Michael Joe Armijo's Blog, page 21
December 12, 2021
It Seems Like 100 Years Ago
“You know, given the circumstances, I really think we ought to dance.” --actor Jonathan Pryce to actress Penelope Wilton in the 1995 film, CARRINGTON Another sweet card from Barbara:
16 Dec 1995
Dear Mike,
Your package arrived this week and is unopened under by “lights” since the tree may not make it inside this year.
I am still unpacking and moving things about. It is a bit DAMP here—just a little water problem and I got my kerosene lamp working this week.
Scheduling is busy. So, I am seeing movies and CARRINGTON is good and I went to the REVELS with Alice last weekend and my friends Howard and Nancy and their five-year-old, Sierra, arrive tomorrow. We will go to THE NUTCRAKER SUITE together. I am excited.
My Christmas box is in storage at my last place, so it will take some time to feel together. I am not going to be enrolled at school in January. Too much learning at home—Ha-Ha! Well, I am really enjoying my new place.
I hope you are well, my friend. Peace to you and Alan and your family.
Love,
Barbara
And another sweet typewritten letter from Birda:
Merry Christmas Michael,
How is everything? I’m doing fine. It has been a while since I wort you and I want you to know that I have thought about it a lot. I just haven’t had the time. I’ve been working so much. Usually, I get laid off in the summer. I was looking forward to it this year but it never happened. I wouldn’t be writing now if I didn’t get hurt at work. It isn’t as bad as it sounds. I will only be off for about a week. How it happened I’m still not sure. Honda Reps. Are checking out the car it happened in. You see, I was backing a Honda Accord on my truck and it wouldn’t stop! It went right off the front of the truck. Oops! Sounds bad but I was lucky, it landed right side up. I only strained a muscle in my neck and it is already feeling better. Everyone jokes and asks me when I got my pilot license and I tell them I still need more time in the air. Truthfully, I’m scared right now to load my truck but they tell me it’s normal and after I do it one time, I will be O.K.
So, what exciting trips have you been on lately? I don’t recommend the flight off a car carrier, been there—done that, it’s not fun. I received the postcard of your trip to Hawaii for your cousin's wedding. I know that was fun. You had your Via Dolce address on it so I am guessing you have your place back again.
I’m still here in Alameda, same place and it’s getting smaller every shopping trip. But we haven’t saved enough for a house yet. Maybe if I would stop shopping, we could. Bad habits are hard to break. We went out not long ago and bought two Mountain Bikes. They are in the bedroom with the 12-speed. Now, if I could just find time to ride again. It seems like 100 years ago that I rode a bike. It’s a good think you never forget...at least that’s what I’ve been told. Have you been riding or do you still run?
I hope all is going well for you. Please write soon. Take Care.
Always, Birda
PS. Have a Happy New Year!
I also like Birda’s Christmas snow scene card, signed by her, Bill and Brian and Brittany:
Merry Christmas 1995
What a wonderful year it has been.
We have had the opportunity to spend special moments with our families and friends. Their special days were a part of our lives and meant a lot to us. Those that we weren't able to be with this year were thought of a lot and our best was with you always. We are hoping that this next year will be your best year yet and that all you need and more will be yours.
We also want to wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Love Always.
Birda also wrote a sweet note about the gift I sent her:
Thank You Michael, so much, for the clock. It is beautiful. It has been an inspiration in getting me back in shape. Which is something I can really use right now. I’m still off of work and am starting a strengthening program at physical therapy. It sounds bad but with my job they won’t let me go back until I am 100% O.K. Right now, I am about 95%, so I am doing exercise at home and in therapy. It has been easier to just lie on the couch all day, but every time I look at the clock it reminds me of what I used to do, and makes me get up and do those exercises. Thank you for helping me get better.
Forever,
Birda
I am feeling the Holiday Spirit. I am anxious for my brother's traditional eggnog this season. He always has the right touch when preparing it.
When we are balanced, our awareness anchors in our heart. --THREADS OF YOGA, Pamela Seelig
December 5, 2021
QUIET THE MIND
“Life’s more often shades of gray than it is all black and white.” --Eric Van Lustbader THE MIKO And so, my Aunt Lela kept to her word more quickly than expected by writing me another letter of which I received this week:
12/5/95
Dear Michael,
Well, you know I’m in my glory having my ‘lil’ girl (Donna) home for the holidays and to top it off she has three “lil” girls to add even more joy to our lives.
There is a void and now with Donna home it’s even more evident.
Mona is still up there (Washington state). I can only pray that they’ll be here for at least a week for Christmas.
It would really be extra added joy if you, your mom and brothers and families could drop through one day before the holidays are over.
We’re having an open house here on December 23rtd from 7pm on. You are officially invited and you may extend this invitation to all of your family.
On the sad chance you don’t make it. We wish you and yours the joy of the season and God’s Blessing for a Happy New Year.
Love Lela.
Mom sent her festive Christmas Card but I sort of scolded her for only writing:
‘Dear Mike & Alan’, Wishing you a joyful Christmas & Happy New Year’.
She gets a reprieve since I’ll be coming home to Alameda for Christmas.
Former coworker and friend, Reed Campbell, was good. He sent a not so X-rated card this time and wrote the following:
Hi Michael,
Saw this card and since I don’t know your birthday and I missed send you a Valentine, thought you might enjoy it.
