Aloha & Happy Birthday from Maui to My Dear Sister Josie in New Jersey

Dear sis, in childhood, we never really understood the gift wrapped up in a greater plan. Time has taught us about the bond of love, and through that love we have chosen friendship. We have learned together, sharing the good times and the challenging times, and no matter what, there has always been love. We are like branches of a tree. We all grow in different directions, yet our roots remain as one. Side by side, or miles apart we will always be connected by heart. Whenever you feel overwhelmed, remember whose sister you are. Learn to dance in the rain, be brave—like you were when you took the bull by the horns when you mounted that Long Horn Steer in Fort Worth, Texas Stockyards before our nephew Michael and Lauren’s wedding two years ago:-). That was no Jersey milk cow, to be shore. See photo! You will always be my sister, and my friend forever, and I pray that God will always watch over you, comfort you, and protect you from any harm.

Love,

Dennis & Cecile & Family,

P.S. Some Memorable photos from the past

Back at Marriott's Maui Ocean Club for our Annual Vacation on Kaanapali Beach

Cecile and I felt a deep connection to this island the moment we set foot on it almost 50 years ago. This is the first time we’ve been back to our resort property since the historic town of Lahaina was consumed by a raging, catastrophic wildfire leaving acres of scorched earth in its path. We did the best we could to support the people on Maui by hiving financial support to three organizations including the Marriott itself who set up a matching funds drive. Tourists have been encouraged to return to help the island get back on its feet.

After our arrival, we went to Safeway in Lahaina which survived the wildfire, and were greeted by a rooster, chickens and doves searching for food on one of the parking lot islands right in front of the store. We loaded up on groceries and proceeded to our resort. We had an early dinner at Longhi's restaurant, a longtime favorite. We shared an appetizer of fried Calamari. Cecile had a Greek Salad, our son Jason had Rigatoni Pasta with sausage, and a side of steamed spinach. I had a filet of carefree chicken, Masala-style with mashed potatoes.

I saw what I was told was the Hawaiian state flag pitched into the beach (upside down, I may add) and rippling in the wind. It curiously resembled the Union Jack of Great Britain. It turns out that many of King Kamehameha’s advisors were British and the islands were once placed under England’s protection. The sun was setting the most beautiful way and we couldn’t wait for Maui to work its magic on us during our stay

Lyla & Emmy Making Challah and Berry Crisp for Hanukkah After Preschool

“May the lights of Hanukkah usher in a better world for all humankind.” —Author Unknown

Yesterday, afternoon was Cecile’s and my turn to pick up our granddaughters Lyla and Emmy after preschool. We have them on Mondays and Thursdays. The first thing we do when we take them to our home is to have them wash their hands and we prepare some healthy snacks for them to eat. Lyla loves to help her Nonnie Cecile make and bake. Since it was a special day—the first day of Hanukkah, in addition to their usual snacks—helped their Nonnie make a very low sugar Berry Crisp. Emmy likes to be read to during her snack so I read "Hanukkah in Little Havana," and later Cecile read "Bubbie & Rivka’s Best-Ever Challah." Lyla who will be five soon, has been baking with her Nonnie since she was two years old. She once told Cecile, “we’ve been baking together a long time.” It appears that Emmy will be following in her big sister’s footsteps. This ritual makes for some very special time together and some very yummy Challah.

Speaking of Challah, the photos of Lyla making a braided Challah bread with her Nonnie Cecile was on a recent Friday Shabbat. It was so amazing how she is able to create the braids on her own accord. I can see how it gives her a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Cecile lit the shamash or Shammus candle which is the “helper candle.” It is the ninth candle for the Hanukkah menorah. Cecile then helped the girls use the helper candle to light one additional candle for the first day of Hanukkah. Then it was it was gift time, and the girls joyishly open their gift bags.

Hanukkah Message for 2023: Light Over Darkness & Redemptive Triumph For a Lasting Peace

"The Hanukkah lights are purely spiritual and solely for our metaphysical enjoyment…avoid the urge to rush into presents... Sit and enjoy the candles. Take a deep breath, relax, converse with family and friends, or just sit alone and ponder the simple everyday gifts we get from our Creator. Most importantly, use the holy moments to rekindle your own dreams.”

