Dinner at Al Castello – “The Castle” of Italian Cuisine

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I had dinner with our foodie friends Sarah and Bill at Al Castello Ristorante Italiano in San Jose — which, in case your Italian’s a little rusty, means “The Castle.”

At 6:45 pm the restaurant was packed, and we got front-row seats to the open kitchen action. Our waiter, Arturo, and the whole crew were friendly, fast, and fun — you could tell they enjoy what they do.

They kicked things off with warm house-made bread for the table (big points there), and while everyone else dove into their pasta dishes, I went rogue and ordered the fresh grilled ahi special — perfectly cooked — with a side of penne tossed in olive oil and a hearty, comforting cup of minestrone soup.

The dessert menu looked dangerously tempting, but since we were all comfortably full, we went with our usual fallback: Dairy Queen swirl cones to cool the palate.

Verdict? 4.5 out of 5 stars. Great food, great service, fun atmosphere. Next time I’m going back for the pizza — and maybe I’ll finally leave room for their incredible classic Italian dessert dishes.

4th of July Celebration in San Jose—Parade, Pedals & Patriotism

by Dennis Augustine

Bill and I biked 20 miles round trip to experience the energy and heart of San Jose’s Rose, White & Blue Parade & Festival—and it was well worth every pedal stroke!

The day kicked off with a car cruise featuring vintage classics all gleaming with pride. Then came the main even—a colorful, free, family-friendly parade that celebrated San Jose’s rich cultural diversity in full style.

We saw first responders, Vietnamese and U.S. military veterans, Miss Vietnam California, a graceful Qigong Academy that also specialize in martial arts and self cultivation. They were dancing with a golden yellow dragon. It represents inner power, good health, add spiritual growth.

Colombian dancers, and community groups from all walks of life. Local leaders like San Jose’s Mayor Matt Mahon’s staff were on hand as was Senator Adam Schiff waving the American flag from a chauffeur driven convertible.

Just before noon we grabbed a front-row sidewalk seat at Luna’s Mexican Restaurant on the Alameda and enjoyed some delicious fish tacos while the festival continued to roll by in full color and rhythm.

A perfect way to celebrate the 4th—with wheels, heart, and heritage, kids and adults alike

Early Birthday Cheers for our Son Jason at “The Hero Ranch Kitchen”

by Dennis Augustine

Since we’ll be traveling later this month, Cecile and I decided to celebrate our son Jason’s birthday a bit early. We chose The Hero Ranch Kitchen in historic downtown Saratoga as the perfect setting.

We chose to dine on the outdoor terrace. Jason ordered a hand crafted Old Fashioned and opted for the seared scallops as his entree. I indulged in a cold, citrusy Hazy IPA and Cecile and I shared their signature burger, and savored a refreshing and vibrant beet salad.

Our attentive waitress noticed our special occasion and, in a delightful surprise, brought us a complimentary ice cream dessert adorned with a birthday candle for Jason to make a wish.

Happy Birthday, Jason—may this year bring you bold new adventures, quiet joys, and the deep satisfaction of living with purpose and heart. Here’s to all the chapters ahead—and to always knowing how loved you really are.

Whispers of Kabul: A Feast from the Heart of the Silk Road with Good Friends

Dennis Augustine

"Hospitality is part of our faith."

—Afghan proverb

Susan and Nelson Bye, Cecile and I stepped inside Kabul Afghan Cuisine in Sunnyvale, and the world outside softened—replaced by the warmth of saffron rice, and the gentle dance of spices older than memory . We dined on history—slow-braised lamb beneath jeweled rice , eggplant kissed by fire and cooled by yogurt , naan still warm from the oven’s ancient breath .

The flavors didn’t shout. They spoke—in the low, assured tones of a poet who’s told this story a thousand times but still means every word .

And when the last spoon of fragrant rice was gone, we strolled beneath the summer twilight to Historic Murphy Avenue, closed off to vehicular traffic, where Bella Roma’s gelato offered a cool whisper of sweet creamy delight—to compliment a soulful meal.

Celebrating a Legacy of Love & Learning—Happy Birthday to our Friend Noel Olweny in Kenya

by Dennis Augustine

From the moment we met you as our tour guide at the unforgettable Mount Kenya Safari Club, my brother-in-law Joe McAllister from New Jersey knew you had a special spark. And just look at the journey you’ve made since then! With the enduring friendship and support of your long-time friend, mentor, and benefactor—you’ve earned your master’s degree in land management at Egerton University, and have become a powerful force for good in your community.