We are very busy getting our house in order as we put it up for sale. We hope to move back to Minneapolis by June of this year. Hope we (you and I) can get together before I go east. My daughter is going to college in San Diego now. She just became ‘21’. So, I might get down there before we make the big move.
Best Always,
Reed
Alan and I caught an early screening of SENSE AND SENSIBILITY. It was directed by an up-and-coming director named ANG LEE. It was about a wealthy Englishman in the early 19th Century who dies, leaving his second wife and her three daughters poor by the rules of inheritance. Alan and I enjoyed it. It was based on a Jane Austen book and Emma Thompson starred in it (as well as wrote the screenplay). Kate Winslet was in the film along with some other great English actors. It was quite action-packed but it was quite nice to quiet the mind once over.
A rhythmic pattern of breath and movement connects us with universal energy and can be the first glimpse of a quiet mind in action. --Pamela Seeling, THREADS OF YOGA
November 28, 2021
BEAUTIFUL LIFE
“I prefer it when you go for the humanist and positive view of things, like the other day when you said that deep down nobody is bad, only frightened.” --Carolos Ruiz Zafon THE PRISONER OF HEAVEN My music listening has lately channeled its way to Christmas tunes. I can’t help but listen to Alvin and the Chipmunks to get me in the holiday spirit. Most other music isn’t impressive to me except for this one called BEAUTIFUL LIFE by Ace of Base. It’s a really good one. It inspires me to have an even more BEAUTIFUL LIFE. In fact, if you listen to it enough times, you’ll realize how your life is more beautiful than others and it will make you feel thankful.
As the holidays approach I like it when I receive correspondence from family that I don’t hear from as often as I’d like. This week it was my first cousin, Carol Lucero, and my Aunt Lela...
Hello Michael,
Well, well, well...I’m sorry it has been ages since I have written. I have been very busy as I have moved yet another time! By now, you may have learned to put my address in your address book in pence. I am now living with Ryan in a beautiful old home in Oakland. It actually belongs to his grandmother.
Besides moving, working and planning a wedding I am exhausted. When you’re in town next you must visit. Are you coming down for Christmas? I’m most likely going to be with Ryan’s family near Yosemite but I’m not sure if I’m leaving Saturday or Sunday (12/23 or 12/24)?
I got your postcard. Hawaii sounds relaxing. I’ve never been...but Ryan and I finally agreed on going to Kauai for our honeymoon. We’re lucky enough that Ryan’s grandmother a0pwns a condo over there. She is a neat woman. She lives next door to us here in Oakland.
Anyway, I hope everything’s going well with you.
Oh yeah, I also bought a new car. My old one ‘died’. I now have a 1995 HONDA, the car I’ve always wanted. It’s burgundy red! Anyway, hope to hear from you soon.
MERRY XMAS!
Love, Carol (510)536-0806
And from Aunt Lela:
‘I started to send this card for no special occasion...but thinking of you made it one’
So sorry it’s been so long. Did you and your mom make that trip to New Mexico? We went the last Saturday of May for my sister’s youngest graduation from High School. We were there four days—too long for me. It’s so dead where she lives in Tierra Amarilla. It’s way up north with elevation of 8,200 feet. Lots of snow in the winter and TOO HOT in the summer.
Mona let her two oldest (Johnny and Jessica) came for two weeks. I had them here for their second week.
Donna’s oldest, Danielle, was here a week before. Johnny and Jessica had a ball taking them all around. They’ve lived up there going on 5-years and neither of them remembered much of anything around here, so we rediscovered Marine World, Water Slides, Pee Wee Goilf and lots of G and PG movies. I’ll write a long letter soon.
God Bless,
Love, Aunt Lela
One of my Charles Schwab clients, Dov Hoenig, has been coming in a lot to see me. He whispered to me about his latest movie directed by Michael Mann called HEAT. Dov did the film editing. It is being released this month, just before Christmas. It stars Al Pacino and Robert DeNiro, so I’m anxious to see it. I specifically will pay close attention to the film editing that Dov spearheaded. I never truly realized how much the editing really makes for the flow in the making of a good movie. The actors don’t even have a clue as to what will end up on the cutting room floor.
“Well ya know, for me, the action is the juice.” –actor Tom Sizemore as Michael Cheritto in the 1995 film, HEAT
November 21, 2021
LATIN KISS
“You know, the great things about plans is that you can make them for other days, too.” --V.E. Schwab, THE INVISIBLE LIFE OF ADDIE LARUE 11-95
Hi Michael!
I can always seem to find time to drop you a line when I’m away from life’s usual demands—though you’re in my thoughts throughout each day no matter what’s going on
Having a good time here (Carmel by the Sea). Sport a couple hours in the pool and spa last night, took a 2-hour walk on this beach at 7AM this morning, had breakfast, then meandered through as many Art Galleries as possible.
Today, had a great dinner at CAFE NAPOLI last night but will heard home before evening today. At the last minute, Peter found out he couldn’t join us on this trip but Nicole, Jean-Paul, Judy and I did. Enjoyed ourselves anyway. Guess we’ll have to plan another outing when Peter can make it. We'll see.
Anyway, how are things with you? We do have to do Santa Barbara sometime...
Love,
Dorothy
THANKSGIVING 1995
I chose to have Thanksgiving in Marina Del Rey this year and simply go to Alameda for Christmas this year. Alan had his mom, Gloria and Jack, come over. The turkey looked delicious. Funny, because when we were at the OLD MILANO INN Restaurant up near the Gualala, CA coast we saw a live-turkey running around the backyard of the restaurant. I had said, “Just think, we’ll be eating one just like it next week.” And here we are.
