Michael Joe Armijo's Blog, page 25
March 7, 2021
L:AUGHING SO HARD
A woman should pick a color that really suits her and wear it all the time. Like your perfume. It should be your signature –Alice Munro, OPEN SECRETS, Short Stories
March 7th - Paloma wrote a nice letter and I loved the MAGGI postcard she sent. The image was done by an anonymous artist. For some reason, as I looked at the postcard, I wondered what Paloma’s perfume smelled like. She wrote the following:
Thank you for the tape. That was a nice surprise. I don’t have the tape with me right now but I can tell you about the tunes I remember. First of all, of course, one of my favorite songs—you already know I’m sure which one I’m talking about---AGAINST ALL ODDS. And with RED RED WINE by UB40 I guess I can say those songs are somehow “OUR SONGS”. They bring back good memories. I also remember “THESE BOOTS ARE MADE FOR WALKING”. This song brings me back to when I was little. Nancy Sinatra used to sing it. I really liked it. That’s funny to hear LIZA MINELLI sing in French (with THE DAY AFTER THAT song), she has a weird accent. I like DORIS DAY songs. That’s also a very famous song I remember it in Spanish: QUIZAS QUIZAS QUIZAS. I think lots of people sang it.
We also hear that song YOU’RE SO PRETTY here in France. I find it kind of weird but I like it. And of course, Madonna is really famous over here. Do you know that she started her career in France? She was a Chorist for Patrick Hernandez. Do you remember him? He only made one very famous song (world famous) called BORN TO BE ALIVE in 1979, I think. I’m not sure I like your Spanish songs but maybe I need to hear them some more. The kind of Spanish songs I love are the flamenco type—kind of gypsy.
Do you hear about the American Cup that’s happening in San Diego right now? Well, the French team is doing so well (just kidding). They train all year long in front of my window in fact. When the weather is nice, I watch them while I’m tanning!
My brother, Edouard, is flying from Albuquerque to Paris on March 8th and then he will come to Balaruc-Les-Bains on the 14th or 15th with my dad, Monique and maybe Luis and Golda (his girlfriend). After that they’re going to Madrid. And Edouard will go to Benidorm to see my mom, then back to Albuquerque.
Talking about my family here are a few pictures. The last one my dad sent me. I’m sure you recognize Monique, my dad, Alexandre, Jonathan and maybe you don’t know who the last person is! And Jonathan wasn’t having an ugly soup, in fact that was an excellent dessert—he had just made a mess out of it. Alexandre had shaved that day, too. That’s just the picture. On the picture of Jonathan with my dad that was Jonathan’s first trip alone on a place. Last summer I sent him to Paris for a few days.
I can’t remember if one of your brothers ended up having a baby boy. You’ve had so many nieces that I lost track! Maybe someday Holly or Leigh will come spend some vacations with us and then we will send Jonathan over there in a few years. But time flies, can you imagine we pretty soon are going to be 40! Maybe someday I’ll write you a letter saying can you imagine...pretty soon we are going to be 70! Who knows?
I’ll never forget Santa Cruz and how mean you were on that Ferris wheel, especially when I think that I almost got in a fight to save you a parking space once. Do you remember that evening? Where was that disco? The one we went with Carmela once, too, I think.
The night we came back from Santa Cruz was when I found the AIR FRANCE letter, remember? That was just 10 years ago.
That island you are telling me about near Africa is I guess the Mauritius Island and it’s a 3-hour flight from South Africa. It’s in the Indian Ocean. It’s a mixture of India, China and Africa. I loved it. Everything is so cheap over there. Lots of stars spend their holidays over there but at the same time it’s still pretty “real” (not too touristic). The beaches are gorgeous. The water is turquoise. I am thinking of going back in fact, especially now that the family who rented us a bungalow is coming to visit us this summer. I’d like to make a trade. The cheapest flight to Paris is I guess now about $2500 for the 3 of us (it’s a 14-hour flight). It would be cheaper to go to the States. last year I found a flight from Paris to LA for about $1500 for the 3 of us and I really would like to go to the States, too.
Of course, I know who Doris Day is...she was a famous actress and I know old actresses quite well: Lana Turner, Ava Gardner, Gene Tierney, Rita Hayworth, my mom was a fan. And so, so am I. I love lots of old Hollywood movies.
It really isn’t worth it for you to go to EuroDisney (called Disneyland PARIS now by the way) since you live close to Disneyland. I have been to EuroDisney twice and to Disneyland LA once. The one in LA is way better. The weather is nicer. Some of the things are still missing in Paris—like they’re just building the SPACE MOUNTAIN. I don’t know if its’s my memory or what but I remember the PIRATES OF THE CARRIBEAN as something way bigger in LA. Also, the lines are long in Paris, especially as soon as the weather is not too bad. Every time I’ve been there it was awful--in February and December—didn’t I send you some pictures? At Winter time they only open from 10am to 6pm. Everything is really expensive and the food is terrible. But we had a great time. That's what counts. In December we made a movie there. Too bad you can’t see it on your VCR. If you don’t go, don’t throw your coupon away. Just send it to me. Ha! I have to go now.
Thanks again for the music on tape.
Love,
Paloma
March 8th - Lauren (Alan’s daughter is now age 15, Wow!)
We had a nice Birthday Party for her at the Pacific Palisades house. I liked the few pics I took. Gloria and Jack were there (and sister, Carrie, too, of course). Lauren liked her cake.
Alan and I escaped for a couple of nights to Las Vegas. There’s a saying in French when people stay over at your house that they stink like fish if they stay longer than 3-nights. Alan and I have concluded that Las Vegas is no more than a 3-night stay---even at a hotel—because the vibe suddenly smells like fish. It’s an adult playground, but people from all walks of life are walking the strip and some are NOT VERY PRETTY I must say! They’re scary—but that’s part of America. Yikes!
Well, first I tried the photo booth with me and I chose a random guy (or girl) that you can choose from to see what the child would look like. It was cute little boy. It was amusing to say the least.
No music compared with the excitement I felt when I contacted someone with my eyes. --Christopher Bram, SURPRISING MYSELF, a novel
February 28, 2021
SLIPPING THROUGH MY CRACKS
Hasn’t there been a kind of wrench every time we leave a place, a kind of regret? --Joanne Harris in her book, CHOCOLAT I persuaded Alan to go with me to see THE BRADY BUNCH MOVIE. It’s a reminder that you can never go back. This movie version only had Florence Henderson (who played Grandma) from the original TV cast. It was still a hoot to go and see it. Of course, Alan will probably not allow me to pick another movie for a while.
Barbara sent me a unique card of LA MUSIQUE from the Hermitage Collection in St. Petersburg, Russia that was printed in Holland exclusively for Marcel Schurman Company, Inc. in Fairfield, California. I like the whimsy image—like monks focused on music.
28 FEB 95
Dear Mike,
Took health day yesterday and today “Mardi Gras”. Hope to go to the Farmers Market Celebration of Mardi Gras today. It may be rained out??? I really just couldn’t keep EVERY thing in Balance—neck, shoulder, arm pain...allergies and hormones...
I will return to the grind tomorrow. How’s your grind? After watching NEWS last night—the London-Singapore fiasco—me thinks you are too busy. Is this The Beginning of the End?
Did you see “A Man of No Importance”? I did enjoy it—you should see it if you haven’t already.
Walked through PAPYRUS yesterday and this card jumped out at me—so here you are—makes me think of Spring.
For Lent I will begin the Thyroid Diet---see if I can do this for 40 days and if it makes any difference to how I feel. Are you doing anything for Lent?
