Michael Joe Armijo's Blog, page 22
October 3, 2021
Cooling Off Period
When you’re stoned or drunk you don’t have concerns about the self because that is exactly what you’re detached from.
--BE by A.C. Ping
Alan drove mom and I to LAX-airport. The flight to Hawaii was quick. We were excited. The wedding was scheduled for the day/evening of October 8th, so we were pretty much on-our-own for island life. We aren’t ‘in’ the wedding. We’re just guests which makes it easier.
I liked our hotel. It had a great view and the terrace was great for a few photos or reading. Mom likes reading, too. We walked our local Oahu neighborhood and we had breakfast one day at the Royal Hawaiian. There’s something special about the mangoes there. I suppose fruit on tropical islands is always ideal. It’s perfectly sweetened.
We did meet some of the clan for a bit of shopping near the Hawaiian Village. That was fun. We all had lei’s on, feeling the island groove.
October 8, 1995: My 1st Cousin, Shawn West marries Reina Christina Turner.
Mom says she believes that the bride, Reina, is half-Japanese (or possible some other Asian descent. She seems nice enough, beautiful too. I took plenty of photos but I was having so much fun (or drinking too much), so some of the photos came out blurred. Ha-ha. I just wanted to have a good time, so I did just that. I never said I was a wedding photographer. I liked the pic with the grooms’ sister and me (my cousin, Shonette); of course, a lot of the other pictures were nice too.
The following day mom and I rented a car and we went to the North Shore and other parts of the Oahu Island. We found a peaceful beach, a cool windy spot with a magical view, the area called TURTLE BAY and local life was seen on these beaches versus the tourist-filled beaches. We also attended a marine life show where we saw deep sea turtles, dolphins, penguins and sea lions. The dolphins splashed us a little bit but it was a nice cooling off period.
Later that night, we found a tattoo artist and I persuaded mom to get a tattoo. Was it of a dolphin? I honestly don’t remember but it was fun because it was a non-permanent tattoo. Both mom and I agreed we’d never get a tattoo.
I said, “I wasn’t born with it so why color my body up with something that wasn’t meant to be there. I’d rather put it on paper.” We laughed.
I also said to mom, “Seeing all of these fit bodies on the beach gives me incentive to work out more. No more dessert for me!” Mom and I are flying back to Los Angeles tomorrow (October 10th). New good times will surely follow.
If there were a big bowl of candy in your kitchen and that was all you were eating, one way of forcing yourself to eat something better would be to throw the candy away. --George Saunders, A SWIM IN A POND IN THE RAIN
September 26, 2021
Pebbles On The Beach
Utterly nonsensical things happen in this world. Sometimes there is absolutely no rhyme or reason in them. --George Saunders, A SWIM IN A POND IN THE RAIN Mom has been so helpful by getting us organized and moved back to Marina Del Rey (from Pacific Palisades). Alan has done so much, also. I did ‘this n’ that’ but not-so-easy when I have to report to my Charles Schwab & Co. Office from 8-4, Monday through Friday.
Alan and I took mom to see a new DENZEL WASHINGTON movie that opened on Sept. 29th called DEVIL IN A BLUE DRESS. It was pretty good. We like dramatic crime mysteries. Denzel was hired to find a woman, and gets mixed up in a murderous political scandal. It kept our interest to say the least. We needed an outlet from all of the busy week. And it was like a film noir timepiece which made it unique. I had postcards of the CPW-Central Park West TV series AND Lancome handy in order to jot a few lines to Paloma:
October 1, 1995Paloma,Sorry I haven't written sooner. The move took a lot out of me. We're back in Marina Del Rey. I loved that "PARIS" painting postcard you sent. They were protesting the Nuclear Testing in front of my building again a la France because the French Consulate is on the 3rd Floor of the building I work at.I am thinking of going to study Computer Graphics with a company called Silicon Graphics. They do a lot of computerized special effects for the movies. The creative side of it interests me. I like this new show called Central Park West. It takes me to New York City once a week. You lost 12 pounds? Wow! Remember that man who said, "I bet you two look great on the beach!" I'll never forget when he said that to us. Well, I still have boxes to open. Moving is not all fun. Love You, Michael
Dear Paloma,Ok, Here I am again. One of your favorite places to be--amidst the tropical sun. You love it. I forgot how much I love it. My cousin Shawn West gets married on 10-8-95 at the Halekelani Hotel (one of the best hotels). It should be so fun! Thinking of You, Love,Michael
Mom and I are departing LAX Airport in a few days (October 4th) for Hawaii. My first cousin, Shawn West, is getting married. Shawn’s mom (Lillian) is my mom’s sister. I made sure mom and I could spend some quality time together instead of just popping in (and out) simply for the wedding. We shall make the best of it. There's a Winona Ryder movie coming out while we're in Hawaii and we'll likely go to see that (AMERICAN QUILT).