For Thanksgiving we invited Linda Williams from Ontario, CA and a friend of hers. They helped with the turkey preparations and carving. It’s nice to invite people who are willing to cook are assist in some way. Alan’s ex-wife, Susan, attended as well. She was helpful as always. Susan brought along her dad, Sam Hirsch, who was visiting from Flushing, NY.
Alan invited his real estate partner, Art (and his boyfriend, Todd) along with Art’s kids (Stephanie and Bradley). So, they made an appearance, too. Our pal, Maryann Parsons, who we met at LAWRY'S PRIME RIB in L.A. attended as well. She's always good for a party. She was once a Las Vegas showgirl.
In addition, Alan took the reins to invite Ron and Cora Fishman and their family. Ron’s mother even attended. They needed a Thanksgiving invite separated from the limelight and pressures of the OJ story. Cora was one of Nicole Simpson’s best friends. Ron was buddies with O.J. (and still is apparently). Alas, it was fun having them and not making the OJ story part of the night. We were all simply thankful to be together.
The dinner turned out well. I took a number of photos—not the greatest pics but it captured the jest of it. In the next day or two, Dorothy wrote me a card on her Thanksgiving Day. I loved the ON THE PORCH card of a woman, painted by William Chadwick:
Dear Michael,
Always the creative one, aren’t you? You weren’t the only one perspiring over BLAME IT ON THE TABU—that is one hot ad! ART and sensuality bring on incredible feelings. Not good to send these things my way at this point in my life...I enjoy them too much. The ad made me think of the movie SIRENS and made me think of you because of one of the characters—one that reminded me of you. Guess which one? No, not the minister/husband. Ha-ha!
Sounds like you had some good tunes on those CD’s you were playing. Always take your tapes (Michael’s music) with me now. Especially, on trips like Pismo Beach or Carme. The songs make me feel closer to you somehow. Maybe because I know you picked them.
How as your trip up North? I remember getting a beautiful card from GUALALA one of the other times you were there. Did you guys actually stay in GUALALA this time?
Sounds like Alan is a very busy (business) man. What a full plate. Good that he also finds time for balance in his life. One of these days he and I will get a chance to meet. I’ll let you know about attending his daughters 2/24 Bat Mitzah. Jean-Paul's Birthday is 2/22 and he wants to celebrate at Lake Tahoe. Thanks for thinking of me. I will let you know.
Have you seen the new James Bond movie yet? How was CARRINGTON? I haven’t seen it either. I have not seen any movies lately. I seem to go in spurts.
By the way, what’s this about my Porsche and hard-ons? If they’re out there they’d better keep an on on them. You know what they say about 40-something females and the talk is pretty accurate. Actually, 19–25-year-olds are supposed to be a good math for them. Ha!
Let’s see what have I been up to lately? Not a whole lot. Was trying to stay out of trouble but life got too boring so went to a fun party week before last (guy I work with). Only had one glass of wine, a little food and lots of laughter. Last Friday evening Jan wanted to go to KAROKE and I wasn’t too interest but went anyway (Judy joined us). I did NOT get up and sing though. Jan and Judy did and they sounded pretty bad. I danced a few dances with a guy named Woody. He was a great dancer but I had a feeling he was an ex-convict or something.
LATIN KISS postcard
Oh sure...had a good time but decided it was time to exit when Woody sat down at our table.
Next night I got together with a friend from out of town. He was here only for the day so we hooked up with another friend, so we could all catch up on each other's lives. It was fun.
Sunday, I had the whole afternoon to myself and was trying to decide if I should clean house or go for a ride. Decided on the ride, so called Jan, picked her up and headed for Berkeley. Made the right choice. We’ve had such beautiful weather here...too good to stay and clean.
You sent me this identical LATIN KISS card years ago and it’s remained one of my favorites. Saw it and decided I had to return the favor. I mean is this HOT or what? GOD, way too real!
Why did I ask if you were really as sensual as you came across? After all, these years I guess I didn’t have it figured out. I wasn’t sure if you were feeding into my sensuality because you knew I enjoyed it, or it was because of both your sensuality and your knowledge of my enjoyment. Now I know---glad you felt comfortable answering the question.
With Love,
Dorothy
“The more one moves, the more one learns to analyze a new situation and see things that others who have been in the system a long time have not identified.” --Walter Isaacson, THE CODE BREAKER
November 14, 2021
WHAT'S DONE IS DONE
“When you eat, when you work, when you’re at the movies, when you’re humping your wife, when you’re having a drink, at every moment in your life, and if possible, even in your coffin: suck in your gut!” --Mario Vargas Llosa, in his book AUNT JULIA AND THE SCRIPTWRITER I found a couple of cards to send Paloma of a male model and a female model, both looking quite athletic. I thought it would inspire Paloma to get more fit---as it will hopefully inspire me as well. Getting fit is a never-ending quest. I remember my sis-in-law, Helen, telling me once to always suck your stomach-in. It is such good advice. I wrote to Paloma as follows:
Dear Paloma, Thank you for such a nice letter. WE must have been thinking of each other because the day I got your letter I was wrapping you a Christmas present. I figured I’d plan early this time, so you don’t receive it on Valentine’s Day.
I just saw a film called DEVIL IN A BLUE DRESS with Denzel Washington and Jennifer Beals (she was in that famous dance movie; the name escapes me).
