Michael Joe Armijo's Blog, page 27

So Many Relatives, So Little Time

From the earliest age, we must learn to say goodbye to friends and family.  It is part of the human experience that we are constantly gripping a good fellow by the shoulders and wishing him well, taking comfort from the notion that we will hear word of him soon enough. --Amor Towles, A GENTLEMAN IN MOSCOW 

It’s October 18th and my niece, Lauren, is now nine years old.  I mailed her a 4th Grader Book.   I hope she likes it.  When I think of Lauren I think of my very own daughter—out there somewhere---as I know she was born the same year as Lauren (1985).  I believe around September 1985.  I wonder where she is living and what her parents are like.   I hope I’ll know in another nine years as I hope she’ll contact me when she turns eighteen.  Only time will tell. 

Barbara Reynolds sent a funny photo card taken by photojournalist DILIP MEHTA in 1993.   It is titled THE WORLD’S LONGEST HAIR.   Barbara wrote: 

21 Oct 94 

Two months til Solstice and the advent of more sun...yeah!   I’m coping. 

I saw my physical therapist yesterday and he discovered part of my problem (pain) is in my shoulder joint.  It’s such a relief to figure things out.   

Joan Lyon’s son is Damian Lyons and plays for the San Diego Chargers. 

Wishing it would rain...got a note this week from my new friend in Virginia.   Thank you Thank you! 

Have you moved already?   

My niece in Stanton had her daughter on October 13th...sounds great.  Later, Barbara  

Aunt Lela wrote again.  She sent a cute friendship card with an illustration of a skunk.  Hmm... 

Inside the card:   

Michael, 

Sometimes I like to stop and say a little thank-you prayer for you and for the friendship God has given us to share.  Besides being related, we’re friends.  Love hearing from you.  Lovingly, Aunt Lela 

Included was a handwritten letter on lined yellow paper; I had previously written her for information as I started a quest to create a Family Tree and connect the dots to all of my relatives.  It’s my new genealogy project in-progress.  She sent some great information about my only ARMIJO first cousins (Joey, Mona and Donna):   

Oct. 21, 1994 

Dear Nephew, 

What a letter.  I’ll try to get more information for you and send it as I get it.   

Joey’s children are Joseph Elijah who turned 9 on April 13.  Alisha Marie born July 5th; she just turned 8 years.   Cory Daniel born July 1st and just turned 6 years.    Their mother, Michelle’s maiden name is Hammond.  She is Mona’s exact age (30 years).  Joey is 32 on June 19th.  Remember that he and Johnny (your brother) and Steve Vigil are only ten days apart. 

Mona’s married name is EBELING and her husband is Michael Dean Ebeling (33 years old).  The children are Johnny Dean Ebeling b. Feb. 8, 1984; Jessica Elizabeth b. Sept. 8, 1986; James Michael b. April 5, 1988; Marcus Anthony b. Nov 12, 1989; Monica Jean b. July 6, 1991.   

Donna is married to David Scott Payne who was born on Aug. 26, 1968.  Donna Lynn Armijo was born Aug. 27, 1969.  Danielle Rae Solorio-Payne was born April 12, 1987.    Veronica Marie b. June 15, 1992; the newest grandchild is Sarah Elizabeth b. Aug. 31, 1994. 

I just talked to your Aunt Dolores last week.  She and Lawrence have been divorced quite a number of years.  She was a MORA before she was married to Lawrence Vigil.   Paul Vigil is their oldest son and is married to Mary.  They have two sons (I forgot their names, ages).  Steve married Rachelle (who was married before) and has a baby girl named Miranda (age?).  They have a little girl together who is maybe two or three years old. 

Chirstina is married, divorced and remarried.  I have no idea about her married name (no kids).  

Edward is married to Lydia and they’re divorced.  They have two girls (Jennifer and Jessica).  I don’t know their ages. 

Pat Vigil has not remarried since Bob passed away in 1988.   

Pat and Bob’s daughter, Cindy, did remarry in August.  I don’t have information on her husband.  She had a son, Paul Jaramillo, from her first husband.  She now has a little one around two years old named Trevor.  

Troy is married.  His wife...?    The kids are Bobby and Megan.  Todd is married also and has one girl about six years old named Candice (all are such beautiful children).  Good looks run in the Latin Blood, right?   

My mom’s maiden name is Martinez and her dad was ENRICO MARTINEZ.  My grandmother was JOSEFITA BACA and they were from the Chama, Los Brasos area of Northern New Mexico.  Most all of my relatives on both sides were from the Northern part of NM.  I was raised in Utah until I was nine years old, when I moved to Oakland in 1952.  I have a lot of relatives in Utah from both sides of my family (Colorado and New Mexico also).   

I would love to see you, Paul, Joey and Troy put together a reunion of all of these cousins in your age bracket!  Troy is a good once to get a hold of and probably one of Aunt Nellie’s kids (like Mario or Becky).  Also, all of Aunt Esther’s family...so may relatives, so little time, right?  

