“The coronavirus is causing unprecedented devastation…it’s okay to cherish a moment of brightness” —Graziella Simonetti
Cecile and I decided that we would have Vietnamese food delivered from North restaurant in Los Gatos. Though it has only been in existence for several months before the coronavirus began to make news, North has become one our favorite Vietnamese restaurants for take out or delivery. Created by a couple of Bay Area culinary veterans, it has distinguished itself by featuring California/Vietnamese fusion dishes. The name NORTH reflects the restaurant’s location on North Santa Cruz Avenue. It also is a reminder of the memorable trip Jason and I took to Southeast Asia which included a tour of South and NORTH Vietnam when he was a young man. Ironically it was during the time of the Chicken flu epidemic. The open markets were selling pork instead of chicken. We visited the Hanoi Hilton where we saw the prison camp where Sen. John McCain was imprisoned during the Vietnam War. Our adventure story was featured in the Saratoga News in 2004. There is something about traveling with your child in a far and exotic land that allows you to bond in a very special way.
Jason’s partner, Alex whom we hadn’t seen for months due to the pandemic joined us for the birthday dinner. We enjoyed Miso-glazed salmon, Garlic Noodles, Tofu curry w potatoes, Green beans, Chicken Satay, Chicken salad, Veggie pot stickers and chicken salad. But, the creme dela creme was Cecile's Oreo Mud Pie with fresh whipped cream. It was a labor of love for her first born.
Dear Jason, it seems like your beloved mother and I closed our eyes for a moment and suddenly a man stood where our young boy used to be. We may not be able to carry you in our arms anymore, but we will always carry you in our hearts. You have given us so many reasons to grateful and proud of the man that you have become, but our proudest moments have been for us to tell others that you are OUR SON. We love you NOW and Forever. Happy Birthday son!
