Celebrating my 69th Birthday hosted by Kim and Al Chien & the Meaning behind my Numerical Age

“The number 69 signifies family, home, harmony, idealism, health, and compassion.”—BS Srinivasan

Cecile and I feel so grateful to have celebrated my 69th birthday hosted by my son-in-law Kyle's mother, Kim and husband Al Chien in the comfort of their entertainment center in the back yard of their beautiful home. Once again, they delivered a 5-star barbecue of Tri-tip and salmon and some great tasting vegetarian side dishes that were out of this world. We loved your matching aprons (photo). From their flattering ecard invitation (photo) and treating us so royally, Cecile and I feel so blessed to have them in our lives. It was indeed a pleasure to share this special day with our son Jason and his partners Alex, our daughter Michelle and Kyle and of course our little angel of a granddaughter, Lyla. Thank you for all the love and thank you, everyone, for all the wonderful gifts.

Being a student of Qi gong, a holistic system of coordinated body posture, movement, breathing and meditation used for health, spirituality and martial arts training with roots in Chinese medicine and philosophy, I had a chance to think about the number 69 earlier today.

For many years, the number 69 has unfairly gotten a blemished reputation in the West due to the perception of separation between a man and a woman, focusing on their differences. Also, people perceive 69 in a more sexual connotation. At this point, I can hear my children saying, “Dad, TMI" (too much information.😅 But, I would like to expand the conversation to include the idea that the number 69 is about giving and receiving as symbolized by the Taoist Yin Yang symbol or balance between two partners in all our interactions including physical love-making with our partner. In other words, physical intimacy goes far deeper than just the physical parts. 

In the West, the Asian philosophy of Yin Yang is referred to as Yin AND Yang,” which infers polar opposites or contrary forces that are interconnected in the natural world and how they give rise to one another. However, in Chinese medicine, Yin Yang does not represent opposing forces, but rather complementary opposites that interact within a greater whole—a more dynamic system if you will. In Asian or Taoist philosophy good/bad and other moralistic distinctions are set aside in favor of the idea of balance between the two. Females and males become one. Becoming aware that we are one allows us to let go of the concepts we grew up within the West that perceives us as being separate and focusing our attention on the deeper connection between partners or couples.

Biking the South Bay Trails; a Stop at a Wildlife Refuge & Lunch at the Lakeside Bistro

“The goal of life is to make your heartbeat match the beat of the universe, to match your nature with Nature.”—Joseph Campbell

Beginning at Shoreline Lake in Mountain View, my good friend Jimmy Hunter and I took a 10-mile mountain bike ride through a wildlife oasis for migratory birds and endangered species located in the heart of California’s high-tech industry. There is a multi-million-dollar project to transform the old salt ponds back into wetland habitat to return the city’s bay shore to its natural state after a century of industrial salt production.

It was magnificent. We literally had a bird’s eye view of egrets, sandpipers, pelicans and other waterfowl that wade in the mudflats, marshes and the multi-colored water caused by aquatic plants and algae growth that are part of the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay Natural Wildlife Refuge. Though it was a hot day, the coolness of the ambient air kept us comfortable as our bikes hugged the path contouring the edge of the bay. 

Suddenly, something caught my eye. I spotted a mythological-looking structure seemingly made out of a pile of rocks, a miniature version of what one often sees around the world that are created by nature over millions of years. Jimmy informed me that other bikers, joggers and hikers often take a stone and add it to the design as if it were a community project of artists. It had a whimsical and spiritual feel to it and was the perfect place for a photo op. After we had our moment, we attempted to continue on to Alviso which was another five miles away when Jimmy discovered he had a flat tire. After yelling out a few expletives, and berating himself for forgetting his backpack which had a tire repair kit in it, we had to decide how to deal with the situation before us. Jimmy encouraged me to continue to ride a couple of miles further on my own while he doubled back and I would meet him at the Lakeside Bistro for lunch.

As far as I was concerned it was a perfect morning, and I didn’t want Jimmy to worry about my missing out on our final destination. After all, as the wise ones say "the journey is the destination," and lunch at the Bistro was the icing on the cake. I had seen and experienced so many precious moments. We ordered Fish and Chips and an Eggplant and Provolone and red bell peppers on flatbread and agreed we would complete the intended trip to Alviso, known for its great Mexican food early next month. 

After we heading home, I took a nap and finished the day with a swim at Bay Club Courtside and a 7 PM Restorative yoga class, or what I call the perfect trifecta.

Hangin' with Lyla in Redwood City in Her Watermelon Baby Outfit

Hangin' with Lyla in Redwood City in Her Watermelon Baby Outfit

“It’s funny what happens when you become a grandparent. You start to act all goofy and do things you never thought you’d do. —Mike Krzyzewski

We spent the day hangin’ out with our granddaughter Lyla at our daughter Michelle and our son-in-law Kyle’s new home in Redwood City. When Lyla was born 8 months ago, we shared the great news with our friends and family, many of whom have become old hats at this wonderful stage of life where one’s offspring gives birth to a new generation of offspring. They all said the same thing: “Savor the moments, it only gets better!" We treasure our time with Lyla whose name in Persian means Dark Princess and in Hebrew means night. Cecile and her sister Sherry who are thirteen months apart and grew up in Chicago would always say "Laila Tov" to one another before they went to sleep which means "goodnight.” But, in contrast to the meaning behind her name, Lyla is a beaming ray of light that brightens our day and brings joy beyond measure whenever we are in her presence.