Do have a good time with all of this information.  I wish I could remember more!  Regards to all from me when you talk to them.   

What is Tony’s phone number and Johnny, too?   I want Joey to get a hold of them, so the kids can meet their first cousins on the ARMIJO side.  Alisha is at the age now where she wants to know all of this. 

Ending here...God Bless, Take Care—rest from your move! 

Lovingly, Aunt Lela 

My Aunt Lela certainly has it right when she wrote ‘So Many Relatives, So Little Time’.   We all work here, there and everywhere.  It’s not an easy task to organize a reunion.   My intent is to work on it though.   I still need to get more names and find all of the connections.   There are so many.  It’s almost a full-time job to just focus on all of the people connected to my four family lines of ARMIJO, GARCIA and LUCERO, LEYBA.  

On the 21st Alan and I went to see the movie LOVE AFFAIR.  The chemistry between Annette Bening and Warren Beatty was evident.  I remember taking a class in San Francisco at the ACT Theater (American Conservative Theater).   I later learned that she was a member of the Acting Company there, having completed the Master in Fine Arts program there in the mid-1980s.  It would have been fun to meet her.  I like her style.  She and I are about the same age.  

My niece, Lauren, did love the gift I sent.  I was honored by a handwritten letter ‘in pencil’ from her.  Lauren wrote: 

Dear Uncle Mike, 

Thank you for the fourth-grade book.  I’ve been reading the stories in the front of the book. 

Oh...and I forgot to tell you that my mom is going to take us to the San Francisco Ballet.  I wish you could come with us.  There is no talking or singing in the ballet.  We are going to have to wear dresses but it’s next year.   

And we are going to go to Mexico with Grandma Virginia.  We are going on a plane.  I’ve never been on a plane.  I bet it’s fun.   And we get to go out for dinner sometimes.  We get to go swimming every day.   I hope I could see you soon.  Bye. 

Love, 

Lauren Armijo  

P.S.  I LOVE YOU.  

And what more can I ask for ‘now and then’ other than a simply I LOVE YOU.   A good warrior has to be content with whatever compassion comes his way.   

To be a good warrior, one has to feel sad and lonely, but rich and resourceful at the same time.  This makes the warrior sensitive to every aspect of phenomena:  to sights, smells, sounds, and feelings.  The warrior is also an artist, appreciating whatever goes on in the world. --Chogyam Trungpa, SMILE AT FEAR 

They're Moving Us

We are just overflowing with feelings.  We can’t keep our balance. --Anais Nin, HENRY AND JUNE 

The days of working at Charles Schwab & Co.  are moving along splendidly.  I have more and more clients who only want to work with me.  

I remember when I was a Computer Operator and I felt alone with so many computers; initiating programs, using modems, aligning papers, meeting deadlines.  While I knew computers were the future, I missed people so I left for Service Rep. Work.   I talked to tons and tons of customers.  And now...here I am face-to-face with customers.  I love it—but sometimes I wouldn’t mind the reading of a book while I waited for my computer program to complete its job.  You can’t have it all as is said.  

Barbara Reynolds sent a mountainous range postcard of a scene in Moab, Utah.   She wrote: 

11 Oct 1994 

First off, thanks for treating me to breakfast and sharing your tape with me.  It was really good to see you.  You look so very good.  What a relief that “some people” are doing all right.  Excuse me...some people ARE fantastic. 

I am dreaming now about a possible trip to So. Cal... will you be there or here for Thanksgiving?   

Oh...after your Asia trip perhaps you will be here again.  I think I need to see Alameda South Shore Beach once more.  

Love, Barbara  

I am counting the days for the Aisa departure on November 9th.   I still can’t believe it.  Alan and I are sketchily working on an itinerary.  It will be great.  By the time we fly out from LAX we will have a greater idea of our sightseeing plans and adventures. 

Lauren and Carrie were coming to our pad (joint custody) part of the time and it was fun.  Gloria (Alan’s mom) is always a hoot.  She talks up a storm and always makes things interesting.   

This week we managed to see a couple of surprise movies that we really liked.   One was called BULLETS OVER BROADWAY and the other was called HEAVENLY CRATURES.    

BULLETS OVER BROADWAY was set in New York, 1928.    It was about a struggling playwright who is forced to cast a mobster’s talentless girlfriend (Jennifer Tilly) in his latest drama in order to get it produced.  It was directed by Woody Allen, starring John Cusack and Dianne West.   It was a fun crime-comedy. 

HEAVENLY CREATURES was an intense psychological thriller set in the early 1950s about two teenage girls (Kate Winslet and Melanie Lynskey) who share a unique bond.  Their parents are concerned that the friendship is too intense an separates them.  Then the girls take revenge!  It amazed me to learn that it was based on a true story.  Outstanding.  I highly recommend it.  