Later,
Love,
Barbara
Barbara was referring to this incident in London: London finance house of Barings collapsed after losses in Singapore by trader Nick Leeson. The United Kingdom's oldest investment banking institute, Barings Bank, collapsed after a securities broker, Nick Leeson, loses $1.4 billion by speculating on the Singapore International Monetary Exchange using futures contracts. These things happen. It’s like an earthquake. People halt and re-evaluate the way things are done financially; then time passes and it continues to happen again. The high risk could lead to opportunity but it can also lead to a catastrophe. Be careful people! It's amazing that this London firm gave this chap that much control.
So, there’s a top fashion model (and French actress) named Estelle Halllyday. I’ve never heard of her. Paloma sent me a magazine clipping of her and she has a bit of a Claudia Schiffer look. Leave it to Paloma to keep me abreast of Europe happenings. Funny because she also informs me of American happenings that seem to be slipping through my cracks. I am a busy person. I miss hearing news stories of all genres.
March 1, 1995
Dear Michael,
I had not seen for 10 years LA GRANDE MOTTE which is a very touristic place at about 30 miles from here. When we came out from the restaurant a Mercedes was still there but our car was gone! I couldn’t believe it. Just before that I had been shopping in Montpellier, so the trunk was full: 2 pairs of shoes, some clothes, about $150 of make-up and perfume (a brand-new perfume!) and Alexandre also had his RAY BAN glasses and his MONT BLANC pen in the car (which he usually never leaves in there).
You will never believe that same day I was thinking that we should buy some dollars (the dollar is really low right now) to save some money to go to the States next winter. Isn’t that scary? Once again it happens. Something happens when I plan (or even think about) going to the States. That’s too bad. I left the States 10 years ago now and I really would like to go again. Especially now that lots of my friends keep telling me about their trips there. Sophie and Regi went to Daytona, Florida last month. This guy who works with us is making plans for his trip there next Winter. I took a look at his map of San Francisco and I couldn’t find places where I used to go all the time. I’m sure now I will have a hard time finding my way there. Anyway, now we have to buy another car.
We went to the movies to see ALERTE (OUTBREAK in USA) with Dustin Hoffman. I love that actor. He’s done so many great movies: LITTLE BIG MAN, TOOTSIE, KRAMER VS KRAMNER, RAINMAN, etc.?
Talking again about Dustin Hoffman, see how someone that is not good-looking can be so attractive because he seems to be such a nice person. I would like to know why you didn’t like PULP FICTION. I haven’t seen it but my brother, Edouard said, “IT was GREAT!”
Of course, I know who Gianfranco Ferre is, especially that I collect perfumes, almost all of the designers make perfumes. I love some of his perfume samples. I just saw a fun fashion show on TV: THIERRY MUGLER. Do you know him?
James Brown was there, singing for the show. Tippi Hedron was one of the models. I’m sure you know who she is: Melanie Griffith’s mom, Alfred Hitchcock's actress of THE BIRDS and PAS DE PRINTEMPS PUR MARNIE (I don’t know in English). Patti Hearst was also one of the models.
Do you know Estelle Halliday? She is the most famous French top model. She is supposed to be as famous as Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista, Naomi, Elle, Claudia, etc... over the world. She makes the commercial for Thierry Mugler’s perfume called ANGEL. Here is a picture of her in the last DIOR’s Fashion show in the wedding dress she is pregnant. Her husband is David Halliday, a singer I already told you about.
No more room...but I’ll write again soon for your Birthday.
Miss You.
Love,
Paloma
Oh, they got close all right, but did they ever kiss in her car? Did he ever put his hands up her skirt? Did he ever thumb her clit? Did she ever push up against him and say his name in a throaty voice? Did he ever stroke her hair while she sucked him off? Did they ever fuck? --Junot Diaz, in his Pulitzer-Prize winning novel, THE BRIEF WONDROUS LIFE OF OSCAR WAO
February 21, 2021
What's New?
They say time slows down at times of great danger, almost like Neo being able to see and dodge bullets in THE MATRIX. That was just an illusion, of course. Time is constant. This time illusion was caused by how we store memory. The richer and denser the memory of an event—for example, during moments when you are terrified—the longer you perceive that event lasted. This phenomenon also explains why time seems to go faster as you age. When you're a child, experiences are new and so your memories are fresh and intense—so again time seems to slow down. As you grow older, especially when you are stuck in a routine, very few new or vibrant memories are being laid and so time flies by. That’s why when a child looks back on summer, it seemed to last forever. For adults, it’s barely a blink. --Harlan Coben, RUNAWAY Reed Campbell sent a simple card that made me laugh. It pictured a crocodile with the copy reading WHAT’S NEW WITH YOU? And inside it was imprinted AROUND HERE, IT’s THE SAME OLD CROC...
Best, Reed.
This led me to wonder where that phrase derived from (the same old croc of shit). I wonder. I will have to write him back and inform him of what's new.
She also included this handwritten letter which told me what’s new with her.
Feb. 24, 1995
Michael,
I’m so sorry I haven’t been able to write sooner. No time to myself. And I’m wondering if this will get to you at all.
I sent you a Christmas card and it was returned. Now I know you wouldn’t move and not tell me. So, I called and there was a strange voice on your answer box. Then I thought maybe you did move and forgot to tell me. Then I thought I’ll call your mom but I didn’t want to worry her and what if you forgot to tell her you moved too.
Soooo....I’m writing this card praying it doesn’t get returned and you write back before you go to Japan or on some other vacation cuz it might not be until this summer and I’m kind of worried cuz you might have decided to stay in Japan or worse—like you might have been kidnapped by a bunch of short people. I might never know!
So, if this gets sent back, I hope you don’t mind but I’m calling your Mom!
Write soon!
Birda
P.S. Everything's Great here!
Loe Always,
Birda
...luckily her addressed letter to Marina Del Rey was forwarded to our 1698 Alta Mura Road, Pacific Palisades (temporary home) address this time. Nonetheless, I laughed at her concern and imagination. Ha-ha
Paloma also sent a beautiful postcard of a DETAIL from ZODIAC by Czech artist, Alphonse Mucha 1887.
Dear Michael,
I hope you like the French Barbie for your new collection. She speaks French. And I made you a wrapping with the National columns. Not as nice as yours but pretty creative, isn’t it? I hope you liked it (the doll). If not, just give it to one of your nieces!
Write me! Love, Paloma
We had bought a kilo of cherries and we were eating them as we walked along. We were both insufferably childish and high-spirited that afternoon and the spectacle we presented, two grown men jostling each other on the wide sidewalk and aiming the cherry pits, as though they were spitballs, into each other’s faces, must have been outrageous. And I realized that such childishness was fantastic at my age and the happiness out of which it sprang yet more so. --James Baldwin, GIOVANNI’s ROOM
February 14, 2021
Hazelnuts
“I must inspire the ages and the universe.” --Charles Baudelaire from his BENEDICTION poem in his book of poetry called FLOWERS OF EVIL
Alan and I had a splendid time. We had an early dinner for Valentine’s Day at a place called RAYMOND Restaurant in Pasadena, CA. After the meal we went to the PASADENA PLAYHOUSE and saw a show called RADIO GALS. The musical takes place in 1927 in the small town of Cedar Ridge, Arkansas. It made me recall my trip to Arkansas when I was 13-years old when I accompanied my Uncle Richard and Aunt Pat and cousin, Mandy, on a summer road trip. Aunt Pat’s family was from there—talk about a HEE HAW “Life”!
