Michael Joe Armijo's Blog, page 13
June 25, 2023
I Made Him Think
“Going to a museum is like a treasure hunt. We go room to room and spy out the most beautiful treasures.” --Jacqueline Holland Wow! Michael G Miller is a daddy now. I received a baby girl announcement about CORI LYNN MILLER being born on May 20, 1997. Cute baby. Her mom is Kimberley Walter.
Now I’m in the mood for something else. I think a museum visit would inspire me to think.
Cousin Edward M Espinosa mailed me another note. It made me feel good. Short, sweet and I guess I made him think.
June 30, 1997
Dear Michael,
Having my two dogs (Zeppy and Haley) greet me at the door when I came home and to get a letter from Michael is a warm feeling but to get two letters from Michael is a great feeling!
Edward
“I love people who do unexpected things.” --Saki aka H.H. Munro in his short story, THE INNOCENCE OF REGINALD
June 18, 2023
Globe-Trotting
People put their ‘good’ where they can, and have as much of it as possible, each in their own way. The greatest good is that which delights you with such force that it leaves you powerless to feel anything else. --Voltaire, in his Pocket Philosophical Dictionary And so, by brother, Tony, his wife, Helen and their daughters, Lauren and Leigh, and my mom went on a vacation to Spain. They were at SALOU, Tarragona, Costa Dorado. They sent me a postcard of the beach view. I loved most the LITERATURE stamp that she used on the postcard though. How beautiful of Spain to create that one?
Hi M & A, too!
Staying in Salou for a week while driving to see the sights between Salou and Barcelona. The cathedrals are unbelievably spectacular, as are the museums. You would love the PICASSO MUSEUM!
Heading for Portugal ‘manana’ via Valencia but back to Malaga, Spain a week later.
Mom’s feet are tired. Lots of walking and steps!
Love You,
T, H, LA and LE
I also received another letter from Cousin Edward Espinosa, and I loved his use of the phrase ‘globe-trotting’.
June 21, 1997
Dear Michael
You’re globe-trotting mom sounds like she’s having a wonderful summer. Good for her!
John and my sister, Margaret, just became the proud owners of a speed boat and are spending the weekend at ta lake in Southern New Mexico water skiing. I’m holding down the fort.
One of my dad’s grandmothers was a moccasin-wearing Sandia Indian. I never knew her, but I remember Grandma Rosario quite well.
I’m looking forward to talking to you again, soon.
Edward
And my forever bike-riding pal, Birda, is traveling here and there with her family, too. It also seems to be that Lakes and jet-skiing are ‘the thing to do’ (however, you won’t catch me doing that). I guess what delights some doesn’t necessarily delight others. It’s what makes us all unique and interesting.
We just got back from a short trip...to Los Angeles. Is that considered a trip? I guess if you go to Universal Studios, Magic Mountain, Santa Monica Pier, Beverly Hills, and Hollywood Boulevard it is.
I guess if you have never been there before it would be considered a trip, so I guess you could say I just got back from being a tour guide.
Bill’s kids came to visit from South Carolina for two weeks. We took Brandon and Brittany to see his mom and dad for four days. It’s confusing. Bill’s kids are Brandon and Brittany. Mine are Brian and Brittany. When we all got together it was trying to say the least.
Anyway, we had a lot of fun. When we were up here, we did a lot of Jet Skiing at Lake Berryessa. Of course, wed did the San Francisco thing with Monterey, the Redwoods and just got to know each other. This was the first time I met them (Brandon and Brittany) and Bill hadn’t seen them in eight years.
I haven’t been bike riding like I should. I hurt my back at work four weeks ago and all they will let me do is ride a stationary bike. I will be off for another four weeks at least but I will be able to ride before that. I hope!
E-mail...I don’t have. We thought about it but don’t use the computer enough to have it. Someday...maybe. For now, I count on the good old U.S. Mail.
The kids are doing great. Brian is in college now and Brittany just graduated from high school. They both have almost full-time jobs to support their cars. I hardly see them unless their pay checks are small.
Bill and I are doing wonderful things, keeping each other fat and happy.
I hope to be able to see you around the 4th of July as far as I know I will be around. Call and we’ll have hot chocolate at STARBUCKS.
Take care and have safe trips. See you soon.
Birda
(I decided I needed a change, so I changed the spelling in my name from Berda to Birda).
Figure out your core passions and build a life around them. --Susan Cain, in her book, BITTERSWEET
June 11, 2023
Out There Somewhere
When a man disappears, we cling to anything he left behind. --Daniel Mason, THE PIANO TUNER
Photo: Actor, Hugh Dancy, in the 2002 series DANIEL DERONDA
Another letter arrived from Cousin Edward in Albuquerque, NM from my LUCERO family line (My mom’s dad):
6-11-97
Dear Michael,
I finally succeeded in getting in touch with lots of people. I don't’ have firm commitments but these are the relatives that say they’re coming to my house for the Family Reunion on July 24, 1997:
Manuelito, Fela and Family
Antoinette Anaya de Lucero and family (maybe even her 91-year-old mother)
David Lucero and Family (Antoinette is his sister)
Theresa Lucero and her son, Brian Daniel Lesage
Clarence Levens (Family from Denver)
And, of course, my whole family except for Dean Edward Gonzales who is now in Santa Clara, CA on a new job with INTEL.
The only family I can’t seem to contact is Uncle Frank Lucero’s (except for him) --but Molly told me that he has quit traveling. They used to spend summers in New Mexico. I am excited about seeing all these people after years and years. I hope it means the same to you. Hope you get this sometime before July 24th (just kidding!).