One of the most meaningful collaborations between you and Joe is the creation of the Selina McAllister Computer Classrooms—launched in memory of my beloved niece and goddaughter Selina McAllister who passed away in 2023. What started in Masogo, in the district of Kisumu, Kenya has blossomed into a beacon of hope, education, and opportunity for students across several school districts.

And let’s not forget your amazing work promoting school sports—bringing jerseys, boots, balls, and joy to hundreds of children thanks to donations from family and friends in the USA. That “FIREWORKS OF HAPPINESS” celebration in Masogo, Onong’no, and other neighboring schools says it all!

Noel, your heart, humility, and dedication to uplifting your community are truly inspiring.

Anchored in Love, Carried by Curiosity: A Birthday Salute from Alaska to our son Jason

by Dennis Augustine

“We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” —Anonymous

Happy Birthday, Jason! We first brought you to Alaska when you were a curious young boy, with your little sister Michelle five years behind you. Now we find ourselves here again — surrounded by glaciers, mountains, and that wild northern magic — and it brings back the warmth of those early family adventures.

In honor of your birthday, we’re sharing a photo essay — favorite moments from your life’s journey. These snapshots beautifully mirror our shared history and the deep joy we feel watching you grow.

You’ve become a traveling man in your own right — thoughtful, well-read, a lover of the world’s flavors and stories. And whether you’re traveling with both of us, just one of us, or charting your own course, we’re always grateful for every shared mile, every conversation, every laugh. Let the pictures do the telling. This one’s for you.

With all our love,

Mom & Dad

A Perfect Pairing: Fine Dining at Toscana & Broadway Dreams Starring Carson Turner

by Dennis Augustine

Last night aboard the Oceania Riviera was one we’ll remember. Cecile and I were fortunate to be chosen from the waitlist for Toscana, the ship’s exquisite Italian specialty restaurant. From the moment we sat down, we knew we were in for something special. The fresh bread centerpiece alone was a celebration—an artful assortment served with a trio of fragrant and flavorful olive oils.

The meal was beautifully prepared and leisurely enjoyed—each course a reminder of how luxurious it can feel to simply savor.

After dinner, we made our way to the Riviera Lounge for Broadway Dreams, a solo show by our talented cruise director Carson Turner. What followed was more than entertainment—it was a heartfelt journey through Carson’s life told through the Broadway songs that shaped him. Raised as an only child in North Carolina, he shared how musicals like Annie, Oklahoma, The Boy from Oz, and The Jersey Boys (my personal favorite) guided his path, even as his father—once a starting quarterback—hoped he’d follow a more athletic route. Eventually, his father saw Carson shine on stage and became his biggest fan.

Carson’s performance was a beautiful tribute to his parents and to the power of the arts. At the end, he urged us all to support arts education—so vital and too often underfunded. And as he often reminded us throughout the cruise after announcing daily activities:

“…If you do nothing else, be kind to one another.”

We stayed afterward to thank him, and Cecile shared that our daughter Michelle had also performed in many of those same shows growing up. Like Carson, neither she nor our son Jason were into sports—but both found joy and expression in music and theater. Jason played clarinet in his high school and college bands, and Cecile herself was a proud volunteer mom producer-helping stage musicals at JCC summer camp under the guidance of director Laural Perelman Cohen.

Wrangell, Alaska: A Hidden Gem Steeped in Layers of History

by Dennis Augustine

After breakfast at Oceania’s Grand Dining Room, Cecile and I stepped ashore into one of Alaska’s most quietly captivating towns—Wrangell.

Unlike the bustling ports packed with tourists, Wrangell greeted us with stillness and sincerity. No chain stores, no cruise ship chaos—just genuine local charm and the echoes of a rich, layered past.

Wrangell is one of the oldest towns in Alaska and the only one to have flown four flags: Tlingit, Russian, British, and American. Each has left its mark, but the Tlingit people—whose presence here goes back thousands of years—remain the soul of this land.

The town was named after Baron Ferdinand von Wrangell, a Baltic German explorer who governed Russian America in the 1830s. Later, during the Gold Rush, it became a rugged supply town—and though the boom has passed, its frontier spirit still lingers.

One highlight: Cecile and I had our photo taken with a woman in beautiful red and black traditional regalia of the Tlingit, the Indigenous tribe native to the Wrangell area.