RADIO GALS was a fun escape back in time to the 1920s. The music took me back with tunes that I had never heard of like WHY DID YOU MAKE ME LOVE YOU? HOW MANY BISCUITS CAN YOU EAT? and KITTENS IN THE SNOW. The cast included Helen Geller who played Hazel Hunt, an owner of a beauty parlor. Other cast members included Klea Blackhurst, Emily Mikesell, Eileen Barnett (she was funny as the character of Gladys), Mike Craver and Mark Nadler who were all dubbed THE HAZELNUTS. It actually reminded me to eat more hazelnuts. They are good for you. Did you know that? The show had a pure, light-hearted innocence. I also recognized actress Eileen Barnett from when I used to watch her on the soap opera DAYS OF OUR LIVES. That was cool! When I did my algebra homework back in high-school I liked to watch this soap-opera. Photo: Eileen Barnett
Alan gave me a fun Valentine card. I also got a kind of naughty Valentine card from my former co-worker, Reed Campbell. It wasn’t too surprising as he likes to try and shock me that way. I simply laughed.
My niece, Holly, also sent me a cute Charlie Brown Valentine card, too. Alan used a postcard from a Paris Restaurant we loved (LE TELEGRAPH) and wrote a few simple, loving words on the back of it:
Michael,
Thanks for the great Valentine’s gift. I love it. I love you and can’t wait until this weekend with you.
Love,
Alan
The surprise card this week was from SUN LEI, the guy we randomly met on the streets of SHANGHAI, China, who was polite enough to give us a tour. He sent a photo of himself with some random guy. I assumed it was another tourist that he befriended and gave a random tour as well. His card was an authentic Chinese Christmas card with best wishes for the New Year (the Chinese New Year). He also sent a postcard of a random shopping area. I guess the correspondence wasn’t too much of a surprise as I had written him a few weeks earlier. I certainly loved SUN LEI's way with words:
Dear Michael and Alan,
I could wish you many things this Christmas. I could wish you gold and silver, gems and pearls. I could wish you good health and warm clothes, houses and cars. I could wish you flowers and sunsets, soft breezes and gentle springs. I could wish you friends and love, a hand to hold and hugs...but I wish you JESUS more than anything.
I am very glad to receive your letter. I still remember you two deeply. I have not sent you a Christmas Card because I lost you r name card. I’m very sorry. I heard that you should go to New York for Business. This reminds me of one American friend in New York. Maybe yon your day off you can visit him and send regards to him. This is the phone on the bund as a souvenir to you. And I also give you his address in New York.
Mr. Gustave Rivera
120 Asch Loop #22E
Bronx, NY 10475
I send you a card, though it’s very late because Alan told me that you like Christmas Cards very much.
By the way, you can send me some dollars or Italy notes. I have a hobby to collect bills. I send you Vietnam and Brazil notes to change with you. Thank you. Ha.
Love, Sun Lei
I decided to write Sun Lei once again. As I was writing to Sun Lei I started to much on hazelnuts. I want to continue to add them to my diet. I read up on it:
Hazelnuts are packed with nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidant compounds and healthy fats. They may also have health benefits, including helping decrease blood fat levels, regulating blood pressure, reducing inflammation and improving blood sugar levels, among others. On the downside, just like other nuts, hazelnuts may cause allergic reactions in some people. All in all, hazelnuts are an excellent and delicious source of nutrients that can be easily incorporated into your diet.
When a man changes his life, he has to change it all. He can’t keep nothing that reminds him of the old life, or it doesn’t work. --James Jones, FROM HERE TO ETERNITY, a novel of love and war
February 7, 2021
HAPPINESS
“If what you give me is the same as you give others, I don’t want it.”--as heard in the 2020 Taiwan film, YOUR NAME ENGRAVED HEREIN Dorothy Rua sent a cute card of some old-timers, riding a bicycle together.
2-10-95
Dear Michael,
Your comment that you hope this year brings much more happiness to my life made me stop and think for a while. HAPPINESS that elusive intangible—when all is said and done how much will I end up with? Will each of us get as much as we feel we deserve? How much does it matter? Certain things have brought me happiness and continue to do so—especially Nicole and Jean-Paul because of the type of people they are and knowing I played a role in getting them there. Having you in my life brings me happiness. So does my relations with my few close friends. I appreciate that you wish me happiness, more this year, and I’ve spent the last several weeks trying to figure out how I’m going to bring more into my life. To a degree, maybe a big degree we each have some control over how much we’re willing to go after. And we need to know is what, if anything, must be given up to have certain types of happiness. Then decide if it’s worth it.
Now are you sorry you wished me more happiness? Ha! Teach you to try and read between the lines!
Though I haven't’ written for a while (like I said I would), you have been in my thoughts each day and I’ve really enjoyed your recant cards and communication. Just hang in there with me while I get through some stuff.
I liked your ceremonial spinning top card. Makes you wonder, doesn’t it? Did one person design it or was it a community effort—each part looks significant. One can only guess at the types of ceremonies it was involved in—the role it played. Maybe I should do some research...but only after I paint my nails red, hot red! What a contrast in cards! Looks like nail polish originated in NYC—weren't you there once or was it twice, or...?
Love, Dorothy
I spent all day creating a cassette tape of songs for PALOMA. I was probably inspired after that COMMITTMENT TO LIVE APLA Gala and all of the music I heard. I even included some tunes from the PHILADELPHIA movie soundtrack. I hope the songs bring on some happiness. I included a postcard with these words:
February 12, 1995, Sunday Afternoon
Dear Paloma,
Sorry it took me a while to get this to you—but it takes time. Happy Belated Birthday and Happy Valentine’s Day. I designed this tape cover myself from a magazine that caught my eye. I chose each tune expressly and selectively for you too, I hope you like the tunes I selected...there might be a few skips on the last song from CHINA—but who in the hell knows what he’s singing anyway. Haha. It’s a nice melody though. I got this card while I was in London last year in February 1994.
Let me know if you recognize any of the songs I chose for you and any that you hate and any that you absolutely love. Oh well, until the next time.
Regards to Alexandre and Jonathan and all.
Love, Michael Joe Armijo
THE DAY AFTER THAT x Liza Minelli
LOVE IS ALL AROUND x Wet Wet Wet
AGAINST ALL ODDS x Phil Collins
THAT WAS THE DAY x The The
PRETTY x The Cranberries
ONLY YOU x Yaz
CLOSE TO YOU x Brand New Heavies
THESE BOOTS ARE MADE FOR WALKIN x Sam Phillips
VOGUE x Madonna
IT FEELS LIKE I’M IN LOVE x Kelly Marie
CAN’T SHAKE THE FEELING x Big Fun
PERHAPS, PERHAPS, PERHAPS x Doris Day
I’LL TAKE YOU THERE x General Public
DANCING BAREFOOT x U2
THE GIRL WITH THE BLUE BIKINI
THE BOYS OF TODAY x Luis Miguel
IT’S IN YOUR EYES x Pauletta Washington
DREAMS COME TRUE x RAM
PHILADELPHIA x Neil Young
LIVE FOR TODAY
PLEASE DON’T GO x KWS
CAN YOU FEEL THE LOVE TONIGHT x Elton John
SECRET LOVE x Doris Day
A Tune from China....
And Barbara Reynolds sent a beautiful card to me this week of a man dressed as an ANGEL, somewhere in San Francisco. It was a Valentine’s Card chosen just for me. I loved it. And Valentine's Day is coming. Alan and I plan to have an early dinner and see a play at the PASADENA PLAYHOUSE. We all need love and happiness.
Dear Mike,
Happy V Day—Hope you spend at least part of this V Day with someone you love.
Today, trying to catch-up with correspondence. I feel kind of lost in all that keeping-in-touch.
Today I looked at a 1-Bedroom place with my realtor, Bob since the sale fell through (the one I wanted became unavailable, so I’m in a mini-depression, practicing taking risks and dreaming about the pit fall of being overly positive.