Edward
My Cousin MaryAnn Montoya-Gehling wrote from Colorado Springs from my GARCIA family line (My dad’s mom):
Friday the 13th, 8:15PM
Dear Michael,
Thank you so much for the books, REVELATIONS-DIARIES OF WOMEN and THE STARS. I had forgotten you told me you were sending something. I was so surprised. I love them both. The fact that you chose them for me makes them even more special.
I sit in my gazebo looking at the Pikes Peak Mountain. The birds are e-mailing their messages back and forth. The windchimes clang with the wind. The scent of pine trees is in the air. Soo, it will be time to gaze at the stars. Thank you for thinking of me.
MJA-I left a Thank You message on your answering machine at home.
Mary Ann
Dear Mikey Happy Father’s Day.
Even though you aren’t our biological father we kind of look at you as our father because you don’t have real kids—us and your nieces and nephew are the closest thing to it. We love going with you and are so lucky to have you as part of our lives. We hope you like our present. It’s you. You’re the greatest and we love you so much.
Lauren and Carrie
Dear Mikey,
Happy Father’s Day.
We know you’re not exactly our father but since you don’t really have any children, we’re the closes thing to it. We just want you to know how much we appreciate and love you.
We thought you had so many Babri dolls that we decided to get you something else. Hope you like it.
Thank you for always being there for us through good and bad times. We love you very, very, very much!
Love Always,
Lauren and Carrie Freiman
And, of course, Gloria, found a unique card with a photo taken in 1941 with the handwritten words of artist, Frida Kahlo, in Spanish translated: “AT THE SIDE OF MY LOVE”. I, at first, thought it was her father, but it is fellow artist, Diego Rivera, that she is next to. Gloria wrote:
Dear Michael,
Somehow looking at the picture of this card I feel it could be one of your ancestors!
Happy Father’s Day. There is no other man on this earth that I would want to me a surrogate Dad to ‘Lauren and Carrie’ other than you.
I think you are the greatest with the most-est. You are stupendous!
Love Always,
Gloria (Mommy) and Jack
P.S. Tell Virginia I’m sharing her son with her.
I have always cherished this dream of creating something unique and imperishable, so that the past should not fade away forever. I know one day I shall die and vanish to the void but hope to preserve my memories through my writing. --Adeline Yen Mah, CHINESE CINDERELLA
June 4, 2023
The Sky Was Lit Up
“The door is opening. Something is coming, something important. The anticipation is everywhere. The rocks and the trees and the clouds, they’re all chattering with it.” --Jacqueline Holland in her novel, THE GOD OF ENDINGS I received a few pieces of correspondence this week that were fun to read. I never know what I will learn and what story will lift an eyebrow. Sometimes a letter can feel like ‘small talk’ but other times there are revelations that may become important at some point in the future (for someone other than me).
I received such a sweet ‘handmade’ card from Alan’s daughter (Lauren) in honor of my recent Birthday:
Dear Mike,
I’m sorry that your present is SO late—I feel bad, but better late than never. So, anyways, HAPPY BIRTHDAY. When I bought your present, I wasn’t aware that dad bought you one also. Now that you have two you can keep one in the box and play with the other!
I want you to know that you are a very special person to me. You’re always there for me whether I need to talk, get some advice or just hear something funny to cheer me up. I love spending time with you because I always have a good time. Too bad we don’t get those talks to the gym anymore.
I hope you had a good birthday and I regret not being a part of it. Sorry again for the lateness on the present. Shall we look at those BMW’s again over the weekend? I love you very much.
Love Always,
Lauren
My cousin, Edna Garcia-Maestas wrote again this week also, replying to my last letter to her. I loved how she wrote it handwritten on binder paper:
June 5, 1997
Dear Michael,
Thanks for writing! I enjoy hearing from you. You’re actually my only pen pal. Ha-ha. I went to Uncle Jr.’s granddaughter’s wedding this past Saturday. Crystal Garcia married Louis Pacheco. I met a new cousin on my Grandma Margarita’s side. His name is Clarence, and he resides in Riverside, CA. He is a professor of Psychology at the Community College there. I didn’t stay for the dance at night. I was anxious to get back to Santa Fe, so that we could attend a graduation party.
Then on Sunday we attended another graduation party, and I also went to a baby shower. I was on-the-go. I cleaned my dad’s house and took him some cooked food for his Birthday (also on Saturday). He wasn’t home, but I heard he still wasn’t doing well.
We went camping, boating, etc. For Memorial Day weekend and enjoyed it even though it was windy with some rain showers. Gosh! Last night I woke up at about 11:30PM and the sky was lit up with lighting and thunder. It was beautiful to watch. It’s hot again today.
We are going to a church camp meeting this weekend in Alburquerque. The one we go to in July at Hopewell Lake is nicer because it’s out in the mountains. In August I will attend a weekend Women’s Retreat at the Glorietta Baptist Conference Center which is also located in the mountains between Las Vegas, New Mexico and Santa Fe. My mom and I will attend that one together.
Michael, take care and enjoy. I’ll write again soon.
Your Prima,
Edna
And cousin Edward Espinosa wrote to me as well (Especially For Me = Especialmente Para Ti). I discovered that he is gay as well—but he’s not very outspoken about it. He lives alone in Alburquerque and is very involved with his sister, Margaret, and her family. Margaret also works with him at his florist shop. Edward’s grandfather, Dario Lucero, and my maternal grandfather, Fidel A Lucero, were brothers. Edward wrote:
Photo: Edward Michael Espinosa
Vacation dates are not yet set in concrete but are from July 2—July 15th. Does this conflict with anything you’ve got?
I’ll be the house guest of an old college roommate (he wasn’t old then) in Long Beach, CA. He’s an author and professor of English at Cal State University, Long Beach.
