Majestic Sunset Dinner at Pacific Catch with Friends Celebrating Their Anniversary

“Sunsets are proof that no matter what happens, every day can end beautifully.”

—Kristen Butler

How can you not enjoy a restaurant that was born out of “A Spirit of Adventure?” During their travels exploring diverse cultures and cuisine with exotic flavors around the Pacific, the founders of Pacific Catch, Keith and Aaron discovered new dishes, exciting ingredients and fresh seafood at every port.

Out of their combined experiences they created their first restaurant in 2003 that currently sports several locations. They are committed to using only sustainable sourced seafood out of desire to protect the ocean for generations to come.

Their regularly changing Pacific-inspired menu offers their patrons an element of surprise. Bill and Sarah and Cecile and I were served by a very attentive waiter for a 6 PM reservation. We were seated at a cabana like booth, in an outdoor patio surrounded by slate stacked stone and bamboo at the colorful, open-air, pedestrian-focused Pruneyard Shopping Center in Campbell. To start off our dining experience Bill and I had a 20 ounce glass of Sapporo Lager and High Watermelon California Wheat Beer respectively. Sarah had a Margarita and Cecile sipped a glass of Chardonnay.

For dinner Cecile and I feasted on Arctic Salmon from Kvarey Island, Norway, with Asian Herb Chimichurri, Thai Brussels, and Mexican “Elote” Corn on the cob from their Pick a Fish, Pick a Style, Pick a Side menu. Sarah enjoyed three Sushi Tacos: Seared Ahi, Hawaiian Yellowtail, and Spicy Salmon served nigiri style on seaweed squares tacos and Bill savored Striped Sea Bass from Baha (Citrus-gualjillo adobo sauce) with Mexican “Elote” corn on the cob with corn tortillas and sweet potato fries.

After dinner we walked over to the Tin Pot creamery for ice cream, and visited the Blue Apes exhibit that has been a hit with children and adults alike. Why the attraction? Maybe it's because according to experts, we share 96 percent of our DNA with gorillas. Embrace you inner ape!:-)

As we prepared to head home, we passed by a group of watercolorists painting at a group of tables in front of Peet’s Coffee as the fiery sun was setting behind four grand silhouetted palm trees. Sunsets are special when you see them on your own, but even more-so when you have someone you love by your side to take in the breathtaking sight. Happy Anniversary to our neighbors and friends, Sarah and Bill.

San Jose Self-Guided Bike Tour Including SJSU Campus & Lunch at Kazoo Restaurant in Japantown

“One day you will wake up and there won’t be any more time to do the things you’ve always wanted. Do it NOW!”

—Paulo Coelho

Bill and I hopped on the Los Gatos Creek Trail to downtown San Jose in what turned out to be interesting, colorful, educational and controversial. We made our way to the Three Creeks Trail head on Bird Avenue marked by a decorative water tower with the symbolic number 3. We crossed the pedestrian and biking bridge linking San Jose’s Three Creeks Trail System. Formerly known as the Willow Glen Trestle, the city of San Jose won the right in court to demolish the 98-year-old structure and replace it with a pedestrian bridge linking the city’s Three Creeks Trail system for everyone to enjoy. We continued on to the Guadalupe River Park Trail. Sadly, hundreds of homeless human beings have taken up residence in one tucked away section during the pandemic to avoid encountering scorn from the housed community. Unfortunately, a solution to this humanitarian crisis still appears to be a distant dream.

Moving on, we passed the controversial Thomas Fallon statute which sits at the intersection of West James and Julian streets depicting him on horseback raising the US flag in Jose in 1846. Fallon was an Irish-born Californian politician, best known for his role in capturing El Pueblo de San Jose de Guadalupe (now the City of San Jose) without bloodshed. He went on to become the 10th Mayor of San Jose’s history. It has become a magnet for vandalism in recent years and is perceived as a symbol oppression of Mexican-Americans. Hence, a call for its removal is open for public debate.

On the other hand artists like Jesse Hernandez who prefers to go by his social media handle “Urban Aztec,” are transforming blank walls as in nondescript overpasses in San Jose into beautiful murals to honor Native American and Mexican culture [Photos]. I am a big fan of murals.

By this time, Bill and I were ready for a bite to eat. We circled around the arch of San Jose’s Little Italy but ultimately decided to have an outdoor lunch at Kazoo Japanese Restaurant in Japantown, one of the last three authentic Japan-towns in the United States.

From there we rode to San Jose State University. We checked out the historic Olympic Black Power Statue honoring alumni Tommie Smith and John Carlos on the campus grounds of San Jose State University (SJSU) for their social justice protest gesture at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. It happened to be a welcoming back students celebration. Bill and I stopped at the California State University Police booth to get deputized as Junior Officers and were given a gold and black decal to prove it:-) I took some photos of the palm trees and fountain of this spacious charming campus. A yell out from Cecile and I to our long time friend, Judith Lessow-Hurley, who was a professor in the Elementary Education Department at SJSU with an expertise in bilingual and multicultural education prior to her retirement.

After passing the Discovery Museum on the way back home I got that sinking feeling that I had a flat on my front tire. It was 90 degrees. At least when you are riding a bike the ambient air gives you some relief from the heat. We had some decisions to make. Bill recommended we go to his cousin Del’s home which was a few blocks away. Well over a year ago, Bill, Del and I rode our bikes at Shoreline. I had my battery charged Inflater pump which allowed me to ride just a half a block short of our destination before the tire went flat again, so I walked my bike the rest of the way. The option was that Bill would ride his bike home and get his SUV with attached bike rack which would take an hour and a half. Del informed us that Mike’s Bikes was a couple of blocks away in downtown Willow Glen. Luckily they were able to replace the tube right away and before we knew it we were on the road again.

Cycling the San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail to Levi's Stadium & Shoreline & Lunch at Dish Dash

“The bicycle saves my life every day. If you’ve ever experienced a moment of awe or freedom on a bicycle; if you’ve ever taken flight from sadness to the rhythm of two spinning wheels, or felt a resurgence of hope pedaling to the top of a hill with the dew of effort on your forehead; if you’ve ever wondered, swooping...bird-like down a long hill, if the world was standing still; if you have ever, just once, sat on a bicycle with a singing heart and felt like an ordinary human touching the gods, then we share something fundamental. We know it’s all about the bike.”

—Robert Penn

Whatever the reason for riding a bike, almost everyone agrees that cycling brings one closer to nature: The smell of fragrant flowers, colorful fruit orchards, the odor of horse manure from riding stables, the breeze against your skin, birds congregating at a nature preserve, or a majestic sunset on your way home. Bicycling extends one a panoramic view of the world and pitches you out into another reality free beyond time and space.