The watermelon outfit Lyla is wearing for the first time happens to be the same baby outfit Michelle wore when
she was Lyla’s age. There are no words to describe the feeling Cecile and I both felt watching our precious little grandchild wearing her mom’s outfit. It brought us back in time. Aside from the joy of being Nonnie and Papa, our given names, for grandma and grandpa we get to witness how Michelle has become the attentive, loving mother her mother was and continues to be.

As someone who likes to journal and take photos, I am have become self-appointed archivist and blogger who enjoys documenting family events and other celebrations of life on Facebook and my blog site: enjoyyourlifenow.net

The photos were spontaneously taken throughout the day. The first photo is of her is sitting on her blanket on the front lawn of her new home. The second photo is her holding an envelope containing a letter of acceptance from Stanford University. Okay, I’m getting ahead of myself:-), but
as the pop hit song lyrics go: “Anything Can Happen.” Then there’s Lyla with her big brother Decker who loves to lick her face, fingers, and toes as if she were a popsicle.

Here is a poetic offering by an unknown author called: "We Love You, Little One" that speaks to the spirit of how we feel about our little princess and appeals to parents and grandparents alike.

We’d daydream of the things we’d share,
Like bedtime stories and teddy bears.
Like first steps and skinned knees,
Like nursery rhymes and ABC’s.

We thought of things you’d want to know,
Like how birds fly and flowers grow.
We thought of lessons we’d need to share,
Like standing tall and playing fair.

Each nap time we lay you down to sleep,
We gently kiss your head and cheek.
We count your little fingers and toes,
We memorize your eyes and nose.

We linger at your nursery door,
Awed each day we love you more.
Through misty eyes, we dim the light,
We whisper “We Love You” every night.

We loved you from the very start,
You stole our breath, embraced our hearts.
As grandparents and grandchild, our journey’s begun,
Our hearts are yours, forever, little one.

After a long day, of feeding Lyla, taking her for a walk in her stroller to the local park, playing with her, kissing those chubby cheeks, making her laugh, reading her bedtime stories, feeding her, putting her down for a nap, alas it was time to go. Cecile and I ended up at Terrain Cafe at Stanford Shopping Center for an early dinner al fresco on their outdoor patio and counting our blessings in the midst of a challenging week, before heading home.

A Midsummer Wine's Dream & Delectable Food Bites at Tigelleria's Ristorante with Friends

“More important than the food pairing [are the people] with whom you drink the wine.”—Christian Moueix

Cecile and enjoyed a special taste of Italy with our friends Susan and Nelson Bye who we invited to join us, pairing great wines and tantalizing food bites at Tigelleria Ristorante in the heart of downtown, Campbell, CA. The restaurant pronounced (Tee-gel-leh-ria) is the name of a special cast iron pan that is used to make a tasty circular bread with a crisp crust and soft center from Modena, Italy, home of the late, great operatic tenor, Luciano Pavarotti and is served throughout Tuscany and Veneto.

The bread is served with olive oil and balsamic vinegar and gourmet mushroom dip. The restaurant is the creation of owner and Executive Chef, Elisabetta Benetollo and offers dishes from traditional Venetian family recipes. It highlights fresh quality cuisine using locally sourced organic foods.

Our waiter Francesco photographed here between Nelson and me introduced us and nineteen other patrons at the table to a veteran sommelier, Cristina Rinaldi, who made a passionate, entertaining and informative presentation about the history of the wines we would be drinking, where they originated, and what made them special. Her love affair with wine began when her boss paid for her schooling to become a sommelier. As she introduced each wine before each food serving she held up a map of Italy and pointed out the regions where the grape vineyards were grown and wineries established.

Our taste buds were enlivened with a 2017 Parpinello Vermentino paired with burrata topped with arugula and balsamic vinegar reduction; a 2015 Castello Della Panneretta chianti Classico paired with organic house-made grandma lasagna; and a 2015 La Casetta Valpolicella Repasso paired with top sirloin steak with potatoes and herb butter.

Nelson an avid wine buyer and collector, whom I thought was photographing the labels on the wine bottles was actually scanning the labels. He introduced me to the Vivino app considered to be the best wine label-scanning application for smartphones, which provides details about the wine such including expert ratings, price, features, and the places to buy them at the best price. The app is a personal guide for newbies and connoisseurs alike.

For dessert we shared a Tortino al Cioccolato, an organic chocolate torte served with Amarena cherry ice cream that was freshly made to order that did not disappoint. We left the restaurant perfectly sated with smiles on our faces.

Note: The photo of the hanging ornamental marionette soldiers are common in Sicily and made me feel nostalgic for my late mother Maria's birthplace.

Shoreline Lake for Lunch, a Stroll, Invigorating Beauty & Peaceful Refuge

“Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things"—Robert Breault

Cecile and I decided to escape the heat by going to Shoreline Lake in Mountain View, a 20-minute drive from our home. On the way, we heard a roar of eight motorcycle policemen as they sidled up alongside us as seen in the photo. We hadn’t been to Shoreline in quite some time. We were rewarded with a cool, breezy, sunny day. Most people don’t know that this large shimmering lake was once a landfill. Beyond the perimeter of the lake is the South Bay (photo). We had shared an Eggplant & Formaggio (Herb focaccia with sun-dried tomatoes puree, artichoke hearts, roasted red bell peppers & mozzarella cheese) at the American Bistro that sits strategically and cozily near the edge of the water. Plexiglass barriers surround the outdoor patio to protect against the wind and colorful umbrellas protect you against the sun.