I’ll only need two days of this time for the Teleflora Conference whose headquarters is in West Los Angeles. It’s a brand-new building I hear.
I’m glad you found the picture a gem, which it is. I believe my Granddad, Dario, was 87 or 88 years old. He died the next year after that picture was taken.
I went skiing yesterday in Taos and where my sunburn isn’t hurting—all else it!
Edward
All these letters and contacts from new family members are adding a new element to my life. I like hearing their stories and feeling their connections. I’m so excited to meet many of them next month (JULY) for the three planned Family Reunions in New Mexico.
Abruptly, “everything changed completely—as if a strange magician had pressed a button and had given my life a whole new direction.” --Tom Reiss, from his book, THE ORIENTALIST: Solving the Mystery of a Strange and Dangerous Life
May 28, 2023
Addicted to Love
“You and I must struggle toward our own understanding. Only from that can we expect a connection to evolve...an alliance.” --Eric Van Lustbader, THE KAISHO I can always count on a unique Birthday Card from Paloma in France, of course, from Cap de la Corniche in Sete, France (and postmarked from Balaruc-Les-Bains). It arrived a bit late but that’s okay because it’s still my Birthday month. She included some awesome magazine clips from the recent May 1997 Cannes Film Festival in GALA magazine. Of course, she gave me more guilt-tripping about learning French. I think I need to immerse myself with the French language somehow. Maybe it will require living in Paris for a full year. Oui. Oui. Oui. Peut-Etre. Peut-Etre. Peut-Etre.
le 19/05/97
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Sorry I have been so lazy. I am awfully busy. I have time for nothing. It takes me a lot of time to think in English and it’s getting harder and harder, so...you have to learn French!
To start with, did you watch the CANNES Festival? I bet you did. That was the 50th Anniversary with some beautiful people. I think French Directors have been doing (making?) some pretty good movies lately.
Have you seen Luc Besson’s last movie with Bruce Willis? I have not yet but I will Wednesday. I loved “LEON”.
The last movie I have seen is “THE ENGLISH PATIENT” (because of The Oscars). I’m sure you’ve seen it, too.
I’m sending a few pictures of the Cannes Festival that you have probably already seen in American magazines. I liked when Sean Penn got his prize. He looked really happy.
Have you been to DISNEY WORLD?
By the way, did you like DISNEYLAND PARIS?
Happy Birthday!
Love,
Paloma
I had sent one of my newfound cousins, Charlotte Tapia-Gonzales, a birthday card as she was born the same day as me (May 26th) but in 1952. She followed up with a sweet belated Birthday card for me. Mom and I are excited about our family reunions this summer (Lucero clan in Albuquerque in Edward Espinosa’s backyard; Leyba clan in Santa Fe and Garcia clan in Santa Fe, both at the Eldorado Hotel in Downtown Santa Fe on W. San Francisco Street).
I haven’t forgotten you guys.
Looking forward to seeing you in July.
Love,
Your Cousin,
Charlotte Gonzales, 97"
Highly coincidental, but my cousin Cris Keller in La Canada, CA sent me a baby announcement for her daughter, MARJORIE (Jo-Jo) GRACE TARNA KELLER, born March 30, 1997, Easter Sunday at 2:30am, 7 ½ pounds, 20 inches.
The highly coincidental part was that my Aunt Lela also sent me a card of the same baby announcement image that included a photo of her daughter, Donna Armijo (my first cousin) with her new baby girl, Lauren Joe Payne, who was born on December 5, 1996. I had sent my Aunt Lela a box of candy for her June 2nd Birthday:
Michael,
Talk about a “BIRTHDAY”. This has been one of the memory savers! You’re such a sweetheart remembering sweets for the sweetest.
Here are a few more pictures for your album. Joey’s two had their First Communion on May 10, 1997.
Here’s a photo of Donna and her youngest, Lauren Jo.
Love,
Aunt Lela
I had a cool Paris card to send Paloma after her cool Birthday greeting:
May 29, 1997
Dearest Paloma,
Thanks for remembering my Birthday. I loved the CANNES photos. So... cool! You know I love to see that. I especially like Kate Winslett, Mira Sorvino, Sigourney Weaver, Isabelle Adjani, etc. Thanks for sharing.
You’re losing your ‘ENGLISH’ touch because you haven’t written to me lately!
I have never been to DISNEYWORLD.
I did enjoy DISNEYLAND PARIS but it reminded me of America’s Disneyland, so I prefer being in PARIS itself. I love the food, wine and fashion faire in Paris. I think that’s one of the things that attracted me to you. Your Haute Couture. Do you know what that means? It’s French, isn’t it?
I saw Sean Penn once here at the Century City Shopping Center. I never cared for him very much.
I saw a new movie, ADDICTED TO LOVE with Meg Ryan, Matthew Broderick and some French Actor and Kelly Lynch (John Travolta’s wife). It was good. And I enjoyed it.
Thinking of You.
Write Back or I’ll have to take a French class!
Love,
Michael
And to sum up the week/month I received an impressive ALASKA Icebergs postcard of the Columbia Glacier near Heather Island, Prince William Sound. It was from my first cousin, Carol Lucero, writing about her sister, Liz, who is getting married on the 4th of July. It was more generic than personal, but it was sweet to be informed:
As Liz’s matron-of-honor, I want to tell you about their honeymoon gift registries. Rose at Lincoln Travel is handling their Alaska Honeymoon Registry with 12-days of specific accommodations, meals, and activities you may sponsor—or you may choose a honeymoon gift certificate of any amount.
Liz and Leonard have also registered at the REI Co-op, which has a computerized program regularly updated at all its locations. Most of these gifts are also honeymoon-related, plus some bicycle gear.
