La Jaiba Mexigrill — A Great Night Out 🌮🇲🇽

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I joined Sarah and Bill at La Jaiba Mexigrill and were pleasantly surprised. I was hesitant at first since “jaiba” means crab (I’m allergic ), but the menu is extensive and very accommodating.

Cecile and Sarah had enchiladas, Bill chose fajitas (half crab, half seabass), and I had fajitas with half seabass and half chicken. Bill and I loved the warm flour tortillas, and the portions were generous—we both had enough to take home for another meal .

This newer La Jaiba location at 10 E. Hamilton Ave (formerly Kazoo Sushi) is a vibrant expansion with an upscale modern vibe, full bar , colorfull murals, and live guitar music featuring classic Mexican songs. Friendly, attentive staff made it even better.

A great place to gather with friends.

Celebrating Al Chien’s Birthday at Aldo’s🍷

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I hosted an intimate (and laughter-filled ) birthday dinner for our dear friend Al Chien at Aldo’s Ristorante & Bar in Los Gatos—a cozy, old-school Italian favorite with a warm, familiar ambiance.

What began as a family connection through Michelle, Kyle, and the grandkids has grown into a cherished friendship and a fun tradition of celebrating each other’s birthdays throughout the year

We kicked things off with cocktails, Antipasto Misto, and artichoke appetizers. Al went with Rigatoni Paesani, Cecile enjoyed Grilled Salmon, and Kim and I ordered the house favorite—Cavatelli with ricotta, spinach, and tomatoes in garlic olive oil Fresh bread, olive oil & balsamic, and a generous bottle of Nickel & Nickle Syrah red wine from Al kept the good vibes flowing.

Dessert? Tartufo, Tiramisu, and Crème Brûlée. Belissimo!

We sang Happy Birthday, Al opened his gift, smiled big indicating he was pleased with the gift

Grateful for great food, shared traditions, and friends who feel like family

Happy Belated Heavenly Birthday to Anthony Augustine — My Beloved Uncle, Godfather, & Confidant 💖

by Dennis Augustine

Pictured here—both of us dressed up for my confirmation in my pre-teen years. In the Catholic tradition, confirmation names honor canonized saints—hence my full name: Dennis Francis Anthony Augustine. Francis was my Baptismal name

My Uncle Anthony was a proud Teamsters Union member in the trucking industry. One summer, I worked alongside him delivering heavy cases of canned goods across all five boroughs of NYC—grueling, honest labor that I thought was pretty cool. On every job he’d remind me: manual work is tough—get an education. A lesson that stayed with me

A handsome gentle giant —soft-spoken, kind, and always there when I needed him. Pizza at Leo’s, Italian deli sandwiches at Fiori’s in my hometwon of Hoboken, NJ., betting on the horses, the numbers, and the occasional beer . We talked about work, life, and everything that mattered.

Forever grateful for the memories. Forever missed

A Shoreline Blue Skies, Open Roads Day & Fresh Middle-Eastern Style Salmon Wraps for Lunch

by Dennis Augustine

Bill and I caravanned up with Jimi and Jennifer by car to the Stevens Creek Trail head in Sunnyvale where we off loaded our bikes. We road several miles before stopping for a quick group photo in front of Google HQ overlooking the South bay. When Jimi realized his e-bike hadn’t been fully charged,he encouraged Bill and me to ride on.

We continued to Shoreline Parklands in Mountain View and the Baylands Nature Preserve in Palo Alto—wide-open land, marshes, and an abundance of birds filling the air and water .

We capped off the ride with lunch on Castro Street in downtown Mountain View, enjoying fresh salmon wraps at Hummus Mediterranean Kitchen . A perfect blend of nature at its’ finest and miles well ridden.

Folsom Farmers Market, Outdoor Ice Skating Rink & Brunch Kind of Day 🥕⛸️☕️

by Dennis Augustine

Folsom Farmers Market, Outdoor Ice Skating Rink & Brunch Kind of Day

A joyful Saturday in Historic Folsom Plaza with Cecile and I, Jason, Michelle, Kyle, Lyla, Emmy, and Gus

The Farmers Market buzzed with color and music — artisanal treats, wagging tails , and the sweetest surprise: fluffy bunnies named Mango, Archie & Snoopy

Right nearby, the outdoor ice rink shimmered back in its beloved spot, circling the historic railroad turntable

Brunch at Karen’s Bakery Café was the perfect cozy finish Simple moments. Shared smiles. Saturday magic

Gus Turns Two: All Smiles and Surrounded by Love & Birthday Magic✨👧👦🎂💙

by Dennis Augustine

Friday night kicked off with a Chicago-style pizza party at Michelle and Kyle’s home, followed by an ice-cream dessert bar lovingly prepared with help from big sisters Lyla and Emmy, who proudly chopped the candied toppings . With his sisters by his side—Lyla even reading Cecile’s and my birthday card—Gus opened his gifts and lit up when he discovered his very own scooter, which he immediately put to joyful use .