—Sam Glaser, performer, composer, producer in LA

My wife Cecile and our family would agree, this Hanukkah which begins on the eve of December 7, is about the freedom to be Jewish and the light of Jewish identity and commitment and the eternal survival of the Jewish people. The holiday commemorates the rededication of the Temple of Jerusalem in the 2nd century B.C., by a small group of Jewish warriors (The Maccabees) after they defeated much larger Greek armies. History tends to repeat itself. Due to the Israel-Hamas war, and rapidly worldwide rising antisemitism, there is cloud of sadness and sobriety taking place. Some Jewish leaders believe that Hanukkah is needed now more than ever. Hanukkah celebrations around the globe this year include public menorah lightings, where a candle on a nine-branched candelabrum is lit during the eight-day Hanukkah season. We will celebrate Hanukkah peacefully and quietly.

The proximate cause of this war began after Hamas (means violence in Hebrew), a terrorist organization viciously attacked Israel, killing about 1,200 people and taking around 240 hostages. Those captured were civilians from kibbutzim that were attending a musical festival celebrating peace. They were uprooted, and many of them were raped, burned, and slaughtered, including babies and the elderly. It was the worst massacre of Jewish people since the Holocaust. Hamas and Hezbollah launched missiles into IsraelI. In retaliation, Israel bombed the Gaza Strip, where Hamas used their people as human shields near and under schools and hospitals, that sadly resulted in over 15,000 casualties including women and children. Hamas’ still threatens to repeat the atrocities of Israeli civilians and their charter calls for the annihilation of Israel and its people. There was a ceasefire, humanitarian aid resumed for the Palestinians, and prisoner exchanges which was broken by Hamas and the war has resumed. As Golda Meir, the fourth prime minister of Israel (1969 to 1974) said, “You can’t negotiate peace with somebody who has come to kill you."

THE RESOLVE OF ISRAEL & PLEDGES FOR A REDEMPTIVE TRIUMPH OVER HAMAS

Maayan Schoen, Atlanta Jewish Times, a Yale University graduate, current chief of staff for the deputy mayor of Jerusalem wrote:

“Our seers were simple oracles who revealed the future, making known an inescapable reality. They were reluctant, sometimes defiant…of what might come to be…They prophesied the worse of what was to come, as well as the comfort that would follow…The worst of that was to come: we saw...on October 7th. We were captured. We were uprooted. We were raped and slaughtered…There is scant comfort these days until every hostage is able to be embraced by their family…We pray and petition for the return of our remaining captives, but it is actually in our hands to restore ourselves to the land…let us pursue this destiny, we will never be uprooted again.”

Celebrating Michelle's Birthday at “Fantasy of Lights" & Dinner at Aldo’s

Little girls are the nicest things that happen to people. They are born with a little bit of angel shine about them…”—Alan Beck

No matter how old Michelle gets, she will always be our little girl. She is forever beautiful, loving, and caring and has been full of light since the day she was born; so much so that Cecile chose a separate Hebrew name “Hila,” for her, that was taken from Jewish mystical sources which means “Halo of Glowing Light.” Of course, thanks to Michelle and Kyle we have two granddaughters, Lyla and Emmy, who are also the light of our lives, proving the age old adage that "the precious fruit doesn’t fall far from the tree."

With so much light it was only fitting that we celebrate Michelle’s birthday at the 25th Anniversary of the “Fantasy of Lights,” last evening that began at 4PM, thanks to Kim and Al Chien who purchased the tickets ahead of time before they sold out. We took a shuttle from Netflix Headquarters to Vasona Lake County Park, where we strolled (1.5 miles one way) through large animated displays like an erupting volcano at the Dinosaur Den, cheer on Santa shooting hoops, wave at a pen of playful penguins, duck blazing Pirate Cannons and sauntering through tunnels of moving lights. The Fantasy of Lights has become a cherished holiday tradition, bigger, better and brighter than ever before thanks to environmentally friendly LED lighting. I must say, not only were Lyla and Emmy were mesmerized, but us adults as well.

Though there was plenty of good food trucks and places to sit, Cecile had already made reservations for Michelle’s birthday dinner at Aldo’s Italian Restaurant. We secured a large intimate table away from the crowded, and boisterous main dining room. Cecile and I took the first shuttle bus back and ordered three platters of antipasto before the main course. The food was outstanding, and by 8:30 Lyla and Emmy were getting sleepy eyed, so we called it a night, and a wonderful evening it was.