After the L.A. earthquake it appeared that we may have had some minor structural damage that needed to be looked into so Alan’s insurance was so good that they’re moving us to a house in Pacific Palisades temporarily.  Apparently, it’s next door to the home of Lawrence Welk (when he lived there; he died a couple of years ago: May 17, 1992).   Alan had been looking into homes in Santa Monica but I said, “Why don’t we move to Pacific Palisades instead?”   My two cents worked—so it’ll be exciting.  Alan’s just in a tizzy in trying to figure out what documents and files to take to the new home.   

“Only the best people fight against all obstacles in pursuit of happiness.” --Kate Winslet as Juliet Hulme in the 1994 film, HEAVENLY CREATURES 

How It Was

When something moves you can tell that time has passed. --Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Collected Novelas, from Novela #1: LEAF STORM  

Alan wasn’t too thrilled to see the movie TOM and VIV but I wanted to see it, so we did.   It was starring Willem Dafoe and Miranda Richardson.   It was one of those period pieces set in 1915.     T.S. Eliot (Willem) and Vivenne Haigh-Wood (Miranda) who decide to elope.   She ends up having some emotional and gynecological problems that disrupt their planned honeymoon.  And her father is upset that T.S. Eliot’s poetry isn’t bringing in enough money for them to live on.  Her mother—on the other hand—is simply happy that her daughter has found a tender loving husband.   I know—sounds boring but I like going back-in-time to get a feel for ‘how it was’.  

Meanwhile, I was able to escape for the quick flight to Oakland to spend time with mom and see my nieces (and nephew who is almost two years old now).   Holly had a soccer game so that was on the itinerary.  It was fun to be outside and watch the game.   I could tell Holly was happy that I was there for her game.   I was happier than she was.    

I couldn’t believe how grown-up Dylan looked since the last time I saw him.  Sherri’s a good mom. 

I managed to drop over with mom to see my brother, Tony, and Helen in Castrol Valley.    It was also Helen's birthday recently (October 1st), so it was bit of a belated celebration for that as well.  

Lauren and Leigh had a sleepover with their cousin, Nicole (she is Geneva’s daughter; Geneva is Helen's sister).  I was surprised how cooperative they were about my request that they pose on the stairwell as if I was taking a ‘Brady Bunch’ family photo.  It looked very cute.   

I’m glad I tacked on an extra day as I arranged a breakfast outing with former coworker, Barbara Reynolds.   I made a cassette tape of songs for her.   It was nice to drive over to Berkeley for a change.  I still recall how I planned to move to L.A. in 1989 and in two years (1991) my intention was to move to Berkeley; however, I’m still in Los Angeles.  I like L.A. because where I live it is by-the-beach and I can walk around or bike around.  

Returning to Alameda is always fun but I notice tidbit changes; be it a new STOP sign, a newly painted house, a restaurant that is no longer there.  I am coming to realize that Southern California is becoming my other home.   Still...it’s always special to come back to feel ‘how it was’.  

“If poisonous weds are not removed, scented flowers cannot grow.” 

--Nien Cheng, LIFE AND DEATH IN SHANGHAI  

You Entertain Me

Money, pretty much more than anything else you might be able to control, can conjure up and elevate that elusive ideal we call happiness.  Money eases stress.  --Harlan Coben, RUNAWAY 

I was blessed with a very long letter from Dorothy Rua that included three unique cards from her: 

9-29-94 

Dear Michael, 

I was beginning to wonder if you were taming down to a level of conservativeness; however, your last cards assured me I have nothing to worry about.  All three can be considered a bit risqué and you know how I appreciate a little spice now and then!  I enjoyed them all:   

PICASSO SLEEPING PEASANTS is quite unique.  The woman is in such a deep sleep she doesn't notice how exposed she is—but further thought on my part makes me comfortable with her body and doesn’t have the inhibitions the rest of us may have.   

The DEAD TREE RENDEVOUS is quite sensual, especially because of the casualness of the way she wears those overalls.  He with that neck scarf, but heh, maybe he’s a cowboy!   

Great legs on DIANA, THE DOMINITRIX (no, you hadn’t sent me this card previously—you sent a different one).  They go on forever.  We (me) should be so lucky.  Is that you I see coming down the hall toward Diana’s room?  And you’re fully clothed in a 3-piece suit and wing top shoes!  What’s up?  Ha-ha.  Great cards—as usual, you entertain me so well. 

Okay, I guess I can get it out now.  I’m super jealous that you're going to HONG KONG and I’m not.   Especially since you’re going before England has to hand HONG KONG back to China (will that be in 1998?).   How exciting and romantic, so much of everything in HONG KONG, so much mystery.  How very fortunate you and Alan are.  I know you realize that.  You also know that as jealous as I am.  I’m also very happy for you.  I know you’ll enjoy every moment, every little experience—think of me from time to time while you’re there (my part of the world), especially if you take a junket across the waterways or you’re eating some wonderful exotic meal.  I’ll be looking forward to your cards... 