This time of year, kids, accompanied by their parents and teen counselors engage in various water activities including kayaking, windsurfing and paddle boating which is also available to the general public. The Bistro also draws companies like Google, Samsung who treat their employees to luncheons on the waterfront lawn and patio and offer team building activities. After lunch, we walked around the lake and enjoyed watching the seagulls gliding on the thermals and a few small private planes heading to and from Palo Alto airport just ten miles away.

Beyond the activities mentioned above, this place is a source of great inspiration for the inner poet, the Plein-air artist who needs a scene to paint, couples looking for a romantic interlude, families who want to picnic and anyone craving a little bit of nature and wildlife. I discovered this wonderful refuge many years ago with my watercolor group called the Saratoga Community of Painters that has since disbanded but has left me with a lifetime of wonderful memories.

Here’s a little bit of LAKE Wisdom:

Soak up the Sun
Cast Away Your Troubles
Keep Things Clear
Make Positive Ripples
Take Time to Reflect
Shore up Friendships
Be Full of Life & Grateful for the Day

Dinner with Family at Celia's: A Mexican American Success Story

"Time with those we love is the greatest gift as today’s little moments become tomorrow's precious memories."

Cecile and I babysat our granddaughter Lyla on Friday and our daughter Michelle and son-in-law Kyle asked us to join them for dinner at Celia’s Mexican Restaurant in San Mateo, a stone’s throw from where they live. Asking Kyle if he likes Mexican food would be liking asking him if the pope is Catholic.😜 Celia’s, which has an extensive menu and great non-machine made secret blend Margaritas is one of his favorites.

Michelle, Kyle, and Cecile had Agave Margaritas and I had a frozen strawberry Margarita along with tortilla chips and guacamole for the table. For our main entrees, we feasted on vegetarian fajitas with fresh tortillas (no lard), Tostada chicken salad, cheese, and chicken enchiladas. Kyle and I had a beer with dinner. The only missing was a mariachi band, but we had Lyla to keep us thoroughly entertained.

Political pundits who argue over the immigration policy might consider the story of the late Celia Lopez-Rodriguez and her late husband Perfecto Lopez. In 1955, five years after they were married, Perfecto immigrated to San Francisco to raise enough funds to bring Celia to the United States one year later. The couple had to work 16-hour days in local restaurants for three years before they could afford to bring their four children to join them. 

In 1961, with money they had saved, the founders of Celia’s opened a cafe in the Outer Sunset District of San Francisco. They served burgers, fries, and milkshakes in a largely Irish neighborhood. When they expanded their business to include dinner, they experienced a slowdown. Following her intuition, Mrs. Lopez-Rodriguez insisted they should introduce Mexican food on their menu. Her husband disagreed, believing it would never sell in the neighborhood. Celia began sneaking out a few enchiladas to their regular customers and within a week’s time, lines formed out the door and the rest, as they say, is history. They changed their name to Celia’s Mexican Restaurant. Rather than franchising their business, each future restaurant was owned and operated by different family members using recipes Mrs. Lopez had brought with her from their small town in Jalisco, Mexico.

Having grown up very poor in a town with no paved sidewalks and no roads, Celia and her husband Perfecto had achieved the American Dream and lived to see their grandchildren go to college.

Celebrating the 4th of July with Family & Friends & Happy Holiday Weekend to All!

“The essence of America—that which really unites us—is not ethnicity, or nationality, or religion. It is an idea—and what an idea it is: that you can come from humble circumstances and do great things. That it doesn’t matter where you came from, but where you are going.”
—Condoleezza Rice

I am grateful that the founding fathers created a system of government that among many liberties mostly allows it's citizens to create their own destinies, choose where and how to live, what fields of endeavor to pursue, the right to protest and the freedom to travel.
Speaking of travel, due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control we canceled our Alaska Cruise this week. Instead, Cecile and I celebrated at Bay Club Courtside resort facility in the sunny and mild temperatures of Silicon Valley in Northern California. Our son Jason and Alix were our guests and we were surrounded by a community of friends and acquaintances. There was a Pool Deck Concierge Service we rarely take advantage of on holidays and weekends and a Poolside DJ. We had frozen lime Margaritas, burgers, salad with filet of Salmon and watermelon. A few of the lap pool lanes were opened up for members and guests to luxuriate themselves atop larger than life-sized inflatables such as the Pink Flamingoes seen in the photos. Families with children were even bustin' a groove on the other side of the club that also has a pool and playing organized games. The photo of me with the person with the black cap is my energetic Iranian American friend AJ Dadnia (aka The Zumba King)😎
Cecile and I were also seated in our chaise lounge chairs next to Carlos and his wife Claudia that I know from yoga and Qi Gong class.

In honor of the 4th of July, here is a poetic offering by Joanna Fuchs, that spoke to me as it relates to the spirit and meaning of the freedoms we were given and that literally and figuratively breathes life into our American flag:

Old Glory (in free verse)

I am the most famous icon on earth,
on display all over the world…
standing guard at majestic official buildings,
in courtrooms, churches, and even on the moon.
I fly from the houses of families who revere America,
and snap in the breeze on parade.

…Sometime soiled and tattered, even bloodstained,
I survive the grinding toil of wars,
urging my weary warriors to fight on...
I lie precisely folded, held by mothers of fallen soldiers
as their fingertips caress me for comfort and strength.

I am invincible.
I have been burned, spat upon, trampled and cursed,
but I overcome all to unfurl, soar and inspire again.
I am the Star-Spangled Banner; I am Old Glory;
I am the American Flag, a symbol of freedom, forever.

Poem adapted from Joanna Fuchs
www.poemsource.com

Peace and thanks to the wonderful workers and staff at Bay Club Courtside!