Possible Disaster Averted and I Was Forced to Buy a New Bike: "All's Well That Ends Well"

We’ve all know the phrase, 'All’s well that ends well,’ which can best be summarized as follows: if the outcome of a situation or undertaking is a happy one, that makes up for any earlier unpleasantry or difficulty. My friend Bill and I had made plans to upload our bikes on his new bike rack and head to Shoreline that is all open land as far as the eye can see and devoid of any cars. Those plans were panned due to logistical problems so we settled for a local ride to the Lexington Reservoir. We took the Los Gatos Creek trail which eventually leads to a dirt and gravel path and a steep incline. There is another steep incline that took us to the waters edge. Again, no problem. When I attempted to go further there was a shearing noise in electric motor, and I got a sinking feeling in my stomach. Something was wrong and the same thing happened to Bill, who has the same Specialized bike as I do. We decided to head back. Bill suggested I shift to a gear that would be less taxing for the motor. Fortunately, much of the ride back was downhill. Three quarters of the way back we parted ways and I managed to get the bike to Wheel Away Cycle Center in Campbell.

Bill told me to call him if I get stuck. I called Cecile, and asked her to meet me at the shop. I had to walk the bike uphill a few times, I was a bit winded because the pedal-assist function was compromised. But, luckily I made it to the shop and was advised I needed a new motor. It turned out that it would be cheaper if I bought a new bike. I had over 5500 miles on my bike, I didn’t qualify for a warranty, and I would get nothing for the trade-in. Yikes! What should I do? After consulting with Bill and our friend Jimi, taking a test ride, I decided to purchase a new bike. Fortunately, the prices were heavily discounted on all new bikes due to a glut on the market. So I bit the bullet, and bought a new red Specialized Como 4.0. Cecile and I had at late lunch Burger Lounge at 2PM, and headed home. Before the close, Bill drove me back to Wheel Away to pick up my new bike and old bike.

It’s funny how the mind rationalizes one’s dilemma and decisions that must be made. The truth of the matter things could have been worse. I could have been severely compromised had Bill and I went to Shoreline, and I could have been stuck or at risk had we gone around the Lexington Reservoir at much higher grades in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Yes, Bill could have gone home to get his SUV, but it was cold out, the road is narrow, and there is no place to sit or rest. I thought of my late dad who when faced with a dilemma or an illness would say “it could have been worse.”

As I reframed the situation, I got a lot of pleasure and my money’s worth with my old bike and I love my new purchase.

“Alls well that ends well,” became my reality. The previous challenges were long forgotten and the outcome was a happy one.

Revisiting The Montalvo Arts Center: A Serene Place of Refuge

I biked up the steep incline to the Montalvo Arts Center, also known as the iconic Villa Montalvo, an estate-turned-public park nestled in the Saratoga foothills. There are beautiful gardens, artwork, sculptures scattered throughout the grounds, and hiking trails that lead to a redwood forest. Back in the day, members of my watercolor group: The "Saratoga Community of Painters," use to paint our renderings of Villa Montalvo. We even showcased our work at our own art show sponsored by Montalvo Art Center. My expectations for selling my work were low. But, I was honored when the director of that event bought one of my paintings. It has since become a quiet refuge that is just a bike ride away. This time, instead of just riding up and through the grounds, I stopped to admire all the artwork and sculptures in all the nooks and crannies. The day before Thanksgiving I went just after lunchtime and virtually had it all to myself. There were a couple of people quietly doing Tai Chi and walking meditation.

The hiking trails are free and picnics on the wider, sloping Great Lawn in front of a magnificent villa are allowed. The Montalvo Arts Center is the former country estate of James Duval Phelan, the former mayor of San Francisco and U.S. Senator is maintained by Santa Clara Parks. The name “Montalvo” is an homage to Garci Ordonez de Montalvo, a Spanish author credited with creating the name “California.” In the 16th century, Montalvo wrote a famous novel set on a mythical, treasure-laden island called California.” Phelan named his estate to “Villa Montalvo,” to honor the author Montalvo for the origin of the state’s name and to link his estate to California’s past.