There’s a new song by Paul Weller called BROKEN STONES and I like when it mentions “pebbles on the beach”. I want to stroll the shoreline and not only feel the sand but the tiny pebbles on the beach. Maybe mom and I can do that. We will definitely do a luau--those are festive fun with yummy tropical food.
Mom’s sisters (Lillian, Betty) and her mom/my grandmother, too. It ought to be a festive event with a few sunsets to enjoy along the way. Who else can predict what other events will occur? I’m anxious to find out though.
“Happiness is always a little island.” --Nicolas Barreau, ONE EVENING IN PARIS, a novel
September 19, 2021
GET RID OF IT
“Let’s keep it simple.” --as heard watching the HK China thriller 2013 film THE GRANDMASTER The one good thing about moving besides getting rid of stuff that has accumulated is that you’re forced to make some quick redecorating decisions, hopefully for the better. So many keep their furniture for years and years. Why is that? I think there should be a rule. Once you have your furniture for ten years. GET RID OF IT already! Your brain and your environment will be thankfully improved for the modifications.
A cool card/letter arrived from Dorothy Rua. I loved the scenic window of the ocean. It’s an ideal welcome back to Marina Del Rey card:
9-19-95
Dear Michael,
The postal workers must have taken a longer Labor Day holiday than the rest of us. Your card was postmarked 8/31, however, didn’t reach my P.O. Box until 9/12. I suspect the real reason for the delay was the heat the card generated. Too much for anyone to handle!
Wow! Your 15-men 3-women comments were extremely descriptive...and very sensual. Sounded like you knew exactly what you were talking about. I wasn’t thinking erotic when I mentioned the ratio but you sure succeeded in getting a response from me. Both visual and physical. You’re BAD—you shouldn’t make me anymore restless than I am, but I love it. And of course, you know it. Ha!
Your trip east sounded wonderful. Didn’t know you also went to Seattle—business for Alan? Going to use a collector’s item for display only? Like to see a picture of you dressed as GI JOE in your Army Helmet, what a kick. I’m sure you’ll find a Halloween Party or two to attend and show your ‘stuff’.
Thanks for the movie tips and your recommendation of BEACH MUSIC. I’ll read it. I saw WALK IN THE CLOUDS and felt I could have waited until it was on video. Nice, simple love story with a ‘happy ever after ending’...but a bit to slow for the big screen.
No, Schwab Transfer for you this time, huh? Somehow, I can’t imagine you living in Northern California after being in the middle of all the Southern California activity. However, I wouldn’t be surprised if one day oy told me you were transferring to New York City.
Recently I was invited to a LUAU through a friend (Sharon) and I decided to go (asked Peter but he didn’t want to go). Turned out I had a great time! Lots of Hawaiian food and beer, etc. Hawaiian Dance Show that made e want to take Tahitian Dance lessons, something I’ve wanted to do since I was in my teens on Guam. Met some really neat, fun Hawaiians, too.
I’m thinking of working a 2nd job, a few evenings and maybe a little on the weekends. I’d still keep the Valent job for ‘bread and butter’ money and do the 2nd job because it’s more meaningful. I’m just in the researching stage right now. I’ll keep you posted.
Hope you’re settled back in the Marina Del Rey home and this card finds its way to you there.
More later, Love, Dorothy
Mom arrived on September 20th. It’s so easy to pick her up from LAX-Airport. Luckily, we aren’t that far away from the airport. Mom has been so helpful, packing things in boxes for our move from Pacific Palisades to Marina Del Rey. While I’m at work Alan and Mom are working hard, too. By the end of this week, we’ll be situated nicely—with boxes to unpack. Ugh.
As a treat to get our minds off of packing Alan, myself and mom went to see a movie to get our minds off of moving. We had a nice bite to eat and watched a scary movie called SEVEN, about a serial killer, starring Brad Pitt. It was intense and sure did take our mind off of moving duties.
Sometimes I dream of myself going to college classes and I’m afraid I’ll be late. Why is that? Sometimes I wish I was back in school. One can never stop learning. I’d like to take art or literature classes. In the meantime, I secretly study on my own. I simply read by choosing books that look appealing to me in hopes of learning something new. It works.
“You must not only work hard, but work in the right way.”
“What’s the right way?
“...in order to succeed well, you must manage to get as good an education as you can.”
--RAGGED DICK by Horatio Alger Jr.
September 12, 2021
You Are Not Alone
“You know as well as I do that clarity and focus will come with sleep and food.” --Taylor Stevens, THE INFORMATIONIST Mom arrived. It’s great having her here and I know she likes the escape, too.
One of the top songs playing right now is by Michael Jackson called YOU ARE NOT ALONE. I kind of like the lyrics. I seem to be hearing less music lately—or maybe I just don’t like the music that’s playing lately. Much of the music right now is not appealing to me.