If you’d like, I will send you the list of Honeymoon Registry items. The REI Co-op list, an unregistered list of miscellaneous household items and even a copy of their exhaustive (and exhausting) honeymoon itinerary.
If you have any questions about the wedding, reception, accommodations or anything else, just contact me in the evenings. The “wed-site” remains under construction. Leonard is still hoping for a June 1st debut. I look forward to seeing you in Fremont on July 4!
CAROL LUCERO
Another married couple in-the-works. I cross my fingers that it will be a blessed journey. There must be an itch to marry going on and it may be from all of these fantastic Romantic Comedy films. Alan and I saw--yet another--on May 30th called TIL THERE WAS YOU. We simply LOVED it!
He placed his hand over his heart. “In here, there is limitless room—happiness, kindness, sorrow, anger, friendship—everything fits in here.” --Rohinton Mistry, A FINE BALANCE
May 21, 2023
A Positive Dimension
As the poet says, ‘a thing of beauty is a joy for ever’. --Roald Dahl, in his book, GOING SOLO It’s an eventful week. First, it’s my Birthday on May 26th. And on May 25th, it is Lauren’s Santa Monica High School Prom night. Her date will be Craig Feinman of Staten Island. His mother, Joanne, is a longtime gal pal of Judy Opolinsky (who is a good friend of Lauren’s mom). That’s how Lauren met Craig.
Lauren’s mom, Susan, arranged for a make-up artist to come to her house to do Lauren’s makeup. I snapped a shot of that happening. I managed to get a few good shots of Lauren and Craig as well as of Lauren’s friend, Julie and others (including Mike Regalbuto).
Gloria sent me a postcard of Bill Clinton. Imprinted on the card:
Dear _______, Thought you’d enjoy this shot of one of my buddies who stopped by the club for 18 holes. You know him as William Jefferson Clinton, our 42nd President, but to me he will always be affectionately known as “Bill”.
PS I got his autograph for you.
That was funny. Gloria wrote:
Sunday 5/24 Hi,
I just had a jogging session with the person on the card. All is well and having fun.
Love to All,
Always,
Gloria and Jack
I received a few early Birthday Cards from Dorothy Rua and my grandmother, Mary G Lucero and Alan’s daughters (Lauren and Carrie) and Herb and Carol BRAHA.
Dorothy’s card had a nice way with words:
“It’s not where or when you arrive—it's taking the journey that counts. Wishing you a year filled with discovery.”
Grandma’s card was sweet with a record album depiction that read “YOU’RE WONDERFUL” The Admirers & “Happy Birthday to a wonderful grandson...who’s a bit hit with the whole family!”
Love, Grandma, God Bless
I loved the Birthday Cake kid card from Lauren and Carrie Freiman. It touched my 'child within':
Dear Mike,
We thought this card was very fitting since we know who eats all the Mars bars when no one’s home. This may be a little early but Happy Birthday. So, how does it feel to be 21? We hope that you have a great birthday.
You’ve always been there for us, and we really appreciate it. I guess Birthdays are the times to assure people of things like that. There’ s not much else to say except that we love you. Hope you have a great birthday and that you like your present.
We love you always,
Lauren and Carrie Freiman
Herb and Carol sent me a cool card of the Eiffel Tower and planes flying over and around it. They wrote:
It is really terrific to have a friend like you. You give us laughter, fun and good market tips!
Most of all we love your kind heart and soul.
Very Happy Birthday,
Love,
Carol and Herb
And on my actual Birthday (May 26) I received cards from ‘Gloria and Jack’, Cousin MaryAnn Gehling from Colorado Springs, my longtime friend Birda Bingham and a mix of several cards from Alan.
5/26/97
Dearest Michael,
Are you a true GEMINI? Wishing you a very happy, healthy and prosperous birthday and with that a wish that whatever it is in life you desire, your wish shall be granted. It has been our pleasure in knowing and celebrating the last 7 or 8 years with you. You have added A POSITIVE DIMENSION to our lives. Our greatest times are that we have been with you and hope it continues forever. I could go on and on with accolades for you. There are so many, but I will sum it up by saying of all the fabulous people we have met you fill the bill the best.
Love Always,
Gloria and Jack
‘Just little old me wishing you a happy birthday! Love, Mary Ann
For some reason I love this card. Sometimes I walk out I the yard, just little old me and look at the stars. I always feel insignificant when I do. Takes some of my conceit away. It makes me keep my feet on the ground when I do. It’s sort of a spiritual time.
I really do love you, Michael. Have a happy birthday. I’ll be thinking of you all day. I’ll miss you a lot on our trip. Please take care of yourself. MaryAnn
And Birda wrote me a poem on her handmade card. That really warmed my heart. Unbelievable:
It’s hard to believe
YOUR BIRTHDAY is here.
Has it really been another year?
I was just thinking
about the times we spent
talking and riding
whenever we met.
Peddling fast, Racing along,
Keeping a pace,
To our favorite songs.
I’m so happy,
We keep in touch,
Each postcard I’ve gotten,
Means so much.
Have a great day.
Know that I care.
Even if you can’t see me,
Know that I’m there.
Happy Birthday!
Always, Birda
Alan created 4-sets of card-giving moments for me throughout the day. First, there was the set of 7-postcards; then 2 postcards, a solo card and then, another solo card. He hid them in different spots and handed me the last one.