Throughout the Montalvo Arts Center are images of griffins, a mythic cross between a lion and an eagle. They were considered the pets and protectors of strong women rulers in Montalvo’s novel. It was also a way for Phelan to further deepen the connection to Montalvo’s story, imagining the griffins watching over his country estate. Two griffins or pedestals mark the entrance to Montalvo Road. There is also a Mermaid Pond and a blue sculpture created by Los Angeles-based artist Kenny Scharf, that combines elements of nature with cartoon-like designs. Thenn there is the Italianate Garden gates that opens onto a brick walkway lined with Italian cypress trees, that lead directly to the Love Temple, a gazebo with satyrs grabbing hold of a basin. The statue of Venus that used be above them was vandalized and later destroyed as well in the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake.

Closer to Villa Montalvo is a large group of birdhouses wrapped around a cedar tree, called the Control Tower by Cameron Hockenson, an alumnus of the Lucas Artist Residency Program at Montalvo Arts Center. The art work honors the loss of songbirds. The estate itself was built in 1912.

A Family Dinner at the Chiens & A Prayer Reading for Thanksgiving

“Be thankful for what you have and you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.”—Oprah Winfrey

The invitation for Thanksgiving from Kim and Al Chien is one we all look forward to each year. Family members and other guests arrive, engaging conversations take place around the spacious kitchen counters. Al offering all of us a drink as we munch on appetizers, chips, fresh raw veggies with a dill dip, and the like. All of us contribute a food item, side dish, or dessert. Cecile and I, and our son Jason were the first to arrive, followed by Jason’s partner Alex, our daughter Michelle, Kyle and our sweet granddaughters Lyla and Emmy who made a joyful entrance that delighted us all; and Kyle’s brother Chip and his girlfriend, Julie whom some of us had the pleasure of meeting for the first time. Getting back to Lyla and Michelle, they arrived with a story to tell. They participated in a kid's local Turkey Trot, and had a ribbon and wooden medallion around their necks that they were so proud of. Final details of this grand event were set in the kitchen.

After the turkey had a chance to sit at room temperature for a while Al started carving with the precision of a surgeon. A menu sits inside a plexiglas stand includes the food prepared and provided by our hospitable hosts as well as the side dishes and desserts brought by guests. Finally, we all convened around the elegant dining room table with a beautiful centerpiece. Kim, once again invited me to give a prayer/reading before we broke bread. This year, I chose A Prayer for Thanksgiving that I took poetic license to modify and adapt from an Unknown Author:

Thank you, for everything…the big things and small,

For every good gift comes from the Giver of them all.

All too often we accept, without any thanks or praise,

The gifts sent to us as blessings, each day in many ways.

And so this Thanksgiving time, we offer up a prayer,

To say thank you for giving us, a lot more than our share.

Thank you for the little things, that often come our way.

The things we take for granted, and barely mention when we pray.

The unexpected courtesy, the thoughtful, kind deed,

A hand that reaches out to help us in our time of sudden need.

May we be mindful and open our eyes, to the little daily graces

That comes to us with “sweet surprise,” from never-dreamed-of-places.

Thank you for the miracles, we are much too blind to see,

That gives us new awareness, of our many gifts from thy bounty.

And help us to remember, that the key to life and living,

Is to make each prayer of thanks, and every day a blessed Thanksgiving.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING WEEKEND TO EVERYONE

A Late and Delightful Lunch at Luna's Mexican Kitchen in San Jose

“Love for food is clear in every morsel that emerges from this kitchen.”

—Michelin Guide

“The entrepreneurial couple (Jo Lerma-Lopez and John Lopez) hit upon a winning concept when they first decided to turn a vintage spot on The Alameda in San Jose into a restaurant with a healthful, organic approach. It’s the concept of: “no additives, no preservatives, no cans, no microwaves, no exceptions."

—The Mercury News

The first thing that happened when we walked into Luna Mexican Kitchen is we were warmly welcomed by the hostess that seated Cecile and I, and handed us a breakfast and lunch menu. She then placed a tray of thick, crispy, house-made tortilla chips matched with vibrant red salsa and green cilantro sauce. They reportedly use an ancient process of nixtmalization, using non—GMO corn and soaking them in an alkaline solution, which releases all the nutrients. They then grind them with stone, hand press them and fry them in very clean rice bran oil.