This weekend is the big move from the Pacific Palisades house to Marina Del Rey. The structural damage investigation of our Marina home (after the earthquake) turned up nothing to be concerned about, so we’ve got the A-OK to move back. Mom is being such a help packing boxes with Alan while I’m at work. Alan only has to be in the office periodically, so all is working out.
Dorothy Rua, of Walnut Creek, sent a cool COFFEE SCENE card to me. She got me thinking again about THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY. How we loved that book so much!
Guess what? I work with a guy named Dennis Donahue who grew up in Madison County, Iowa. As a matter of fact, he’s moved to the public park in Winterset. The bridge was used to sit on the Cutter/Donahue family property. Dennis brought in pictures and other paraphernalia of the bridges and the area. He told me he could tell me stories about all of the families in Winterset.
Then, listen to this: earlier this week the phone rings and it is old friends we met while in Spain in the 1970s! They’re calling from Iowa! Couple of them are living there and have been for the past 15-years (one of them grew up there). A call from out of the blue and from Iowa—what kick! I heard ‘calla lilies’ grow wild in the open fields over there. I wonder if Robert Kincaid ever gave any to Francesca?
Yes, Pismo Beach was great but there will be other opportunities to look forward to. And you're right there are a lot of Los Angeles people that would love to live up here. Personally, I prefer Northern California to Southern not just the terrain but especially the cooler weather and I know that happiness and contentment come from within and one's attitude has more to do with everything than any place does. But once in a while a change in scenery and routine is really appreciated and that's what the trip to Pismo Beach offered.
Thanks for the tip on THE BRICK HUT in Berkeley. I will let you know when I try it
Well, I found out your friend Chris Cordellos has his salon in Walnut Creek! I am a building behind SIZZLER which is across the street from TARGET. I may pop in one day just to meet him. Don't know if I want him working on my hair though. I don't want him to see how fast I'm losing it and how fast the remaining portion is turning gray. Maybe I should buy a wig and ask him to style it for me. Seriously, I will let you know if we meet
Love, Dorothy
It fascinates me how old friends can connect with new friends via one person. Do I ever have a hand in that in my own circle? Perhaps it happens and I don't realize it. Will Dorothy ever meet Chris? I suppose time will tell. I rarely hear from Chris. People tend to fade. They move on I suppose. It's fun how we can easily pick up where we left off. The memories hold the pieces together, creating laughter and more if we choose to allow it to happen. You are not alone.
In the last four days the words have refused to come to me when I call for them and I can only stare at the paper. When they do leak from my pen, I am unable to make sense of them. --Tan Twan Eng, THE GARDEN OF EVENING MISTS
September 5, 2021
A Very Memorable Time
“Now go out there and be so swell that you’ll make me hate you!” --Dorothy Brock in the Broadway Musical, 42nd Street Happy 60th Birthday Mom!
I found a cool Birthday card for her and she received it on her special day. It was about her year: 1935. This was what was going on the year my mom was born:
Bette Davis eyed the Oscar for her role in DANGEROUS.
Lou Gehrig set a record with 17 grand slams.
Shirley Temple’s dimples were #1 at the box-office.
FBI bullets cut short John Dillinger's career.
The Marx Brothers gave us a NIGHT AT THE OPERA.
Lawrence of Arabia died in a motorcycle accident.
John Steinbeck analyzed the era in TORTILLA FLAT.
PORGY AND BESS made Broadway musical history.
FDR signed National Labor Relations Act.
Charles A Lindbergh co=build the first artificial heart.
I’M IN THE MOOD FOR LOVE topped the Hit Parade.
TWO ‘air hostesses’ began flying on DC-2.
We did the Lindy in the flow of a bubble jukebox.
Shocking two-piece swimsuits were modeled in VOGUE.
Mrs. Preslty named her baby boy “ELVIS”.
Sears sold boys’ wool suits with knickers for $4.35.
Celebrate! I love You, I love You, I love You...need I say more? As you know, you’re more than just a “mom” to me—but also a special friend. I treasure our closeness and our friendship. You make me smile. You make me laugh and YES—there were a few occasions that you made me cry. All I know is it’s your special week. It’s your Birthday week! Have the BEST BIRTHDAY and never forget you are getting better and better!
Love Always,
Your son,
Michael
I’ll be seeing mom on September 12th. She’s coming to L.A. and will stay until October 15th. Alan and I are so lucky to have her because we’re moving back to Marina Del Rey from the Pacific Palisades and she will help to organize things. She’s so good at doing that. We’ll surely treat her. It’ll be FUN.