What a wonderful surprise you gave your mom for her Birthday.  Which goes to show you what a good job she did raising her son.  I look forward to seeing the pictures.  

How did the AIDS Fundraiser-Playboy Mansion event go?  Was the mansion all you imagined it would be?  You probably saw some famous people there, like the stars, etc.  Pretty exciting stuff, huh?   

Glad to hear you don’t do SPEEDO’s, and even more pleased to know you don’t' look bad in your Calvin Klein's...  You’re right, it’s harder to do enough for your body as time passes, but at lease you’re keeping up with all that running.   

Hey Michael...Yes, the mailing of these cards go delayed and I feel bad about it.  I’ve been going through some very intense studying these past several weeks and even now I’m stealing time, so I can communicate with you.  You’ve been on my mind a lot lately and I want you to know I’m thinking of you.  What’s been keeping me busy?  I’ve been studying for my Series 6 (and 63) license.  I passed the exams so I can get into the type of work I want to do.  I mentioned in my last card that I was doing some research for a financial related position.  Well, it’s not working as a stock broker but the products do involve securities (primarily mutual funds, annuities and variable universal Life insurance products).  The company, FORTIS INVESTORS, is in a major expansion mode and I’m in the management program.  I knew it would be a big, big commitment before I signed up but that commitment is even more magnified after you begin.  I’ve just begun the training which will be an ongoing process, especially these next 12-months or so.  It'll be a real test for me and it’ll be interesting to see if I can make it work for me.  I’ll keep you posted.  

The above has taken up all my time, so I don’t have any good, juicy dirt to share about the other part of my life.  I know you’re wondering ‘What kind of dirt goes on in Walnut Creek’?  Not much—that I know about; however, this has been a year of major separations for several of my friends.  You know the story—increasing unhappiness and unresolved issued throughout a long marriage/relationship.  Even Rosemarie split with Michael (her significant other).  Generally, I believe they’re all happier (the females).  I know Rosemarie is happier with her life now.  

On the opposite scale, I went to a wedding about a month ago.  It was at a park right at the ocean in Monterey.  It was different in several ways but especially with regard to the music.  The guests had to play “Here Comes the Bride” on a kazoo.  It was great.  I wish I’d had time to spend the entire weekend but couldn’t.  I did go to my favorite restaurant for dinner in Carmel but I had sad feelings while I was in my favorite town.  I usually go to my favorite artists gallery but was too sad because I had just that week learned that artist, Christine Rosamund lost her life (age 46) while walking on the beach when a freak wave took her.  So odd how things happen in life.   

Anyway, on to more pleasant things.  Where are you living?  You mentioned that you and Alan had to find a temporary place to stay.  Did you find something comfortable?  Hope you're checking your mail in Marina Del Rey since this is the only address, I have for you.    

Is Lauren enjoying her first year of high-school?  Jean-Paul loves his first year.  He can’t believe how “lame” middle-school seems now.  Nicole is also enjoying her last year in high-school and already planning for college.  You’re right, how can they be so grown-up when we are still growing up! 

Haven’t seen any movies lately; only a video once in a great while.  The one I saw recently and enjoyed was LIKE WATER FOR CHOCOLATE.  I’d read the book and found it enlightening.  A different slant on the story of those who choose not to sit on the fence and also what power we can have on our lives in spite of outside forces.  I can't wait until I get a hold of BITTER MOON on video.  Thanks for telling me about it.  Have you seen BLUE (I think that’s the name)?  I saw the previews and it looked interesting.  I’m sure you’ve seen several movies during the past month.  Any you liked? 

Hard to believe you moved to Southern California, what...five years ago?  Do miss you and think of you always.  Have a truly wonderful time in HONG KONG—with all my heart, I wish I could join you and Alan.  Think of me... 

Love, 

Dorothy  

On September 30 Alan and I fell upon another good film starring Meryl Streep and David Strathairn called THE RIVER WILD.  That was suspenseful.  

And speaking of wild, my elder former coworker, Reed, sent a wild Hallmark card of four sexy guys showering under what looked like a waterfall.   I do like the photo—a sort of cleansing: 

October 1, 1994 

Hi Michael, 

Just a short note. 

We will be attending a cruise holidays convention from Dec 14th-19th.   We will be staying at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.  If you can get away, I would love to see you.  Have a drink, lunch or whatever.   

Our house is almost done.  Lots of minor touches but it all takes time.  So far, it’s been interesting here in the twin cities.  And I think you would like it if you ever get the chance to drop in-- 

We will arrive early AM on the 14th and leave Sunday the 18th at 1:30am.  Actually, Monday AM. 

I hope to see you.  Let me know so I can skip some of the functions to see you. 

Best, 

Reed 

P.S.  The card photo is sent of suggestive golden showers (?).   

And my ‘mailbox week’ ended with a handwritten letter from my Aunt Lela: 

Oct. 3, 1994 

Dear Nephew, 

Long time since we’ve contacted one another—so how’s everything going for you? 