Bill and I completed a 25-mile round trip bike ride from San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail (part of the San Francisco Bay Trail) to Levi Stadium, home of the 49ers across from Great America. From here we continued cruising varying paths of Shoreline, passing through the Don Edwards SF Bay National Wildlife Refuge, the new stealth-looking Google complex still undergoing final construction, the Shoreline Amphitheater, the salt flats, and the white pelican islets. The mostly flat terrain included dirt, gravel and paved areas suitable for all bicycling levels.

On the way back, we retraced our path and even missed a couple. It’s all good when you’re on your bike. We eventually exited the safety of the protected space of the San Tomas pedestrian and cyclists trails. We made it to Evelyn Avenue and proceeded to Dishdash Mediterranean Cuisine on Historic Murphy Avenue in Downtown Sunnyvale. It is named after Martin Murphy, Jr., who planted the first orchard in Santa Clara Valley long before the tech revolution evolved in Silicon Valley. Sunnyvale is ranked one of the safest towns in the US, with a friendly and bustling downtown area. The street is closed off to traffic with plenty of outdoor seating for patrons of local restaurants. Bill ordered a Chicken Shawarma Wrap and fries and I enjoyed an exquisite looking and tasting Vegetarian platter with homemade pita bread as seen in the photos. We had certainly worked up an appetite and we savored every morsel of food before calling it a day and heading home.

Letting the Day Unfold: Cecile Bakes Dessert with Chef Lyla & Savoring Take-out Mexican Cuisine From Ruby's

“Sometimes you have to let go of the picture of what you thought life would be like and learn to find joy in the story you are actually living.”

—Rachel Marie Martin

“Cooking with kids is not just about ingredients, recipes…It’s about harnessing imagination, empowerment, and creativity.”

—Guy Fieri

After taking care of some personal business, I relaxed in the hot tub and swam some laps in the clubhouse pool at Rinconada Hills.

Cecile ran some errands and had her nails done. At around 11 AM our daughter Michelle arrived with our granddaughter Emmy, who is five months old now. Just lifting her out of her car seat and kissing her chubby cheeks is such a heavenly delight. Michelle worked from our home and Cecile and I took turns caring for Emmy. Feeding Emmy is pure joy and peaceful. Cecile had made us a fresh healthy salad with veggie burgers and fresh fruit for lunch.

I took a 15 mile bike ride on the Los Gatos Creek Trails and pedestrian bridge to San Jose. After we picked Lyla up from Day Camp at 4 PM, one of the first words out of her mouth when we got in the car was, “Nonnie I want to bake!” The idea I had in mind, was to take Lyla for a dip in the pool behind our townhome. But, I didn’t want my expectation to interfere with what she had in mind.

Cecile wasn’t quite sure what ingredients she had at her disposal, but after inspecting the fridge, freezer and kitchen pantry, she told Lyla they would bake a Peach and Blueberry Crisp. When it comes to baking and the preparations thereof, Lyla is without question enthusiastically hands-on. She enjoys mindfully stirring, kneading, and scooping batter into baking pans. With each recipe that Cecile shares with her, Lyla's confidence grows. It is a social experience of sorts that I enjoy witnessing and teaches her a skill for life. I once read an anonymous quote: "Children are great imitators, so give them something great to imitate."

Of course the intergenerational bonding is acutely noticeable. Patience is the key, and Cecile has plenty of it. As a former teacher in Chicago, Cecile will be the first to tell you that measuring, pouring, rolling, squeezing and spreading are kitchen skills that allow children to develop their fine motor and hand-eye coordination skills. There is also a sense of artistry to it, and the end result is a feast for the taste buds.

We resisted the temptation to have dessert first, so it was set aside until after dinner. I offered to get Mexican take out from Ruby’s in Saratoga: Chicken Tostada Salad Bowls, Vegetarian Quesaqdilla and a Chicken Cheese Tamale. By the time we finished Cecile had taken the Peach and Blueberry Crisp out of the oven. Like most toddlers, Lyla wanted her dessert NOW. We reasoned with her that it’s too hot right out of the oven. We needed for it to cool down some. Like the Goldilocks story we want it to be “just right!” She bought the logic and like us adults it was worth waiting for. Her daddy was in San Francisco on business, but we had dinner waiting for him. He also got to enjoy dessert and like Michelle and I, thanked Lyla and Nonnie. Beaming with joy, Lyla proudly responded “You’re welcome!”

Cecile said, Lyla, you know what? Nonnie is going to give you some more dessert to take home. She smiled and proceeded to carry the dessert platter with her and Nonnie’s creation out to the car as we said our goodbyes.

Dinner with Friends at the Up & Coming "Eleven College Ave” Eatery Offering California Bistro Cuisine

“If you have good food, people will come to your restaurant.”

Mickey Gilley

Our friends Nelson and Susan Bye suggested we have dinner at a relatively new restaurant called Eleven College Ave. Formally Nick’s Next Door, the chef/owner Nick Difu was according to media outlets forced to 'walk away' from his well known eatery in May 2020 after 13 years of operation, another casualty of the COVID crisis. Nick sold his restaurant tucked away in a quaint little courtyard to Suhail Karimi in May 2020 and was cleverly reopened by the new upstart as Eleven College Ave making it easier for patrons to locate it.

We were all excited to try something new. We were escorted to our outdoor table in the spacious courtyard that was across from a majestic tree. Judging by its girth it could easily be well over a hundred years. Part of the courtyard was tented with a canvas overhang with propane heaters when needed.

As usual and much appreciated Nelson brought a bottle of 2012 Amarone della Valpollecella from his collection of wines. After the bottle was uncorked and the wine poured, we placed our orders with our waiter Peter. About that time, the energetic and affable owner/chef Suhail Karimi wearing a cool looking denim monogramed jacket, and camouflage cap came to our table to welcome us and was gracious enough to partake in a photo together. Born in Los Gatos and growing up in Milpitas, he shared with us his fondest memories of his grandmother cooking traditional family dishes. His first food service job was at the Cheesecake Factory and first shift was on Mother’s Day. He was 18 years old. He also did a stint working behind the bar. Over time he worked his way up in the kitchen working at as a Chef de Cuisine at the British Bankers Club in Menlo Park, Chef de Cuisine at Johnston’s Salt Box in San Carlos, and Executive Chef at Big Ed’s Buzzard BBQ in Santa Clara. Now in his mid-30s, with two decades under his belt in cooking and hospitality, Chef Suhail, makes his home in Los Gatos where he lives with his beloved wife Naushin and husky Bolt. His vision for planning a new concept restaurant was conceived over the past several years. His goal was realized when he seized an opportunity that presented itself when he opened Eleven College Ave in Downtown Los Gatos. His emphasis is California bistro cuisine that focuses on "seasonal ingredients, explosive flavors, technological techniques and a modernist approach to casual food." The restaurant has a bar and offers hand-crafted cocktails.