I also received a handwritten note from an old friend named J. DAVID A ENRIGHT IV. What a formal name he has. He lives in San Francisco and I was happy to hear from him (since I rarely do). Of course, I spurred it on as I had recently called him and sent a postcard. It’s probably best to let the flame die down at this point. Some relationships just don’t have the best timing; however, better a letter than a convenient forgetting to remind us of a very memorable time.
Friday, September 8th,
Dear Michael,
I was delighted to have your postcard today. I, too, wish that last Sunday had worked out differently. As a matter of fact, I was able to change my plans but hadn’t a way to reach you and was in and out all day! Usually, I shy away from tenacity—oh, but only if you had been more persistent.
Directory assistance doesn’t give a phone number for you (I just tried), so why don’t you write or phone and instead of waiting for fate to intervene, let’s consider a plan to get-together.
Needless to say, I had a very memorable time and one very worth respecting. Hope to hear from you soon.
Yes...David
P.S. Tel# 415-928-1899
P.P.S. Yes, I know who George Michael was (is?)!
I had never known that J. DAVID ENRIGHT IV was an Advertising Executive. Wonders never cease:
Enright, J. David IV ALBANY J. David Enright IV died at St. Peter's Hospice, Albany, N.Y., July 11, 2010 following a long illness. A native of Loudonville, N.Y., David resided in New York City and East Hampton for many years, and later in San Francisco. He was an advertising executive with McCann-Erickson and N.W. Ayer before forming his own firm, the Enright Company in N.Y. and Washington D.C. David was a longtime protege of Broadway producer David Merrick, his agency's first client, for the musical 42nd Street. Other clients included Cartier, Polly Bergen, Economist Eliot Janeway, and Playright Muriel Resnick. David also headed the Enright Publishing Company. He was involved with several theatrical activities, including the San Francisco Production of the hit, Tony 'N Tina's Wedding, as associate producer. In San Francisco, he also worked in fundraising and development for several charities, including the J. David Enright IV conference center at the California-Pacific Medical Center. On his return to N.Y., he became a consultant to W.P. Carey and Company. A memorial service will be held September 29, 2010 at 1:30 p.m. at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, State St., Albany, where he will be entombed. Contributions may be made to the J. David Enright IV Conference Center, California-Pacific Medical Center, 1700 California St., San Francisco Calif.
“I just like all those old (antique) things (and letters). They exude peace and warmth. And every object has its own story...” --Nicolas Barreau, ONE EVENING IN PARIS
August 29, 2021
We Suddenly Age
“The water falls to the earth and makes everything grow.” --Vaddey Ratner, IN THE SHADOW OF THE BANYAN, a novel
Gloria’s now at the DISNEYLAND HOTEL with Grandsons, Larry and Michael. It sounds exhausting.
Tues 8/29
It’s hot, hot, hot and I just came back to the hotel for a break –to go swimming, relax and cool off! All morning we went on rides: Indiana Jones, Splash Mountain, Thunder Mountain (2-times), Jungle Cruise and the Caribbean boat ride. Wish you were here.
Love,
Larry, Michael and Gloria
Le 30/08/95
Dear Michael,
This card is somewhere my little tiny help to GREENPEACE. I am, of course, more on their side than on Chirac’s side. I’m sure you’ve heard about France’s nuclear problems. I just can’t believe how much money they are going to spend to destroy our planet when there are so many homeless people. I didn’t vote for Chirac. I did vote for Jospin. Things are not going well over here in France. You’ve also probably heard about the bombs in Paris. The first one nearby my brother’s house and the other one by my mom’s house. I’m glad she’s in Spain most of the time. I have not seen ROMEO IS BLEEDING. I have not heard about it yet. Yesterday, I took Jonathan to see a really funny French movie called UN INDIEN DANS LA VILLE. I think they are planning to make an American remake out of it. I also went with Caroline and her two sons Gary and Elliot.
I had too many visits lately and I was not really happy about it. Caroline and her husband and the two kids and Coco and her husband and the two kids and Sophie and Reginald and the two kids and Reggie’s sister and three kids and Reggie's mom...that makes 17 people at the same time with nine kids. I just can let you imagine! I just found this article about Antonio Banderas. Melanie Griffith hasn’t got bad taste, right? (Don Johnson and Antonio Banderas!) Haven't you seen “Philadelphia”? I have heard it was good. I am sure you've seen “Interview with A Vampire”. I have not yet-what do you think about David Bowie’s and Linda Evangelista’s houses? They’re ok, right? Just a little too big maybe. You’d better not forget anything at the other end of your house!
I made your mouth water with LA TABLE D’EMILIE Restaurant—well, my mouth waters every time I think about the restaurant BENIHANA (not sure about the spelling) in S.F. or KING TSIN in Berkeley, etc. I just would love to be able to eat a bagel with some cream cheese or a cheesecake. I’m really happy now to just think about it.