Things around here have been a little hectic.    I was in Washington with the girls from September 4-11.  Donna has a new daughter, born August 30th 12:53pm, 8 lbs. 14 ½ oz. 20 inches:  Sarah Elisabeth Payne.  That makes three and from the way David looked at me when I asked if they would still try for the boy they just might try once more in a couple of years.   Can you believe Donna’s 25-years old and a mother of three?  Now that makes 19-grandchildren for George and I (eleven from my 3 AND eight from ‘three out of four’ of his).   

My mother had cataract surgery on her left eye a week ago.  I stayed with her the first five days and she got so spoiled.  She pouted when I left.  My mom’s 75-years old now and as stubborn and impatient as ever—if not more so in her old age.  She has high blood pressure and due to her impatience, it really goes up when she gets angry (which is daily when I’m around her).  I get her ‘goat’ when I point out how short her fuse is.  

George keeps asking me if you’re a stock broker or what.  You’ve probably told me before but refresh my memory.  What is your job title?  We have a small amount tied up in a stock (IMPX).   George wanted me to ask if you’ve heard of it and if it looks like it will do anything soon.   We really have lost loads in bad investments in the past years.  Any tips would be greatly appreciated.   

I do want so much to go on an Alaskan Cruise before I’m too old to appreciate it.  Have you been on that one?   

Well, I’ll write you again soon.  I want to end this now to get it in today’s mail. 

God Bless, Take Care. 

Love, 

Aunt Lela  

Nobody is better or worse than anyone else.  We are all the same, a common thread runs through us. 

--A. C. Ping, “BE”  

It's nice JUST BEING

Striving to achieve something, and having a sense of purpose and direction in life is vital. --Andy Puddicombe, MEDITATION & MINDFULNESS 

I received a wonderful card from my cousin, Carol Lucero (Ferris).  She and her husband, Ryan, recently visited NM and the card depicted a glimpse of the Bandelier National Monument (a place I would visit years later).  The nature’s beauty there is top-notch. 

Wed.  Sept. 21, 1994 

Dear Michael, 

Hi there.  How are you?  I know it’s been a while but life has been a bit rough lately.  The good part though is that Ryan and I took a wonderful trip to New Mexico a month ago.  We visited Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Taos (and of course, Cerrillos)!  I had no idea I would eve go there (NM).  I planned the trop spontaneously two weeks before we went—very unlike me (if you know me).  Have you been there?   

New Mexico was truly a magical place for me.  I loved the earth, the sky, the weather, the people and, of course, the language.  An awesome place we saw was the Bandelier National Monument (Indian Ruins and Cliff Dwellings).  We also visited the top of a mountain in each big city (with help, of course, from trams, autos—not all hiking).  

I came back from vacation to enter a more stressful (than usual) workplace but it’s settling (thank goodness).   

Then, Ryan was bummed out due to lack of available jobs (He works for himself doing carpentry) and part of him wants to switch careers into computers—but that’s been more difficult.  Anyway, life’s better this week.   

One of my best friends got married last Saturday.  The first wedding I’ve ever been in.  And Ryan’s brother is getting married this Sunday at YOSEMITE.  It ought to be beautiful.  This has been the year of ‘the Wedding’.  It'll be a relief when this next one is over because for the past year everyone has been putting extra pressure on Ryan and myself with all of ‘the Wedding’ talk around us.  Sometimes we feel like we don’t count as a serious couple because we aren't’ married and because we have no real concrete plans as of yet.  It’s nice JUST BEING.   I think I've had so many life changes in the past two years, I’m enjoying seeming my life settle down a bit before thinking too much of whether I want to be married yet.  Besides, I still feel too young.  Anyway, I could still change my mind tomorrow.   

Changing the subject...how was New York?   I would like to visit there one day.  I might be going to New Orleans in November for a convention.  I want to go just for the music.  I’d love to hear authentic blues in an authentic blues club in New Orleans.  Anyway, I guess I’d better end this letter as I have run out of room! 

Til Later, 

Love, Carol 

On September 23rd Alan and I saw a fantastic movie called THIS BOY’S LIFE, starring Robert DeNiro and Leonardo DiCaprio.  I really loved it.  There were some poignant scenes.  It was about a rebellious teenager (Leonardo) and his abusive stepfather.  It was based on the memoirs of writer and literature Professor Tobias Wolff.  It makes me want to seek out that memoir.   It takes place in 1957—the year my parents got married in Oakland, California.   

And just when one would think they’d seen the greatest movie another one shows up.  Alan and I went to see THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION the following night.  Wow!   Two imprisoned men (Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins) bond over a number of years, finding solace and eventual redemption through acts of common decency.  It will surely get Academy Award nominations.  To be imprisoned brings a whole new meaning to find that feeling of JUST BEING (as my cousin Carol described the phrase in her recent correspondence.  

Barbara Reynolds sent an Arthur G. Dove “ME AND THE MOON” artsy postcard that I really liked. 