We began our gastronomic adventure by sharing appetizers and salad: Brussels with caramelized house kimchi, bacon, sriracha aioli, spicy peanuts, sesame-chili oil; ECA Fondue with Pt Reyes bay blue cheese, triple cream brie and laura chenel goat cheese with broccoli, cauliflower, baby carrots and bite-sized morsals of bread; and Iceberg Wedge Salad with bacon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, blue cheese crumbles, blue cheese dressing, fine herbs and balsamic drizzle.

For our entrees, Nelson enjoyed a ECA Burger, a blend of ribeye and brisket, caramelized onions, aioli, butter lettuce, house pickle and kennebec fries.

Susan and I each had Herb Crusted Lamb Chops (4) with fennel confit fingerling potatoes, caramelized figs, curry yogurt sauce, cilantro chimichurri that definitely hit the mark and Cecile had a salad topped with sea bass. During the serving of the entrees we also got to meet Nicolas Lacitignola, Chef de Cuisine who visited our table as pictured here next to Nelson and Susan.

We capped this wonderful meal off by sharing Chocolate Fondue with marshmallows, fresh bananas, peaches and berries; and, Affogato (Italian meaning “drowned”) as in ice cream drowning in hot espresso which melts the ice cream.

Postscript: Hats off to Suhail Karimi and staff for creating a peaceful, comfortable setting to enjoy great food.

Pool Play and a Sumptuous Family Pasta and Fresh Salmon BBQ Dinner at our Home

Having a place to go is a home. Having someone to love is a family. Having both is a blessings.”

—Donna Hedges

Now that our daughter Michelle, husband Kyle and our granddaughters Lyla and Emmy moved from Redwood City to Los Gatos, just a couple of miles down the road from us, we have been blessed with being able to have impromptu get togethers.

It was a very hot Sunday. I had just finished a 19-mile bike ride that began late morning. I put the A/C on and took a nap.

Cecile got a call early afternoon from Michelle asking if it was okay to come by for a swim later in the day. Of course the answer was yes.

When you're entertaining, the pool is a wonderful place to nurture family closeness. We did it with our kids Jason and Michelle at our old home in Saratoga. Now we get to do a reprise with our granddaughter Lyla who is 2 1/2. Emmy who is 6 months old will be soon to follow. In the meantime she is very content with frequent nursing and being rocked to sleep in our arms. Her almost constant smiles, energetic moments of her arms and legs and bright blue eyes bring us a lot of joy. Of course, her goo goo, ga, ga noises she makes as the precursor to her speaking in the near future is immensely welcomed.

When we were all in the pool, and I was twirling Lyla around and sliding her back and forth with Kyle, Cecile asked rhetorically what is it about

water that captures the imagination of kids? Turns out that boys and girls who play with water are stimulating many of their senses including

touch, sound, and sight. It is also very calming and elevates a child playful mood. It also brings out the inner child in the adults who are reminded of their youth. Speaking of playing with water, I had to clean our Roman fountain. With all the heat, it was getting discolored and was becoming a breathing ground for insects. I cleaned and emptied it and Lyla who has taken to the water hose for some time now helped me fill the fountain. Her aim has gotten much better.

In anticipation of having dinner, Cecile had ordered fresh salmon delivered by Whole Foods, and made fresh tomato sauce for pasta and a fresh, crisp mixed salad with avocado. Cecile added brown sugar and chili pepper seasoning atop the salmon and Michelle and Kyle grilled them to perfection. I cut up Blue Line Pizza slices into appetizers. Lyla was entertaining us by singing a made up nursery rhyme that had us in stitches and with encouragement from Kyle and Michelle told us about her friends at Day Camp which she is relishing. For dessert we enjoyed a slice of a killer Caramel Fresh Banana Pie with whipped fresh cream that Jason brought Saturday evening when he had dinner with us. Lyla was in heaven.

After dinner, Lyla played with the Bindi GeoSafari Jr. Talking Microscope which includes 20 high quality microscopic image slides that we gifted her.

It requires no effort to focus, has 2 modes of play, and speaks more than 100 fun facts featuring the voice of 23 year old Wildlife Warrior Bindi Irwin Bindi is the eldest of two children of the late conservationist television personality Steve Irwin and his conservationist wife, Terri Irwin, who is currently the

owner of Australia Zoo. Bindi herself has earned street creds for being an Australian television personality, conservationist, zookeeper, and actress. Though it is intended for 5 year olds and up, Lyla is quite taken by the images.

Enjoying our First Group Indoor Dining Experience at Mint Leaf Cuisine Since the Pandemic

“Thai food ain’t about simplicity…Some westerners think it’s a jumble of flavors, but too a Thai [and to anyone who

appreciates Thai food] it’s the complexity they delight in.”

—David Thompson, Michelin-starred chef from Australia

When Cecile got the call from a friend to invite us to join a group of long-time friends at Mint Leaf Cuisine,

a Thai Asian-Fusion Restaurant in historic downtown Saratoga we were all in. It has once again become a sweet spot for get togethers.

I have been posting about our Mint Leaf experience on Facebook and my blog, enjoyyourlifenow.net

for a number of years. As a result it has helped to create a buzz in our circles that this a place to partake in a unique and fun

dining experience and feast on the diverse blended cuisines of many Southeast Asian countries.

I spent a lot of time over the years in Southeast Asia studying Buddhism, and attending silent three-week meditation retreats in Burmese

monasteries in Thailand and Myanmar (Burma), temple hopping in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam as well. I’ve conversed with English speaking

Buddhist monks, and Thai people themselves, tasted their food, became immersed in their culture and the experience changed the way I looked at the world and my place in it.

Cecile and I enjoyed the company of four other couples: Yael and Elie Alcheck, Stan and Ruth Litwin, and Lucy and Larry Fried.

With vaccinations proceeding at a faster pace, we finally felt comfortable enough to reconnect with a larger group of friends we haven’t seen en masse since the pandemic. The reunion with friends was filled with joy, hugs, laughter and gratitude as an image of the Buddha on the top back wall smiled peacefully down at us.

The waitress secured a spot in the front corner of the restaurant. We enjoyed Thai-style Chicken Satay, fried wontons wrapped with imitation crab, avocado stuffed with curry powder seasoned potatoes served with cucumber salad and peanut sauce (Photo: Larry holding the tray); and Fried Egg Rolls with cabbage, carrot, beat thread noodles and Taro served with sweet and sour sauce (Photo: Elie holding the tray). Main entrees too many to mention; all delicious (Photos of a few).