Gotta keep looking—never know what you’ll find around the corner. This photo is of the ANGEL of ANGELS IN AMERICA (the Play). We saw it a few weeks ago—at least the first half—will see the second half on April 1st. Excellent experience!
Spend midday yesterday with Ali in S.F. Chinatown, shopping and browsing and watching so much preparation and celebration of New Year 4693—YOUR year: social hard-working, great sense of humor and generosity. It will be a positive and good spending year.
I got in to my pre-Algebra book last week. It felt good an I’m preparing this weekend for my exam on Wednesday evening. Would I enjoy teaching Math?
Tra La La... Happy Sundays and yeah next weekend is 3 days later.... Love, Barbara
The other thing I realize is that none of her many, many concerns are about herself; maybe that’s the definition of a good person. --Adam Key, THIS IS GOING TO HURT
January 31, 2021
It's A Small World After All
Q: Why did we break-up?
A: It doesn’t matter—it matters that we can see each other afterward. --as heard while watching the 2017 film from CHINA called “US AND THEM”
Gloria’s 70th Birthday Party was quite wonderful. I am perusing some other photos that I took before and after the event. I know Gloria had a great time. Gloria knows how to work a crowd. She still loves her martini.
Gloria orders her martini in a very seductive way, “I like it STRAIGHT UP WITH A TWIST!” That makes me laugh every time she says it (and she says it often to waiters at restaurants with the edge of flirtation).
Working at Charles Schwab & Co. in Westwood (near UCLA) is becoming like my home away from home. I am now used to the grind and many customers count on me and request for me. I do enjoy seeing clients face-to-face. At lunch time I often skip eating and just walk; although, sometimes I do walk across the street to the Federal Building and eat in the cafeteria. They do a great California Burger (includes avocado).
While eating at the Fed Building cafeteria this week, I recognized a woman. I recalled meeting her at the NICKY BLAIR’s bar near my condo when I first moved to L.A. This was before I met Alan (or maybe after I met Alan but I was still open to meeting other locals). It was a Friday night and I walked over to that bar/restaurant on Sunset Boulevard. It was a Friday night and I thought I’d meet some people that were out for Happy Hour. I certainly didn't want to go out with my motley crew from Pac Bell Yellow Pages. Sure enough, I met a woman at the bar. I was already buzzed after two vodka gimlets (a drink I learned about from my college pal, Pat Shikuzawa). This drink gets me at ease straightaway. This woman was nice enough.
My natural line started out simple, “Hi, I’m Michael. Where are you from?”
I don’t even recall her first name anymore but she did answer me when I asked her name.
I continued, “What industry are you in?”
“I’m an attorney," and that was said in a rigid way. Loosen up, honey!
“Oh, that’s great. What type of law is your specialty?”
“I work for the government, in the Federal Building.”
“That must be a challenge.”
“Sometimes.”
She left soon after our brief conversation but I did manage to get her telephone number. I wonder if she worked for the FBI. I actually interviewed with the FBI but nothing ever came of it. I called her once or twice but I never saw her again until the Federal building cafeteria. She didn’t even notice me or recognize me which led me to believe she did not work for the FBI because they’re supposed to be good at recognizing faces, aren’t they? She kind of looked like that actress who was in Saturday Night Fever named Donna Pescow. What ever happened to that actress? Oh well, I never went up to her or anything while in the cafeteria. She was with her boring looking coworkers. I suddenly realized I was ‘beyond her’. She had this aura like she was better than me. I didn't realize it until today, seeing her in the cafeteria. However, I am reminded that It’s a small world after all.
Alan and I went to see the movie BOYS ON THE SIDE on February 3rd. I really liked this comedy-drama. The trio of Whoopi Goldberg, Mary-Louse Parker and Drew Barrymore worked well together as they became close friends during a road trip from East to West.
February 5, 1995
Dear Paloma,
You are such a sweetheart! That BARBIE was such a treat and a great addition to my collection! I LOVE IT! And I didn’t forget your Birthday last month! I just haven’t found the right item, so keep checking your mailbox.
Alan and I saw a great movie starring Christian Slater and Kevin Bacon called MURDER IN THE FIRST. It's so good.
Alan is taking his mother to Italy on March 15th through March 27th as a special 70th Birthday gift. It sounds exciting, huh? I guess they’re flying to MILAN. I like PARIS and LONDON.
I wish I could snap my fingers and visit you in BALARUC-LES-BAINS for a weekend. I guess Hawaii—or better yet The Caribbean—wouldn't be bad either. I was looking through a shoebox of old cards I’d received and found one from you on that island near Africa (THE SEYCHELLES). The sand was so white. That must have been a great escape.
It's been beautiful here the past week. In fact, I’m laying out in the sun right now by the pool. It’s so relaxing listening to a CD of music by DORIS DAY. She’s an old-time singer whose old music has made a slight comeback. Have you ever heard of her?
How’s Jonathan? How old is he now? Can he write in English at all? My nieces could use a new pen pal. I have two nieces that are about his age (I think). Two are age 6—going on 7 (Holly and Leigh). Are you teaching Jonathan any English or is that an impossible task?
I wish you could be here today. The weather is just your speed. I just had a flashback to Santa Cruz and the time we went there together.
I must tell you again how sweet it was for you to send me the French talking Barbie. I will treasure it always.
I’m probably going to New York again from April 12-16th for a quick escape. I also have a week vacation at the end of May. I might go to London or Paris. I have free air mileage miles and a free 2-night coupon stay at Euro Disney. I’m not sure it will work out but I’m going to try. Can you escape to Paris around then, so I can treat you for dinner? We’ll see. Time will tell.
Regards to Alexandre and Jonathan.
Love,
Michael J Armijo
Another day this week I forfeited lunch and walked around the park behind the Federal Building. There was a playground and I chose to sit there with my book. There was a woman there with two kids. I thought she looked familiar and couldn’t quite place it. She was checking me out—but she had a little girl (about 4 years old) and a little boy (maybe about 2 years old). She was probably just wondering what type of business I was in. I smiled at her and the kids and my short lunch was over. As I was walking back to my building, I realized who that woman was at the park with her two little kids. Wow! It was Maria Shriver (a Kennedy connection) and those kids must’ve been Arnold Schwarzenegger kids. Well, I have to hand it to her because that little park is very incognito and it was a good place for her to have some privacy. It’s a small world after all.
Dear Michael,
You all packed and ready to board the plane again? How excited you must be? You remain in my thoughts always but I’m still working long hours and rarely have time to even jot you a few lines. The way I’ve been feeling I wouldn’t mind a layoff package. Would give me some paid time off. We’ll see...
I do want to come to visit you. You must know that. I’m trying to figure out how to make this 'the year'. Not only do I want to see you but I also want to view (live) your paintings, pictures of your travels and your new NORMAN ROCKWELL. It’d also be nice to meet Alan.
The first card here speaks for itself. I’d like to do the same thing somedays with my job search. This card is NOT me reading VOX because I would definitely have a different expression on my face! The other card made me think of you and your love for travel—but where to next? Just spin the globe and point where it stops.
Love Always, Dorothy
Travel always had a kind of aphrodisiac effect on me. --Marina Abramovic, WALK THROUGH WALLS, a memoir
January 24, 2021
Hung Like A Horse
“At some stage in life, you give up painting, and dreaming. It’s a shame, isn’t it?” --Nicolas Barreau, ONE EVENING IN PARIS, a novel Gloria is ‘70’ this week, actually her Birthday was yesterday January 23rd (born in 1925). Alan is taking care of all the details for her Birthday Party on January 28th of this week. It will be a fun time. My mom is coming and Gloria’s oldest friend (Florrie) is already here from Tuscon, AZ.