24-9-94 

This is like our weather week and Halloween is coming.  Yes!  Wow...flight messes.  I think I won’t have that problem.  How was the AIDS-Playboy Mansion party?   

I'm glad your mom had a great time.  I should call her.  I got a postcard yesterday from a guy I met in Virginia; so, who knows?  I got trained in ExecuStar this week, so that will be fun for a while.  Did you see NBK (Natural Born Killers) yet?  Oliver Stone is so good.  This weekend will have more celebrations in San Francisco Chinatown.   

Later, Love, Barbara  

Meanwhile, I am looking forward to my hometown visit to Alameda to see mom next month.  I’m counting the days.  It’s nice JUST BEING—and that’s what I intend to do when I am there. 

“The sense of wonder, that is our sixth sense.” --D.H. Lawrence, as read in the Sam Keen book:  FIRE IN THE BELLY, On Being a Man 

The Playboy Mansion 1994

“This world is not just for the rash and the fearless, for the loud go-getters—no, the shy and the quiet, the dreamy and the eccentric have their place there, too. Without them, there would be no nuances, no light blue watercolors, no unsaid words that give the imagination space to work. And isn’t it precisely the dreamers who know that the truest and the greatest adventures take place in the heart?”  --Nicolas Barreau, ONE EVENING IN PARIS, a novel 
The excitement was approaching with anticipation for the big APLA Party at the Playboy Mansion on Saturday, September 17th. Who knows what to expect? I said to Alan, “We better have a drink right away so that we get a little tipsy, then just enjoy ourselves.” 
Meanwhile, we had a houseguest for two nights. It was Alan’s longtime friend, Ron F. He and his wife were close friends with O.J. Simpson and his wife. Ron was being hounded by investigated reporters so our house was the perfect hideaway for him. He wouldn’t be bothered because we were so disconnected. Ron was stressed. What a mess! Imagine one of your friends being arrested for murdering his wife. The plot thickens and the public awaits. 
I received a ‘Just to let you know I thought of you today’ card from Dorothy Rua, the back of the image of the card was titled IDLE HOURS.  I liked that title: 
Dear Michael, I hope you’ve felt me thinking of you throughout the past weeks that I haven’t communicated In writing. The first couple of weeks in August I spent recuperating from yet another laser treatment, then the next few weeks were spent hitting the pavement, beating the bushes for “meaningful’ work. I basically took the entire summer off. 
 I’m finally feeling motivated to get on with REAL LIFE. This past week I spent researching a financially related business that I’ve had an interest in the past 10+ years. IF it materializes into something worth talking about, I’ll share all the details at that time. 
 You know how happy I always am to hear from you. Receiving your last cards were extra special because they arrived when I was feeling pretty miserable from the laser. They brightened my day, my week and beyond. They are ALL wonderful. I can’t decide my favorite. THE WRITING DESK is really special and makes me think of you, everything about it: the eyeglasses, the artists pen, the warmth of the flowers and especially the foreign stamps. SMUGGLERS COVE makes me think of our ‘someday’ picnic. What a beautiful, secluded place. Have you ever been there? It must be up north with all of that greenery so close to the ocean. THE BLUE MOZART paints a clear message but makes me a bit sad because it makes me think of your paintings and how I still haven't been down to see them on your walls. The Black and White sidewalk scene is definitely unique with the guy in the lawn chair. He is quite determined to get a tan. Then there are those senior citizens sitting nearby, looking terribly bored with their swollen ankles and spider veins...as usual, you sent a wonderful assortment of cards and I appreciate them all! 
So, how long did Ron F. stay and how full did he fill your ears with dirt? Your description of the status of his marriage gives me a chuckle “The Pilot Light is Turned Off’...Ha-ha. Love, Dorothy
My niece, Ashley, sent a sweet card by an artist named Umberto Boccioni who painted this image in 1913 called DYNAMISM OF A SOCCER PLAYER. It doesn’t really depict the feeling of a soccer player though. Ha-ha. I wonder if I sent her that card. It’s quite possible. Ashley wrote: 
Dear Uncle Mike, Hi. How are you? I’m great. 
Grandma’s here. I really missed you. Grandma told me all about New York...like the sight of all of those pancakes. That was funny! She really liked it there. I can tell. 
Do you recognize this card? Can you describe a topic in 30-seconds without saying ‘uh, a, like or pause? It’s hard, huh? Well, here’s a topic to try: YOU! That’s easier. Gotta go... 
Oh...are you gonna write to me or what? I am wearing grandma’s Oakland A’s t-shirt. It’s cool! 
School! I got Ms. Forrester. She’s ‘29’ and very nice. And Ms. Myovich is our study buddy. There are ‘29’ kids. It’s a 4th and 5th grade split. I LOVE SCHOOL (for now)! Everything’s easy (for now)!
Gotta go again...Love you—tell everyone I say Hi...Bye! Love you Lots, Ashley 
And on Saturday Morning I received a SUNSET at SANDBRIDGE postcard from Virginia Beach, Virginia from Barbara Reynolds: 
It’s really nice here. And we can swim in the Atlantic. The temps good in and out of the water. I had lots of fun with my friend, Spring’s kids. Yes, a friend named Spring.