Uncle Jason and his partner Alex joined the fun, along with their always-welcome pup Daisy, who is a big hit with the kids .

On Saturday evening, Cecile and I hosted a birthday dinner at Vacanza Romana in El Dorado Hills—a charming Italian restaurant tucked into an upscale hillside area. The space is warm and inviting, with classic Roman touches, rustic elegance, and a cozy neighborhood feel . We enjoyed a delicious meal and a beautiful assortment of desserts, ending the night with Gus blowing out his candles—wearing his million-dollar smile .

🦌🟤👊 Deer, Mud & a Well-Earned Fist Bump on Our Scenic Lexington Reservoir Ride 🚴‍♂️🌿

by Dennis Augustine

Bill and I took on a 25-mile round trip to Lexington Reservoir in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Deer paused for photos , then about a 2,000-ft section of the trail at the lower level adjacent to Highway-17 turned into a muddy test of patience—thick, wheel-caking muck that nearly stopped us cold .

Reaching the paved upper roads earned a fist bump . From there on, it was smooth riding under sunny 50-degree skies —earthy post-rain scents , sparkling green hills, and a reservoir mirroring bright, cloud-washed skies .

Totally worth it

New Year’s Day Magic: Feathered Friends Take Over the Creek Trails After Persisting Rainfall

by Dennis Augustine

Starting 2026 with a rare treat on the Los Gatos Creek Trail!

After weeks of non-stop rain and colder weather, I finally caught a break in the weather today. I bundled up in plenty of layers and headed out on my bike, hoping to see some cool cloud formations, which I did.

In addition I found something even better—an incredible number of egrets! There were so many small ones and several large ones gathered along the trail. In all my years of riding here, I have never seen this many at once. Apparently, the seasonable wetlands creates temporary feeding grounds for egrets by trapping fish, frogs, tadpoles, and insects.

It was such a peaceful way to spend the first day of the New Year. Nature always has a way of surprising us when we least expect it!

New Year’s Eve Dinner at Asa Restaurant, Los Gatos ✨🍷

by Dennis Augustine

Our friends Nelson and Susie Bye invited invited Cecile and I to join them for an early New Year’s Eve dinner at Asa Restaurant in Los Gatos—an elegant New American spot known for its Californian and Mediterranean influences, seasonal local ingredients, and intimate, Michelin-recognized ambiance.

Nelson arrived with a lovely bottle of Maxville Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, which paired beautifully with the evening.

We dined in the cozy patio enclosure, warmed by heat lamps and good conversation. To finish, we all shared a delightful apple galette with vanilla ice cream—the perfect sweet note to end the meal

Back home afterward, we enjoyed a bit more dessert and watched Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest as the Times Square ball dropped. We happily toasted New Year 2026 at 9:00 PM California time, celebrating the NYC countdown from the West Coast

A relaxed, elegant, and grateful way to welcome the New Year. Happy 2026

Note See short youtube countdown link of countdown by Ryan Seacrest?

https://youtu.be/9C-M0D22zyY?si=dqhkDe0zyxR48A_E

Happy Heavenly Birthday Dad: Blessed with 100 Years of Life

by Dennis Augustine

Today I honor my father, Frank Augustine, who lived a long, happy life and passed peacefully at 100 on December 18, 2017.

Born in Pittston, PA, January 5, 1917, his first job was cooking at the iconic Clam Broth House in Hoboken, NJ. He served the youth as a Boy Scout leader for 25 years, U.S. Army veteran (two stints) , known as an Urban gardener in the Gold Coast newspaper 1988 and Wine Maker. After working at Janssons Milk, he spent 25-years as a team leader at former Maxwell House Coffee on the Hudson. He was a member of the Elks Club #74, and served as the Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus for two years.

A devout Catholic, Dad entered the Maryknoll Seminary before choosing a faithful lay life rooted in service.

One of our most treasured memories was an Amtrak journey—just the two of us—from New Jersey to St. Augustine, Florida, our namesake city, for his birthday. A gift to him that became a gift to me as well.

Happy Birthday, Dad.

May you rest in eternal peace.