One of the cooks was preparing handmade tortillas—that are pressed by hand daily from organic, non-GMO corn— right across from our table for all to see. This is one of the reasons Cecile ordered a cheese Quesadilla, a corn tortilla with jack cheese, cream, guacamole, and pico de gallo, while I had the Seasonal Harvest Salad with organic mixed greens, red beats, seasonal fruit and vegetables, tri-colored quinoa, goat cheese, candied walnuts, and citrus vinaigrette.

"It’s all about making memories,” Lerma-Lopez told San Jose Spotlight…”What I love about our restaurants,” she added, “it’s people come here and feeling something, and then we become the keepers of their memories.”

“Eat like an ancestor! Food that’s 1000’s of years in the making—just like your great Abuelita used to cook. Welcome to our Tribe.”—the Lopez’ declares on their website.

Walking Ms Daisy & Doll Play & Lyla & Emmy Rock Out Singing the ABC Song

"God's angels couldn't be everywhere, so he sent granddaughters to fill our hearts with happiness and love."

—Anonymous

After we picked the girls up from pre-school and fed them some heathy snacks, it was all child’s play from there. They walked Ms Daisy (Uncle Jason’s Dog), and fed her a treat. The love the tickling feeling when Daisy licks it off the palm of their hand. After Nonnie Cecile read them a story they wanted to play in Papa’s room. They played my Brazilian box drum, the singing bowl which echoes a pleasant reverberating tone each time it’s struck, interacted with the little carved wooden animals from Kenya, and wrestled with their daddy, Lyle when he came to pick them up. On a different day they gleefully rocked out singing the ABC Song (video clip). Sooooo much fun. Emmy who has grown out of her crib some time ago, now uses it to place her and Lyla’s dolls inside for their nap time. The girls are the love of our lives and we feel blessed they live close by.

Lunch at Falafel Drive-In: A San Jose Landmark Reviewed by Guy Fieri of Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives

Though you can find the classic American fast-food fare, the main draw is Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean dishes. If your extra hungry, get the large falafel sandwich, containing falafel, tahini, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber and their signature red hot sauce wrapped in pita pocket bread. While sitting casually at one of their picnic-style tables, with a view Lila Gemellos’

colorful murals that cover all the walls filled with the history of San Jose, Cecile had the Falafel Salad and I feasted on the large Falafel Pocket Sandwich. The murals even include the famous Guy Fieri from Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives. This is what he has to say:

“ Falafel’s Drive, a culinary institution in San Jose, CA, has been delighting locals and visitors with its delectable Middle Eastern cuisine. Renowned for its mouth watering falafel, the restaurant offers a menu brimming with flavorful options. The falafel sandwich, a true crowd-pleaser, features freshly fried chickpea patties nestled in warm pita and dressed with

crisp vegetables and tahini sauce…In addition to falafel…”

Janet Boyle, is co-owner of Falafel Drive-In. She basically grew up there, hanging out with her sibling at the quaint, casual eatery

their parents, Anton and Zahie Nijmeh, opened in 1966 after moving to the Bay Area from Israel. In fact Boyle who can still be found at the family-run landmark, doing prep work in the kitchen and taking food orders from a long line of loyal regulars, not only served Cecile and I last week, but prepared my take-out order today.

Postscript: When Cecile and I lived in San Jose near the Rose Garden, and worked together operating my growing podiatry practice at the Park Avenue Foot Clinic, Falafel Drive-In was one of our favorite places to go for a quick satisfying bite.

Having a Blast at the Colorful Veterans' Day Parade in Downtown San Jose

Bill and I rode our bikes 23-miles round trip to participate in 105th Annual Veterans’ Day Parade that began on Market Street at Plaza de Cesar Chavez. The event was presented by The United Veterans Council of Santa Clara County to honor the men and women who have worn the uniform or are presently serving in the armed forces of the United States. The theme of the event was “Proudly We Serve.” Damian Trujillo, News Reporter NBC Bay Area/Telemundo48, was the Master of Ceremonies. Since we had unrestricted access to the opposite lane, we had the freedom to get up close and personal without being blocked by barricades to capture the images that accompany this post. I was so close that many posed for me.