Returning to once-normal group dining felt liberating, especially being able to ditch the mask and social distancing. It was like driving with seatbelts for so long and being given permission to unbuckle, and savor the moment, and realizing to never take anything, anyone and any place for granted again.

Postscript: Vegetarian and Gluten-free options available and indoor and outdoor dining. BYO beer and wine. NO CORKAGE FEE

Coastal Bike Ride from Natural Bridges State Park in Santa Cruz to Capitola for Lunch

“Smell the sea and feel the sky and let your soul and spirit fly.”

—Van Morrison

Bill and I loaded up our bikes on the back of his bike rack and headed for a planned trip to Santa Cruz. We hooked up with Bill’s childhood friend originally from Ohio, Charlie Savoca at a parking lot near Natural Bridges State Beach for a planned ride to Capitola by the Sea. Boy did we luck out. I was so focused on what the weather would be on the coast (61 to 76 degrees), I didn’t realize that the temperature in Los Gatos was set to hit 97 degrees. Though the route we chose is no Tour De France, it is perfect for any rider in decent physical condition with a sense of curiosity and adventure. Natural Bridges is best known for wintering Monarch butterflies, the park boasts a sandy cover, tide pools and a bicycle path around the perimeter of the park. One of the major highlights of Natural Bridges that dominates the seashore landscape is the congregation of pelicans on the massive rock formation just offshore that has a signature cave-like arch underneath. This is the remaining portion a long, narrow peninsula that was connected to the shore and collapsed during a storm.

The best part of Santa Cruz is West Cliff Drive, along the ocean to enjoy the beautiful vistas. We also drove past the Surfing and Light house Museums, the Santa Cruz Wharf where you can see and hear the Sea Lions and the Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk, a classic seaside amusement park and the loop around scenic Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor near Aldo’s restaurant. At the entrance to the harbor for small boats is the Walton Lighthouse (aka Santa Cruz Breakwater Lighthouse) located on the west side of the harbor with easy access to Seabright Beach. As the need for lighthouses fades, the Walton Lighthouse serves as a beacon in memory of merchant marines, and the fascinating history of the coast including pirates and even shipwrecks. On the east side of the harbor, we drove passed the Twin Lakes State Beach, a popular mile long sandy shoreline popular for swimming and picnicking. The adjacent Schwan’s Lake is a favored bird watching area.

We continued on to Pleasure Point Park, passed the bluff above that is popular surfing spot in the Live Oak area of Santa Cruz. They climb down the stairs to beach below. Though there is a lack of sandy beach, surfers don’t mind it as they go out from this spot to the break point just offshore.

We made our way to Capitola by the Sea, a sandy city beach at the north end of Monterey Bay in Capitola, CA. Its vibrant hues is a reminder of small picturesque town on the Mediterranean. There were young surfers everywhere, some washing off their boards within a stone’s throw of the Britannia Arms where we sat for lunch, recommended by Charlie who frequents there and knows the owner who stopped to chat. It was a nice respite before our return back to Santa Cruz and home.

A 4th of July Dinner Seasoned with the Ingredients of Food and Love of Family & Country that Binds us Together

A 4th of July Dinner Seasoned with the Ingredients of Food and Love of Family & Country that Binds us Together

“Life without liberty is like a body without spirit.”

—Kahlil Gilbran

"For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”

-Nelson Mandela

Our 4 th of July cookout yesterday was a family affair, not all could be present, but intimate and fun nevertheless. Our son Jason was able to join us. He and I began and ended the evening with one beer. He had a Blue Moon Light Sky Citrus wheat beer and I enjoyed a mango wheat ale made by Road Brewing Mango Cart. Jason helped me with grilling the lean hamburgers topped with cheese and showed off his casual one-handed grilling technique of summer Veggie Kabobs on our Weber Grill that Cecile skewered and artfully seasoned. This colorful and healthy treat consisted of zucchini, red and green bell pepper, red onion, yellow squash, and mushroom. Cecile prepared an unmashed Italian potato salad with organic extra Virgin olive oil. She also put together the fixings: avocado, red onion, tomato, cole slaw mustard, ketchup, arugula on a sesame seed Wheat Bun. In other words, Cecile did most of the work, combining the ingredients of food and love, that—as always—binds our family together. The only thing stronger than our family bond is our desire to beat the Food Network star chef and resident grill-master, Bobby Flay. Of course it’s magical thinking. But If any of us is deserving of going up against Bobby Flay, it’s Cecile. Aside from cherries and plums, we enjoyed a ready-to-bake box of chocolate chip cookies from New York’s most famous Levain Bakery’s that was simply gooeylishess.

After shopping for groceries earlier in the afternoon, I took a bike ride in the neighborhood and enjoyed witnessing the many homes that were adorned with the American flag. An even better experience was stopping to see the exterior of the historic building on Main Street in our town of Los Gatos that houses the office of the Veteran’s Memorial and Support Foundation that is painted with the stars and stripes of the American flag (photo).

It is a reminder that July 4 th is a time of celebration, reflection, gratitude and remembrance of all the men and women who put their lives on the line to defend us and our way of life. One can’t help but think about those service men and women stuck in some of the most dangerous places on earth. Many weren’t able to make it home and others will not come home whole. There is no holiday for them, only the acceptance of and commitment to duty to keep our country free. The actual memorial honors veterans and first responders, as well as 9/11 heroes is located at the Los Gatos Civic Center on East Main Street.

Dinner at Opa! Greek Restaurant with Friends in the Heart of Historical Downtown Campbell & Royal Akita Dog Sighting

“Part of why I love Greek food so much is that it is simple, but it’s unpretentious. It’s authentic.

—Princess Tatiana of Greece and Denmark

“Everything’s betta with a little feta.”

—El Greco

Cecile and I enjoyed dinner with friends Bill and Sarah Rothenberg on the outside patio of Opa, a concept restaurant owned in partnership

by Angelo Heropoulos and his partner Molly and Marcus Adams who ditched their careers in high tech to become budding restauranteurs expanding well beyond their brand. Opa was their first venture.

For openers the ladies had a glass of Opa! Sangria: a fresh fruit soaked blend of red wine, citron age, sprite, freshly squeezed lime and orange juices, and Bill and I had a bottle of beer.

We decided to share and appetizer Saganaki/Flaming Grilled Kasseri cheese served on a flat iron skillet with warm pita bread.