Alaska Unfiltered–A Front-Row Seat to Nature’s Majesty of Glacier Fjords

by Dennis Augustine

There is a voice that doesn’t use words. Listen.”— Rumi

We woke early for breakfast in our room, not wanting to miss a moment of what would become the major natural highlight of our cruise—navigating the breathtaking Holkham Bay Glacier Fjords.

Because larger cruise ships can’t access this hidden gem, it felt like a secret passage into Alaska’s untouched wilderness. Cecile and I stood in awe as slabs of ancient ice calved from the glacier, into the water below. Even the smallest shards sparkled like diamonds, floating past us in silence.

With only 1,250 guests aboard Oceania and a remarkable staff of 800 from over 50 nations, it’s easy to feel pampered. But today, the true luxury was outside. Nature herself was the star, and we were just lucky enough to be there to witness it.

#AlaskaCruise #HolkhamBay #NatureInHerGlory #OceaniaCruiseMoments

Waking Up to Haines, Alaska–“The Valley of the Eagles,” & Glistening Glaciers

by Dennis Auguatine

This morning, Cecile and I awoke to the awe-inspiring beauty of Haines, Alaska—From our suite aboard the Oceania Riviera, the view looked like a painting—crisp skies, mirrored waters, and snow-kissed peaks.

Haines, known as “The Valley of the Eagles,” sits at the meeting point of the world’s largest protected wilderness area, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site that stretches across the U.S. and Canada.

We explored the quaint downtown and stopped by the Hammer Museum—a one-of-a-kind tribute to the tool that helped shape the frontier-over 2500 hammers on display. Quirky, yes, but absolutely fascinating.

Thanks to the mild weather, reaching 74 degrees, we even enjoyed some unexpected pool time aboard the ship—a rare treat in Alaska! Later, we dined at the Terrace Café.

To top off the day, we attended “Our World”—a vibrant and theatrical celebration of global music performed by the incredibly talented Riviera Production Company. A joyful reminder of how connected we all are through Rhythm and culture.

Happy Independence Day!

by Dennis Augustine

As we celebrate the Fourth of July, I find myself pondering the deeper significance of this day. Here’s a poem I wrote to capture the essence of this moment and the challenges we face:

Freedom Ain’t Easy—but it’s Worth Embracing with Love of Country

It didn’t come wrapped in peace—

freedom never does.

It came through storms and stand-offs,

through fire, flaws, and fuss.

It came with boots in mud,

hands stained with ink and blood,

with broken promises and bold dreams

too stubborn to die.

It was never clean or conflict-free—

this road to liberty. It was wrestled for,

fought for, by courageous and imperfect people.

And unless we’re in a battlefield today,

the hardest battle is within—

to live with honesty,

to carry peace,

to walk in freedom

without forgetting those who paid the price.

Freedom’s not just fireworks, cheers, and flags—it’s how we treat the ones we disagree with,

how we show up for each other,

how we keep the promise alive.

So, while fireworks light up the sky

let’s remember:

Freedom is messy.

But it’s ours to carry.

And it’s worth the weight.

Wishing you all a joyous and meaningful Independence Day, my friends and family.

Sittin’ on the dock of the Bay on the Seattle Harbor—with Mt. Rainier Watching Over Us

by Dennis Augustine

There we were—Cecile and I—‘sittin’ on the top of the Bay,” just like Otis sang, legs dangling over the courtesy orange deck chairs on this peaceful pier in Seattle harbor.

We watched the cruise ships roll in, majestic and proud… and then roll out again… Their horns echoing across the water like a call to adventure. Around us, travelers arrived, posed for selfies, leaned over the railing to feel the salt-kissed air.

Above it all, snow-capped Mt. Rainier stood like a silent guardian—serene, watchful, impossibly beautiful. The tide rolled in and out, as seagulls hovered and then landed on the rails like seasoned performers waiting for their cue—then lifting off again. A helicopter buzzed past, a jet climbed skyward toward the horizon. It was all one grand symphony of motion, sound, and stillness.

These past few days, I find myself wanting to hold on to more of these moments… to write them down, tuck them away before heading home. To record the memory of it all—the quiet joy, the shared glances, the rhythm of the sea. Because sometimes, you don’t need to go anywhere to feel you’ve arrived.

Exploring Seattle Aquarium–A Tribute to Puget Sound

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I spent part of our day exploring the Seattle Aquarium, located right on the waterfront at Pier 59. It’s a beloved local institution—ranked among the top aquariums in the Pacific Northwest and visited by nearly a million people each year. Their mission is deeply tied to marine conservation, especially protecting the ecosystems of Puget Sound and the greater Pacific Ocean.