Love, Paloma
I am very well aware of how time flies and how we suddenly age. I respect the elders because I know I will be one eventually, too. That’s one thing about me. I love to have friends and family that I can relate to of all different ages.
“I write because words give me wings. So, I can fly!” -Vaddey Ratner
IN THE SHADOW OF THE BANYAN, a novel
August 22, 2021
A Laughing Dream
“Find your fellow travelers---and when a door opens for you, bring another person through.” --inspired by Paula Vogel, as written by Quiara Alegria Hudes in her memoir, MY BROKEN LANGUAGE August 23rd:
Sunday 8/23
Hi. Boston is a great city. You would really LOVE it here. The kids are having lots of fun. Today, we did the “FREEDOM TRAIL”, three miles of walking and we took a water taxi to the Aquarium. Great fun!
Affectionately,
Gloria
P.S. Hi Alan! Miss you and having fun. Kids are okay.
So, Gloria was in progress of her ‘grandmotherly duties’, taking Lauren, Carrie, Larry and Michael to Boston and Pennsylvania for a summer cultural escape.
August 24th
Dear Uncle Mike,
How are you doing? I am doing well. Are you enjoying the hot days? Have you gone in the ‘cold pool’ yet?
This letter is part of my homework. Can you write me a letter back? When can I come and visit you again? Maybe with Grandma again...
Tell Lauren when she gets back that I said ‘Hi” and tell Alan and Carrie “Hi” for me. And tell Carrie I love the play.
Love your niece,
Holly
I loved the splash of colorful art that Holly sent me. It’s so vibrant and almost looks like a sheet of composed music in full color.
August 27th
27 Aug 1995
Dear Mike,
Got your postcard. IL FORNAIO, a favorite place for you? There was one in Berkely until a few years ago and I hear there is one in Montclair. Alice and I saw IL POSTINO last week. The Italian favorite movie...a wonderful film. Any good films on you r flight?
Right, no strike and I was truly counting on a bit of time off. Alas, I called in two days IAP, rested and had some fun. I saw A WALK IN THE CLOUDS.
We saw JEFFREY yesterday, a very good film. Did you catch it? Sorry I haven’t seen A LITTLE PRINCESS yet or BABE. One we saw: THE USUAL SUSPECTS a week ago. You know, I just rarely see a film I don’t find some benefit of...
You mentioned your Dad’s Birthday 8-8; Hmm, my dad has been gone 12-years now this summer. On 89=8-1966 is the Birthdate of my friend, David, who is now residing in St. Petersburg, Russia which is where I hope my next big trip will be destined...and someday I hope to see Massachusetts. Did you see any FALL COLORS (trees).
Sorry, I’m not traveling south these days. I want to drive to Forestville to see my friends, Howard and Nancy and their daughter who will be ‘5’ soon and their new baby. I got a new swimsuit so perhaps I can take a dip in their pool before it gets too cold. I want to drive there next Sunday.
Later, Barbara
August 28th
8-28-95
Dear Michael,
I had A LAUGHING DREAM about you last night. The last time I recalled a dram with you as the lead was in 1989. I figure this is a big indication that a card to you must be long overdue. I know I’ve been thinking a lot about you these past few weeks.
Received both your cards and found the news about your grandmother’s Vegas winnings to be quite exciting. You and I are always joking about winning $ and one of your relatives actually does, BIG TIME! Can you even being to imagine how she must have felt? Hope I/We find out someday...soon.
How was the NORMAN ROCKWELL Museum? And the rest of your trip to NY/MASS? Share the details.
No sooner are you back from an east coast trip, than you’re planning your Hawaii flight in October! Which island, Mr. Jet Set? I’m just jealous and want to go too.
What did yo thing of BEACH MUSIC? I enjoyed reading both THE PRINCE OF TIDES and THE GREAT SANTINI and plan to read BEACH MUSIC when it comes to paperback. I knew you would love THE POSTMAN. I want to but the video when it comes out, but I wasn’t sure what you’d think about THE PRIEST. Do share more of your thoughts on this movie with me.
I haven’t seen many movies lately—just BLUE SKY (video) with Jessica Lange and Tommy Lee Jones. Good performances on the part of the actors/actresses. However, the story was not filled with a lot of substance and failed to be realistic in several key areas. Am I too hard on some of these producers, etc.?
I’ll be looking for THE LITTLE PRINCESS. I also want to see A WALK IN THE CLOUDS. I love a good romance. I’m sure you've already seen it. Hope it’s as good as it looks.
The summer sure is flying by. My days have been incredibly busy. The job takes up a lot of time, of course, and the past two weeks we’ve had employees (mostly sales resp) in town from all over the country and Mexico. I spent three days with them in orientation and several evenings doing dinner and a little dancing. The odds weren’t bad—15 mean and 3 of us ladies. It was fun. Now it’s back to the cubicle and the ship.