This ceremonial flaming cheese ritual originated by restauranteurs in Cecile’s hometown of Chicago, who encourage customers to yell, ‘Opa!’ as the plate was being ignited. We enjoyed the quick table side theatrics. Though the young waiter serving us had a little trouble igniting the flame, he was successful on the second try. He poured the cheese with a splash of ouzo, ignited the cheese and seared it until the cheese began to ooze and form a golden brown crust. It was a good way to spark up a little excitement before the main course. We ordered Greek Nachos for the table with homemade pita chips with gyro meat topped with tzatziki, fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives and sliced greek peppers with spicy avocado dip. Cecile enjoyed Horiatiki: The traditional Greek Village Salad with ripe red tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, peppers, Kalamata olives, fresh oregano, crumbles feta cheese served with a side of warm pita bread. Sarah had a Santorini Chopped salad with romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, artichoke hearts, red and yellow bell peppers, mizithhra cheese, red onions, pepperoncini peppers, Kalamata olives, grilled chicken which the menu states is enough to feed 300 Spartans.

I had a Pan Seared Mahi Mahi in a zesty lemon butter sauce over a bed of garlic mashed potatoes, green beans,’baby carrots and

cherry tomatoes and bill had Seafood Souvlaki: Two skewers of grilled prawns and scallops with rice pilaf.

We decide to stroll up and down the heart of the colorful and bustling downtown area. You can see the Historic Campbell Water Tower logo that has stood as a symbol of the city for the better part of the century. Bill treated us to ice cream cones at the Campbell Creamery. I couldn’t help notice a poster that read: “Ice Cream is Cheaper than Therapy,” which is also the name of a designer T-shirt designed and sold by Sara Eshak.

As we headed toward the car, we bumped into the owner of a long-haired Akita that caught everyone's attention when its owner ordered take-out from Opa (see photo) while we were at our dinner table. Those not familiar with the breed, Akitas are a large breed of dog originating from the mountain of northern Japan where they are considered a national treasure. Back in the day we had an Akita named Ninja. Cecile noticed the signature curled tail that sits on the top of the dog’s back.

Postscript: Famous author and political activist Helen Keller is credited with bringing the first Akita into the United States in 1937. She was inspired by the legendary Hachiko, the loyal dog who became world famous for waiting nine years at a train station in hopes his dead owner would return. Richard Gere played the owner in the movie Hachi: A Dog’s Tale (2009).

Photo of the short haired Akita shows a remarkable similarity to our late Akita, Ninja.

Paying Homage to Bill Bliss the Cyclist & the 'Bliss in the Moment' Monument in his Honor in the Palo Alto Baylands

“If you follow your bliss you put yourself on a kind of track that has been there all the while, waiting for you, and the life you ought to be living is the one your are living. When you can see that, you begin to meet people who are in your field of bliss, and they open the doors for you”

—Joseph Campbell

Bill and I drove our bikes to the El Camino Trailhead where we entered a series of interlocking pedestrian and bicycle bridges en route to Steven’s Creek Tidal Marsh Trail, Shoreline Lake, the Palo Alto Baylands, also known as the Baylands Nature Preserve. It is the largest undisturbed marshland remaining in the SF Bay.

The kids summer water-sports camp in Mountain View is in session as noted by numerous colorful paddle-boats sailboats, kayaks and paddle boards on the lake. We stopped along the jetty heading in the direction of Palo Alto airport to watch and listen to the awe-inspiring chorus of over 10,000 shorebirds.

As we have done in the past we rode the rutted sand dunes for several miles on our way towards the Palo Alto Baylands to see the new bicycle and pedestrian bridge project over Highway 101 that is nearing its' completion. It will replace the Lefkowitz underpass to provide year-round access.

Just shorty beyond the bridge project is the Bill Bliss Monument called "Bliss in the Moment" by Palo Alto artist, James Moore, that was installed along the Bay Trail in January 2011. The 6-foot-9 brushed stainless-steel sculpture has a Star Wars R2D2 feeling to it. The odometer on the bike reads 20,136, representing the number of miles Bill Bliss rode on his round the globe “Odyssey” during the year 2000 that took 366 days. Sadly, in 2005 a negligent driver ran into him as he was traveling with a touring group of cyclists bringing about his death. In this homage to Bill Bliss, It’s been reported the artist wanted “To pay tribute to his life’s work—I wanted to imply a place of rest,” and the placement of the figure and bike “are focused towards the wetlands in a pose that is relaxed and contemplative."

Since riding trails in the Bay Area I have become grateful to noble citizens like Bill Bliss who have made great contributions to the well-being of cyclists and hiking enthusiasts. Bliss served on the board of the Bay Traill for 15 years and made a significant impact on the development of the 500-mile Bay Trail project, that when complete will encircle San Francisco and San Pablo Bays with continuous trails.

To cap off our biking journey Bill and I had lunch (Bangkok and Golden Gate Salads) at the Crepevine in downtown Mountain View.

Celebrating our Son Jason's Milestone 40th Birthday at Steamer's Grillhouse

“Age is just a number. It has no meaning unless of course you happen to be a slab of cheese or a bottle of wine.”

—Your dad:-)

Interestingly enough Steamer’s began as a dream over 40 years ago by two brothers who wanted to bring a better

seafood experience to our quaint little village of Los Gatos, CA. It has since evolved into a fine eating establishment of fine cuisine focusing on the freshest ingredients and a "commitment to craft." As luck would have it, Jason’s birthday, was the day Steamer’s announced they were opening their inside & outside dining following the easing up of COVID-19 restrictions. We elected to dine on their spacious outside patio. Cecile and I met up with Jason and his partner Alex, our daughter Michelle and Kyle and our granddaughters Lyla and Emmy. The decor was bright with colorful umbrellas and lovely flower pots with hydrangeas, sunflowers which Lyla quickly noticed.

We began with beer, wine and cocktails and steamed mussels and fried calamare for appetizers. For our entree's we had some great tasting fresh Halibut, Asian BBQ Glazed Salmon, Chile Verde with rice and beans, Chicken Picatta with veggies, and Prime New York Steak for Jason. We capped off our meal with dessert including creme brulee, Fudg Brownie & Vanilla Ice Cream, and the complimentary birthday dessert of gelato in a free-form thin layer of chocolate in the form of a cup for Jason. Kyle and I enjoyed a shotglass of Graham's port. After blowing out the candles, Jason opened his birthday cards and presents. It was a pretty laid back event. It was nice to see people out and about again. Business at Steamer’s was brisk, the conversation was flowing and before we knew it, three hours had passed before we all hugged and called it an evening.