Fleets of military vehicles, veterans’ groups and a few of the notables who were in the parade riding in vintage cars, included Matt Mahan, Mayor of San Jose, Council Member Doming Candelas (Black car with red spokes, waiving), Representative, Zoe Lofgren, US Congress, 19th District (one of the yellow sports cars), and many others. There were also many retired officers who served. There were Boy Scouts of America (BSA); Submarine Veterans; a number of marching bands; a mascot of the SJ Sharks; Vietnam Veterans, and more. Hope you enjoy the photos.

This year's parade included a Silicon Valley twist. Former Apple president, Douglas Beck, who now heads the Defense Innovation Unit, served as grand marshal. Also, members of the Welcome Home “Doughboys” (see photos) of World War 1, Greg Tiede, Ed Archer and Gregg Greenwood marched during the parade. Hope you enjoy the photos.

A Late Autumn Solo Bike Ride & Engaging the Natural Beauty Around Us

“As the days grow shorter and the air becomes crisper, nature paints a magnificent tapestry of colors across the Northern California’s landscape.”

—Kate Freeman

I love the freedom a bike gives me to just explore streets, avenues, hills, roads, off-roads, whether it is the morning, mid-day or late afternoon. I can take a walk and feel melancholy at times, but it is almost impossible for me to ride my bike and be in a bad mood. Most of the photos taken here are within a 3-4 mile radius from my home. The colors from some of the trees are getting brighter, some are shedding their leaves rather rapidly, and the clouds are often times more pleasurable than a bright sunny day. What I have found particularly mesmerizing of late are the rowing and sculling teams on their longboats at Vasona lake County Park.

Photographing Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Decorations at La Esquina

The photos were taken at La Esquina (around the corner in English) where Cecile and I ordered a Burrito Grande to go.

Though Dia De Los Muertos is celebrated every year around this time, this restaurant observes it year round with its decorations.

The Mexican holiday is full of longstanding traditions the pays homage to ancestors in the Mexican traditions that go back thousands of years. Some argue that there are Indigenous Mexican or ancient Aztec influences that account for the custom.Basically it is a tribute to the afterlife meant to honor those who have passed away and to keep their memory alive. Unlike the simultaneous Christian remembrances to Halloween which historically is meant to ward off evil spirits, Day for the Dead has a less solemn tone and is portrayed as a holiday celebration rather than mourning.These celebrations can take on a humorous tone, as celebrants remember funny events and anecdotes about the departed.

Event by Westfield Oakridge today Friday (today) from 5-8PM. The celebration will include face painting, arts & crafts, live music and performances, and entertainment for the entire family.

Celebrating My Loving Wife Cecile's Birthday at Polenteria Restaurant

"FOOD is symbolic of LOVE when words are inadequate."—Alan D. Wolfelt

We had an intimate dining experience at Polenteria in downtown Los Gatos last evening to celebrate Cecile’s birthday. She is being celebrated as my beloved wife, a devoted mother, a doting grandmother and a treasured friend. Everyone at the table and beyond will be the first to vouch for her having a heart of gold. I would add, she loves unconditionally, she gives of herself not out of reward or recognition, but because she is genuinely interested in the well-being of others—especially her family. She doesn’t feel the need to compare herself to others, and feels unapologetic about being herself. Her honesty is also the foundation of all her relationships. You can always count her being a loyal friend, partner, and confidante. She empathizes and feels your pain, listens carefully and often gives sound and common sense advice if that is what is needed in the moment.

And now, to the food. Polenteria features an entire gluten-free Italian menu that is created by Chef Yvonne Khananis who has invested 25 years perfecting her craft. We ordered three appetizers for the table: Arancini del Giorno (Sicilian fried stuffed risotto balls) and Bruschetta Flights (a choice of three creative combinations of food listed on their menu). As to our entrees, as a group we had Eggplant Parmesan; Seared Scallops on top of creamy risotto; Chicken Parmesan, Chicken Masala on top of Mash Potatoes and String beans, Fettuccine with clams and sausage and Sausage with Pasta.

While waiting for dessert Cecile opened her presents and was presently surprised with a couple of “Johnny Was” long sleeved tops. Of course Lyla, the good helper that she helped Nonnie open them.