We were especially captivated by the Window on Washington Waters exhibit—a massive 120,000-gallon tank teeming with local marine life.

When I think of Puget Sound, I think of our friend Brian Walsh, whom Cecile and I met on a small ship operated by American Cruise Lines along with our friends Nelson and Susie Bye a few years ago. He was the guest speaker on a weeklong Puget Sound/Salish Sea voyage.

Brian’s a talented photographer and environmental policy professional, and one of the founding members of #WeArePugetSound, a movement dedicated to preserving the region’s natural beauty and biodiversity. The last photo of the sea lions was actually taken by Brian—reminding us how interconnected these experiences really are.

Seattle’s aquarium is more than a tourist stop—it’s an immersive journey into ocean life, and for us, a meaningful return to the stories and people who’ve deepened our appreciation for these waters.

The Fire Within Glass: Our Spiritual Encounter of Dale Chihuly’s Heavenly Masterpieces

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I were absolutely mesmerized touring the Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle—a sanctuary of color, creativity, and transcendence. Every room we entered felt like walking into a dream painted in molten glass.

Dale Chihuly, the visionary behind it all, is more than an artist—he’s a modern-day alchemist who transformed the fragile medium of glass into spiritual wonder. Now in his early 80s, with a net worth estimated at $20 million, his influence spans the globe. His Belagio Hotel collection in Las Vegas alone is reportedly valued at over $10 million, with 2,000 glass blossoms blooming across the ceiling of the hotel’s lobby—one of the most photographed installations in the world.

The exhibition in Seattle offers an immersive look into his life and technique, showcasing rooms of floating seaforms, shimmering chandeliers, and riotous garden blooms made entirely of glass. It’s no exaggeration to say this experience moved us deeply—it felt like standing inside a kaleidoscope powered by soul.

We were also treated to a live glass-blowing demonstration from two incredibly skilled young artisans. Narrated by a passionate guide, we learned that it takes three years to develop solid technique and thirty years to become a master. Watching the transformation from glowing molten glass into elegant form was nothing short of magic.

A Seattle Waterfront Stroll, an Artistic Fountain & Epic Sculptures at Olympic Sculpture Park

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I enjoyed a gorgeous walk along Seattle’s harborfront, heading from Bell Harbor toward the Olympic Sculpture Park. Along the way, we passed a beautiful fountain crowned by a striking Olympiad-style nude statue—a powerful opening to a morning of art and city energy.

The walk gave us sweeping views of Elliott Bay, ferries drifting across the Sound, and the Space Needle rising proudly in the distance.

At the Olympic Sculpture Park—part of the Seattle Art Museum—we admired a landscape where art and nature merge seamlessly. Most memorable was Alexander Calder’s iconic red “Eagle”, its wings stretched wide against the Seattle sky. And just before arriving, I couldn’t resist a selfie beneath Roxy Paine’s monumental “Molecule”, a swirling tangle of red steel tubes soaring above like a frozen explosion of energy.

A perfect way to blend art, nature, and the rhythm of the city—all with Cecile by my side.

Lunch with our Very Special Niece Annabel at French Restaurant Place Pigalle Overlooking Elliot Bay in Seattle

by Dennis Augustine

Whenever Cecile and I find ourselves in Seattle, we make it a point to call on our sweet niece Annabel—daughter of Cecile’s brother Laury and sister-in-law Jessica. Having moved to the greater Seattle area from Ann Arbor some years ago, she’s become our local connection to good company and great food.

Today we had the joy of treating her to lunch at Place Pigalle, her excellent recommendation nestled in the heart of Pike Place Market. With views of Elliott Bay and dishes that wow, it’s no wonder this spot has such staying power. And what a story: this place dates back to the post-Klondike Gold Rush boom, originally known as the Lotus Inn—a speakeasy during Prohibition and a tavern in its next life. A perfect mix of old charm and current flavor.

Speaking of history, it’s hard to believe it’s been 11 years since our 2014 trip to Alaska with Annabel and her parents. We’ve included a few photos from that time—Annabel was just a young girl then. Now she’s all grown up, smart, gracious, and still a joy to be around.