I am en route now to Nashville in the Greyhound to catch my plane home on Friday. My friends just could not leave the beach when I needed to Cest la vie. We stayed at Sandbridge in a cottage for one week. It was great. The next time I’ll do it for a month...definitely? 
I am trying to remember the last time I road in a greyhound bus. It must have been in 1977. Hmmm...D.C. was so exciting. Till Later, Love, Barbara 
The Playboy Mansion... 
Well, it was exciting driving in and around the area of Charing Cross Road where Hugh Hefner lives. His next-door neighbor is Aaron Spelling and Janet Jackson lives nearby. 
We walked in looking like we belonged. “Let’s just pretend we’re producers,” I suggested to Alan. "We are,” Alan replied. I laughed, “I guess you’re right.” 
There was a desk at the entry with the sweetest lady at reception. She ignited the feeling of fun. She had a bit of a raspy voice that I loved. She should be a voice-over. Who knows? Maybe she is a voice-over.
Alan and I waltzed over to the bar. As we browsed around the grounds and the house. Alan flirted with a waiter. They provided us with instant-cameras, encouraging photography. I was snapping away. I couldn’t wait to see what shots I ended up with in a day or two. 
I shot Alan with the waiter. There was a silent auction and Alan and I were already feeling ‘the buzz’ from our drinks. I spotted an attractive young lady as I was browsing the silent auction items. She smiled and I smiled. She saw me looking at a photograph that was up for auction. “That’s my photo,” she said as I began to surmise that she may be a Playboy bunny. 
As it turned out, I read the description on the silent auction and she was Bridget Hall, a talk-about-town Super model that is getting a lot of work these days. She is going to be on the December cover issue of COSMOPOLITAN magazine; whereby, I was going to make sure I bought a copy. 
I had Alan take a photo of Bridget and I. She had a cigarette on her hand—which I didn’t like—but what can you do. I did feel a connection with her though. She was flirting. I was flirting. It was fun. I wanted to be with her. It’s funny what being at the Playboy Mansion will do—especially after your second Mai Tai cocktail. 
I had to use the bathroom and somehow I ended up in Hugh Hefner's study!  How could I just walk in like that?  Well, I took a photo of his desk (and of course, his conceit shined as I saw his portrait above his desk).  
The swimming pool was ultra-sexy at the Playboy Mansion. There were even Playmate centerfold girls in the pool. Yes, they had bathing suits on. What kind of place do you think this is? It’s not orgy night. It’s fundraiser night. Ha-ha. We schmoozed with everyone that brushed by us. 
I saw actress Kim Cattrall walking straight at us. She didn’t look all that glamorous but I recognized her. Alan didn’t have a clue. 
I approached Kim, “Hi. Your movie MANNEQUIN is one of my favorites!” “Oh...thank you!” She seemed rather shy and surprised that I recognized her from that particular film—but then she had no clue who we were. We just introduced ourselves as we normally would. “I’m Michael and this is Alan. Hey, could you take a picture of us?” I asked a waiter who was flashing his sexy ass. “Sure,” he said. I was so excited that we just took a photo with Kim Cattrall. Okay, I was a teensy-weensy bit star struck but no one really knows her. She’s not exactly ultra-famous. Alan was like, “How do you know who she is? You recognize everybody.” (Four years later, 1998, she was ignited with popularity as the sexy live-wire friend (Samantha Jones) of Carrie Bradshaw in the series SEX AND THE CITY). 
 “Alan, that blond is someone. I can’t think of her name but she’s with a rock n roller guy!” We were feeling the effects of our cocktails, so we didn’t care what anyone thought. Alan became friendly with them and I took a photo of Alan with them. We would later realize it was Pamela Anderson (of BAYWATCH series fame—that I’ve never watched Ha-ha). She was with a Rockstar guy named Bret Michaels who is known for some band called POISON (but of course, neither Alan nor I know the group or the music). 
Everyone was so friendly. That’s how it is at fundraisers. Everyone is there to simply have a good time for a good cause. 
Alan kept bumping into this drag queen and I snapped photos of them. It was funny. I had my share of shots with random guests also. 
I saw and recognized Cheech of Cheech and Chong and took of pic of him with Kim Cattrall. I also recognized Phyllis Diller who was one of the judges for a Fashion Show that was part of the entertainment. Cheech Marin was also a judge. Who would name their child ‘Cheech’? 
The fashion show was fun. I enjoyed it. I love fashion shows. Imagine that...just five years ago I was in a fashion show. It’s a lot of fun. As the night progressed, we mingled with others. Who knows who they were? We all had a lot of fun. Alan and I just entered the party with the intention of ‘letting our hair down’, yearning to have a good time. We did just that. We were brave. We didn’t have to try very hard—but we made an effort to be friendly. It all worked out pleasantly. It was a great and memorable adventure. 
The value of the lesson: One should try one’s hardest, even when the chances for victory are slim and then take pride that one has given the venture one’s all, even when one fails to emerge victorious. --Amor Towles, author of the short story A WHIMSY OF THE WORLD