The Time Is Now for 2026 🕊️

Wishing family and friends,

near and far, a peaceful and Happy New Year

We gave up making New Year’s resolutions

a long time ago. They always seemed to live

somewhere ahead of us. So instead,

We arrive here

A breath

A warm cup

A quiet morning light

Nothing needs fixing.

Nothing needs waiting.

The call can be made

The kindness can be offered

The first small step can happen

right now

Let go of later.

Let go of someday.

This moment is already enough

2026 isn’t a promise.

It’s an invitation

To be present.

To be gentle.

To begin—

again.

Remembering Ruby: A Life of Love, Family, and Independence

by Dennis Augustine

“Family meant everything to her, and love was how she lived.”

—Marcie Venturini

Cecile’s beloved cousin, Ruby E. Conway, the last of her generation passed away on December 28, 2025, at the age of 90. She shared 41 wonderful years with her husband and best friend, the late podiatrist, Dr. Victor Conway.

Ruby was a treasured presence at family gatherings—Thanksgivings, brunches, long walks, and heartfelt conversations. Cecile especially cherishes memories of meeting Ruby in Chicago for breakfast or lunch, moments now held even closer.

Cecile and I linked in to a streaming service this morning at Shalom Memorial Funeral Home in Arlighton Hights, Illinois. It reminded us how grateful we felt to have had the chance last September to visit Ruby one last time at her daughter Marcie's home in Palentine—a blessing we will always carry.

A devoted mother to Marcie and Bari, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Ruby was fiercely independent, spirited, and always impeccably put together. She loved Mahjong with friends, giving back through Hadassah, traveling with Vic, and above all, her family.

Her strength, warmth, and love live on in all who knew her.

May her memory be a blessing.

A Mother’s Promise, A Daughter’s Strength: Remembering Selina

by Dennis Augustine

After celebrating Zaila’s birthday in my last post, my heart keeps returning to her beautiful mom—my niece and goddaughter, Selina.

Two years ago, on Zaila’s 13th birthday, Selina left this world—but she never left her daughter’s side. While she was still with us, Selina shared a piece of timeless wisdom with Zaila that feels more prophetic and true today than ever before. These words, from A.A. Milne’s beloved Winnie-the-Pooh, serve as a bridge between a mother’s love and the brave young woman Zaila has become:

"If ever there is a tomorrow when we’re not together... there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we are apart, I’ll always be with you."

Dearest Selina, you are missed, you are loved, and today, you are celebrated alongside your beautiful girl."

✨Zaila’s Magical 15th Birthday at Disneyland!

by Dennis Augustine

Today our hearts are traveling across the miles to the "Happiest Place on Earth." While Cecile and I are here on the West Coast and couldn't be there to observe the celebration in person, we are with you all in spirit as our wonderful great-niece, Zaila, marks her 15th birthday!

It brings us such joy to know Zaila is surrounded by the deepest love, exploring the park (her happy place for years) with a dear friend Valentina who also lost a parent at an early age, her uncles Jake and Joey and grandparents — my sister Josie and brother-in-law Joe McAllister. Having helped raise her, they share a bond that is truly a beautiful remarkable testament to family.

Tomorrow, December 28, carries a special weight in our hearts, as we remember our late beloved niece, Selina, who passed away on Zaila’s birthday two years ago. I still vividly remember the last time I spoke to her; Cecile and I were vacationing in Maui shortly before she passed. We know she is watching over this magical celebration today, present in every smile and every hug.

Happy 15th Birthday, Zaila! You are a light in all of our lives.

#DisneylandMagic #Sweet15 #FamilyLove #InLovingMemory #HappyBirthdayZaila

Chasing the Roar: Where the Water Finds its’ Voice 🚴‍♂️🌧️

After days of winter rain, the spillway at Vasona Lake comes alive—not just flowing, but roaring .

I waited for a lull, timed my ride… and still got caught in the rain . Cold, soaked, smiling.

One stretch of the trail was completely blocked, forcing a detour —a quiet reminder that nature leads, and we follow.

The sound isn’t just noise. It’s water moving fast, colliding, breathing air, releasing energy —a wild hymn of gravity and motion.

Pedaling through wet trails, mist in the air ,

it felt like a blessing: exhilarating, adventurous, and entirely worth it .

Sometimes the ride isn’t about staying dry—it’s about showing up and listening to the roar . Listen to the short video clip of the roar at the end of the photo gallery.

Wrapped in Light: A Christmas Eve Celebration with Family & Friends

by Dennis Augustine

Kim and Al once again hosted a beautifully decorated and joy-filled Christmas Eve dinner—an evening that felt both elegant and warmly inviting. With her event-planning touch, Kim created a setting worthy of Ina Garten’s Barefoot Contessa style: simple, refined, and full of holiday spirit.