Dorothy sent a couple of beautiful cards. One card depicted a young boy, wearing a raincoat and holding an envelope. Dorothy wrote-in my initials on the envelope: MJA. I so loved that magic touch. She also sent a most ideal scene of a chair overlooking the California coast. There was an easel next to the chair that inspires me to paint on that blank canvas. I know Dorothy sent that card to inspire me to start painting again. I will. I need to prioritize my time (not an easy task). Dorothy wrote the following:
Michael,
I liked the bicycle on your last letter. Been using yours much lately? Or does the gym take up most of your free time? How disgustingly good you must look and I don’t appreciate hearing how good you've been about working out. Only because I’ve been really bad about exercising for quite a while. I lost nine pounds in a 6-week period when I was at FORTIS but I never took time to firm up what was left and before I knew if I put it all back on. So... oink-oink. Don’t send me any pictures of how wonderful you look until I get myself in shape! Want a pic of me to put on your fridge to keep you from eating junk? Ha-ha!
Good thing I never make New Year’s resolutions. I would have been quite disappointed by now.
I hope Alan’s mom’s Birthday bash was a huge success. You can only guess at how much I would have enjoyed joining the fun and visiting with you. I have to believe I’ll get down there yet.
The DREAM LOVER movie was good, especially the way it ended. It was the only way he could have a life, a future. Glad you told me about these. I’ll let you know if I see any of the others.
Love, Dorothy
Needless to say, Dorothy’s letters always make me laugh at certain points. The ‘hung-like-a-horse' comment took me off-guard and makes me want to see THE LAST SEDUCTION movie once again. Ha-ha. One has to admire a screenwriter who knows how make the viewer raise an eyebrow. I will have fun formulating my next letter to Dorothy. I’ll have to figure out a way to top her remarks. I’m sure I can.
Alan and I saw an open window for a movie after Gloria’s party ended. The following day we saw a beautiful story of a couple who meet on a train in Europe and they have such in-depth ‘getting to know you’ conversation. I loved it so much. It’s called BEFORE SUNRISE, starring Julia Delpy and Ethan Hawke. Performance artist, Marina Abramovic, wrote in her memoir book about her friend Susan Sontag (writer, filmmaker, philosopher, teacher and political activist). Susan had told Marina that a conversation is ideally between two people, if a third person enters the picture the dynamics change completely (and if there are more than ‘3’...forget it). I now appreciate and love it when I find myself in a one-on-one conversation. Try it yourself. It works best to have quality conversations this way. Watch BEFORE SUNRISE for lessons on how smooth dialogue and discoveries come about.
To write a letter...he looked upon it as a very serious job. Letter-writing is nothing but talking upon paper. --Horatio Alger, in his book RAGGED DICK
January 17, 2021
Artsy
I do not want solitude, introspection, work. I want pleasure. --Anais Nun, HENRY AND JUNE I received a nice long letter from Paloma this week. She received the Christmas gifts. I love receiving her letters because she always finds the most unique French stamps and to see that on the envelope is a treasure for me. Her letters are always a gift. It’s almost like I don’t want to open the letter for a good while as I gaze at the artsy feeling of the envelope. Paloma is “artsy”. She still collects miniature perfume bottles and in this letter, she reminded me of that after including a 1994 Catalogue brochure selling these "artsy" beauties (only in FRANCE!). She also included a cool magazine clipping of Drew Barrymore who will be in the BATMAN FOREVER film. Paloma wrote some interesting tidbits that made me laugh:
Dear Michael,
Thank you for your presents. That was such a great surprise. I found them right before I left to go to PARIS. I was supposed to write you from there. Sorry I didn’t but I only stayed there for six days. That was fast. I just had enough time to spend New Year’s Eve with my dad, brother and to take Jonathan to EuroDisney for the second time and to go see one movie I won’t recommend with Sylvester Stallone and Sharon Stone: L’EXPERT (THE SPECIALIST was the American title). I did a few more things in Paris and that was it. My mom wasn’t there. She is in Madrid.
What about you? I hope you enjoyed the holidays and that your mom is fine (and Alan, too, of course).I got a Christmas Card from Monica with a picture where she stands with her fiancé. She says she is pregnant and she is going to have a baby girl on April 2nd. She and her fiancé, Jim, just opened a small real estate company in KAILUA. They have a big house by the beach that they rent out as a vacation rental; so, if you want to buy a house in Hawaii, you know where to go. I remember you once told me about some people you know who were looking for one. She is asking us to go visit her. She says we can stay with them in their home and that we would surely love it. I’m sure we would and I hope someday we will!
I just saw a move I liked on TV it’s called THE CUTTING EDGE. It was made by Paul Michael Glaser. Have you seen it? I am now waiting for THE BODYGUARD. They’re playing it on TV next week.
Why didn’t you like PULP FICTION? I didn’t go see it because you told me not to. I also just watched again VICTOR VICTORIA. I love that move. That’s so funny.
It must be somewhat fun to be a star, but I would rather be rich than famous. Can you imagine how awful it must be to get old (can’t avoid that) when you are beautiful and adored and when people start to forget who you are. I understand the feeling of a world-famous actress as Brigitte Bardot. You know her, of course? She retired when she was still gorgeous, it’s either that or you have to do like Cher (who I really like) but I wouldn’t like people to talk about me like if I was Frankenstein’s creature.
Do you know Beatrice Dalle? I saw her on TV yesterday. She was in New York, so I think she words in the States. She became famous here in France about 10 years ago with a fantastic movie (a French one—that's kind of rare!) called “37-2 le MATIN (BETTY BLUE was the title in the USA). If you haven’t seen it you can find it on video. Watch it! I loved it. I really liked INDOCHINE, too. That was a beautiful love story. You have to watch it till the end though. I know people who didn’t like it but they stopped in the middle! Too bad we can’t watch each other's videos. I would send you a tape once in a while like we’ve made a movie in Disneyland and one from the holidays.
Can you believe that I left the States 10 years ago? That was pretty sad, remember?
I also wish you tons of happiness for 1995 even if you already seem pretty happy.
You should see my perfume collection. It’s huge! Last year I bought a display cabinet (I’m not sure that’s the right name for it? I found it in the dictionary!). I think I have more than 1000 little perfume bottles. It’s worth a lot of money now, especially now that they sell them. I sometimes think about selling it (when I have to dust them, or if I have to move!). I didn’t know you used to collect stamps, so I’m sending you a nice one on this letter that celebrates the new CHAMP ELYSEES. Do you know they are going to open a PLANET HOLLYWOOD there in March?
Do you make a lot of money with your stocks and bonds?
About the new BATMAN movie, I am sending you a picture I found in a magazine. I guess that’s the one you are telling me about (with Drew Barrymore, Val Kilmer and Nicole Kidman). I haven’t heard of the SPIDERMAN movie yet.
How do you get along with Alan’s daughters?
What happened to your house in Alameda? It belonged to you, right?
Have you seen PHILADELPHIA? Did you like it?
In fact, I don’t go to the theater very often (not so often as you do, that’s for sure!). I can’t mostly because of Jonathan, but I watch most of them (movies) on the French SHOWTIME or HBO called CANAL+. About the movies that you mentioned I think I’ve only heard about LEGENDS OF THE FALL and STREETFIGHTER but again I have to recognize them first because most of the time they translate the title---in other words you make my brain work! There is no way I will go to see STREETFIGHTER. I am no fan of JC Van Damme at all! In fact, I can’t stand him. He is Belgium, so he is France all the time and he really things he is something special. I hate that. Your movie critiques are the only ones I really follow (and my dad’s too). That’s a job I would love to do. Do you know that my dad did it years ago? When I was little, he had a card and he could go see all of the movies without having to pay. That might be why I love cinema so much. He took us once in a while and I remember DIRTY HARRY with him. I think that’s the right English title. It is L’INSPECTEUR HARRY in French with Clint Eastwood.
