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.

Spotting the Black-Crowned Night Heron & a Great Blue Heron in Flight

I had two heron sightings—a day apart this past week. One was the black-crowned night-heron (aka: black-capped night-heron), a medium-sized heron that I spotted in the marsh beds at the Los Gatos County Park while on a bike ride. They don’t fit the typical body form of the heron family. They are relatively stocky with shorter bills, legs, and necks than their familiar cousins, the white egrets and larger “day” herons. These birds like their tall and bigger herons stand still at the water’s edge and wait to ambush prey, mainly at night or early morning.

I spotted the larger great blue heron while walking Jason’s dog Daisy around the lake near our townhome in Los Gatos. The first encounter had been unexpected. It was hidden from sight when I heard the flapping of its’ wings, as it quickly took flight to the other side of the lake. At first, I saw it as a missed opportunity to photograph it. I then decided to follow it where it had landed about a few hundred feet away. Daisy and I walked on a small path close to the water’s edge behind a large section of reeds without being seen or heard. I first took some still shots, and based on previous experiences, prepared myself to photograph it when it took flight, which it did as Daisy and I inched closer. The great blue heron is the largest heron native to North America. Its wingspan ranges between 66-79 inches.

Postscript: All across various traditions, the blue heron has been known as a spiritually gifted animal that brings deep wisdom from the gods to man, while the black crowned night-heron is associated with solitude, self-reflection, resilience, grace and inner strength.

A Beautiful Sunset and a Full Moon During a Late Afternoon Bike Ride

It was a really cold and breezy yesterday afternoon. But, I was dressed for the occasion with three layers of clothing under my yellow windbreaker. When I was three quarters into my ride around Vasona Reservoir (an artificial lake), the sun was beginning to set and I saw streaks of orange/yellow blend into the clouds above the Santa Cruz Mountains. It reflected beautifully onto the lake. Two women saw me taking photographs and one of them alerting me to the fact that just ahead there was a full moon. Well, the actually full moon occurred today, November 27, at 4:16 a.m. EST. Nevertheless, to the casual stargazer it does appear full before and after its peak. November’s full moon is known as the Beaver Moon, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, that my late dad used to cite to me when I was a kid.

Postscript: When the moon is full at this times of year, it's just about directly opposite the sun in the sky as it sets. They’re not technically happening at exactly the same time, but from the vantage point of us mortals on Earth, it appears so. What I was really witnessing, was three astronomical events: sunset, moonrise and a full moon, and it was grand

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

An Exotic Dinner with Good Friends at Mizu Sushi Bar & Grill

“The love and good food and love of good friends are two of the simplest yet greatest pleasures in life.”

—Author Unknown

Wow! This was quite an experience for Cecile and I and our good friends, Nelson and Susie Bye. Mizu, has a modern and sleek interior and lively atmosphere and boasts being one of the most popular and highly rated Asian fusion restaurants in San Jose. It is known for its' inspired fusion of Japanese and Korean flavors that uses the highest fresh ingredients served in an elegant and comfortable setting.

The word Mizu, means water, a vital life source and key element of Feng Shui, the ancient art of balancing environmental energies to improve health and good fortune.

We ordered Edamame for the table, lightly salted boiled green soy beans with sesame oil. Nelson and I shared a large bottle of Sapporo beer and hot sake. The main entrees we enjoyed immensely were Chicken Katsu: panko breaded & deep-fried chicken; Chicken Bulgogi: grilled marinated chicken over sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers & onions, bell peppers & onions and served on a sizzling plate topped with green onions and sesame seeds. All entrees were served with steamed rice, miso soup, silken tofu, miso paste, hon-dash and green onions. Mizu has a generous kids menu, outdoor parking and excellent, friendly service. I can’t wait to try some of their other dishes.

For dessert, we went on the cheap: Soft serve ice cream and a Blizzard at Dairy Queen, our guilty pleasure.

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.