Magical Moments: Sage advice from a 103 Track Star to Whom this Post is Dedicated

W. Somerset Maugham once wrote, “Nothing in the World is Permanent, and we’re foolish when we ask anything to last, but surely we’re still more foolish not to take delight in it while we have it.”

Julia “Hurricane” Hawkins takes delight in everything she does. Believed to be the oldest woman to formally complete on an American track, she took up running at age 100.

Back History: In a recent interview, Sarah Mervosh, a New York Times reporter, asked Julia “Hurricane” Hawkins, age 103 if she had any closing thoughts after have had completed the 100-meter dash race in the National Senior Games in Albuquerque. The centenarian who set a record for the 100-meter dash when she was 101, said: "Keep yourself in good shape if you can. Have many passions. And look for magic moments. That is something that I have done in my life—think of the things that are magic moments that happen to you, like sunsets and sunrises, rainbows, beautiful birds, music and people who make lovely comments to you. All of those are magic moments and they are free for all. Be sure to keep your eyes open for them." 

When the reporter called her for the interview, she was taking a break from running, the Louisiana native was enjoying the day at a botanical garden. It turns out the flowers are another passion of hers. “I’m a big flower person,” she said, “I usually wear a flower in my hair, even when I’m running. I would rather be the 'Flower Lady’ than the 'Hurricane Lady.’”

As a tribute to this inspiring grand lady, I have dedicated this post and photos—mostly of flowers that I recently took as well as images (sunsets, etc.) I captured recently of other magical moments that have brought me a great deal of joy. After all, life is short or as Julia says, “As I get older, I feel like I only have so many 100-yard dashes left…”—a perfect metaphor for living and enjoying life now. It’s never too late.

Credit: Sarah Mervosh, The New York Times, June 2019
Photo Credit of Julia Hawkins (Brit Huckabay/National Senior Games, via Associated Press)

Celebrating Our Son's 38th Birthday at the Blue Door Restaurant and Bar

“Life should not only be lived, but it should also be celebrated.”
—Osho

Before heading to the Blue Door Jason took a group selfie of us with Daisy whom we are going to be dog sitting
for the next few days. We love to take her on the walking trails where we live. After the photo, we met up with our daughter, Michelle, Kyle, our granddaughter Lyla, Kyle’s mom Kim and Jason’s partner, Alex at the restaurant.
We ordered some drinks and appetizers including Prosciutto Flatbread and Mediterranean Sampler. For dinner, we had Chicken Kebabs Platter, Scallop & Prawn Risotto, The Blue Door Burger, Fish and chips to name a few.

For dessert, we ordered one of Jason’s longtime favorites: Affogato which is a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream served with a single shot of espresso. We ordered one for Jason and three for the table and sang Happy Birthday to him after which he blew out the candles. At 38 years old Cecile and I would like to think we were good parents and that we didn’t subject him to any childhood trauma.

But, we’d be wrong. Have you ever ordered a tantalizing dessert and once it’s placed in front of you, one or two people at the table would say oh, I don’t want dessert, I’ll just have a “bite” of yours. By the time you’re done “sharing” half of it is gone and you are left feeling deprived. That’s what we used to do to poor Jason, especially as we got older and the thought of eating an entire dessert became daunting. We almost always would say “We’ll just take a bite or taste of yours. I got to thinking about how we took this habit for granted and how presumptive it was.
After all, you wouldn’t want to say to someone I think I'll pass on the salad and soup and have some of yours:-). At our advancing age, Cecile and I have finally become “woke” parents in this politically correct world and are more sensitive about what we say or do:-)

All kidding aside, we are so happy to be able to celebrate special family events. In the Middle Ages, people had 150 days of the year for rest, feast, holidays and other celebratory events. They worked hard but the cycles of work and play followed a steady rhythm. These days most people can’t afford to take off half the year to participate in family traditions, but back in the day when the kids were young and we were working long hours, thanks to Cecile, we always found time to establish small, regular rituals that gave us and our children fun things to look forward to. We have continued to do so and for this, we are eternally grateful.

Happy Birthday, Jason. You’re the best. We love you.

Celebrating a Very Special Father's Day Including our Family's First Time Dad

Cecile, our son Jason and I were happy to celebrate our son-in-law Kyle's first Father’s Day, along with his dad Ed Lewis and Gerry, his mother Kim Chien and last but not least our daughter Michelle at their home in San Mateo. We missed you AL.
We had fresh veggies with hummus dip, Jalapeno Poppers as appetizers accompanied by a pitcher of Moscow Mules and Rose wine, barbecued tri-tip, Mexican grilled corn on the cob, Salmon fillet, Zucchini Linguini with cherry tomatoes, Tomato-Mozzarella Stacks with Basil.
For dessert, we had an assortment of specialty cookies, grilled fresh peach and with home-made vanilla ice cream.
Our granddaughter Lyla who was recently introduced to soft food enjoyed some sweet potatoes and avocado.
As usual, we exchanged gifts. The secret is out that I am a Lululemon fan and I was showered with the trendy and comfortable yoga pants and shirts and a bottle of wine and some very heartfelt Father’s Day cards.
Among other gifts, Kyle made out with some Lululemon tops and bottoms, dress shirt & slacks and a novelty miniaturized basketball court gifted to him by Kim to pass the time in between his business ventures and childrearing activities.

Kyle, as you know, being a father is a very special milestone in life and celebrating your first Father’s Day is all the more special because you and Michelle brought Lyla, a little angel into this world who will soon begin to call you Dada. We all wish you and Lyla a life long unbreakable bond filled
with love and affection. She is lucky to have you as a devoted dad and you will both be enriched by the process.