The first set of 7 cards included 2 from a show we love called CENTRAL PARK WEST that is actually like a nighttime soap opera. He also gave me one of and ABSOLUTE VODKA ad in the heart of Venice, Italy; an ad postcard for a new Body Shop fragrance called NO DEBATE of three naked guys jumping (very funny) and a Normal Rockwell Museum card he saved from when we visited there; and an artsy one from the Paris LOUVRE gift shop that he bought of a man lost in thought by Hippolyte Flandrin and a beautiful postcard of a place we stayed in Gualala, CA called THE WHALE WATCH INN. Alan wrote:
5/26/97 Michael,
Happy Birthday. We've spent time enjoying CENTRAL PARK WEST, NY. I Love you and spending time with you is what it’s all about. No secrets and lies! I’m sorry I’m so busy and preoccupied but I know you know that all I really want is you.
Alan
Michael,
How about a Romantic trip to Venice? I’d love to take you to Italy. Don’t you like my surprises and plans? I know that I try to tell you what we should do but remember I always put you FIRST.
Do what you want.
I Love You.
Happy Birthday,
Alan.
Which of the three is me? Do I sexually satisfy you? Truth. No Secrets and Lies. I’m not satisfied. Why? Because I would love to have you all day long in bed—nothing else. Alan
Then, I discovered that you’re very talented and have many loves:
Rockwell Paintings, stocks, Family Trees, What next? You like me. I like you. I know that. It’s great...
So, we took trips to PARIS, SPAIN, ITALY, SWITZERLAND, NY, NY, NY, NY, London, London, Paris, Hong Kong, China: Beijing, Shanghai, Cancun, Mr. Leeman St. Kitts, Puerto Rico, Miami, Las Vegas and more...
But I always think of you with no clothes on—you look best in my arms except...
That you get preoccupied with other things like this (Central Park West series) and don’t spend enough time with your clothes off and in my arms. That has to change in year 8. In fact, my favorite times with you have been...
In Romantic spots like this (Whale Watch Inn, Gualala, CA) when you cannot do anything else but be with me...because I Love You. So, Health and Alan & Michael are all we need. We got it!!!
And then, his other duo cards were sweet, simple and surprising:
5/26/97
Michael,
Happy Birthday!
You’ve made my life very PERFECT.
You are a pick-me-up, not a pick-up.
Love,
Alan
So, I went home, started reading and playing and imagining how it would be without you. But I figured you were too young—the blond hair, you know. I then was depressed until you called. We met and went to LOUIS XIV and then it started: “Is there a future in a man-to-man relationship?’ I thought so. I wanted you.
The Artsy Card
Happy Birthday,
We have traveled so far to get to this day. Over 2500 Days and counting. One thought—I hope you’re happy with me. I’m certainly happy I met you. Please enjoy your Birthday Year. Oh No... I promise to be nice and do what you want.
Love, Alan
May 26, 1997, To Celebrate Michael Armijo’s 38th Birthday. Please enjoy the wine from France which has been bottled since 1988 and is fit to drink. Enjoy. Love, Alan
PS – Let's enjoy your bottle in 1997. You will just be better then. I love you so much. Happy Hannukah.
On May 28 Alan and I saw a most touching film called MY LIFE IN PINK (or MA VIE EN ROSE). It was just fantastic French film, about an innocent 7-year old child who provokes horrors in his community when he dresses in girls clothes and insists he's a girl. Both Alan and I were truly touched by the story.
‘There’s but one place for me,
Near you.
It’s like heaven to be
Near you.’
--as read in the novel by Leonard Cohen, THE FAVORITE GAME but taken from the song, NEAR YOU, recorded by Francis Craig and His Orchestra in 1947 with lyrics by Kermit Goell
May 14, 2023
Better Than Real Life
‘Everyone faces pain of separation...no one is spared.’--Susan Cain, BITTERSWEET I dedicate this blog to three people I mention in this blog who are no longer with us. I knew two of them; the other is known only from an article she wrote (Marlene Adler Marks):
Carol Phillips Braha b. May 20, 1946, d. August 21, 1997 (age 51)
Marlene Adler Marks b. 1948, d. September 5, 2002 (age 54)
Herbert S Braha b. September 18, 1946, d. February 6, 2016 (age 69)
Mid-May must be the time when people like to write letters/cards. Is it that Springtime feeling in the air that allows one to pick up a pen? The following people all wrote to me on the same date: May 14th, 1997 (Barbara Reynolds—twice with a postcard and an early Birthday card; Reed Campbell, Edna Maestas, Edward Espinosa):
May 14, 1997
Dear Mike,
Two days in Marin...stayed at Pt. Reyes Youth Hostel. Wednesday evening, I got to visit this village yesterday afternoon (KULE LOKLO). Perfect weather, lots of wildflowers, having a good visit with David and a lot different seeing him here at home, rather than those foreign lands. Great having vacation from work.
One thing you “must do” next trip here is the BEACH CHALET at S.F Ocean Beach, near the Windmills. The space is lovely with restored frescos and historic displays and info. Upstairs is a bar that has brewed ale and there is also a good cooking café and, of course, a great view of S.F. Beach. The guy in-charge of the Museaum portion is Huey Thomas. He retired four years ago from Pac Bell. He is friends (plays tennis with) Jon Miyasake (small world). It opened on December 29, 1996.
Hope you are great and happy. Write again.
Love,
Barbara
May 14, 1997
Hi Michael,
Just a card and note from Washington DC and after visiting my sister and family here for a few days. Damned tired of the snow, ice and rain of winter. Don’t care to shovel more snow again! Spring may come, I hope.
Hope to make San Francisco and San Diego late summer but not much travel planned for now. It depends on the website and special rates/fares. Drop a line on how you are.