For dessert, Jason had Affogato (vanilla gelato topped with a shot of espresso), Lyla and Emmy had beignets, and the rest of had a cannoli.

Dinner at the Dry Creek Grill with our Friends the Rothenberg's with a Little Pre-Birthday Surprise

Cecile and I had dinner at the Dry Creek Grill on Hamilton Avenue in San Jose last evening with my biking buddy Bill Rothenberg and his wife Sarah. The first thing you notice when you approach the entrance of this wonderful eatery is the bright, warm glow of the outdoor lights and fire-pits that provides a welcoming presence. The inside offers an upscale ambiance with a laid back comfortable feel that long-time restauranteurs John and Holly Smith had intended. The long, gorgeous redwood bar is lively without being too loud and the crowd is casual and fashionable. Speaking of drinks, the ladies ordered a Lemon Drop cocktail and I had I had a Hazy IPA draft.

Bill and Sarah shared Waldorf Greens with goat cheese, candied pipits, with a side of balsamic vinaigrette and Cecile and I shared a Caesar’s salad. For our entrees, Bill and Cecile had Grilled Salmon with Couscous, Sarah ordered a Half Barbecued Chicken with Savory, sweet, spicy BBQ sauce and side of baked beans with molasses & bacon. It was substantial enough to take some home. I thoroughly enjoyed a Braised tender Short Rib with garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed spinach, wild mushrooms, and natural jus.

While we all got caught up about the kids and grandkids and upcoming events, we mentioned we had birthday dinner plans for Cecile, and had mentioned to the waiter it was Cecile’s birthday (officially its Saturday), and the waiter brought out a Fresh Baked Warm Chocolate Chip Cookie served with Vanilla ice cream on top that we all shared. We sang Happy Birthday as Cecile blew out the candle—or I should I say she took the more sanitary option and clapped her hands and the dispersed air extinguished the candle, a trick she learned from an elderly cousin when we were younger:). With our sweet tooth not completed satisfied, Bill treated us to a soft serve ice cream cone at DQ.

Trick or Treating with our Granddaughters & A Traditional Halloween Treat of Chili and Corn Bread & Caramel Apples at the Chiens

“There is a child in every one of us who is still a trick-or-treater looking for a brightly-lit front porch.”

—Robert Braut

After enjoying some play time on the swings in Kim and Al’s back yard, we enjoyed some home-made chili and baked corn muffins, which is a ritual passed down from Kim’s mother when she was a child. It was very tasty, filling and in my view falls into the category of “comfort food.” For dessert, Kim gave Lyla the honors of helping her bring out a tray full of Caramel Apples. Kyle’s brother, Chip drove over from Scotts’ Valley to join us. But, the big event our granddaughter’s Lyla and Emmy were waiting for was “Trick-or-Treating.” Our daughter Michelle helped them change into their costumes. Lyla wore a white dress fashioned after Elsa, the fictional character in Disney movie, “Frozen). What made it extra special is that it had battery operated lights underneath. She was in heaven. Emmy wore a yellow dress fashioned after Belle, the fictional character in Disney’s "Beauty and the Beast." We left the house to begin trick or treating, and while on the porch, Kyle surprised the girls by coming out in a white bunny outfit. Chip teased him about it not being Easter, but the fun part of Halloween is that you can be anybody or anything you want.

We circled around Kim and Al’s neighborhood and approached any home that had decorations and tables out front or their porches and inside lights on. When we got back to Kim and Al’s, Al was manning the booth he had set up for trick-or- treaters. As they say, "build it and they will come.” Suddenly, a parade of kids of all ages with elaborate and creative costumes, mostly accompanied by adults arrived for some goodies. Lyla was in her element and took center stage with Al coaching her to say "you can take two"-meaning two pieces of candy.

Postscript: The history of Trick-or-Treating traces back to Scotland and Ireland, where the tradition of “guising,” going house-to-house at Halloween and putting on a small performance to be rewarded with food or treats, goes back a least as far as the 16th century, as does the tradition of people wearing costumes at Halloween.

