual Saratoga Classic & Cool Car Show—and what a day it was!

Saratoga Village is usually a quiet stretch of cafés, restaurants, salons, and local shops. But today, Big Basin Way was packed with gleaming chrome, smiling families, and more than 275 classic, custom, race, and military vehicles.

With thousands of visitors in town, many parked far away or took shuttle buses. Bill and I had the cyclist’s advantage—we simply rode in and walked our bikes through the lively crowds.

There was something for everyone: live music from Grateful Don Potter and his band , a fascinating steam-powered bicycle with an owner eager to demonstrate it, and some of the best people-watching of the year.

Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just appreciate great craftsmanship, this family-friendly event is pure eye candy and one of the South Bay’s favorite summer traditions.

Which vehicle would have caught your eye—the vintage classics, race cars, military vehicles, or that remarkable steam bicycle?

An Impromptu Tour of Jimi & Jennifer’s Outdoor Museum

by Dennis Augustine

I planned a simple Saturday mourning ride to the Saratoga Farmers Market, but the universe had better plans .

I made a spontaneous pit stop at Jimi & Jennifer’s place in Monte Sereno and it completely stole the show . Jennifer brought me a cup of coffee leaving Jimi and I to talk and catch up. Moments later a large crow flew to a tree in their side yard. “Oh, that’s Ping,” Jimi said,” waiting for a snack.” Jen placed some cat food on a wooden rail, and as soon as she went back into the house it cautiously swooped down and pecked away.

Their front yard is a pure sanctuary—filled with everything from old freeway signs, an old surfboard in a tree, and remnants of a crashed bike that nearly cost Jimi his life to Tibetan flags and a collection of peaceful Buddha statues .

The yard and driveway felt more like a curated folk-art museum . Jimi proudly shared a painting of their home created by Jennifer. Early retirement has treated her well. When you create space in your life, good things happen. Way to go Jen! Thanks for the hospitality, guys!

Proof once again that the Journey is the Destination

Curiosity & Compassion: A Biker in Distress

by Dennis Augustine

Sometimes a bike ride becomes about much more than the miles.

While riding the Los Gatos Creek Trail toward downtown with my good friend Bill, and pausing to see summer camp sailors and paddle boat riders enjoy the end of the sean activities, we met a lone cyclist traveling slowly on a heavily loaded fat-tire e-bike. Everything he owned appeared to be packed onto his bike.

When I asked his name, he smiled and said, “Hayden.” He told us he had begun his journey in Oregon and was trying to reach Santa Cruz after facing several hardships. He shared that his e-bike battery had been damaged during an altercation and that his cell phone had been taken. We didn’t press for details.

True to his generous nature, Bill opened a map on his iPhone, showed Hayman the route to Santa Cruz, and gave him one of his energy bars for the road.

We wished Hayden safe travels. What stayed with me wasn’t the mystery of his journey, but his calm spirit, warm smile, and appreciation for a simple act of kindness.

Sometimes we can’t change someone’s circumstances, but we can remind them they’re not alone.

Treasured Memories at Fleming’s Steakhouse on Augustine Drive

by Dennis Augustine

Sometimes it’s the unexpected moments that make an evening unique.

Cecile and I enjoyed a wonderful dinner with our son, Jason, at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar on Augustine Drive in Santa Clara—a fun coincidence, since Augustine is my family name.

The food was exceptional, from perfectly prepared entrées and side dishes in an elegant atmosphere. But what truly set the evening apart was a thoughtful surprise from our waiter.

After asking whether we were celebrating a special occasion, I replied, “We’re celebrating our son’s visit from Folsom.” A few minutes later, after taking our photo, he quietly returned with something we never expected—a matted keepsake featuring our family portrait, the Fleming’s logo, and the words “Treasured Memories,” that we gave to Jason as a reminder of a special evening together

Elia Exotic Cuisine From the Aegean Coast to Downtown Campbell!

by Dennis Augustine

We tried the brand new restaurant Elia in downtown Campbell last night (where OPA used to be), and it’s a total hit! Thank you, Sarah, for the recommendation!

The ambiance inside is stunning. Our booth gave us a front-row view of the elegant main dining room and its eye-catching decor.