I also saw CARRINGTON last night with Emma Thompson and Jonathan Pryce, an odd sort of story but I managed to enjoy the escape.
Hawaii was fun. I flew on Continental Airlines and it cost me $648 for both me and my mom roundtrip from LAX to Hawaii. So that’s $324 each. Of course, it varies depending on when you go. It’s about $500 now because the colder months are here and Hawaii weather is more desirable.
Yes, I do remember the Vegas marriage proposal/suggestion. I was testing you and you didn’t seem eager and you didn’t take me seriously at the time. Alas, what’s done is done. I think we both know by now that neither one of us is replaceable. We are both ‘one-of-a-kind'. And more importantly, we have NOT lost each other totally.
I saw the article on JACQUES CHIRAC and I thought of you. Sorry to hear that the economy is kind of stressed there right now. They still protest in from of my building (Yes, 10990 Wilshire) because the French Consulate is located there. The protests are about stopping nuclear testing in France.
I did see WATERWORLD. It’s not very good. I also saw ASSASSINS. I took mom to see it in Hawaii as a matter of fact. It’s ok. THE PROFESSIONAL and LA FEMME NIKITA are much better films—but if you like Sylvester Stallone or Antonio Banderas I guess you’ll enjoy.
Do you like my choice in cards this time? Sometimes I go to certain restaurants in L.A. and they have a bunch of these cards by the restrooms for anyone to grab for free, so I grab the ones that look appealing to me.
I never did see RESERVOIR DOGS, but I wouldn’t see it if Quentin Tarantino is involved. I heard it was violet. he has another one coming called FOUR ROOMS about some Hotel and the guests include Madonna, Antonia Banderas, etc. The preview I have seen makes it look like another stupid film.
I think it’s funny that they call BAYWATCH “MALIBU ALERT” in France. Ha-ha...speaking of celebrity sightings. I saw Shelly Long and Robert Downey Jr. Recently. Do you know who they are? They weren't together. I saw them at two different restaurants.
You have such a good memory about what I said that night to get your telephone number just by looking in my cup of coffee! Wow! I had almost forgotten! For Halloween, our so-called first meeting anniversary) this year I was G.I. JOE. When I went to Seattle, WA I found an old green metal army helmet. I wore it and didn’t shave for 4-days. I looked the part. I went for an excellent run the other day. I like running.
Did you ever see the film FORREST GUMP? He liked running too, Haha. That was a great movie.
Thanks for the movie tips. I was going to see THE BORTHER’SMCMULLEN but I didn’t. I want to see TOYR STORY and GOLDENEYE the new James Bond/Pierce Brosnan film. That will hopefully be good.
I’m staying up past my bedtime for you, so I better finish up here.
Alan’s in New York right now—but this Friday, November 17th through November 20th we are going to San Francisco and Gualala (a small town up the Northern California Coast). There’s a neat old house turned restaurant there called THE OLD MILANO INN. It’s a peaceful, relaxing setting. The only problem is it is not super sunny like in Santa Cruz (the way we like it). Oh well.
I don’t recall the story in Oakland you described. Sorry but I’ll keep an eye out for it. It is on College Avenue in the North Oakland area? Do you know?
Oh well, take care and be good. It’s time for me to DREAM.
Always,
Love, Michael
I received a ‘surprise Thanksgiving card’ from my first cousin, Donna Armijo. I loved that because she’s not one to write very often. It was short, but sweet. I’ll have to make a point to see her.
Dear Michael,
Hi there! Well guess what? I’ve got a BIG SURPRISE! We’re in California and not just for a visit. We decided to move down from Washington. Right now, we’re staying with my mom until we find a place of our own.
I would really like to see you sometime. It’s been so long. And I’d love for you to meet David and the girls. So get in touch and let us know when would be a good time for you. Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving and Hope to see you soon.
All My Love, Donna
Dorothy Rua of Walnut Creek sent a short note using a whimsical, dreamscape card that depicted a painting by Brazilian painter, Susan Seddon Boulet from 1993 called RAVEN’S LOVE OF LIGHT. She wrote me and included a beautiful vase for me. What a wonderful gift!
11-18-95
Dear Michael, I’ve never purchased anything at the many WINE AND ART shows I’ve been to over the years, but I couldn't help myself when I saw this vase.
I like the way the crystal runs only slightly through the granite. When I held it at the show it made me think of you—strong and sensual.
When calla lilies are in season, you can use your creative talents to create a special arrangement. So, just a THINKING OF YOU gift.
Love, Dorothy
Alan and I left on the 17th (as planned) for Northern California. We stayed at a local town called GUALALA and at a posh place called THE WHALES WATCH INN. We could hear the waves of the ocean as we slept.
“The past is sometimes a very good place to live. One can’t go back. That’s the one thing one can’t do—go back.” --Agatha Christie, in her book, THE HOLLOW
November 7, 2021
NOWHERE
UTOPIA: It means “nowhere” in Greek, because metaphorically there’s nowhere to find a just, well-run, ideal society. --Jean-Cedric Michel, THE DAY APPLE BOUGHT GREECE, a novel I completed that Graphic Arts course at PLATT COLLEGE in Eagle Rock and now I’m torn about re-registering to do the COMPUTER GRAPHIC ARTS coursework. It’s the only way to be competitive now. One had to know how to do Computer Graphics (of course, now that I’ve learned how to do it all in manual mode). Perhaps I should just stick it out with Schwab---which I plan to do until I’m at least vested for 7 years (that mean about 3+ more years).