My friend, Jan, want me to head back to PISMO BEACH with her (she goes 3 or 4 times a month). Not sure when I can work it out. I sure would like to enjoy the beach before the rains come. We’ll see...
By the way, I liked your cards: GOTHAM HALL states the 3rd Street Promenade is a treat for all the senses. Care to elaborate from experience? Is IL FORNAIO a restaurant? You've probably nibbled on your share of goodies there—Beverly Hills, yet.
Say, wont’ you and Alan be moving back to Marina Del Rey soon? How do you guys feel about leaving Pacific Palisades?
How are Alan’s daughters doing? Don’t imagine they’re looking forward to school, except for seeing friends.
The Walnut Creek (burbs) update is: Nicole started classes at Viable Valley College last week. At the same time, her summer job ended and she began a new one at an Ortho’s office. Just a few hours a week since studies come first. About 10 days ago a 70-year-old man made an illegal left turn into her car (while she was driving). Thank goodness she was not hurt and the guy’s insurance company has agreed to pay for everything. She and JUDD are still together and so far, seem happy.
Jean-Paul has finished his summer job and just started a new weekend job at PERFORMANCE BIKE SHOP. School and soccer begin next week for him. He is definitely ‘into’ checking girls out, though no one serious yet, thank goodness...
Your video purchases were quite a find. I definitely will be looking to purchase SIRENS. I do look forward to watching the trio with you, someday.
Love You...
Dorothy
And so, the above sums up my correspondence for the week which easily gives a peek as to what is currently happening. I loved Dorothy’s comment about A LAUGHING DREAM for I have felt myself laughing while dreaming. This is the most wonderful feeling. And you can’t really make it happen. It just happens—but when it does happen it’s a time when things are going smashingly well in one’s life—at least I feel that way. I need a laughing dream. Perhaps I must tell myself before bedtime, “Now, Michael, you have to laugh during tonight’s dream!”
“Perhaps it is less important WHERE one lives than HOW one lives.”--Erik Larsen, IN THE GARDEN OF BEASTS
August 15, 2021
Summer Endless: Spanish Girl, Spanish Boy
“Naughty, naughty boys. I bet they’re being very naughty.” “I’m sure they’ve gone beyond naughty by now.” -dialogue from the Bernardo Bertolucci film, STEALING BEAUTY
Barbara Reynolds sent me a postcard of STONEHEDGE, a landmark in England that I never knew about. The photo was taken by William Abranowicz for the CONDE NAST TRAVERLER. I did like the Summer Endless vibe she mentioned...
16 August
Dear Mike,
Summer Endless...
I saw STEALING BEAUTY, a lovely film at a Sienna Villa. I also saw TRAINSPOTTING.
I’m working 6-days this week, training. There are lots of changes. Joan Lyons is in San Ramon for a month. Oh well...keeping our new garden watered—not too much!
There was a neighborhood block party ten days ago. I met several of the Berkeley High Alumnus. I love this street, thinking about commuting again to San Francisco but maybe not until next year. And HOW ARE YOU???
Love,
Barbara
It was almost noon on a Summer Endless weekend in Marina Del Rey and I decided to write to Paloma, using one of the Norman Rockwell cards I bought at his museum in Stockbridge, Massachusetts.
August 19, 1995, Saturday, 11:15AM
Dear Paloma,
This card reminded me of Jonathan for some reason.
As far as actor, Val Kilmer and Joann Whaley-Kilmer...the day after you wrote your last letter this article (enclosed) came out about them breaking-up. Did you hear about it? I read somewhere that Val Kilmer and Kurt Russel were good friends. I guess if you saw a Western with both of them that probably explains how they became buddies.
My mom saw SCARLETT, too. I missed it. Mom said it was good also. KILL ME AGAIN sounds like a good title for a movie. I never saw it. Did you see ROMEO IS BLEEDING? Lean Olin is great in that one.
I love SPAIN and PARIS. Of course, I’ve only been to Tossa de Mar, SPAIN and Barcelona. I’d love to go to Madrid one day and Paris again, of course. As for Pedro Almodovar. Yes, I remember seeing Antonio Banderas in Pedro’s movie WOMEN ON TEHG VERGE OF A NERVOUS BREAKDOWN.
You sure do know a lot about French actress, Catherine Deneuve. I didn’t know she was good friends with Yves St. Laurent. That’s good dirt.
Thanks for making my mouth water with the ‘LA TABLE d’EMELIE’ restaurant reminder. I bet your dad and step-mom loved it.
What do you think of Chirac and the New French government change? Do you think things will get better with him?
My mom is going to be here from Sept 12 to Oct 15th. She and I are flying from Los Angeles on October 4th to October 10th to Hawaii because my first cousin, Shawn West, is getting married there. He is my mom’s sisters’ son. She is also helping us move back to Marina del Rey. We should be back in Marina Del Rey by September 20, 1995. Today is August 19th so, your friend, Caroline, and her husband must be arriving to the South of France today. That was such a fun wedding we attended together in France: the best!