I’m glad for you that you type so fast, this way you will be able to write me lots of letters! I wish I was happy about that too! I’m really bad, that’s my resolution, in fact, to get better in the future! Especially today my hand hurts and it is almost 3 in the afternoon and I’ve been writing you since 11am. I just stopped for lunch. I’m not working too hard these days as you can tell! So, I guess it is now time to end this letter. I miss and love you. Happy Birthday to Alan’s mom! Paloma
My first cousin, Carol, sent a new address card. She’s moved to 3895 Whittle Avenue in Oakland. She also wrote a few sweet words:
1-21-1995 Michael,
Thank you so much for the beautiful scarf. It was a nice surprise. Too bad we didn’t get a chance to hook up. Well, as you can see, I’ve been busy moving. My landlady in Montclair wanted her “significant other” to move-in to her house and she needed my space. However, I managed to find a wonderful place...a portion of a Victorian House near the Morman Temple. I’ll tell you details later. Carol
On the night of January 21st Alan and I attended the annual APLA Commitment to LIFE Benefit Concert honoring Tom Hanks and Elton John at the UNIVERSAL STUDIOS Ampitheater. I’ve posted excerpts from an article in the LA Times below which explains the $3.5 Million night of money raised. It was a treat to be there among so many artsy people.
And Barbara Reynolds’ latest verbiage on handwritten binder paper:
January 23rd...
The waves come and go and here we are again. Party soon. Sorry to lose my writing energy, so I’ll see what comes out for fourteen minutes before bedtime.
So how are your resolutions? I received an order from BODY ELCTRIC: some videos and a mat. I have one already which is very good and now I have two more to check out. Once called ‘40 and Fabulous’ by Margaret Richardson who I discovered three years ago on PBS that was taped in Tallahassee, FL. I really love her simply, sweet, fun, healthy and beautiful approach to a healthy body.
Would you believe in the mail came a temporary offer to buy my Southwestern Bell stock, so I’ll take care of sending my YES response via certified mail tomorrow—but do you have any tips for the other five I’m ready to let go of?
Tomorrow I’ve got to talk to my realtor and also talk with a TIC expert about getting together to discuss an arrangement for my home purchase—complicated, so guess this is real.
Yes, I will see those HONG KONG China photo with interest and giggles no doubt.
Oh yes, my dream of walking over to VISTA, a block and a half from my office got cancelled last Wednesday. I guess not enough for the class but I will drive to Merritt this Wednesday 6:30-9:30 and check it out. Everyday things keep changing. Remember to Breathe.
Alice and I rushed to see NOBODY’S FOOL on Saturday. It’s a solid “B”. I thought everyone was good in this one—very nice surprises.
Joan Lyon’s son, Damian, stopped playing for the San Diego Chargers, waiting for the two new teams that will be ready for next year.
I finally spied a rainbow yesterday. It was well worth the wait. You know you’d think you’d see a lot more with all of the moisture but definite magic with all of that color.
Later, Barbara
As printed in the LA Times: Lifting Their Voices in Faith, Hope and Charity: Pop Beat: Stars raise approximately $3.5 million for AIDS Project L.A. during the Commitment to Life benefit at Universal Amphitheatre. by ROBERT HILBURN
JAN. 21, 1995 The annual Commitment to Life benefit concerts may be the only time of the year in pop when you care more about the size of an artist’s heart than the depth of that artist’s talent.
It was a night of deeds--starting with the raising of approximately $3.5 million for AIDS Project Los Angeles, a nonprofit organization that helps serve more than 4,000 people affected by HIV or AIDS. More even than the star-studded musical lineup, however, the evening’s true stars were the individuals honored by APLA for their contributions in the fight against AIDS: Elton John, Tom Hanks and Ron Meyer.
In saluting Meyer, actor Michael Douglas lauded the president of Creative Artists Agency as a man of modesty and commitment. “In a business where taking credit is an art form, no one has ever achieved such heights (or) given so much and taken credit for so little,” Douglas said.
In perhaps the evening’s most eloquent remarks, Hanks expressed his belief in the “healing power” of the human spirit: “Our disposition to kindness and mercy is something that can be passed along through avenues of influence that are both unique and common--through movies that play in our shopping malls, through examples we set for our children, through songs that play on the car radio to the respect that we extend to our neighbors.”
Bernie Taupin, the lyricist who has written with Elton John for a quarter century, saluted his partner’s role as the most active pop world supporter of AIDS projects, including the establishment of the singer’s own foundation. “When this epidemic is wiped from the face of the planet, we’ll all look back and have our heroes,” he said. “And Elton is mine.”
Elton John injected some levity into the proceedings by declaring that he was the evening’s “official gay recipient.” One of the first rock stars to acknowledge being gay, Elton John credited the late Ryan White with helping him regain his values and self-respect in the early ‘90s after years of drug abuse and other personal problems. “It’s my job to repay that debt,” he said, referring to the lessons learned watching the courage of White, the Indiana teen-ager whose battle against AIDS made headlines around the world. “As long as I live, I will help fight this cause.”
Elton John then turned to the piano to sing “Believe,” a new ballad about the power of love, and the rousing “I’m Still Standing,” which served as a salute to everyone in the AIDS campaign. The number was a fitting end to a classy evening of music in which the tone ranged from warm to witty, from celebratory to tender. The musical sequences of the three-hour-plus event were produced by Taupin and featured a large supporting cast of singers, dancers and John’s touring band.
Things began with a tip of the hat to the humorous use of cross-dressing in the various arts over the years. While clips from such movies as “Some Like It Hot” to “Mrs. Doubtfire” were shown on video screens.
RuPaul strutted through a flashy, disco-accented version of Aerosmith’s “Dude (Looks Like a Lady),” followed by Julie Andrews, slicked-back hair and all, reprising musical numbers from “Victor/Victoria.” Sandra Bernhard then offered a wonderfully energetic romp through the transvestite world of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.”
As other artists, including Nona Hendryx, a blond Terence Trent D’arby, Sheryl Crow, Melissa Etheridge, Clint Black, Joni Mitchell and Salt-N-Pepa, took their brief turns on stage, you felt more sense of a generous spirit than if they had simply turned over the proceeds from one of their regular concerts. At one’s own concerts, the cynic might say, you are in the spotlight alone--amply repaid in exposure and good will. By being part of a parade on Thursday, their contributions become more anonymous.
In that sense, Garth Brooks seemed especially generous. Here is arguably the top pop draw in the country these days, showing up for just a single song. It is doubly commendable because there were signs of a slight backlash in the conservative world of country music the last time Brooks made a social statement--1992’s “We Shall Be Free,” which spoke about gay and religious tolerance.
He had formed the ambitious design of starting an account at a savings bank. There are lucky days, when everything seems to flow prosperously. --Horatio Alger in his book, RAGGED DICK
January 10, 2021
ELABORATE
He spoke adoringly about his wife, whom he called la reina del mi corazon (the queen of my heart) ...when he revealed the existence of a young mistress, who he called la reina de mis pantalones (the queen of my pants). --Jeanine Cummins, AMERICAN DIRT, a novel The views from our temporary home here in Pacific Palisades are not being taken for granted. It's like being high on the hill, taking a peek down at the westside of Los Angeles and the Pacific Ocean.