Dorothy sent a postcard from Morro Bay. That’s north of L.A. I understand it to be a quiet beach town and it’s known for that big mound of island off of the coast. It seems she liked the escape there. I know I simply love being by the beach. Being in Alameda I even loved the simple South Shore beach stretch, riding my bike along there back and forth is where I was granted some of my favorite, thought-provoking, anxiety-releasing memories. It was fun to keep it local and simply ride ‘nowhere’.
Dear Michael,
Another day in paradise with the sun, sand and sea. How fantastic I feel to have this available to me. Makes me think of how you must feel living so close to all of this.
Caught the ‘last call’ everywhere we went last night, including dinner at McClintock’s, drinks/music at The Cliff House, Trader Vic’s, then Harry’s. Probably should have spent most of the night at Harry’s, but all-in-all the night was fun.
More sun, sand and sea today, then back to the Bay Area which as you say, has its rewards.
Love, Dorothy
It seems Barbara Reynolds is set to move to her own condo soon. There is something special to have a place to call your own. I’m happy for her. She needs this change from the noisy neighbors above her current apartment. I think it’s always best to have your own stand-alone house; unless, of course, you’re in New York City and a beautiful condo will suffice because everything is right outside your door (for the most part).
November 7, 19985
Dear Mike,
Had to grab this color...not easy to see in this light at this time (12:48AM). I guess I have a few things on my mind plus a stuffy nose.
Got my 3-hours religious observance time on Halloween afternoon and drove down to Harrison Street in Oakland to Charles Schwab and opened my account there: XXXX-8682. This should cover my closing costs but escrow is now set for November 22nd...a drag. On the first I gave my notice of termination for this studio and two folks have already looked at it and someone is scheduled for 9:30AM on Monday to see it. I may need to ask for more time, alas, 5pm on November 22nd begins a vacations which ends on December 4th.
Oh, I met with Karen at Charles Schwab. She was excellent. Do you work in-person or on the phones or both? It was fascinating to spend that time at Charles Schwab—people watching.
Will you be up her for Thanksgiving weekend this year?
The San Francisco Palace of Legion of Honor reopens on November 11th. I guess I should plan a SF day for my vacation.
Later this day...
I met Alice to see DEVIL IN A BLUE DRESS this afternoon. Denzel Washington is so good. I loved all of the scenes of L.A.
How it being “home” again? Do you miss Pacific Palisades?
And your family tree? Doing that through a computer program? I saw a bit about doing your tree on Computer Chronicles on a PBS show.
We are into Fall weather. I got my wool blanket to keep cozy. Guess even L.A. gets cooler degree-wise.
What are your travel plans for 1996? Do you want to go to any of the planets?
I think I’ve asked too may questions. Guess I’ll toodle-doo.
Love,
Barbara
Paloma wrote from the South of France and asked if I’d seen the movies WATERWORLD and ASSASSINS. I have not seen either one. They sound like a waste of time (but it was cute and interesting to see the magazine clippings). I’m not a big fan of Kevin Costner or Sly Stallone. She highly suggested I avoid a French one called LES ANGES GARDIENS. I probably wont find it anywhere around here anyway (nowhere).
Dear Michael,
Lucky you! I wish I could go to Hawaii too! I guess it is quite expensive to just go to a wedding, isn’t it? How much does a trip from L.A. to Hawaii cost? I mean, a plane ticket? Talking about Hawaii I have got a card from Monica a few weeks ago telling me she had a baby girl in April named JAIME. She is really happy, she and Jaime’s dad (I do not remember his name, Jim Cietti, I think). I do not have the card with me, it is at home and I am writing you from work in Balaruc. They have their own real estate company. Her baby looks really cute on the picture which is quite normal since the mommy was quite good looking. Something I am sure you agree with, right? She says they are a big and happy family who live by the beach. Her husband has already two big boys (teenager if I remember well) and as usual she ends her card asking us to go visit them. I am sure we will.
I remember very well that guy you told me about in one of your last cards who said that we probably look great on the beach. In fact, I remember very well that evening since that is when you mentioned flying to Las Vegas to get married. Remember that? But there is nothing we could have done about that. I am sure there is something that leads our lives. We ere not meant to live together. Lots of signs make me believe I had to live with Alex, like probably you had to do with Alan.
People working for Air France have big problems right now. They are supposed to go on strike this weekend but all the stewards (of course women, too) have got a letter telling them that if they do strike they will be fired. I was not meant to work for them either, I guess. Our company is going way better and believe me I am really happy about that. To find a good job now in France is like winning the lottery. Things are not going well at all. We are paying more taxes every day. The government says it is going to be hard for two years which is hard to believe since they are such liars, to be elected they promised to raise everybody’s pay and now instead they raise the taxes.