Best Always,
Reed
May 14, 1997
Dear Michael,
I received your letter today, Saturday. April whizzed by. I decided to answer your letter right now or it may take me another few weeks. I believe you will be visiting Santa Fe around the time our church has their annual camp meeting, but I will arrange my schedule so that I can meet you and your family. I’m looking forward to it. The El Dorado Hotel is one of—if not the—finest hotels in Santa Fe. When Mike and I find extra time or the opportunity we go there to listen to Reuben Romero and Antonio Mendosa sing and play guitar. Both are renown guitarists. My husband also enjoys playing guitar.
I’m afraid this summer is going to fly by. We are invited to several parties, graduations, weddings, etc. Tomorrow is Mother’s Day, and we will get up early and meet my mother for breakfast. My mother is a very beautiful person and I’m close to her. I love both my parents very much. My dad is a real loner and lives by himself. He battles alcoholism and lately has had a few relapses.
What are your favorite foods? If you feel like eating a nice home cooked New Mexican meal I will gladly invite you over. Of course, New Mexican to us means Mexican food like red or green Chile, enchiladas, beans, Spanish rice, tortillas or sopapillas, etc.
My Uncle Augustin’s granddaughter is getting married on May 31st in Las Vegas, NM. We’re planning on attending the wedding and visit my dad on his Birthday, too. We’re supposed to put our house up for sale this summer so that we can make our move to Ledoux. At this time, we seem to be coasting with our plans. Good thing we are not in a hurry. Rickie, our grandson (more like a son) will be starting school in one more year and that might be a better time for him to adjust. For now, we’ve settled with a few additions to our family, a male kitty named Morice. We thought he was a she and we named her Marie after a kitty in the movie, ARISTOCATS. We then took her in to get spayed and when they made the incision, they discovered that Marie was a Marty. My daughter, Teresa, is expecting, too. And once again, I will be a grandmother!
My computer seems to be static-ing out, so once again, I will close, and I hope to hear from you soon.
With Love,
Edna
May 14, 1997
Dear Mike,
Have a %*@#!!!-kicking good time on your Birthday! This time of year, again and knowing you, Mike, I am sure that you have some wonderful plan on how to observe your Birthday (3?). Ha-ha.
Me? Well, I just wish I had a couple of months' vacation about now. I just need to spend my time a little differently, I guess. I saw CITIZEN RUTH last night finally. And I saw TRAVELLERS last weekend.
Our yard looks good. We plan on painting the wood part of this building this year, so I don’t want to be attached to the idea of a surviving garden. Yes, it’s attachment, too, too much. Just wondering about the future too much.
I have no computer at home, yet. We do have a net at work now but internal only, so lots of information which is great. Are Tony and Helen still working for Pac Bell?
I have a temporary roommate now, Andrea, a coworker. She has been accepted to UCLA and will leave 23 May. She will be a coworker until then. I had a bad housing situation with a cousin, so this has been a good opportunity for me that past couple of weeks to see what it’s like to have a roomie in this space. And it’s totally different from the time David was here in March. So, the verdict is no long-term roomies unless I’m IN LOVE. So, we shall see.
Hmmm...I just read something so I will quote it now: “LOVE is not consolation, it is light.” --Simone Weil, French philosopher
I’m still getting to meetings and trying new things. I’ll let you know when I get an email address.
How is Marina Del Rey these days?
Happy BD and OH...Joan Lyons finally got a permanent promotion to Manager. She’s training and will go to Southern California. She finished her undergraduate degree, graduated last week, so I’ll miss her but I’m very happy for her. Later.
Love,
Barbara
May 14, 1997
Dear Michael,
'Keep Your Sunny-Side Up'
Mother’s Day will be brutal as always (at the florist) but I have finally learned to delegate. It took me fifteen years, so I don’t get as flustered as I used to. The usual delivery problems and complaints will happen, but Margaret has productions down to a science and her whole crew will do a magnificent job. We will deliver about 400 packages.
Your plans for July are extensive, so I’m going to give you a breather. I’ve rescheduled my vacation plans to August. Actually, the main reason is that Dean (Margaret’s son) has relocated to your turf. He’s relocated to INTEL in Santa Clara and John and Margaret want to travel there in mid-July to help set up the household. It’s the only time John can get away and both Margaret and I can’t be gone at the same time.
As for our get-together on July 24th I’ve decided to host a backyard Bar-B-Q at my home. Margaret will help.
I don’t know if you're’ planning to return to Santa Fe that night, which is probably not a good idea, so I’d be delighted if you spent the night, I have a guest bedroom. Your mother could spend that night at Mabel’s. She’s got 3 or 4 guest rooms. If you want to talk about the details call me at the shop anytime during the day or at home in the evening. 800-437-8182.
Edward
Herb Braha, Alan’s longtime friend sent me a cool INDONESIAN card in honor of my upcoming Birthday where he simply wrote:
Michael, Have a good Laugh today. Herb
Photo: Herbert S Braha
He included a story from the JEWISH JOURNAL, written by Marlene Adler Marks, the editor at large of the Jewish Journal. The title of the story was TEN YEARS where she stumbled on a man she recognized as her husband, but he had been dead for 10 years. His doppelganger perhaps? Well, it was a cute story, but the part Herb circled was this part that provided a good laugh:
In all these years, I have met many men and women who have suffered loss. We never think we do it right. We should have remarried earlier, or later, or not at all. We should have kept the house, or sold the house, or taken in a tenant. We become control freaks over the small things—missing papers, unreturned phone calls—because we have no power over the large.
But what we never say is that death has great appeal. We study it and study ourselves, wearing it down like softened leather. Soon enough, memory serves us well. Better than real life.
Real life gets messy; memory stands still. Real life is strange and frightening; memory consoles—even its pain is familiar. --Marlene Adler Marks
Photo: Marlene Adler Marks
May 20, 1997
Dear Michael,
Happy Birthday! I hope you get this in time.