Father’s Day honors fathers and celebrates paternal bonds and the influence of fathers in society.
Since the Middle Ages Catholic countries of Europe celebrated Father's Day on March 19 which is Saint Joseph's Day. The Spanish and Portuguese brought the custom to Latin America, where March 19 is often still used. 
In 1924 President Calvin Coolidge first recognized Father’s Day. However, due to the massive popularity of
of the festival, President Richard Nixon established it as a permanent national observance in 1972.
Many countries in Europe and the Americas have adopted the third Sunday of June as the official day of celebration.

Postscript: Happy Father’s Day to all those who are no longer with us including my late dad, Frank Augustine, and Cecile’s late dad, Harry Weiner who are: 

“Sadly missed along life’s way, 
quietly remembered every day…
No longer in our life to share,
but in our hearts, you’re always there.”
—unknown author

The Frosty Negroni Slushy & Family Dinner at Chicago's Parson's Chicken and Fish

It is 102 degrees today in Silicon Valley and my mind—being the purveyor of desire—is yearning for a Negroni Slushy. I was recently introduced to the frosty delight at Chicago’s Parson’s Chicken & Fish (there is also one in Nashville), one of the trendiest bar-centric eateries that serve down-home southern comfort soul food like Beer Battered Fried Fish, Popcorn Chicken, etc., during a family gathering.

The Negroni Slushy is made with Chicago’s Letherbee gin, Luxardo Bitters (instead of Campari), sweet vermouth, and a tad of lime juice. Other handcrafted cocktails some of our group ordered were the Dark and Stormy slushy with rum, lime and ginger beer; Michelada with Modelo beer, house sangria, lime, salt and pepper, and Monsieur Coconut Slushy.

Cecile and I joined her brothers Mark and Lawrence Weiner, and their spouses Barbara and Jessica and children Zachary and Ilana and Annabel respectively; and sister Sherry and her daughter Emily.

Kyle and his partner Farbod and friend Kavon (not shown here) had a booth at The 98th annual National Restaurant Association (NRA) Show at McCormick Place showcasing Kyle and Farbod's SRIRACHA2GO product lines. The NRA is the foodservice industry’s largest and most comprehensive annual event worldwide and gave them quite a bit of exposure and contacts to national and international distributors.

Thanks to his uncle Mark, who is the Director of Dining Services for A’viands at Northeastern Illinois University Greater Chicago Area, our son Jason was able to join our daughter Michelle in attending the show one afternoon while we babysat our granddaughter, Lyla.

Cheers!

sriracha2go.com

Have a Happy and Safe Memorial Day: Remember, Celebrate & Honor!

“Our debt to the Heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid.
They have earned our undying gratitude. 
America will never forget their sacrifices.
—President Harold S. Truman

The red poppy is known as "The Flower of Remembrance" and is worn in memory of our veterans and active service members.

The Six remembrances on Memorial Day:

1-Our Fallen Service Men & Women Who Gave their Life for our Country

2-Those Soldiers Missing in Action

3-Our Prisoners of War

4-Our Wounded Warriors

5-Veterans who Served Both Here and Abroad, Returned Home & No longer with Us

6-Active Service Members. Thank You for All You Do!

Postscript: In Loving Memory of my dad, Frank Augustine who received a military funeral.
(January 5, 1917-December 18, 2017)

Blowout Dinner at Etta's for our Last Evening in the Windy City

“Chicago is my kind of town…”—Frank Sinatra

Chicago is where Cecile and I met in the early 70s while I was going to Podiatric Medical School.
It is always a pleasure to come back to visit the old haunts and her family.

Cecile, her sister Sherry and I took an Uber to Etta’s restaurant in the Bucktown area of Chicago and met up with Sherry’s daughter Emily, son, Jacob and his wife Amy. It was teeming with activity. There's a full sleek bar, pizza oven and spacious dining room on the main floor and a covered bar seating and outdoor space on the second floor. We sat facing the open kitchen and pizza oven on the first floor that was working overtime trying to keep up with the orders.

Etta is the sister restaurant of Maple and Ash, the company our nephew Jacob recently hooked up with to become their Director of Operations. It is always helpful and a special treat to have a family member like Jacob who is so close to the restaurant scene to help ensure an unforgettable dining experience. 

We decided the best strategy was to order family style giving us the opportunity to sample as many dishes as possible. We began with cocktails and wine and a Fire-Baked foccacia with a rich ricotta cheese spread enhanced with honey and truffle, Ricotta Pillows which tasted like gnocchi (potato dumpling); Heart-roasted beets, feta cheese, blood orange, arugula, Pepitas, and candied walnuts; Wood-fired thin crusted pizza with green asparagus, lemon, black pepper and, Pecorino; Cavatelli pasta Bolognese (meat sauce) with Parmesan; Hearth glazed lamb with pickled turnips, mustard greens and yogurt; Wood-fired chicken with lemon, garlic, thyme, potato puree and Fire-roasted, de-boned, whole Branzino white fish with capers, parsley and lemon with a crispy skin cooked to perfection.

We shared three desserts: Aya’s chocolate Sabayon tart with vanilla bean ice cream; apple Galette with almond Frangipane, and honey cardamon ice cream and, cinnamon Tres Leches with cinnamon and Krispies.

Because of Jacob's connection to Maple and Ash and his recent birthday celebration the other evening, several of our dishes were comped by the staff and a candle was lit.