Family Dinner at Fiaschetteria "Pistoia" Tuscan Restaurant on the East Side of NYC

While our travel buddies the Bye’s attended another Broadway play, Cecile and I had the rare opportunity to have dinner at Fiaschetteria Pistoia, an authentic Tuscan eatery with my cousin Joseph Micalizzi, his lovely wife Natia, and their wonderful daughters, Alyssa and Victoria. The last time we broke bread together was last year in San Francisco at the end of their Hawaiian Island Cruise, before they returned home to Staten Island. Victoria made the reservations at the East Village restaurant, and it turned out to be an excellent choice.

When I asked for the wine list, a staff member brought out an open a hand-held crate of wine displaying their offering options for that particular evening, along with price tags for a glass or bottle. My cousin Joseph and I had a bottle of Forst Italian premium-lager beer while others ordered a glass of white wine.

Before ordering dinner, I went up to a plexiglass window stand where one of the chefs was hand rolling the pasta, which is done daily. The chef smiled as I took a photo of him and the kitchen. Collectively, we had a 24 month aged Prosciutto San Daniele; Shaved Artichoke Hearts with Parmigiana and pine nuts; Pappardelle pasta with beef Ragu Bolognese; Tagliatelle with Black Truffle; Tuscan Bean Soup; and Veal Scallopini with a side tater top size potatoes, and green salad with tomatoes.

For dessert, Natia ordered dry biscuits with almonds and Holy Wine. Others had limoncello and Cecile and I shared a Panna Cotta with berries.

Proscript: Fiaschetteria means retail wine shop, and Pistoia is the name of a town in Northern Tuscany

A Celebratory Event at The Neil Diamond Musical: A Beautiful Noise with Friends on Broadway

“Over the years, you grow up, you mature and you see things in a different way, and it's reflected in the writing.” —Neil Diamond

Yesterday, Cecile and I and our good friends Nelson and Susan Bye attended a matinee performance of the new musical about Neil Diamond called "A Beautiful Noise,” at the Broadhurst Theater on Broadway. The performance was nothing short of awesome. The song and dance extravaganza featuring his legendary music tells the story of Diamond’s life and musical career featuring his hit song Sweet Caroline,” an irresistible anthem that triggered a singalong, America,” and “Cracklin’ Rosie.” From his early days in New York to sold-out spectacles that defined his illustrious career, A Beautiful Noise explores the life of a rock icon through the music that made him a national treasure.

Nick Fradiani and Mark Jacoby play the younger and older version of the rock star. We had 5th row, center seats. There is nothing like a shared human experience at a musical theater and an artist who despite his success was willing to share his shortcomings and the limits of having everything that money could buy. By the end of the show we were up on our feet, clapping, cheering and being gently struck with an explosion of orange paper streamers. After the performance, Nick Fradiani who played the younger Neil greeted us out front, had his photo take with us and signed the front cover of our PLAYBILL.

We Love New York: Enjoying The City that Never Sleeps & Having Dinner at the Brooklyn Diner

“New York, I think of nighttime, I think of Times Square and Broadway, and nightlife and the city that never sleeps.”—Jimmy Fallon

After visiting family members in Rutherford, NJ, Cecile and I checked into newly renovated New York Marriott Marquis, located in the heart of Times Square that includes the world famous Theater District, Rockefeller Center, and Radio Music Hall. At the recommendation of my brother-in-law Joe, we had dinner at the Brooklyn Dinner a few blocks from the hotel. We decided to share a juicy, tender Hot Pastrami Sandwich on Rye bread with a pickle and Cole slaw and an order of Pigs-in-a-Blanket with frankfurter. Cecile also ordered a chocolate egg cream, a popular drink from her youth. Everything about the pastrami reminded Cecile of her late beloved father, Harry Weiner who had a small food market and Deli in Chicago. He cooked the meat himself, and, it was a special treat for customers and family alike.

We decided to walk off our meal in Times Square on the world-famous intersection of 42nd Street. The name is synonymous with Broadway shows, various Disney characters, neon lights and gargantuan billboards. It Is New York’s most famous landmark and the liveliest area in the city. On a typical weekday, 430,000 people will pass through it. One would think that in one of the most heavily trafficked destinations in the world, you would hardly bump into anybody you from from back home. Well, as fate would have it, we heard someone yell out Cecile’s name. It turned out to be the mother of our daughter Michelle’s childhood friend. Speaking of Michelle, even though I grew up in Hoboken, a city on the Hudson that faces NYC, we really got to know it better when she lived and worked there for seven years before returning to California.