Vancouver Island is a stunning place. You’d really enjoy Victoria. Todau, Ryan and I are in Tofino. We are on the west side of the isle. Soon, we’ll leave for Vancouver, B.C. Lots of hiking, kayaking and eating. Tofino is a very small town, quaint and relaxing. Til later,
Love, Carol and Ryan
I also received a beautiful wedding invitation from my Carol’s sister, Liz Lucero (also my cousin). She (Elizabeth Anne Lucero) and Leonard Fredrick Muise, Jr. Plan to wed on the 4th of July at the Palmdale Estates in Fremont, CA at 11AM.
‘I don’t like quoting people. It can be quite a ticklish job; you tend to take things out of context and risk getting into all sorts of scrapes.’--Voltaire, in his ALL IS GOOD section of Voltaire, A Pocket Philosophical Dictionary
May 7, 2023
Savor Happy Moments and Beautiful Scenes
‘If you have good thoughts, they will shine out of your face like sunbeams, and you will always look lovely.’--Roald Dahl This week was wonderful if I discount going to work—but it flew by easily because I received a sweet letter from my niece, Ashley; a note from mom; escaped for a weekend night to Laguna Beach with Alan, his mom Gloria and his stepdad Jack; and a cool letter from my Aunt Lela.
There’s a movie that’s all the rage called AUSTIN POWERS. I saw the preview, but I’m not impressed. I don’t see what’s so funny about that guy, so I don’t plan on seeing it. What’s the point?
Ashley’s letter was sweet. She loved the presents I sent for her 13th Birthday. She’s a full-fledged teenager now. She used Sailor moon stationery, so that’s a sign of age thirteen.
5-8-97
Dear Uncle Mike,
Thank you so, so, so much for the gifts. The Norman Rockwell book is interesting. My favorite is DAY IN THE LIFE OF A GIRL. ANNE OF GREEN GABLES is long, but I can handle it over the summer because I have a biography book report. The heart pin is so pretty. The film case was cool. I noticed it was from United Airlines—Phew! -Thank God it wasn’t American Airlines. The $%0 was too much. I'm only 13 but thanks a lot! I got $83.
On my progress report I got all A’s except for DRAMA and P.E. because we haven’t gotten those grades yet.
Yesterday, we went on a field trip. It was in S.F. at the Asian Arts Museum. For the tour we went to eat and people in a school band were playing. There were about 7 old, retarded seniors who were dancing. They were really retarded. One man, while my friend was in the porter potty, started to bang on the door, yelling, “Hurry up! I got to go bad!” in a weird voice. Then, when the other person got out, he cut some other little kids and went. Weird, huh?
Once again, Thanks!
I love you. I miss you. Hope to see you soon.
Always,
Ashley Armijo
Mom sent some family photos from grandma with a cute note:
5-9-97
Hi Mike,
Here I’m sending the pictures my mom gave me yesterday. I think you’re going to like the one of my mom and dad. And my grandpa and grandma. They’re cool.
Love, Mom
Alan had a great plan to stay at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Laguna Beach for a night. We went for ‘high tea service’ and it’s always the best. The view of the shoreline is nothing better. It’s a great weekend escape. I took some polaroid photos of us in remembrance. Those photos are a reminder to continue the tradition of returning. I like to savor happy moments and beautiful scenes.
My Aunt Lela got word of the reunion that my Aunt Nellie had with her estranged son, Oscar. It was sweet of her to write me:
May 13, 1997
Dear Michael,
You’re such a sweetheart putting Nellie and Oscar together. Your Uncle Joe and I met Oscar and his sisters when we were living in Taos in 1976.
I saw Troy, Kelly and their two (Megan and Robert) on Saturday, the 10th for First Holy Communions for Alisha, Cory and our (George and I) youngest son’s boy, Tony. Joey and Amy gave the party here in Nana’s yard. We had about fifty people there from noon until 6PM. It was good to see Troy and his family. He’s such a respectful man and a good take charge type with all the food!
I told Joey that he and Troy, Steve Vigil and you should put together an ARMIJO-VIGIL reunion, so all the second cousins can get to know each other.
You asked how my mom is. Well, she’s doing good. She still lives in a Mobile Park on Durham Road in Fremont.
I was thrilled to hear about all your neat trips and your moms too.
Boy, now that Mom Rego (George’s mom) can’t be left alone at all we’re lucky to get an overnighter away, let alone a complete weekend.
All the family said, ‘anytime you want a while to yourselves’. Well, they're all out of town when we need them. “Ya, right!” Oh well, we’re fine with what we’re doing here, and for whom!
I’ve gotten into gardening now and my roses are my pride and joy. Of course, the rose is my flower because I was a June baby.
Your Birthdays just about here, huh? You’ll be what, 38? 39? What?
Well, I’ll close for now. God Bless.
Love,
Aunt Lela
P.S. This card reminds me of just how many grandkids I have!
‘To leave the world a bit better
Whether by a healthy child, a garden patch
Or a redeemed social condition
To know even one life has breathed easier
Because you lived,
This is to have succeeded.’ --Ralph Waldo Emerson
April 30, 2023
A Few Select Items
“What’s wrong in exchanging an impossible dream for a possible one?” --Rohinton Mistry, A FINE BALANCE I received an artsy postcard invitation to the FALL 1997 TODD OLDHAM Fashion Trunk Show at his store on Beverly Boulevard. Todd is an American fashion designer born in 1961. He is two years younger than I and I’m taken with some of his cool clothes. Alan and I attended. It was held from 4pm to 7pm on May 3rd. Afterwards, we went to dinner at a cool Italian Ristorante.