Jason, a new chapter of your life has begun, hence the phrase, “Life begins at 40,” coined by W.B. Pitkin,” applies here. Say goodbye to your past and pave the way for the future. Let a new story unfold, filled with happy anecdotes and infinite possibilities. Smile, laugh, and be carefree and bold. From a spiritual perspective, 40 is a special number signifying a year of personal transformation and transition, where we assemble our lives and ponder the meaning of life itself. It is the mid-point where your relatively young life turns into the mature one and the new phase of your life begins.

Happy Birthday,

Love,

Mom and Dad

Father's Day Celebration in our Romanesque Backyard Terrace with our Extended Family

“When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie that’s AMORE.”

—Dean Martin

We had the great pleasure to host a casual dinner in our backyard in honor of Father’s Day that

was preceded by a swim and ended with a walk on the trails around the one-acre lake of our gated community.

Our daughter Michelle and son-in-law Kyle, our precious granddaughters Lyla and Emmy, Kyle’s mom, Kim and Al, Kyle’s father Ed and Gerry as well as Kyle’s brother Chip and Katie and our son Jason joined us.

We began with cocktails. Jason made pitchers of Spritz Veneziano, otherwise known as an Aperol Spritz, an Italian wine-based cocktail, commonly served as an aperitif in Venice, and an assortment of beers. Michelle prepared a delicious antipasto tray, and served roasted brussel sprouts with Balsamic vinegar from Pastaria, Gerry brought a delicious bowl of Caesar salad and Kim and Al brought an exquisite layered cake from Marvel’s bakery.

For the main course we enjoyed pizza from Blue Line Pizza. Located in a historic bank building in downtown Los Gatos, CA., Blue Line Pizza that also has six other locations in the Bay Area was voted the “Best Pizzas in Silicon Valley." We ordered five out of an assortment of 12 “specialty pizzas,” including: Cheese, Chicago Chop (a seasoned blend of chopped pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and salami with fresh mozzarella, marinara sauce, and crushed red pepperI; Wild Mushroom & White Truffle Oil; Meatball (spicy house made meatballs, ricotta, spinach, mushrooms, red bells, marinara sauce and mozzarella) and BBQ Chicken (bacon, roasted chicken, pineapple, red onion, cilantro and mozzarella. Blue line got its’ name after the BLUE LINE train that runs between O’hare Airport and downtown Chicago and features the same award winning Chicago cornmeal rust deep dish and New York style thin crust pizza.

After an exquisite guilty pleasure layer cake for dessert, the dads who are also granddads (Ed, Al and myself) opened our cards and gifts. It used to be that I would receive yoga clothes from Lululemon, but that wardrobe is full. These days the theme is bike wear. Thank you all for the biking outfits, wine, and special thanks to my son Jason for my Vio Cabernet Matte color biking helmet with MIPS lights. It is not only vented to stay cool, but offers best-in class brain technology, and is indeed a work of art. But the greatest work of art, gifts and blessings that fill all of our lives with light are our grandchildren, Lyla and Emmeline (Emmy) and our children.

Postscript: The last three photos are in memory of Cecile’s late beloved father Harry Weiner, my late belated father Frank Augustine and my late beloved brother Michael Augustine.

My New Happiness Machine: A Specialized Turbo Ebike that Fell into My Lap at Just the Right Time

“The most important thing is to enjoy your life—to be happy—it’s all that matters.”

—Audrey Hepburn

“The way I think about a pedal-assist electric bike is that it’s just like I’m riding a regular bicycle, but with the fantastic illusion that I’ve magically gained the superhuman fitness of a Tour De France rider overnight (without the steroids-my emphasis:).

—Jimmy from Skirack Bike Department

I hadn’t planned on buying a new bike. I was happy with my sporty little black Sondors E-bike with the red wheel rims that I purchased online four years ago that impressionable young boys and girls would point at as I was zipping by and say, “daddy look at that!” The tipping point came when a Sondors' tech support person based on looking at photos provided by Arthur Rodriguez, my mechanical bike repair specialist determined that the internal parts of my rear hub-based motor had excessive corrosion. This was causing the wheel to annoyingly squeal resulting in a recommendation to replace the motor.

Meanwhile, in the words of Denzel Washington who played Frank Lucas in American Gangster, “My man” James (Jimi) Hunter who got me into Ebiking was aware of the situation. For some time now he has been urging me to upgrade to a high performance bike with local support. I resisted. But given the supply chain issues exacerbated by the pandemic and the frequency of how much I ride (six to seven days a week), he knew this was the ideal time for me to make the change.

Jimi found a listing on Craig’s list for a Specialized Turbo Como 5.0 with only 80 miles on it. He encouraged me to move on it quickly, since there were a shortage of bikes out there and I would save a $1000 from the current retail price and taxes. Unlike the Sondor’s Hub-Drive system, the Turbo is a Mid-Drive motor that resides within the frame and modulates how the power is delivered by providing a seamless, silky smooth, natural ride. The motor is simply an extension of my own strength (a force multiplier if you will). It senses exactly how I am pedaling. Whether it is slowly, quickly, with a little or a lot of power, and reacts accordingly. It is twenty pounds lighter than the Sonders. It is made of Aluminum alloy and is a great cruising bike with a high capacity battery allowing it to go 28 MPH. It can climb a steep hill before you realize you just passed it and you can adust the gear settings for a more or less workout.

There is a rear light at the end fo the back fender, a supernova headlight and comfortable seat deserving of someone like myself that rides over a hundred miles a week. The irony is that the Turbo Como I wound up purchasing is the same model and style as my biking buddy and neighbor, Bill Rothenberg, though one year newer and with some nice enhancements.

I feel so grateful to have a great support system (my posse) for what has become my favorite activity since the pandemic. My bike repair specialist Arthur who will replace the motor on my Sondors which I will put up for sale; my biking buddy Bill who always has my back and has shown me so many short cuts in and around our neighborhood and beyond, and Jimi whom you can always rely on for wise biking advice even when you are not ready to receive it.

Balmy and Pre-Sunset Dinner at the Wine Cellar at the Old Town Shopping Center with our Dear Friends

“For all the bad that came from the pandemic, reminding us of the joys of dining al fresco is a silver lining.”

—Rebecca King, food writer

We had an intimate and romantic dinner with our dear friends and neighbors Susan and Nelson Bye at the Wine Cellar on their award-winning patio as the sun was beginning to set between the trees. During the pandemic we mostly took turns having dinner on our respective backyard terraces at Rinconada Hills tucked away in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Ever so slowly we have been venturing out to enjoying fine cuisine at local restaurants that offer outdoor dining. Established in 1966 the Wine Cellar in Los Gatos (Spanish for The Cats) is the only remaining original tenant of the Old Town Shopping Center that was once a one-room schoolhouse that was built in 1875.