I mailed a typewritten letter (with the help of the computer for easy printing) to Paloma yesterday. I used a BICYCLE graphic on the left-hand corner of the first page. I felt a need to ELABORATE more about what is going on with me lately—but I think I could have said more. Oh well, she knows I adore her.
January 9, 1995
Dear Paloma,
Well, The New Year is upon us. I have been going to the gym regularly (let’s see how long that resolution lasts). What are your resolutions for the year? It is a rainy Sunday and I thought I would use the computer here and write a letter or two.
I’m not so sure when or where my next vacation will be. Time will tell. I will have a 5-day weekend for 4th of July and the week after Memorial Day—but then again—who knows what could happen before then.
You must see my Hong Kong and CHINA photo album. Then I can give you the ‘play by play’ scenario and narration of all that happened. On January 28, 1995, Alan is giving his mother a 70th Birthday party. She is a very vibrant, vivacious, friendly 69-year-old (going on 70). She goes to the gym every day and does aerobics and has her own private trainer. Anyway, she is a neat lady. And if you are in the Southern California region during that weekend it would be a fun party to attend. There will be around ‘75’ people attending of all walks of life, so it should be entertaining. Alan may even arrange for a male stripper to remind his mom that she’s never too old. So, can you come for that one? I know it’s short notice and a long trip for you but I can at least mention it.
I should be working on revamping my resume right now. It never hurts to venture out for other opportunities. Besides this is a time for new beginnings, right? 1995! Wow! In 5 years, it will be the year 2000! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and I hope this year brings much more happiness to your life.
I’m going to end here because I’ve been invited to dinner at Her and Carol’s. They are another subject altogether. And believe me, they are original real-life characters.
Guess what? I have a new hobby that Jonathan can related to...collecting toys. I actually have a SPIDERMAN, an action figure of THE SHADOW (loved that movie by the way). I even have Tropical Barbie and Tropical Ken and a glow-in-the-dark CREATURE OF THE BLACK LAGOON and a GI Joe. Of course, they are all in their original packages because I want to preserve them for when I get older and they don’t have those toys accessible anymore. It’s kind of a fun, new hobby to go along with stamp collecting and investing in stocks and bonds. Did you know they are making a new BATMAN RETURNS movie this summer and a new SPIDERMAN movie?
Yes, I did move—but it’s probably only temporary (until July 1995). The house in Marina Del Rey has some earthquake damage and it won’t be up to snuff until July 1995. The new temporary lease we have is in a magnificent house here in Pacific Palisades (1698 Alta Mura Road). I never know there was French film of the same name: interesting. We are still relatively close to the beach but it’s a 10-minute drive away now. Alan d and I do live together and his daughters live here part-time also (they are aged 14 and 11 now).
THE LION KING is a good choice for Jonathan. I loved that movie myself and wouldn’t mind seeing it again. It was a great picture. Did Jonathan like it? I rented INDOCHINE last night starring Catherine Deneuve but I fell asleep. In fact, after I finish writing I may go finish watching it.
Speaking of the AIDS happenings...Alan and I are going to another fundraiser on January 19th. It’s fun to go to them because it’s so “HOLLYWOOD” sometimes. They are going to honor TOM HANKS because he was in that Award-winning AIDS related film, PHILADELPHIA. They will also honor ELTON JOHN. It should be exciting. We went to the one last year and the year before and we have seen some great entertainment like Barbara Streisand and Liza Minelli and Clint Black and so on. I’ll let you know how this one goes.
Thanks for warning me about NATURAL BORN KILLERS. I was going to see it but I’ve decided to hold off on that one. One of my coworkers, Scott Gray, is married to a gal named Karey and she was one of the film editors for that film. She just finished doing the film editing and special visual effects for Star Trek GENERATIONS and is now working on the new BATMAN RETURNS which is coming out this Summer 1995.
Oh, I almost forgot to mention the latest movies I’ve seen and my feelings about them:
NOBODY’S FOOL (Paul Newman): Pretty good: B
THE LAST SEDUCTION: Quite an eye-opener, a definite woman of the 90s. This one deserves an A. The main actress won BEST ACTRESS from the NY Film Critics' Awards recently.
L
LEGENDS OF THE FALL: Good; Anthony Hopkings is always excellent and this was a great part for Brad Pitt who is definitely being molded into the next male sex symbol in Hollywood. B+
STREETFIGHTER: A Saturday matinee--if it's raining only type of movie. This is mediocre at best and only if you're a Jean-Claude Van Damme fan should you even go to see it. C-
LITTLE WOMEN: A piece of great literature on film. It takes you to Old New York which is a treat going to the early 20th Century.
NELL: Jodie Foster was A+. She is amazing. The movie overall is probably a B+.
That’s all I’ve seen lately. On video, do rent DREAM LOVER with James Spader! This is an undiscovered good one. A+
I want to see MRS. PARKER and a few others which will have to be announced later. I can’t believe how fast I am typing. I’m getting good at this. Ha-ha.
Till next time,
LOVE,
Michael J Armijo
Ashley replied to my last letter on some girly stationary. I liked it.
January 11, 1995
Dear Uncle Mike,
Well, to tell you the truth. I don’t have any resolutions. It’s been raining here too but today it was sunny.
So, you finally took my advice to call in sick. It’s about time Mr.! Today, I had D.A.R.E. My last D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) ...and a dog was in class. We also had G.A.T.E. I started a report on Illinois.
I love the movie SPEED, especially the part when his head came off or when the baby was actually cans.
I love CUTTING EDGE and I want to see RITCHIE RICH. I’ll write to you later, ok?
Love, Ashley
P.S. Does this sound long an ELABORATE? I love you and miss you.
And the latest card from Dorothy Rua with a light pastel beach scene with these words imprinted on it:
MANY HAVE TOUCHED THE EDGES OF MY LIFE...COMING AND GOING, SCARECELY LEAVING AN IMPRESSION. BUT YOU ARE AN UNCOMMON PERSON, SOMEONE WHO HAS MADE A DIFFERENCE IN MY LIFE. SO, IT’S NOT SURORISING THAT I FIND MYSELF REMEMBERING HOW SPECIAL YOU ARE, AND WANTING US ALWAYS TO REMAIN CLOSE. --Cheryl Hawkinson
January 13, 1995, Friday
Dear Michael,
Sitting here at the window, drinking herbal t3ea with honey and watching the rain fall. I haven't’ been doing much more that this for the past several days, maybe a week. I love a hard rainfall. When it’s accompanied by thunder it takes me back to carefree days of childhood. Days of running and playing in the warm, tropical rain, barefoot and breaking off “elephant” leaves big enough to shelter three children at once.
I’ve been thinking about a lot of things lately. I’ve been thinking a lot about you. You’re very important to me and I’ve been telling myself if I do nothing else I must write and let you know just how much your Christmas gifts meant to me!
I love the scarf from CHINA with the beautiful colors you chose. I find it so curious how you always seem o know just what will give me pleasure. There were only two things I could think of to put on a Santa List if I had been asked to make one up, and one of those was a scarf—cross-my-heart! Yours was the only scarf I received. This is almost eerie. Especially since I rarely used scarves until only about a month ago, maybe two months. I wear yours with several different outfits, think of you with a smile each tie I wear it and will treasure it always.