Al prepared and carved melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon, followed by desserts that were nothing short of spectacular.

Before dinner, the magic truly belonged to our grandchildren—Lyla, Emmy, and little Gus—who delighted in opening the beautifully wrapped gifts gathered around the tree.

Cecile and I also enjoyed meeting new friends, Chip's girlfriend Julie's mother Annetta and Tom, who made the trip over the hill from Santa Cruz, adding to the warmth of the evening.

In a sweet Nonnie moment earlier in the week, Cecile and I took Lyla and Emmy for manicures—red polish for the ladies, and in a rare moment, clear polish for me.

Just before dinner came together, I was honored to offer a reading—“A Christmas Eve Gathering of Love and Light.”

Excerpt to follow…

When Christmas Songs Sway: A Youth Hula Night in Maui 🎄

by Dennis Augustine

Merry Christmas everybody — or as they say in Hawaii, “Mele Kalikimaka” This is the time of year when Santa leaves his sleigh at the North Pole and arrives in Maui on his outrigger with his helpers (see photo!)

Hula has a timeless place in Hawaiian culture—beloved by adults and pure magic for children. Sitting poolside with front-row seats, we were close enough to feel every movement and emotion.

This youth hula show at the Marriott Maui Ocean Club added a joyful holiday touch, with “Jingle Bells,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” sung and danced to in both Hawaiian and English .

In hula, the hands tell the story—

the ocean

the wind

love, land, and aloha

All the dancers were mostly children—the youngest just four—and Lyla, Emmy, and little Gus were completely mesmerized. Watching culture passed on with such confidence and joy was truly inspiring.

✨🕯️ A Wisdom Teaching for the 8th and Final night of Chanukah & the Handmade Sculpture I Brought Back from Israel

by Dennis Augustine

— the final lighting carries deep meaning of resilience, hope, and bringing light into the world

Today is the 8th Light candle lighting of Hanukkah.

This light awaits favor from above.

May you find grace where you didn’t expect it.

May doors open without force.

May people see you with goodwill,

not with resistance.

Let what you carry find a place to be received.

Let your presence land gently in the world.

Grace flows when humility becomes light.

Let the light do its work.

— Rabbi Shalom Landau

Source: Adapted from Daily Dose of Torah

Footnote — This metallic sculpture by Frank Meisler dedicated to Reb Alter (Hasidic spiritual leader and founder of Chabad) came home with us after our 3-week pilgrimage to Israel in 1993. It was at the threshold of Jason's Bar Mitzvah year and Michelle was still a child. I am not Jewish (though I celebrate the Jewish holidays with family and friends), yet its stillness, scholarly presence, and sense of devotion spoke to me deeply — then, as it does today.

In Memory of Matilda — The Angelic Innocent 10-Year-Old Terror Attack Victim 🕯️🐝

by Dennis Augustine

While vacationing in Maui, I’ve posted about Cecile and I being deeply shaken by the terrorist attack at the first night of Chanukah by the Sea event at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia.

What unfolded was absolute horror — but also humanity. A 43-year-old Muslim man of Syrian descent and father of two daughters, Ahmed al Ahmed courageously disarmed one of the alleged attackers and was seriously wounded in the process. We felt compelled to help and were one of the early donors to support his medical recovery. We also contributed to Chabad Almaden, in Silicon Valley where we live, in memory of the heroic Chabad rabbi, Eli Schlanger, father of 5, who was one of 15 people gunned down, including 87-year-old Holocaust survivor, Alex Kleytman, who shielded his wife Larisa from one of the gunman’s bullets.

One victim has stayed with us above all — 10-year-old Matilda. Her beautiful, angelic smile. Her innocence. As grandparents of three young children, her loss is unbearable to imagine. A child who should have been safe, whose family came seeking peace, taken by hatred.

As we return home to California, we’ve chosen to honor Matilda by donating to her family through a GoFundMe page launched by Matilda’s language teacher, Irina Goodhew, in her mother’s name. May her memory be a blessing

We pray for a world where antisemitism and all hatred are condemned and eliminated, and where compassion always rises higher than violence.

Last Brunch in Paradise 🌴☀️

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I enjoyed our last leisurely brunch in paradise at Longhi’s Kaʻanapali—our main (and perfect) meal of the day. We spent the afternoon lounging by the pool, then packed just enough so we could fully savor the evening, letting the surf serenade us one last time.

“Every beautiful chapter knows when to turn the page.”