Let’s just talk about something happier. Movies, of course! Yesterday, I saw RESERVOIR DOGS. I did not like it. Too much talking and too much violence. Quentin Tarantino really likes scenes that are hard to watch. Have you seen it? If you have I am sure you know what I am talking about. It is like I just saw SCARFACE again. There is that scene in the bathroom I will never forget, reminds me of you in Santa Cruz in that turning machine ride. Remember how mean you were? I am sure you could play in a Tarantino movie! We also took Jonathan to see CASPER. That was, of course, quite different. He loved it. he now also likes movies, so it is getting easier for us to go to the theater even if he sees one movie and we see another one. Like yesterday we almost took him to see MORTAL KOMBAT and at the same time we should have seen ASSASSINS with Stallone and Antonio Banderas. Have you seen it? Because when we go to the movies with him he does not stay with us anyway. He always wants to sit in the first row. We do not! He also does karate now. He will be nine years old in June. Can you believe that? Pretty soon I wont be able to kiss and hug him all the time. That scares me! Photo: LES ANGES GARDIENS
Your computer graphics studies sound interesting. I liked the special effects in the movie CASPER. We do not have Central Park West yet but we have ALERTE A MALIBU which I sometimes watch because Jonathan likes it. I like to look at the bathing suits, they sometimes have really nice ones. It is funny how stupid it is. Did you know that David Charvet is part French and that I once saw David Hasselhof in a disco in San Francisco. I also once saw Joe Montana at the I-BEAM. He was playing pool.
I bet you work at the 10990 Wilshire Blvd. In L.A., right? I am so smart. If you want to know something just let me know and I will tell you just by looking at my cup of coffee. That reminds me of some smart guy who once tried to find out a girls’ telephone number. Does that ring a bell? I know your work address because I know the French Consulate address!
Do you by any chance happen to know a store in Oakland (a big one) where they sell cowboy boots and sports clothes (school jackets and stuff like that)? I remember I once went there and liked it and I have no idea where it was anymore.
I have to go now, otherwise I will not be able to send this letter today. I have been so lazy lately that I bet you wonder what is happening.
I miss and love you. Paloma
At the heart of all ART lies a mystery.--Alex Michaelides, THE SILENT PATIENT
October 31, 2021
Perspiring, Purges, Party and Postcards
He is that monstrum horrendum, an unprincipled man of genius.--Edgar Allan Poe, The Murders in the Rue Morgue This week was fun-filled with mailbox surprises from Dorothy Rua, Barbara Reynolds, Lauren Armijo and Reed Campbell. I titled each correspondence based on a specific word that they wrote. PERSPIRING for Dorothy. PURGES for Barbara. PARTY for Lauren and POSTCARDS for Reed:
PERSPIRING
10-27-95
Dear Michael,
I loved your descriptive version of Norman Rockwell’s SPRING FLOWERS. No one else could have come up with the detail in the picture you painted—so sensual, so erotic. Why are you ding this (to me)? Ha! And the second question, Mr. Armijo, is are you as sensual as you come across? Wonder if you’ll answer these questions...
All that working out at the gym must have you in great shape—and perspiring. No need to look for a male CALLA LILLY card, you can model for one with the CALLA LILLY strategically placed
I also enjoyed your HANES card. Where did you say that CALLA LILLY was hiding?
Sounds like you had a good time in Hawaii. The question is, how long will you be in California before you’re off to some wonderful place over the horizon? I’m glad you let me know you were thinking of me in Hawaii. It meant a lot to me. You’re always in my thoughts.
The computer graphics class sounds like it’s right up your alley. A great opportunity to expand on your creative talents. Speaking of which, have you had time for painting lately?
I had another laser treatment/surgery on 10/12 and have been in bed for 2-weeks with a lot of pain, and lots of ice on my face. I’m so glad the pain is temporary. Some days it was almost too much. Anyway, I’m finally back to work now and trying to catch up with all the thinking I had to let go of for the last 2-weeks, like writing to you. I called you a few days ago to let yo know I received your cards and would be writing, but I got your answering service and didn’t leave a message.
By the way, thanks for the info on the movies you’ve seen. Have you seen THE SCARLETT LETTER or PWDER: POWDER looks interesting.
Love, Dorothy
PURGES
29 October 95
Dear Michael,
This afternoon I sorted through and purges some of my files—and alas, have my copy of the Rental Agreement I received upon moving here:
#3—NOISE: Residents, their families, children and visitors shall respect peace, comfort and quite enjoined of other residents. Musical instruments, radio, television sets, stereos, etc. Shall be playing only during reasonable hours (normally 10AM to 10PM) and at reasonable volume.
This is clear to me and probably clear to you. In fact, I read this agreement after I moved-in here and told myself I would need to change my habit of morning radio, so I did change and have lived in relative peace until a couple of months ago. I just want to sleep at night and have quiet in the morning. The beat of the base drum is not peaceful to my head. I found a new manager who seems to have not read the page I just quoted to you, so I’m waiting until it stops so I can sleep. They must be on drugs.
Alice and I saw the chick flick yesterday, QUILT. Even better that I had anticipated. Last week, we saw UNSTRUNG HEROES which was so sweet and midweek we saw BLUE IN THE FACE, refreshing. did you see “SMOKE”?
Things are moving along with my escrow. I saw my realtor yesterday afternoon and Alice got to see it. I signed some more papers. Tonight talked to my mortgage agent and tomorrow or the next day I will go to Charles Schwab in Oakland to sell about half of my stock. This will pay for my closing costs.
Do you know much about the tax on my stock profit? Well, actually how do I find what I paid for these stocks back in 1984 since I got them from ‘the company’. Hmmm...I actually have my original form effective December 31, 1984 when I acquired these stocks. The form shows what I paid and the company contributions—profit or income? I’m sure my questions all have answers. Do you tire of these sorts of questions?