Nelson and I had an 805 Honey Blonde Ale for starters, Cecile enjoyed a glass of the signature Rombauer Chardonnay and Susan had a rum and diet coke. We had cause to celebrate, not just our enduring friendship but our upcoming trips that we have booked on a riverboat cruise in the Washington and Oregon area in the fall and the Great Lakes Victory Cruise beginning in Toronto next Spring and ending in Cecile’s home town of Chicago.

Once again Nelson and Susan brought a bottle of 2012 Campofiorito Amarone della Valpolicella red from Nelson’s collection to accompany dinner. We enjoyed Hoisin-glazed Australian free range Grilled Lamb Lollipops with asian cabbage salad, garnish, beurre blanc (gluten free); Flash fried Panko-Crusted Prawns with tangy cocktail sauce and fresh lemon. Harvest Salad with orchard pears, apples and candied pecans, mixed greens, gorgonzola cheese, citrus vinaigrette, toasted bread slices with grilled chicken; and a very special pan-roasted Parmesan Crusted Halibut with tomato-basil tapenade, tomato beurre blanc, Yukon gold-smashed potatoes, and grilled asparagus.

For dessert we all had an exquisite mixed Berry Puff Pastry composed of fresh strawberry, blackberry and blueberry compote sandwiched between a crisp pastry with fresh whipped cream and vanilla ice cream.

It was to die for.

After dinner with took some photos together with the very colorful Beautiful Los Gatos Cat posters in the backdrop next to Sephora before heading home with the renewed sense of freedom from the fallout of the pandemic becoming more palpable.

Dog Day Afternoon on Memorial Day: A Day of Remembrance, Reflection and Leisure

“Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it.”

—Unknown

My friend and biking buddy Bill Rothenberg invited me to take an early bike ride to beat the expected heat wave, but I slept in and began my solo ride at 10:30 AM. The Greeks and Romans considered “dog days,” as those hot, sleepy afternoons when dogs (and people) prefer to lay around and languish in the summer heat. I’m not one of them unless a pool is nearby. That will come later. As I write this the temperature is 95 degrees. By the time I rode my bike onto our driveway, Bill had already completed his ride and was walking his dogs Misty and Roscoe at about the time I was talking to my neighbor Bonnie with her black dog Blue and her friend who was walking her dog as well. It looked like a Labradoodle show and set the tone and theme for the day. When I hopped on the Los Gatos Creek Trail, heading toward Campbell and then San Jose for an 18 mile ride, I saw a mass of people in the distance. As I approached them more closely, I noticed it was a group walking their dogs. I stopped riding for a few minutes to take some photos of this rare spectacle.

By the time I made it to the colorful Willow Glen section of San Jose, I was ready to strip off my light, bright yellow riding jacket and indulge myself in a large icy blended "Apples and Greens" with ginger and energy boost. I saw a young girl and her dad sitting near the entrance with their little racing bike No. 4 also taking a respite and cooling off. I love this downtown area and though there are closer Jamba Juice shops, it was an excuse to ride. Not that I need an excuse to ride, mind you. After all it is never about the destination but the journey which always includes people watching and enjoying nature. When I returned to our home at Rinconada Hills, the flag in front of our clubhouse was flying at half mast, reminding me to take a moment to honor those who’s served our nation and who are no longer with us.

Postscript: The phrase “Dog Days” of summer is actually a reference to the fact that during this time, the Sun occupies the same region of the sky as Sirius, the brightest star visible from any part of Earth and part of the constellation Canis Major, the Greater Dog. Also Dog Day Afternoon is a 1975 American biographical crime drama starring Al Pacino chronicling a 1972 robbery and hostage situation that goes bad. Dog Day Afternoon is a metaphor meaning everything and anything (plans made, emotions, work, friendships, weather, etc.), can turn bad, very bad, unexpectedly and quickly with little or no chance of making it better.

Enjoying the Seasonal Wildflowers During our Bike Ride Around Lexington Reservoir and the Snake at the Side of the Road

“Heaven is under our feet as well as over our heads.”—Henry David Thoreau

Thirty minutes south of the San Jose urban center, is Lexington Reservoir County Park that serves as a water supply for the area and is available for recreational purposes such as rowing, fishing, paddle boating managed by the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department. The 950-acre lake in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains is home to the San Jose Row Club.

One you arrive at the base of the reservoir from the Los Gatos Creek Trail, the mostly paved road traces the outline of Lexington Reservoir

As the road pitches down, the ride gets really interesting. In the beginning I used to be a timid descender anxiously clutching my brakes. But, having hydraulic brakes installed a while ago, accompanied by the large contact to the road afforded me by my fat tires, I am more confident careening down the mountain side at about 30 MPH. Bill has a more expensive Specialized bike that offers him the same advantages. Located at 17770 Alma Bridge Road in Los Gatos Lexington Reservoir is considered one of the top 15 best lakes in the San Jose area. I love the seasonal scenic vistas made more beautiful with the wildflowers as seen in the photos I took.

As we rounded the reservoir on the last leg of our ride, Bill pointed to a snake on the road. I had circled back to take a photo of what appeared to be a dead snake.

I use the words "appeared to be” dead because there are what’s referred to as "zombie snakes,” snakes that pretend to be dead or “play possum,” so to speak.

When a snake is feigning death, it will flatten its head to make it appear larger and then hiss, fill its body with air, roll over on its back and open its mouth and let its tongue hang out. luckily those type of snakes are not known to be harmful to humans.

Nevertheless, I have an active imagination and the snake on the road which looked like a Western rattler made me think of a story I read in Smithsonian magazine a few years ago about a Texas resident who discovered a Western diamondback rattlesnake nestled in some flowers in her back yard, causing her to let out a scream. Her husband quickly came to her rescue and decapitated the snake with a shovel. When he bent down to pick it up several minutes later, the severed head of the snake turned around, grabbed onto his hand and, bit him releasing all of its venom. He was air lifted to a hospital, went into septic shock, experienced internally bleeding, and nearly died. So when Bill stomped his foot on the ground and yelled out (Hah!) I nearly jumped out of my bicycle seat. We continued our ride and decided to make our way down the less trodden path to the edge of the water to take it all in. The skies were blue, the water was tranquil and aside for a few men fishing in the distance, we had a mindful moment of oneness with nature which is by far one of the joys of riding.

Sweet & Intimate Mother's Day Brunch at the Chiens Thanks to All of Us Being Fully Vaccinated

“Motherhood is the biggest gamble in the world. It is a glorious life force. It’s huge and scary—it’s an act of infinite optimism.”—Gilda Radner

We were invited to a Mother’s Day brunch by our son-in-law Kyle’s mom, Kim Chien, and her husband Al.