I wrote mom a card in anticipation of May 11th, Mother’s Day. The Hallmark card I used was like a painting of rowboats somewhere in Italy--at least that's what I imagined to be the place.
You are The Number One Mom!
I love you so, so much.
I enjoy being with you and talking to you.
I can’t wait for our trip to New Mexico.
Even if I’m not there on Mom’s Day—I owe you a special dinner in Santa Fe, ok?
Stay as sweet as you always are.
Here are a few select items I picked especially for you, Mom.
Love,
Michael Joe Armijo
P.S. Use them; they’re not décor items!
5-5-97
Dear Michael,
I bought a tape of a class I attended at the writer’s conference two years ago. Imagine my surprise when I found the dream song was on the other side. I thought you would like a copy of it. I wrote the words to the song as well as I could remember them. The tape wasn’t clear to begin with. It’s the best I could do.
I made a batch of cookies for Staci’s care package and decided you might enjoy some, too. It means you are important to me, that you are special, that I care about you. I always bake for my best friends and the family members that I love. I know, you’re a guy and don’t want to make you uncomfortable with mushy stuff. I hope I didn’t. I accept you into my special circle, Michael.
I wanted you to have a copy of the song because when I shared my experience of the conference with you, I think we became more than cousins that day. We became friends.
MaryAnn
I finally found the song she wrote about. The lyrics are by Ed Robertson, and it seems to be sung by a lot of school choir groups that creates an uplifting feeling. I found a few renditions on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8ko1R4KKWN4
DREAM A DREAM
Dream a dream of a new tomorrow when our dreams go well together hand in hand
Dare to hope for a peaceful morning when we dare to walk together hand in hand
If we all will dare to dream dreams of a new and brighter day
If we yearn to make them come true, we will surely find a way
Dream a dream, dare to hope, maybe we can make it better
Dream of a new tomorrow maybe someday we can see our dreams come true
Dream a dream of a world united when the nations choose to lay their weapons down
Dare to hope of a day of promise when we learn to let a smile replace a frown
If we all will dare to dream dreams of a new and brighter day
If we yearn to make them come true, we will surely find a way
Drema a dream, dare to hope, maybe we can make it better
Dream of a new tomorrow, maybe someday we can see our dreams come true.
I began to want my typewriter again. I began to want to put words on paper again. To make another beginning. To say something and see if it was the right thing. --William Saroyan, in his short story, MYSELF UPON THE EARTH
April 23, 2023
MIX-IT-UP a Little Bit
Dear Michael,
Where are you? Thinking of you as always... Love, Dorothy
It only takes a few cards from Dorothy Rua to realize that I’m behind in correspondence. She sent a brief one from Santa Barbara with only a few words. Was she really there? Then she sent a rush of a few more a few days later.
Sometimes we hit a wall or a lull. We just want freedom from some things. Things cannot become too routine. We need to mix-it-up a little bit. Instead of writing or watching TV there’s exercise, reading, movies, work (of course), planning a trip and always having something NEW to look forward to.
4-23-97
Dear Michael,
Guess what? After working in Iowa most of this week I found myself with a half-day of free time, so I headed for THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY! Winterset is only 35-minutes from where I’m staying in Des Moines, Iowa.
I did not go out to visit Roseman Bridge, but I walked through this one in Winterset. It’s only three blocks from the house actor JOHN WAYNE grew up in. How exciting! Plus, this bridge was from my friend, Denny Donahoe’s family in Madison County. Such a small world. I wish you could have been here.
Love,
Dorothy
Michael,
You’ve energized me and I’m still glowing. This Friday night (tomorrow), Rosemarie and I plan to go out to celebrate. Looks like we may try KIMBALL’S EAST CARNIVAL in Emeryville. Have you ever been there? They’re supposed to have a good Salsa Dance band and even five free lessons beforehand. Hope it doesn’t turn out to be a real ‘meat market’. If so, we’ll have to move on.
Does your brother still work at the Holiday Inn in Emeryville? Just getting out of suburbia will be refreshing and with my new “energy” level I’m looking forward to an evening out with some good music.
Rose and I are thinking for future Birthday celebrations we should plan an overnight trip to interesting places. Sounds like fun to me. I know we really enjoyed our cruise for our last birthday(s).
Speaking of trips, aren’t you heading to Miami soon? Why Miami? I mean, is there any reason like people, sites, museums? Or is it somewhere else you are planning to go? I’ll be looking forward to your card. Speaking of trips. Jan and I are currently looking at June 9-11th for Pisom Beach, probably drive down late Friday evening. Think about it, okay. I’ll let you know for sure and send the details later. She specifically told me to tell you you’re welcome to stay over.
Oh, I’m sending you the picture the waitress took of us at CHEZ PANISSE, sending it separately. The ‘housewarming’ book I was ready to send, then I flipped through the pages at the last minute. I seem to remember the photographs being of celebrities, but I discovered the book is loaded with nudes!
I’ll have to think about the book and whether you’d find it entertaining. I don’t mind nudity at all, just that it wasn’t my intent when I bought you the book five years ago.
Do hope you had a great weekend while you were home. I’m sure you made the visit extra special for your mom. When is your Grandmother's Birthday? Are you going to give her that bowling card?
I really miss you but just thinking about you makes me smile.
Love Always,
Dorothy
From the sound of it, Dorothy knows about trying to mix-it-up a little bit. Her card with what seemed to be a glimpse of a nude woman’s body in the sand was very artsy. And the quote that went along with the image was perfect by Geroge Jean Nathan: “Art is the sex of the imagination.”
Mail became a part of his heart. He carefully chose the places to read these lengthy communications, which were far more exciting than the chapters of a novel because he was the major character in them. --Leonard Cohen, THE FAVORITE GAME, a novel