I just read that Antonia Banderas is almost wrapping-up his part in EVITA as Che Guevarra. Then, he has just agreed to do the next remake of ZORRO. That ought to spark his career some more.
I’ve seen Karen Mulder in magazine covers, etc. But I never knew her name until now. Thanks for informing me. I guess Kate Moss is a big one here. I don’t think she’s anything great though.
Oh well...time for lunch now. Later.
Love You,
Michael J Armijo
It’s incredible to write to Paloma because it takes me away to Europe every time, I write to her. I know my roots are from Spain and something draws me there. It’s fascinating to me to know that she, too, has roots from Spain but she grew up in Paris—as if she were a French girl. She’s really a Spanish girl just like I’m really a Spanish boy.
And my niece, Ashley, typed a cute letter this week, too:
Dear Uncle Mike
Thank you for the keychains! I like the Norman Rockwell one the best but the New York and the KROQ ones are good, too. I have 18 keychains in all (not including a free little BLOCKBUSTERS thing-a-bob keychain because it is not a good keychain).
At this moment I am reading JESSI’S SECRET LANGUAGE. It’s good.
Love,
Ashley M Armijo
“Ideas stimulate ideas, and the love of writing is contagious.”--Erik Larson, IN THE GARDEN OF BEASTS
August 8, 2021
A Really Good Cup
Human beings are universally wired for one thing—vital connection with one another. --Steven Cope, SOUL FRIENDS
August 8, 1995 It’s my father’s Birthday. He would have been 60 years old this year. I always remember him on this day. I still remember that day he left us in late August 1987. I miss him and always will. He is one of my ‘container’ people. I am who I am partly because of him.
Alan and I fled to New York again on August 9. This time we’ll only land in NY and drive to Massachusetts to get a taste of The Berkshires and Boston. I can’t wait to walk through Harvard University and pretend I’m a student—or maybe a visiting Professor. Ha-ha I used an IL FORNAIO postcard to write mom while on the airplane. I always like to keep her posted with my goings on:
Hi Mom,
I’m almost in New York—only about 45 minutes more in-flight. It’s 5am, so it’s 3am for you—so Ib et you are sleeping. I remember when it was 2:30 or 3AM and you would just be getting home from work. Ha-ha.
I miss you already. We will have to go to New York again. We had so much fun the last time.
Alan finally bought some Microsoft stock yesterday.
Have you seen the LITTLE PRINCESS movie, yet?
There’s a baby on this plane that keeps crying. So annoying!
I will mail this at the JFK NY Airport and find a good card for you in Massachusetts. Regards to all.
See you on September 12th.
Love, Michael
After Alan and I rented the car in NY we drove to his hometown of Whitestone, NY to visit STORK’s BAKERY. The cheese Danish pastry there is like having it freshly made from Germany. It’s so delicious.
I loved the resort we stayed at in Lenox, MA called CRANWELL. It has a history. I sent mom a large postcard from there:
August 11, 1995, Friday
Dear Virg,
Greetings from Massachusetts. We are staying here at this place called CRANWELL. Yes, it’s as nice as it looks. It's very plush and green here with beautiful hills. There are a few small towns: Lenos, Stockbridge, Great Barrington and Ashley Falls! Yes, I thought f Ashley when I saw that.
Last night we had dinner at an old Mansion with a beautiful view and garden estate. There were about ‘45’ people. we sat with about ‘6’ others after cocktails as we were getting a tour of the house and the gardens. The dinner was nice. The people were nice. Of course, most of the people have Platinum American Express cards and were over 60 years old—but you know us—we have a good time anyway.
We are talking about going to Boston today. It’s a 2-hour drive but we don’t gold or really do tennis—and we can lay out at a pool anytime. Therefore, we’re in the mood for a big city. Besides, Alans says, “There’s a Seattle’s Best Coffee in Boston!” He’s in the mood for a really good cup.
By the way, did you know the big PGA GOLD Tournament is in Pacific Palisades right now as we are here? I’m sure John knows about it. Alan says: “Hi”, he told me to tell you that this is a lot different from Las Vegas. For example, the view from the breakfast music room shows many trees of different varieties.
I know today is your doctor follow-up visit. I hope all went well. I’m sure it did. I’ll probably talk to you about it before you receive this card. Just think—in a couple of weeks you’ll be in L.A. again. Hoorah! I love you and I miss you.
Aloha! Mahalo!