What a wonderful surprise when I unwrapped the SIRENS movie soundtrack CD. I couldn’t even recall the music from SIRENS; yet, you found it and thought of me. I have to confess I don't’ have a CD player; however, a friend does (and Jean-Paul plans to add one to his stereo system soon). I absolutely love the music, every piece. Of course, each piece brought me back to difference scenes in the movie again, leaving me with a mixture of feelings. Did I ever tell you how cheated I felt with the scene where she finds him that night and they finally get together? I was outraged that the producer/director did not ELABORATE and allow us (the audience) to share the details of what I was sure was a wonderful night of delicious intimacy. Especially after all the buildup, leading to that encounter. No wonder one of the feelings I was left with after the movie was a feeling of longing! Otherwise, as you know, I loved the movie and it will remain one of my all-time favorites. And because of you I now have the music which I consider “forever” music like the classical must I listen to because it is timeless and I will enjoy it always.
Michael, I want to say THANK YOU for the gifts and so much more, but the words THANK YOU hardly seem adequate enough to express how special you are and how special you make me feel. Is it enough that you know how much I appreciate you?
I will write you more very soon. I just can’t seem to get it all down today (or lately for that matter). One point I will mention is I very recently asked FORTIS to prepare my exit papers and I am no longer working for them. Lots of details which I will have to share with you in my next card. You will love the next Black and White card I will be sending...it is SO YOU.
I hope you had a wonderful Christmas with your family and that your New Year holiday was fun. Let’s hope the New Year brings wonderful things-like Ed McMahon knocking on your door, or mine with the Publishers Clearing House win! Or one of us getting lucky with the LOTTO numbers...
Thinking of you ALWAYS,
Love, Dorothy
P.S. You once suggested I keep a journal. Why? When I have you to write to? No, I don’t put most of my thoughts in writing—not yet, anyway. This is a different sort of card than I usually send; however, you came to mind when I first read it, so...
And my NEW YEAR (1995) letter from Barbara Reynolds. I invited her to Gloria’s 70th Birthday Party.
15 January 1995
Dear Michael,
Wow! It sounds like a great party. I wish I could be there. What is Mrs. Cohen’s first name? I wonder if it is an older name...That Saturday Alice and I will be attending a show at The Geary Theater: ANGELS IN AMERICA, otherwise I’d love to make the trip...very special.
I am waiting to make vacation plans. I had last Monday off and had a pleasant day but not as planned, of course. The ‘95 Flood’ steered me away from my Marin Trip. I love all of this rain...more rain, less worry.
My phone was out a couple of days and I got drenched yesterday. I was not prepared. I dried out in the sauna and the YWCA, then we saw Jodie Fosters’ movie, NELL. I think I need her in my life, certainly need to remember her. Yes, J.F. is excellent!
I have to agree with you about LITTLE WOMEN and THE LAST SEDUCTION. I want to see LEGENDS OF THE FALL and VANYA ON 42nd STREET.
I resolve to be less petty and more gently; less serious and more honest; less compulsive and to procrastinate less.
Alice and I began a Felder Krais class last Thursday evening (8 weeks and more if I continue to like this). I was impressed. This Wednesday I shall begin a pre-Algebra class from 6:30-8pm. It will meet Mondays and Wednesdays at Vista College one block from my office. I wonder if everyone in this class will be new to me.
Muddle...house...moving...Alice helped me move a piece of furniture which is good since this will help me to get even more comfortable here, right? Be HERE NOW...just a wee bit of anxiety about buying my own place. I have a deposit on the place but there are some legalities that need to be worked out with the previous owner—plus the current tenants are crying. They feel the stairs are too weak for their actual move. It’s pretty interesting an experience for me. In the meantime, staying busy.
Oh yes, I messaged Tony Armijo a couple of weeks back to get your work number to get your advice. Calling didn’t work out so just let me ask you. If I decide to sell a bit of my PHONE stocks, I would keep the Pac Bell Airtouch and AT&T but let go of the other RBOC stocks, since I don’t have hundreds. What do you think? My next day off I may visit Charles Schwab in S.F. or do you know of a good place in Berkeley?
Oh...eating...chew more, eat less...just a wee bit important. Oh, my state-of-mind I see now I really need to resume my nights of good sleep. Good Night, Love, Barbara
There is no obstacle that you cannot overcome if you have the will and love for what you do. --Marina Abramovic, WALK THROUGH WALLS, a memoir
January 3, 2021
A Romantic Melody
Everything was possible, there were no limits, and life was an endless spring day full of promise. --Nicolas Barreau, ONE EVENING IN PARIS The new year has begun and everyone should have that wonderful feeling of a new beginning; whereby, anything is possible.
There’s not a song that’s catching my ear during my morning drive to work or after work except maybe STAY ANOTHER DAY by East 17. I like the lyrics. It’s funny how words can grab me in some way or another. It has a romantic melody. Here’s an excerpt of the lyrics:
(Stay now)
Baby if you've got to go away
Don't think I could take the pain (Stay now)
Won't you stay another day? (Stay now)
Oh don't leave me alone like this
Don't you say it's the final kiss (Stay now)
Won't you stay another day? (Stay now)
Don't you know we've come too far now
Just to go and try to throw it all away
Thought I heard you say you love me
That your love was gonna be here to stay
I've only just begun to know you
All I can say is won't you stay just one more day?
(Stay now)
Baby if you've got to go away
Don't think I could take the pain
Won't you stay another day? (Stay now)
Oh don't leave me alone like this
Don't you say it's the final kiss (Stay now)
Won't you stay another day? (Stay now)
I touch your face while you are sleeping
And hold your hand, don't understand what's going on
Good times we had return to haunt me
Though it's for you, all that I do seems to be wrong
(Stay now, stay now)
Dorothy sent a couple of fantastic B&W cards to me. I guess she feels like her head is stuck in the sand.
Dear Michael,
Definitely time I reply to your last cards—hard to believe I’ve let time go by. Did you enjoy our phone conversation? I thought you were tired. We spoke only briefly. Work days have a way of wearing us down, don’t they?
I did you enjoy all of your cards: The B@W of the QUEEN’S HOUSE brought back good memories of ENGLAND and I like the colors and delicate art of the BOUQUET D’ARUMS by Raoul Dufy. Of course, the NEW EUROPEAN CATCH stole the show! I bet you found it in a London phone booth. I know you slipped into one of those hot alley adult stores. Ha-ha. Card IS great. I love it. Curious about the real EYEBROW RAISERS you say you’re still hanging on to.
Based on the article you sent and especially your personal comment I definitely want to see the movie SIRENS again. Maybe I’ll have my friend, Jan, join me. She’d probably get a kick out of it, too.
You are right. I should start that book you think I should write. Only---well not only---problem I’ve had is I’m almost as busy these days as I was when I was employed. I had to have another laser treatment that had me laid up for two weeks. The past couple of weeks I’ve been meeting with a career management counselor of RIGHT ASSOCIATES to help me focus on where I need to be with regard to a job. This process includes about 18-hours of self-evaluation and quite a bit of time with the counselor and workshops, etc. PacTel is paying for the service so I might as well use it. If I end up making burritos at TACO BELL, I won’t be too happy!
I am also continuing to take advantage of the computer classes I still have available to me which I had PacTel pay for too. So, long story, huh?
I am still reading VOX by Nicholson Baker. Can you believe I still haven’t finished it? I hope to finish soon. I know I still owe you my comments, etc. They may be verbal when I share them, though.
It was so difficult when I couldn’t communicate with you after that earthquake a while back. I had left a message on your recorder, so I assumed you’d faired okay. I could not bear the thought of anything happening to my “angel”.
Love, Dorothy
No exciting movies lately but I told Alan that I’m anxious to see BEFORE SUNRISE at the end of this month. It is starring Ethan Hawke and Julia Delpy. It seems to have a lot of interesting dialogue of a couple who meet on a train in Europe, so that’s something to look forward to.
We were like two long-lost pals finding themselves next to each other at a bus stop and catching up on all our years apart. --THIS IS GOING TO HURT by Adam Kay