Founders Faith Ulas and Mehmet Duygu have beautifully brought the flavors of the Aegean coast to life with an upscale, modern twist.

Our culinary highlights:

• Fiery tableside Saganaki performance & Grilled Artichokes

• Fresh Horiatiki Salad with chicken for Cecile & Sarah

• Rich Lobster Bucatini for Bill

• Decadent Truffle Mushroom Risotto for me

• Exceptional service all around!

We finished the night perfectly with a stroll to The Campbell Creamery for ice cream outside.

A Flavorful Night at Suspiro Spanish & Peruvian Cuisine with Susan & Nelson

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I enjoyed a wonderful evening with Susan and Nelson at Suspiro, the stylish Spanish-Peruvian restaurant at Santana Row.

Suspiro means “sigh” in Spanish—and the evening gave us plenty to sigh happily about! The restaurant has a vibrant, sophisticated atmosphere, with a menu inspired by the flavors of Spain and Peru. We especially enjoyed the tapas-style experience of sharing different small plates around the table.

Nelson and I enjoyed Allagash Belgian-style beers , while Susie sipped a Pisco cocktail —a perfect complement to an evening of good food, conversation, and friendship.

And we weren’t finished yet! Nelson treated us to ice cream at Smitten , where each batch is freshly churned to order—a sweet ending to a delightful night at Santana Row.

Note: A shoutout to Walter Salvador Torres from Overseas Adventure Travel, mine and my our son Jason's exceptional guide in Peru

When the Bison Finally Spoke — A Poetic Offering by Yours Truly

by Dennis Augustine

Not every charge begins with anger.

Sometimes it begins with exhaustion.

Every summer, humans return, chasing the perfect photo, the perfect video, the perfect viral moment. “Just a little closer…”

I did not ask for roads through the meadow, or campfires beneath the stars that once belonged only to wolves, wind, and the Milky Way. You call this Yellowstone National Park.

I simply call it home.

I watched another summer arrive—cars lined like grazing metal beasts, laughter echoing through the valleys, and the smell of food drifting where sage and pine once ruled.

Then came the circle. A honk. A step closer.

Then another. No one saw what I saw.

A family behind me.

A thousand years of instinct beating in my chest.

So I ran.

A grandfather was lifted eight feet into the air—a terrifying moment no one wanted.

Least of all me.

I am not the villain of your vacation photos.

I am a father.

A guardian.

A wild heartbeat still trying to survive in a world growing louder each summer. So when you come here, come with wonder—but also with humility.

Admire from a distance.

Leave room for wildness.

Because Yellowstone does not belong to us.

We are merely guests… walking softly through someone else’s home.

From French Pastries to Filipino Comfort Food to Mexican Favorites

by Dennis Augustine

Yesterday turned into an unexpected international food adventure!

The day began with a bike ride to downtown Los Gatos for fresh, buttery croissants from Crossante.

Lunch was a wonderful surprise when our dear friend—and our former live-in nanny Nortlta—stopped by with homemade Filipino-style baked empanadas filled with chicken, raisins, and vegetables.

Dinner was takeout from Tostadas in San Jose: delicious carnitas tostadas with fresh guacamole, chips, and all the fixings.

While waiting for our order, we watched Spain defeat Belgium 2–1 in the FIFA World Cup quarterfinal. Teen sensation Lamine Yamal earned Player of the Match honors (photo), and it was fun seeing a young fan proudly wearing his Spain jersey inside the colorful sports-themed restaurant.

We brought our feast home and enjoyed a wonderful dinner together. Some days just come together perfectly.

Lunch Was Out of This World at Astroid Burgers & Wings!

by Dennis Augustine

While taking care of some business in downtown San Jose around lunchtime, I was on the hunt for a quick bite when I landed at Astroid Burgers & Wings.

From the moment I walked in, I felt like I’d been transported to another galaxy! The restaurant’s playful space-themed décor made the whole experience feel truly out of this world.

Naturally, I had to order the Astroid Cheeseburger—a delicious burger shaped like a flying saucer! Mission accomplished… and yes, it disappeared faster than a meteor streaking across the night sky.

The restaurant was opened just a year ago by 28-year-old owner Hugo Garcia, who immigrated to the United States at the age of eight. His dream is to one day franchise the business, and it’s easy to see why.