Michael J Armijo
Alan and I did drive to Boston and I loved the city. You can really get a sense of U.S. History there. I loved walking through the Harvard University campus. I’d love to do that again, just sit there and read for a few hours. I took a photo of the newspaper cover (The Boston Globe) but it was: GRAND JURY INDICTS # IN OKLAHOMA BOMBING. It wasn’t the greatest memory of the day. And The Boston Herald headline: Gov Wants Limits on Foster Children. That’s the scoop in Massachusetts. Alan did have ‘a really good cup’ of coffee. He loved the look of the fresh tomatoes at the local produce market, too. Boston was promoting an AIDS Fundraising bike ride from Boston to New York. That sounded like an exciting journey—if I were in top form.
We saw a wonderful dance production by the local Jacobs Pillow Dance Company. Tomorrow night we will be outdoors for a Tanglewood concert.
The blessing an artist/writer gives the final product (which he gives by sending it out into the world) is his way of saying that he approves of everything within it, even parts of it that may, in that moment, be hidden from him. --George Saunders, A SWIM IN A POND IN THE RAIN
August 1, 2021
Experience A Quiet Mind
It felt as if my mind was permanently switched on, going round and round like a washing machine. --Andy Puddicombe, MEDITATION and MIDFULNESS Sometimes I feel lazy and I feel like I need more sleep. Perhaps I need to drink more water and eat more protein. Of course, as always...music and writing a letter helps to experience a quiet mind.
It’s time to write mom. She had something on her breast but it seemed to be non-life threatening. I used a beautiful ROSES card:
August 3, 1995
Dear Mom,
I would have sent you real flowers but I figured this would last longer. Get Well Soon!
John gave me the best news yesterday when he told me it was just a ‘cyst’. I hate that word. Anyway, the worst is over.
Today, in the NEW YORK TIMES newspaper it says that soy protein has been proven through scientific studies to reduce cholesterol. Hmmm...I guess we’ll have to check this out...to add to our garlic pill. Ha-ha.
I guess we’ll be going to Hawaii in October. It will be so much fun. I’ll rent a car and we’ll go all over the island. We can even gather up a picnic lunch one day and hit a neat beach in the North Shore area.
I wish I were there to help you but you’re in good hands with Nurse Ashley and Nurse Holly and Nurse Ally....or should I say Doctor Ashley, Doctor Holly and Doctor Ally! Wouldn’t it be wonderful if one of your granddaughters became a doctor?
I’m at work now and your SONY stock is up 2 ½ points to $57.875! Your breakeven point was 56 ½, so that looks good. Now, if only MICROSOFT revives. It is up 1 point to $90 today.
I love you...back to work! Boo Hoo.
Your son,
Michael
This week was focused on work but I was happy to receive another typewritten letter from the South of France (Paloma):
Balaruc, aout 1995 Dear Michael,
Thank you for your cards and letter. It always makes me happy to get a new one. I loved your Marilyn Monroe stamp. I do not collect stamps but this guy who works with me does, so you also make him happy. I already have enough work collecting perfume samples! Anyway, it is so much nicer to get an envelope with gorgeous stamps. Sorry I cannot always do it but there is a huge file at the post office and Balaruc is such a small town that they almost never have nice ones.
My creative papers as you say was not made by computer but by Alexandre. I also used to make paper this way when I was little with the picture of a magazine and some trichlorethylene.
Thank you for your article on Kurt Russell. I will go see ESCAPE FROM LA for sure. I just saw this Western movie with him and Val Kilmer. I can’t remember the title right now. It was OK, not unforgettable. I just found it amusing that they made it play with these two actors together (two of my favorites). I loved GONE WITH THE WIND so much. It’s hard to play Vivian Leigh’s role, she was so gorgeous. I really liked Joanne Whaley Kilmer in a movie called KILL ME AGAIN though.
I have never heard about Starbucks coffee. Maybe that will come someday. Now we are expecting the opening of the PLANET HOLLYWOOD in Paris on the Champs Elysees in September, I think. But I’m sure you’ve already been there many times. Regi and Sophie went to the one in Florida in March. They told me it was fantastic.
I do not have time to go to a gym or to run. I am too tired. I am planning to do it this winter but I work out a lot cleaning my apartment, ironing, lifting bags of food, etc. How exciting, right? A couple of weeks ago we had the body building champion of France staying in our residence.
How is your mom? And Alan? I hope everybody is also fine in your family.
Sorry it took me so long to answer. I am awfully busy right now especially with visits. Caroline (remember we went to her wedding?) is coming with her husband and her two kids for 2-weeks starting on the 11th of August.
I have to go now. I will write again as soon as I can.
Miss you,
Love, Paloma
Do you know this model? That's KAREN MULDER. She is very famous in France.
And to speculate on WHY? ---One might just as well wonder why a monarch butterfly, having flown all the way from Mexico to Nebraska in the month of May, happens to land on one flower instead of another. --Amor Towles, A WHIMSY OF THE WORLD, a short story