Our daughter Michelle was holding our recently born granddaughter, Emmy. Our son Jason was able to join us and Kyle's brother Chip and his fiancé Katie also attended.

For families like ours, who relied on the vaccine before feeling totally comfortable reuniting with extended loved ones, it was a welcome step toward normal. Mother’s Day 2021 marks the first holiday since the coronavirus vaccine was made available. Hugs were shared and it felt good. In fact, it is safe to say that we will never take a hug for granted again.

The general family interactions are coming back on schedule with a new focus. Emmy’s pre-natal development & eventual birth in February gave us something to look forward to during the challenging pandemic winter months. She brings a burst of hope and happiness as Lyla did when she was born. We all went through this pandemic not knowing what would happen, and we can see once again that life goes on.

The Chiens provided the food and drinks and Cecile and I brought desserts from the renowned “Icing on the Cake." We sat having drinks first while lounging under a shaded trellis in the outdoor lounge area of the Chiens beautiful home getting caught up before sitting down at the table for brunch. Ever the hostess, Lyla insisted on pouring her uncle Jason a glass of champagne with his guided assistance of course. She also wanted to carry a bloody Mary to the table for Al (Pops) who was closely behind.

After brunch, the presents came out. Once again, Lyla was eager to carry the bags of gifts to the well-deserving mothers and grandmothers (Cecile, Kim and Michelle). The one bag Lyla toted outside was almost as big as she was. Anticipation, excitement and joy were in the air. The mothers loved their gifts. Just earlier everyone was raving about the sweets from Icing on the Cake, but the real Icing on the Cake was witnessing and holding our sweet granddaughters, Lyla and Emmy, and realizing that they are growing up in an atmosphere of love and attention showered upon them by a family that loves them unconditionally.

A Memorial Tribute to my Sicilian-American Mother Maria who Passed Away on Mother's Day Eight Years Ago

“I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love.”

—Leo Buscaglia

My mom died on Mother’s Day May 12, 2013, at the age of 88. She was born in Roccalumera, Messina, in Sicily, which at the time was a poor fishing village. She arrived in the United States in 1947. She married my dad and had three sons and one daughter. I was the eldest child born in 1950. She was devoted to her family and loved her grandchildren. She worked hard as a seamstress for a local coat factory in Hoboken, NJ. I used to help her sew hook enclosures for fur collars on women’s coats when she got permission from her boss to work from home.

She was a beautiful woman, and when she smiled she lit up the room. She had a wicked sense of humor, was well liked, and was always hospitable to my childhood friends. She was also devoted to helping our grandparents and her siblings in the old country by regularly sending them clothing, gifts, and financial assistance whenever she could. She taught us to be proud of our heritage, wanted us to have the education that she never had. I have her to thank for introducing me to my late mentor, Dr. Carmine Sippo, a dean at Wagner College in Staten Island, NY whom she grew up with in Sicily and paved the way for me to become a podiatric physician and surgeon. When I was young, and later when I achieved success in my professional career, Cecile and I, would invite my mother to join us and Michelle and Jason to Sicily to see the family who lived a block from the Mediterranean Sea. They welcomed us with open arms that left us with unforgettable memories.

Let’s hear it for all the moms (or mom-like life guides) near and far, still with us and those who have passed on:

Your mother is always with you.

She’s the whisper of the leaves as you walk down the street,

She's the smell of certain foods you remember, flowers you pick,

The fragrance of life itself.

She’s the cool hand on your brow when you’re not feeling well,

She’s your breath in the air on a cold winter’s day.

She is the sound of the rain that lulls you to sleep, the colors of the rainbow,

She lives inside your laughter, the place you came from, your first home…

She’s the map you follow with every step you take.

She’s your first love, your first friend…

Nothing on earth can separate you. Not time, not space…not even death.

—Author Unknown

A special Mother’s Day to our dearest daughter Michelle, my love, Cecile, and Cecile’s beloved late mother Marge Weiner

Italian Dinner with Friends in their Beautiful Backyard in a Flower Garden Setting

The Pastaria and Market in downtown Los Gatos has become our favorite place for take-out food.

Our friends and family agree and have followed our lead. The plan for the evening was to meet Bill at 4:45 PM for a pre-dinner bike ride, and scheduled pick-up and delivery to Bill and Sarah's backyard at 5:45 PM where Sarah and Cecile were enjoying refreshments. The Rothenbergs moved into Rinconada Hills, a gated community sometime after we did over five years ago, and live just a short block away. We have known each other since our kids were young. The pandemic had forced Bill and I to create our own Door Dash type service strictly for our respective families and friends, made possible by the attached courier bags on our back fender racks.

Dinner was almost aborted as Bill got a flat tire on the Los Gatos Creek Trail that we took on the way back adjacent to Vasona Lake. Holding the record for the most flat tires in a year (5), I know that sinking feeling, especially in a place there is no car access. Fortunately, my handy portable electrically charged inflater pump at the bottom of my bag saved the day. It didn’t hurt that it was only a slow leak which allowed Bill to ride all the way home. Bill has bailed me out plenty of times, so it was nice to be in the position to reciprocate and being able to continue on with our social evening together with the ladies.

Sarah and Bill really know how to utilize their abundant outdoor space in their backyard with several levels of decking, a quaint gazebo which is a main focal point, elaborate, colorful and big roses and other flowers and plants including tomatoes that help to create a scene straight out of a storybook. Coupled with Bill’s artistic talents in painting and woodworking (his brother is an artist in NYC) that includes wood wind spinning widgets hanging from the gazebo and van Goughesque sunflower murals on the back and lower corner of his good neighbor fence to name a few.

The inspired setting is much better than a restaurant. We had an intimate dinner under a trellis and patio lights. We brought two bottles of Gerard Bertrand Cote des Roses Rose' wine that our son-in-law Kyle and Michelle gifted us and Sarah and Bill provided several beer and flavors of our favorite Talente Ice Cream. A restaurant grade propane heater eased the mild chill of the evening air.

Bill and Sarah’s dogs Roscoe and Misty provided the entertainment. Bill lifted Roscoe onto his thighs and jokingly stated this is our “lapdog" (photo), while Misty was nipping at Roscoe from below as if to say, “It’s my turn, I want some of that love too!” Van Goughish floral fence designs in the back corner part of his yard. As a former watercolorist for over seven years with the Saratoga Community of Painters I appreciate the childlike wonders and courage of an artist. Vincent van Gogh himself is quoted as saying he found “comfort in contemplating sunflowers.”

Postscript: After we finished off a bottle of the Gerard des Roses Rose’ Bill took a cutting of a rose from one of his and Sarah’s rose garden and placed in the bottle for me to give to Cecile. A class act.