Are you celebrating Halloween or the Day of the Dead? Jennifer Person and I met at the Oakland Museum last Sunday. Alice took us on a tour of the various altars created for the day of the dead celebration. Then we went to the end of the lecture on how to create a celebration of the D of D. Used sage incense to bring spirits together. Family Tree...Yeah! Fun, entertaining and interesting.
This Halloween I decided to attend that party I attended last year for Halloween. It was eventful enough for this year as well—but I believe I will don a costume for work this week. Do you remember those great Halloween Days in SF at the SDC where we had group contests and one year the winners were the Mouseketeers and the next year the very group won were all sorts of Rabbits or Bunnies—1985. It’s a part of my tree...you were 26 years old that year.
Loved the postcard of Champagne.
Thank You, Love, Barbara
PARTY
October 30, 1995
Dear Uncle Mike,
How are you doing?
I hope you’re having fun. I am. Tonight, I’m going to a Costume PARTY with my friend, Rachael. I think I’ll bring BROWNY. I thank you for my horse. I named him BROWNY.
Thank you for my other presents, too. I am collecting stamps. My mom bought some stamps.
I hope you have a fun time on Halloween.
Love,
Lauren
I had sent Lauren gifts for her Oct. 18th Birthday. I'm glad she liked the horse. She sent recent school pics of herself and her sister, Leigh. I see—like Ashley—she has braces, too. They’re both so pretty!
POSTCARDS
October 30, 1995
Reed’s card was funny. A not-so-sexy guy on the cover (at least NMT-Not My Type) with the words imprinted on the cover: I WAS GOING TO ENCLOSE SOMETHING YOU’D REALLY LIKE IN THIS CARD...
And inside the card: ….BUT THE CARD IS ONLY 7 INCHES LONG.
Dear Michael:
Happy Halloween.
I found the enclosed postcards at an Estate Sale in Wisconsin, a little old lady of ‘94’ years had saved it JUST FOR YOU.
Enjoy, Reed.
I made the best of my Halloween. Alan and I didn’t bother going out for any parties; instead we went to see an Antonio Banderas/Rebecca de Mornay thrilled called NEVER TALK TO STRANGERS. And so, for Halloween we did NOT talk to strangers. Ha-ha Who wants to go out and just get drunk on cocktails anyway?
Alan and I plan to do Thanksgiving at our house in Marina Del Rey. Who will be our special guests? I plan to go to Alameda for Christmas. Is the year almost over? Uh-oh...
I made a classic martini, a margarita, and a cocksucking cowboy---these cocktails were noted by the book as being among the most popular. --Graeme Simsion, THE ROSIE PROJECT, a novel
October 24, 2021
Why Open a Can of Worms?
Everyone has bad days. The way we deal with them is key. We need to change something. Either way, the trick is choice or freedom of choice to be precise. If you want to be happy, the first thing you need to do is set your intention to be happy. --A.C. Ping, “BE” I received another letter from my friend and acquaintance, J. David Enright IV:
From THE ENRIGHT OFFICE, 1899 California Street, PH, San Francisco, CA 94109
October 24, 1995
Dear Michael,
I got back from New York to find your nice note and a postcard from Hawaii which cheered me. You look great in the Paris photo, by the way.
The weather in New York was perfect and I had to venture out to Long Island where the leaves are turning color, so it was a great fall trip, combining business and friends. I’m around San Francisco for the next couple of weeks and then I go to Honolulu and Lanai for a week, then back to S.F.
It really would be nice to see you again, so let’s try to do that. Let me know your plans.
Yours, David
P.S. I still don’t have a telephone # for you. Send it on.
Hmm, send my phone number? I think I purposely did not. After all, why open a can of worms? I’m with Alan and if anything were to have happened between J. David it would have/should have happened in the past. It never did, so there’s no sense in pursuing a lost game. Isn’t that all it was between us—a game? In any case, he certainly keeps himself busy between New York, Hawaii, Santa Barbara and God knows where else—so I’ll continue to be low key. However, I did like that his letter was handwritten and not typed on his business stationery. It made if feel more personal. His letter didn’t make me have a bad day. It just left me in a quandary. Meanwhile, I’ll play a tune and maybe the spontaneous lyrics may provide some needed advice.
Music and singing keep us alive, give us hope. If we can feel, we know we can live. --VIET THANG NGUYEN, The Sympathizer, a novel
October 17, 2021
CONNECT and RECONNECT
Everything becomes more real when you cry. Connecting with one’s sadness is a way to touch those loved ones already lost. --Stephen Cope, SOUL FRIENDS It was fun to be back in Alameda with mom. The flight was easy and we had lull time, meaning we didn’t have any obligations. It was nice to simply rest and ‘be home’. Of course, Los Angeles has certainly become my new home but I can’t help but feel my roots of where I grew up. I moved to Alameda when I was 11 years old (from Oakland). There are a lot of memories under the bridge.
I was happy Tony, Helen and the girls (Lauren and Leigh) were also in attendance at Patrick’s wedding. John and family didn't make it though (it cannot be easy with four kids ranging from ages 11-3). It was a nice affair but I wasn’t too thrilled by self-service of wine-in-a-box. Oh well, I am not much of a drinker and it was more about the celebration for cousin Patrick. The cost-cuttings of wedding prep are important if the bride and groom want a super honeymoon, right? I’m not quite sure where they were going on their honeymoon though. Perhaps it will be Hawaii as that seems to be the standard.