And, last but not least, check out the photo I took of Jacob with his head turned toward the ceiling, mouth open as the waiter poured wine in it. It looks like some sort of fraternity hazing or religious ritual. A couple of us gave it a try and it was good.

Celebrating our Nephew Jacob's Surprise 40th Birthday Party in Chicago

“Life really does begin at 40. Until then, you are just doing research.”—Carl G. Jung

Cecile and I, Jason, Michelle, Kyle and our granddaughter Lyla were among forty family members and friends gathered to celebrate our nephew Jacob Schwimmer’s surprise 40th birthday party in a the back of the Violet Hour on Damen Avenue in the Wicker Park section of Chicago. The event was hosted by Jacob’s mom and dad, Sherry and Jerry Schwimmer with the assistance and coordination of Jacob’s sister Emily and wife Amy.

The entrance to this hard to find swanky cocktail lounge with—no sign out front—is hidden behind a mural painted wood paneled exterior. A doorman escorted us through a dark passage way and into a private candlelit salon. It had all the feel of a mysterious speakeasy reminiscent of the early 20’s when George "Bugs" Moran and Al Capone were running the streets before the repeal of prohibition in 1933.

Once we were given the word that Jacob and Amy would be arriving soon, we retreated to both sides of the room. When he walked through the curtains we all yelled surprise!
He didn’t know what hit him. He certainly didn’t expect to see family members from California.

While the hand crafted cocktails and other drinks were served by the waiters and waitresses of the Violet Hour lounge, the food was catered by the Big Star, a former gas station and now a Mexican taco-serving honky-tonk bar across the street. 

We couldn’t wish to spring this surprise on a better guy. Jacob, who is a well liked affable young man has had a good run of late. Having recently returned from an enchanting 15 day tour of Peru with Amy, he was recently hired as the Director of Operations for Maple & Ash that Zagat rates as one of the best restaurants in the Gold Coast.

Happy 40th Jacob and we extend our heartfelt congrratulations on your well deserved new career opportunity! We are so proud of you, and how you patiently worked your way up the ladder all these years in the Food and Hospitality field. All the hard work has paid off. We love you

Happy Mother's Day Mom: Unseen, Always Near, Still loved, Still Missed & Held so Dear

"A mom’s hug lasts long after she lets go.”—author unknown

Happy Mother’s Day to my Mama Maria Micalizzi Augustine. It’s hard to believe that six years have gone by since your passing on Mother’s Day in 2013. I felt blessed to be at your side with all your children when you left this Earthly domain for the Heavenly realm.

I miss your smile
I miss your voice
I miss your laugh
I miss your hugs
I miss your edgy wit
I miss our many trips to Italy/Sicily to visit family 
I’m thankful for all the sacrifices you made
I appreciate your courage, wisdom, strength, and love
I am grateful for encouraging me to continue with my studies
I am grateful for teaching me to respect my elders which carried me a long way in life

You will forever be loved.

A Mother's Day Brunch Celebration for Five Awesome Mothers at La Rinconada Country Club

“Motherhood is truly a remarkable gift and a privilege that I hold very close to my heart. To me, being a mother means to be fearless, to be a positive role model, to be a continuous cheerleader for every milestone my children will experience, to demonstrate the abundance of unconditional love that has no end and to cherish the countless memories that are truly priceless.” 
—Eluka Moore

This Mothers Day we gathered at La Rinconada Country Club in Los Gatos, California to honor and celebrate the lives of five awesome mothers: Kim Chien, mother of Kyle and Chip, Al and Rich Chien’s mother Dana who was present with their father Jack, Rich’s wife Lisa, mother of their lovely daughters Simone and Alivia, my beloved wife Cecile, mother of our son Jason and daughter Michelle and last but not least, our beloved Michelle herself, who celebrated her first Mother’s Day with our son-in-law Kyle and our five month old granddaughter and precious cargo Lyla, who really gave power to her babbling baby-speak voice that kept us all entertained and rapt with joy.

It was a beautiful Spring Day. When we entered the club, there were mimosas and champagne waiting for us on a flower decorated wooden table. After getting settled and visiting with one another we helped ourselves to an elaborate buffet brunch and dessert table.
There was ample time for group pictures and for the mothers to open their presents.

On Mother’s Day, we celebrate the lives of our beloved mothers who gave birth to us and offered a sheltering presence in their own bodies. When we are born and as we continue to grow, they begin to fashion an invisible terrain that provides us a refuge and a sense of freedom to discover the contours of our own lives as we continue on to adulthood. 

I have no doubt that our daughter Michelle will continue to become a great mother to Lyla as she has been blessed to have her devoted mother as a wonderful role model.

What follows is a poem by Kristen David (February 2003) about the joys of motherhood. I can safely say these were the wishes of Cecile when she gave birth to Jason and Michelle:

From the moment you were born 
I knew what love was really about
I loved you more than anything
Beyond the shadow of a doubt
The bond I felt was unbreakable
And instantly I knew I spend eternity 
Thanking God for my miracle—YOU…

One day in the future 
God will bless you with a miracle too
Then you will know the depth of love
That I will always have for you
I will be here for you always 
And forever and a day
Loving you unconditionally
Every step along the way.

A Festive Afternoon in San Francisco including a Raucous Visit with Sea Lions at Pier 39

Cecile and I spent Saturday afternoon in San Francisco with our niece, Ilana, who is visiting from the greater Chicago area. After having lunch at Scala’s we went to the Taiwanese American Cultural Festival in Union Square Park. We were blessed with a mild, breezy sunny day.
We visited the Ma-Tsu Temple Shrine. One of the volunteers named Ming took our photo and he and I had our photo taken together in front of the Ma-Tsu Shrine. Adherents of this tradition were offering lit incense sticks and bowing their heads in reverence to the deity surrounded by her protectors. After I told him my interest in Taoism and Buddhist meditation, Ming showed me a Tibetan prayer wheel he wore around his neck and I shared my gold engraved “katah” prayer beads from Cambodia. 