Remembering our Late Dad Frank Augustine who was Honored at Veterans Ceremony in New Jersey in 2014

Veterans Day is the day set aside to thank all those who served honorably in the military—in wartime or peacetime. Our dad Frank Augustine was recognized in a distinguished service medal ceremony along with approximate 80 other Vets (and family of Vets that had passed away) in the Grand Rotunda of the Justice Brennan Courthouse in Jersey City, NJ, on April 15, 2014. He also received a Citation Certificate for his seven years in the US Army during WW ll, where he served as a cook and personal aide to his friend and mentor, Army Chaplain, Cape. William Walsh until September 15, when he was given an Honorable Discharge. The Even was a joint effort by Hudson Count Executive, Thomas A. DeGise, the Office of Veteran Affairs, and the Hudson County Board of Chosen Freeholders chaired by Anthony Romano. Dad also received a Proclamation from the Office of the Mayor (former) of Hoboken, presented by his 6th ward councilwoman and the mayor’s former Chief of Staff, Jennifer Giattino. At 97, dad was on of the oldest—if not the oldest Veteran to receive these honors. My sister Josephine, was present as was my dear late childhood friend Joseph Brennan.

Postscript: Dad has his late older brothers (my uncles) Anthony and Joseph Augustine to thank for his decision to follow their footsteps to serve in United States Army Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio Texas. Later, he did a second stint at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.

Normally Veterans Day doesn’t include those active in military service (that’s observed on Armed Forces Day, I’ve included a photo of my nephew Andrew Augustine who chose a career in the United States Air Force about 10 years ago. My dad, his grandpa, was very proud of his grandson and would have wanted it that way.

Happy 65th Birthday in Heaven to Our Brother Michael

I’m sure after a glimpse of the heavenly realm there’s no way we could drag you back into this earthly place for one more birthday. And that’s okay brother. May you continue to enjoy

all the blessings of being on the other side. Like I do every year on the anniversary of your birthday and of your passing, I’ve nostalgically spent time looking through some family photos of happier times. That tender smile of yours that lit up the room; The joy in your heart when you had your boys, Mikey, Andrew, Brock and Alex at your side. Well, you should know, your family is growing, two beautiful grandchildren, Luka, Ayler and one on the way.

Ode to Brother Michael

You left without Warning.

You were gone so fast.

All we have left are memories from throughout the years.

You were loved by so many you might not have known,

But, in our hearts is where you have grown.

The memories we all have will forever last;

Some that evoke laughter and others bring tears.

Happy Birthday little brother, you are now 65.

We love you.

Peace!

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.

Remembering our Late Brother Michael & Happy Birthday in Heaven to our Late Mother Maria

“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day…unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear.” —Unknown

The older we get the closer eternity seems. You never know when the sand is going to run out of the hourglass.

For our brother Michael the sand ran out when he tragically took his own life four years ago, on "All Saints Day,” observed on November 1st by the Roman Catholic Church. It was nine days before his 61st Birthday. Formerly, of Hoboken, NJ., where we grew up, he lived in Beachwood. He is survived by his beloved sons Micheal Jr., Andrew, Brock, and Alex, my sister Josephine, and brother Steve, as well as all his nieces and nephews. He was a well liked Construction Manager for Shauger Group in East Orange. In his youth he loved to play hockey, and was a proud Eagle Scout. My fondest memory of Michael is the time my brother-in-law Joseph McAllister and I invited him to join us on a camera safari in Kenya and Tanzania for a well-deserved, long overdue vacation. I never saw him so happy. Michael lived with Cecile and I in California, went to West Valley College, worked for Pella Windows for a while and later moved to San Diego. After he died our brother was cremated and our nephew Michael Jr., gave us an amulet containing some of his ashes. The one I was gifted is a silver amulet of an elephant. I keep it in my bike bag on top of my bike rack behind my so my brother Michael is always with me during my rides.

Wednesday, November 2nd, is our late mother Maria’s birthday. She passed away on Mother’s day, May 12, 2013. While Cecile and I were in New Jersey before our Fall Foliage Cruise on the Hudson River, we visited my parents, Marie and Frank's gravesite at the Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington. We laid a flowering plant at the foot of the headstone and took a photo together to mark the occasion. Mom is best remembered for her beauty, her loving presence, her sharp wit, and contagious laugh. When we were visiting family in Sicily she loved to take the red ripe fruit of a cactus plant, carefully cut the thorny skin off and eat the fruit. Seven years ago when we downsized to a townhome, I realized that I could see a grouping of cactus plants from my home office window. It was another way to keep her memory alive. Happy Birthday in Heaven mom, from all of us!

Postscript: Happy Birthday to our brother in law, Joseph McAllister seen in the photo with Michael and I during the East Africa safari we took together. While brother Michael died on All Saints Day, Joe was born on All Saints Day. The evening my brother left us, Josie, Joe, Cecile and I were near the Hudson, still in shock that the sand had run out of Michael's hourglass.

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