Patrick, the groom, was born in 1966. He’s a great guy and I love his brother, Jeremy, and sister, Jessica, too. I see them as my first cousins—but it’s actually their mom (CECELIA MARKUS) that is my first cousin. Cecelia’s mother, Esther Vigil-Garcia, is my dad’s half-sister.
Sometimes I wonder why people cry at a wedding. It’s not a funeral. I guess it’s because a son or daughter has left the main domain and it’s a sort of an end—but a new beginning, too. And endings can be sad for some. Crying will ease the pain and does make it all seem more real and true. I bet people are also secretly making their own wishes during a wedding, too. I’m not so sure what I wished for in my mind but I was simply happy that I attended. Somehow, I feel my dad whispering over my shoulder (and mom's) in happiness that we were there to toast and cheer. It’s important to see family and try to connect and reconnect.
I had fun taking photos here and there. I snapped a cute duo pic of Jessica Markus with Jessica Banks (Jessica Banks is the granddaughter of Aunt Nellie; her mom is Becky Ortega-Banks). They were both running around and scoping the scene. I think weddings are perfect for kids at this age. They feel the pulse of family and just go full-force without a care in the world by simply having the most fun as possible. Adults tend to be more on-guard; however, the best thing to do when going to a wedding is to simply tell yourself, “I’ll just have a good time. I'll make the best of it. I'll smile a lot and make meaningful conversation as much as possible.” If you go ‘in’ with this goal you’re sure to have a pretty good time no matter what.
Not much else happened this week. The wedding was over in a flash but I was happy to be home with mom. We also saw a great film that I loved called A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE. It was a remake from the Marlon Brando original—however, this one starred Alec Baldwin and Jessica Lange. I actually liked the 1984 version with Ann-Margret and Treat Williams better---but we can’t win ‘em all. Before long I was back on a Southwest flight, heading back to Los Angeles.
October 10, 2021
People Need to Have Their Honey
I started keeping a small notebook in which I wrote down my thoughts during the day—except for workouts, when my thoughts gave way to action. --Dan Millman, WAY OF THE PEACEFUL WARRIOR Well, the Hawaii escape was a success. Mom and I flew back to LAX and I had a sweet card waiting for me from Barbara Reynolds:
6 Oct 95
Dear Mike,
Got your postcard this week of CENTRAL PARK WEST. Hmmm...wondering what that is and I'll ask Alice tomorrow.
Today, I was full of surprises. I awoke begrudged with my alarm, got myself ready for TGIF, then had not enough time to walk, so I rode my bike to work. There was nice, crisp fall air. I got to our garage and it was dark since the power had failed at 6AM, so I trekked by bike up to the 2nd level, thinking full moon drama and our office electricity was OUT also. I took a few calls but then relaxed since our headsets could not be used without electrical power. I wandered around with some ‘ERIC’ stuff and passed a button to everyone; Employees Response, then noticed a bad smell in our area, so we evacuated and actually were told we could leave at about 10:30AM—just about the time the power came on. I took off since these occasions are rare.
I had a really nice day and met with my realtor at a new place around the corner two blocks from where I now live. I was pleasantly surprised—a 2-bedroom condo built about 43 years ago; upper unit; large living room at the Western end of the building. Will keep you posted this evening.
I went to another class in macrobiotics. I wanted Alice to go with me but she couldn’t and got a nice surprise as I found another friend there. Then, got to his place where he shared a recipe with me UME SHO KUZO drink that is healthy for the liver.
Oh, I do understand about how moving is time consuming. I hope you like being back there. Is it better?
Yes, I was hoping you were all right and I did expect part of the reason I hadn’t heard from you was you would be moving.
This card reminded me of the Hunter Full Moon we now have.
Later, Barbara
I captured a cute photo of Carrie (Alan’s youngest daughter) in front of the house. It’s nice to be back in Marina Del Rey. We are much closer to the beach. This is a perk I do love very much.
A few days later Barbara Reynolds sent me another postcard of a Private School taken in 1993 by Jane Kennedy, photographer. It was a sort of a 'Welcome Back' to Marina Del Rey postcard. That was thoughtful of her. She knows I like to check my mailbox and find anything other than junk or an invoice. This time Barbara wrote:
Welcome Back, 15 Oct 95
I know about moving and expect I will experience it again soon. Escrow begins tomorrow but it all looks good so far. It’s a 2-Bedroom condo built in 1952 and 2-blocks away from my current home. I hope to have a roommate. This week will be full of activity to prepare for inspections, etc. I’m begging for time away from work as we haven’t been too busy the past couple of weeks. Mysteriously changing times of PAC BELL,
I just got home from a walk from the Oaks Theater on Solano and saw BRAVEHEART. Thanks for the push to see it. I felt moved. Alice and I saw THE SCARLET LETTER yesterday. Demi did well, the strange femme, and so interesting with Robert Duvall---Ha-Ha—Mmm, so I guess the Hawaii wedding was good? Your card reminded me of the wedding we went to for Dixie and Willie. So...How are you?
Got to go now. I hope you have a good week. Barbara
“And though I had many times seen Honey Grahams, where the stream of milk and the stream of honey enjoin to make that river of sweet-tasting goodness, I did not know that, upon making love, one person may become like the milk and the other like the honey, and soon they cannot even remember who started out the milk and who the honey, they just become one fluid, this like honey/milk combo.” What he means is “I really enjoyed that and I think I’m in love.” --George Saunders, A SWIN IM A POND IN THE RAIN