The Ma-Tsu Temple is a Taoist temple in San Francisco’s Chinatown, founded in 1986 by two Chinese immigrants. Ma-Tsu (or Mazu) was born Moniang Lin in the Fuquian province of China in 960 A.D. It has been said that she was very gifted and existed on a higher spiritual plain. At the age
of 13, she had a thorough understanding of all the Zen teachings. She was also known to have possessed healing powers and metaphysical abilities, controlling the weather and saving troubled ships at sea. Hence, she became known as the Goddess of the sea. At the age of 27 she ascendant to Nirvana.

As we exited the park I took a photo of Ilana in front of a colorful batik heart by artist Swann Freslon (sponsored by Genentech installed February 13, 2019). It was part of the "Hearts in San Francisco," a public art project that supports San Francisco General Hospital Foundation’s efforts to fund innovative projects and initiative’s that provide high-quality compassionate care at Zuckerberg San Francisco General. From 2004, more than 350 heart sculptures have been designed by local artists then auctioned and sold. More than 11 million dollars has been raised.

We stopped for a cappuccino and a cannoli and to rest our tired feet at Caffe Greco in North Beach. One patron was
feeding an Italian pastry to his Jack Russel terrier.

Cecile, Ilana and I then made our way through Chinatown, one of the oldest and most established in the United States. Beyond the iconic Dragon’s Gate, was a maze of streets and alleyways brimming with dim sum joints, bakeries, herbalists, souvenir shops that we browsed, ornate temples, cocktail lounges, and karaoke bars.

Afterward, we walked to Pier 39’s West Marina to see the Sea Lions. Endearingly called “Sea Lebrites” these barking, boisterous social creatures began to make their presence known shortly after the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989. In the beginning, they numbered from 10-50, but due to a bountiful herring supply, the available dock space and protected environmental status, they began to arrive in droves growing to 300 and then hitting an all time ,record of 1701 in November 2009.

In the backdrop was Alcatraz Island that was developed with facilities for a lighthouse, military fortification, military prison and federal prison from 1934-1963 and currently
functions as a popular tourist attraction.

We made a pit stop in San Mateo to see our daughter Michelle, Kyle and our granddaughter Lyla before heading back home.

Unforgettable Easter Sunday: Incredible Luncheon, Easter Egg Hunt & the 2-Legged Easter Bunny

"Spring, the season for rebirth, renewal, and regrowth."

Cecile and I and our son Jason were two of seventeen people that gathered at Kim and AL Chiens’ lovely home for Easter Sunday.
It was a very auspicious day. Besides being the day Christians celebrate the anniversary of Jesus’ resurrection, it was Kim and AL’s 18th wedding anniversary and our baby granddaughter Lyla's first Easter. She even got her first Easter egg basket.

On any major family holiday celebration, the first thing that comes to mind when walking into the Chien's home and experiencing Kim’s flawless attention to detail, tasteful creativity and signature artistry that she employs in setting the menu, coordinating food preparations, and planning the decor is that this amazing passionate and compassionate woman should have her own TV series on the Food Chanel Network. It is clear to all that know her, that her efforts are a labor of love.

After, pre-meal drinks from the family’s back yard patio bar, enjoying yummy appetizers such as deviled eggs, melon wrapped in prosciutto, lollypop lamb chops and a fresh fruit platter and dip, we socialized with Kyle’s dad Ed and Gerry, his brother Chip and Katie who flew in from New York, AL’s mom and dad, Dana and Jack, brother Rich and Lisa and their adorable daughters, Simone and Alivia, and of course our dearest daughter Michelle. Our little Lyla was being passed around and lovingly embraced like the precious flower she is. Even, the family dog, Bailey came over to snuggle next to Lyla. If she could talk she would have to conclude “They really, really love me,” and she would be right. She was the love and light of the party on this Easter Day.

The glass T-shape dining table room setting was inviting. After Kim recited a prayer for all the blessings in our lives, we ate buffet-style enjoying Ham Quiche, Spinach Quish, Honey-Baked Ham, Cheesy potatoes, Halibut Florentine, Glazed Carrots, Fresh Asparagus followed by Carrott cake, Banana bread, Cinnamon Coffee Cake, Krispy Kreme Donuts and Easter Cookies.

After dinner AL—brave enough to wear a Rabbit Suit (pink I may add) coordinated an Easter Egg hunt for the children in the front yard and for adults in the backyard. Michelle found a Golden Egg with $50 cash prize AL had hidden in an electric utility box. “That’s my girl,” I said.

As the designated family historian and photographer Al said, “No social media.” It is difficult to take someone seriously, saying no photos on social media with respect to his wearing a Pink Bunny Rabbit suit:-) All kidding aside, AL brought a spirit and excitement to the events of the day that will be remembered by all for years to come. By the end of the day, AL didn’t win any easter egg award, but he got the best prize of the day—feeding Lyla (Photo).

Postscript: Our thoughts, prayers and heartfelt condolences go out to everyone affected by the Sri Lanka tragedy, serial bomb blasts that hit several churches and hotels on Easter Sunday.