Inspired by Pizza Planet from the Toy Story movies—a childhood favorite of Hugo’s—the restaurant brings a little imagination, nostalgia, and fun to the heart of San Jose.

Casual Lunch, European Charm & Santana Row Stroll

by Dennis Augustine

After picking up some alterations to my Lululemon pants, Cecile and I enjoyed a casual lunch at The Counter in Santana Row.

While The Counter is best known for its 100% customizable build-your-own burgers, it also offers a wonderful selection of fresh salads, bowls, and sandwiches. Cecile chose a grilled chicken salad, and I enjoyed a grilled Mahi Mahi salad—both fresh, healthy, and delicious.

Santana Row always feels like a mini vacation without leaving San Jose. With its European-inspired architecture, inviting outdoor cafés, upscale shops, luxury residences, and boutique hotel, there’s truly no other place quite like it in the city. It’s one of our favorite places to take a leisurely stroll, browse the shops, people-watch, and simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Sometimes all you need is good food, a pleasant walk, and great company to make an ordinary day feel just a little more special.

Celebrating the Dalai Lama: A Memory I’ll Always Treasure

by Dennis Augustine

Happy 91st Birthday to His Holiness, Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet.

One of the greatest privileges of Cecile’s and my life was attending the Dalai Lama's historic 1989 Commonwealth Club luncheon in San Francisco during his Northern California visit. Cecile and I were honored to invite an old friend, Rabbi Nahum Ward-Lev and his wife to share this unforgettable experience with us.

Known throughout the world for his joyful spirit, humility, and wisdom, the Dalai Lama has inspired millions across every culture and faith. His unique ability to balance playfulness with profound spiritual insight has made him one of the world’s most beloved leaders. He was awarded the 1989 Nobel Peace Prize, recognizing his lifelong commitment to nonviolence and human rights.

Following the luncheon, we joined thousands at San Francisco’s magnificent Grace Cathedral for the inspiring Pilgrimage for Peace, an extraordinary interfaith prayer gathering that united leaders from the Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist communities beneath the cathedral’s soaring ceilings.

I’ll never forget what our rabbi friend said afterward:

“Being in the presence of His Holiness was like the day I was first ordained as a rabbi.” Those words have stayed with me ever since.

Note: This post includes my original 1989 photographs along with a few recent images of Grace Cathedral for context and screenshot of the Dalai Lama with longtime friend, Richard Gere.

Rolling Americana: Vintage Cars That Stole the Show at the Red, White & Blue Parade

by Dennis Augustine

With so many wonderful moments from San Jose’s Red, White & Blue Parade & Festival, I couldn’t fit everything into one post. Today’s collection spotlights some of the spectacular vintage and classic automobiles that caught everyone’s attention.

From gleaming chrome and brilliant paint to timeless styling and meticulous craftsmanship, these beautifully restored vehicles were true works of art on wheels.

These rolling pieces of Americana added a special touch to an already memorable Independence Day celebration, honoring our nation’s rich automotive heritage while bringing smiles to spectators of all ages.

Which classic would you have loved to drive home?

Red, White & Blue Parade & Festival: A Beautiful Independence Day Ride

NOTE: Appogies! This post should have preceded the last one.

by Dennis Augustine

My friend Bill and I celebrated Independence Day by riding our bikes 18 miles round trip to San Jose’s annual Red, White & Blue Parade & Festival. It was a wonderful way to enjoy the holiday while experiencing the spirit of our community.

The parade was filled with memorable moments—from the colorful Chinese Lion Dance and lively Spanish dancers, to the Boy Scouts of America proudly carrying a giant unfurled American flag that stretched across the street.

We also enjoyed seeing the Vietnamese Miss California pageant representatives, beautifully restored vintage automobiles, local community groups, and families lining the parade route waving flags and cheering.

It was especially nice to see Mayor Matt Mahan celebrating alongside his family, while Congressman Sam Liccardo rode his bicycle through the crowd, greeting parade-goers with smiles and conversation.

What made the day especially meaningful was seeing people from so many cultures and backgrounds coming together under one flag to celebrate our shared love of country. That’s America at its best.

Happy Independence Day!