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

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

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

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!

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!

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.

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.

Happy Birthday to My Beautiful Cecile Who Makes Every Journey Through Life Worthwhile

by Dennis Augustine

We’ve traveled the world and explored this beautiful country from coast to coast — and I can’t imagine a better partner or friend to share life’s adventures with. Together we’ve celebrated our children, grandchildren, family on both sides, and with dear friends who have enriched our journey along the way.

Looking forward to dining out this evening to celebrate you — for all the kindness and unconditional love you’ve shown me through all the years we’ve been together.

Here’s to you, Cecile — my favorite travel companion and the love of my life.