The First Night of Passover: an Intimate gathering of our Family and Friends

The message of Passover: “Freedom is won not on the battlefield but in the classroom and the home. Teach
your children the history of freedom if you want them never to lose it.
—Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks

Cecile and I hosted a very simple and intimate gathering for the first night of Passover that happened to fall on Good Friday this year. Our son Jason and his partner Alex attended, our daughter Michelle, our son-in-law Kyle and our precious granddaughter Lyla, who is 4 1/2 months old. And, I can’t forget Jason’s dog Daisy (our beloved grand dog) who made herself comfortable in Lyla’s portable bed on the living room sofa (photo). I have to say, Lyla added such a warm glow to the evening. Developmentally, she is now more observant of her surroundings, is cooing and smiling when engaged, is mesmerized by the bright colors of her picture books and toys, can hold her head up and she is grasping our fingers with more intensity. She is too sweet for words.

Cecile prepared filet of salmon, oven baked brisket, grilled asparagus, hearts of palm salad, charoset, a sweet paste of fruits and nuts, symbolizing the mortar the Hebrew slaves used to build the Egyptian pyramids. It is spread on Matzo, unleavened flatbread or crackers. For dessert, we had flowerless chocolate cake with fresh strawberries and various flavors of ice cream. Alex brought some kosher red wine called Decoy and Michelle and Kyle brought a beautiful orchid plant.

Though I was raised Catholic, I feel particularly blessed to be married to my beloved wife, Cecile who was raised in a Jewish household and shared some of her fondest memories of celebrating the Jewish holidays with her extended family in the great city of Chicago. Our son Jason and Michelle had their Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, at the age of 13 and I have learned a great deal about the Jewish faith, participated in Interfaith dialogue, sang in the choir at Congregation Shir Hadash, a Reform Temple which has many interfaith couples as members, and led some meditation and healing services preceding the Friday night Shabbat (Sabbath) services back in the day.

The Passover Story and why it resonates so much with Jews and many non-Jews alike:

The festival commemorates the Exodus of the Jews and Moses, their reluctant leader from Egypt, a key step in the formation of the Jewish people. It is an invitation for Jews to relive the liberation from slavery as if they had actually been in Egypt, to teach the narrative to the next generation, and to claim the history of their people as part of their own identities. it has become increasingly more popular over the years to invite neighbors, co-workers, and families of interfaith couples. Even the White House has held a seder since 2008. Unlike many communal religious rituals that take place in a synagogue, it takes place around the dinner table. The Passover story in Exodus particularly resonates for many non-Jews as well who find themselves being oppressed. African-Americans who suffered greatly during the Civil Rights movement and whose ancestors were slaves use Exodus as a metaphor for their struggles and expression for their own liberation. Passover affirms the great truth of our day, that liberty is the right of every human being all over the world.

Happy Passover to our Jewish family and friends! May your home be a place of happiness and health; contentment, generosity, and hope; creativity and loving kindness.

A Culinary Delight at Centonove with Friends: Italian Hospitality at it's Best

"A tavola non-si invechhio."—Italian proverb
Translation: "At the table with good friends and family you do not become old."

We had dinner over the weekend at Centonove with our dear friends, Nelson and Susan Bye. Only in Italian does a street name sound so lyrically romantic and sexy. The word Centonove is a fusion of two words: "cento" means hundred and "nove" means nine or 109. 

It was given the Award of Excellence for their wine collection in 2015 by Wine Spectator. Nelson was kind enough to bring a bottle of Andronicus, a Napa Cab blend from his own collection and the waiter, Carlos who served us well was nice enough to waive the corkage fee. The ambiance was lovely. Brick walls, a deli, display of wines, an open kitchen, a beautiful red wood-burning pizza oven, and the place was packed. (see photos). 

Centonove sure lives up to their Mission Statement: “... rooted in a passion for transporting our guests to Italy and bringing people together through wine and food.”
It is the creation of Restauranteur Pasquale (Pat) Romano, who holds an undergrad degree in computer science from Harvard and an M.S. from MIT. He made his bones
in the high technology sector in Silicon Valley. You can check out his impressive resume on www.centonovellosgatos.com. His love affair
with food and wine—much like my own—began with his Italian upbringing (his father is Italian-born) that included annual trips to Italy. 
His wife Andrea runs the day to day operations of this bustling authentic Italian cafe and retail shop.

Cecile and I shared a Barbabieto: Mixed greens, beets, ricotta, pine nuts, oranges with a vinaigrette dressing. She had salmon
with saffron risotto, fresh vegetables, and gremolata (chopped herb condiment classically made of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley.
Susan and Nelson shared Caesar’s salad and for her entree, Susan enjoyed 2 wood-fired beef & pork meatballs with marinara, fontina, and ricotta.

I’m not much of a red meat eater, I usually order some type of pasta dish but taking our cue from our waiter, Nelson and I each had the special of the day: a 20 once bone-in Rib eye steak with fresh vegetables and, roasted fingerling potatoes. The lean and tender meat is imported from Piedmont, in the northwest, Italy.

Carlos couldn’t have been more charming and entertaining. He really seems to enjoy people “and" his job. He had a nice and clever way of introducing dessert. Instead of asking "would you like to have some dessert," (I think we may have leaned towards saying no, we’re full,) he handed us the dessert menu and said, take a look at our dessert
specials: maybe yes, maybe no…” We said YES and shared a Tiramisu that is made in house and it was out of this world. It was substantially large enough to share—which we did.

Centonove has seven varieties of pizza and a lovely selection of pasta that we can’t wait to try the next time. We walked off our meal in our charming little community of Los Gatos and called it an evening—fully contented.

Ciao and Buon Appetito