One Iconic Market, 500+Vendors, Endless Colors & People-Watching-Pike Place in Seattle Never Disappoints

by Dennis Augustine

After stepping off the Oceania Riviera at Bell Harbor, we hopped into an Uber and headed to the Courtyard Marriott in historic Pioneer Square. From there, we set out on foot to the legendary Pike Place Market—ranked among the top five public markets in the world.

Bustling with life, color, and character, this iconic market is an absolute feast for the senses. Beyond the famously flying fish and dazzling floral stalls, you’ll find artisanal cheeses, handcrafted pastas, smoked salmon, baked goods, spices, souvenirs, vintage comics, and local honey—over 500 vendors in total, including shops, stalls, and eateries.

Street performers filled the air with music and laughter. A duo of tuxedo cats with their own little setup stole the show, drawing crowds and raking in tips with their charm.

Just across the street is the original Starbucks, a mecca for coffee lovers that still bears its 1971 logo and vibe. On our way back to our “girl” (as we affectionately call our ship), we made one last delicious stop for paninis at DeLaurenti’s, the Italian specialty shop inside the market that’s a hidden gem in itself.

From Tribal Drumbeats to Butchart Gardens Blossoming Magic in Victoria, BC

by Dennis Augustine

After docking in Victoria, British Columbia—our final port after an unforgettable Alaska cruise—Cecile and I were surprised with a heartfelt tribal welcome by a local Indigenous group. It set the tone for a magical final chapter.

We boarded a bus for a pre-paid narrated excursion to the legendary Butchart Gardens, and our driver Leroy made the ride as memorable as the destination. A former police officer of 12 years, Leroy joked that unlike the passengers in his squad car, today he drives only happy tourists—“and that,” he smiled, “is a blessing I never take for granted.”

Butchart Gardens, designated a National Historic Site of Canada and now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, began in 1904 when Jennie Butchart transformed her husband’s exhausted limestone quarry into a garden paradise. Today, it draws over a million visitors a year from around the world.

We explored the serene Sunken Garden, the dramatic first creation; wandered through the fragrant Rose Garden; paused in the contemplative Japanese Garden with its arched bridges and maples; and strolled through the Italian and Mediterranean Gardens, each corner offering its own seasonal charm.

To end our visit on a sweet note, Cecile and I treated ourselves to a creamy scoop of authentic Italian gelato from the Gelateria on the grounds. The perfect taste of summer to go with a truly magical day.

An Evening at Jacques Restaurant Aboard Oceania-A Taste of Paris

by Dennis Augustine

After a full and invigorating afternoon exploring Juneau, Cecile and I treated ourselves to a special dinner at Jacques, one of Oceania Riviera’s signature specialty restaurants.

Jacques is the namesake restaurant of renowned Chef Jacques Pépin, and it feels every bit like an intimate French bistro transported to sea. The ambiance was warm and classic, with vintage Parisian décor, and white-gloved service that added just the right touch of ceremony to the evening.

We were delighted to be joined by Cat from Birmingham, England, a fellow traveler whose stories added a delightful British flair to our French evening.

As a meal—sublime! I began with a silky pumpkin soup, followed by a beautifully arranged cheese platter, and a crisp, refreshing goat cheese salad. The warm, delicate cheese soufflé which shared with me was a highlight in both texture and flavor, and our filet mignon—cooked to perfection—rounded out the savory selections.

For dessert, we couldn’t resist sharing both the apple tart with vanilla ice cream and the flambéed crêpe Suzette—each bite a decadent finish to an unforgettable night.

Port of Call: Juneau – Alaska’s Remote & Radiant Capital

by Dennis Augustine

Our next stop: Juneau, the only U.S. capital that you can’t drive to! Surrounded by dramatic fjords, glaciers, and the towering Coast Mountains, Juneau is accessible only by boat or plane—adding to its mystique and charm.

The city’s name honors Joe Juneau, a French-Canadian gold prospector who, along with Richard Harris, discovered gold here in 1880. That rush gave birth to the town—and the spirit of adventure still lingers in the air.

Juneau is known for its rich Indigenous Tlingit culture, and stunning vistas around every turn. Whether you’re riding the Mount Roberts Tramway for panoramic views, wandering historic Front Street, or watching floatplanes crisscross the harbor—it’s a place that whispers stories from the past and sings with natural beauty.

We arrived alongside several majestic cruise ships, each one unloading travelers ready to explore this gem tucked between sea and sky. Yet even with the bustle, Juneau retains a peaceful, old-town feel—with quaint shops, friendly locals, and bald eagles perched just beyond reach.