The Wide-Open Spaces

You and I know that what counts is what JAMES BOND does, not what he says... --Kingsley Amis, THE JAMES BOND DOSSIER 
For some reason I was reminiscing about my trip to London.    “Next time we have to go to London, mom.  You’ll love it there.  And we can take photos at their cool red telephone booths,” I laughed.   
Our night of MISS SAIGON On-Broadway was simply fantastic.  Mom loved the show.   We did so much in a week.  I know mom had fun.  She was relaxed just sitting in the hotel room, wondering what we’d be doing next.  We even had a slice of Ray’s Pizza. “Mom, you can’t come to New York without having ‘a slice’.” Mom flew with me to L.A. and stayed another night until she headed back home to Alameda the following day.  I know Ashley was anxiously awaiting her Grandma’s return. 
I had a nice Hallmark Card waiting for me from Dorothy Rua.  The photo card included a couple amidst an embrace while at an ocean shoreline.  Dorothy titled the card: “Just Another Special Moment Shared’. 
I had forgotten I asked Dorothy about actor Ray Liotta.  I saw him at the PALM RESTAURANT not-so-long-ago chatting up a story with a soap opera actor I recognized from Days of Our Lives, Josh Taylor.  I thought it odd that they’d know each other but they obviously worked together in some capacity.  
Dorothy wrote: 
Dear Michael, 
You asked if I know who Ray Liotta is?  Yes, I do, and I think he’s HOT, real hot.  I like his acting too.   
You must be in great shape with all the running you’re doing.  Does this mean you’re now wearing those skimpy SPEEDO’s on the beach?  Ha-ha.  Don’t tell me if you are.  I’m not fond of those things because I don't find them flattering.  A regular suit or totally nude is much more attractive!  I was walking every day until the end of July but I’m starting up again tomorrow.  As I mentioned, August was not a fun month for me.  September already feels better. 
I’m sure you’ve seen several movies during the past month.  Any good ones?  I did see FORREST GUMP and really enjoyed it.  I can understand why you want the CD.  I’m still looking for BITTER MOON and it’s still not playing up here.  Why?  I’ve seen several videos, the most recent was LIKE WATER FOR CHOCOLATE.  I really enjoyed the book and the movie, too.  I only wish there were a few good HOT scenes to spice it up!   
Regarding SHIRLEY VALENTINE, it’s about a dissatisfied housewife (British) who goes off on a trip to GREECE.  You know, I don’t know where you’d like it or not.  I could probably make that guess on most movies, but I’m not sure about this one.  If you do rent it let me know your thoughts.  
I am absolutely sick about the cast for the lead roles for the movies BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY.  Clint Eastwood as Robert Kincaid?  It’s much easier to picture Robert Redford in the role.  It’s his type of role and he does it well.  But worst, I hear Meryl Streep is Francesca.  I mean, get real!  Aside from the fact that she acts out the same role for every part she plays, she is not the Italian woman one envisions when one things of Francesca.  Oh well, Hollywood refused to accept my calls when I called to protest.  And I’ll probably go see the movie anyway and hope I’m no more disappointed that I anticipate I will be.  Batt attitude, huh?  I’ll have to work on it.   Love, Dorothy 
Meanwhile, Alan and I went to see this new movie called PULP FICTION that just opened on September 10th.  It was getting rave reviews, so we couldn’t wait to see it.  However, after we left the theater, we both looked at each other in a dumbfounded way. Alan: “Did I miss something.” Michael: “No, it was terrible.  We should have missed seeing it at all, ugh!”  
The printed photos from my trip to NYC with mom arrived.  I received two copies of each shot so I immediately sent them to mom with a note on a NYC taxi postcard I acquired from Bloomindales.  When I recall our trip I imagine the history of her small-town life in New Mexico in that town of Cerrillos and how she (nor I) ever really felt the pulse of a big city.   Of course, there is something to be said for country living and the wide-open spaces.   Dear Mom, The NY Photos arrived.  Here are your copies.  Enjoy the memories.  Love You Forever, Michael Armijo 
The sheepherder watched his flock by day, traveling many miles while the sheep grazed on the range.  As his flock pastured, he sat on a rock or on his coat; he whittled some objects or composed songs or poetry until it was time to move the flock to water or better pasture.  The old man always seemed happy, whistling or singing in the distance.  The sheepherders on the endless Llano are the unsung heroes of an industry which was our livelihood for generations.  (The Llano: The Wide Open Spaces),  Fabiola Cabeza de Baca, WE FED THEM CACTUS 

YOU HAD TO BE THERE

“A leader can’t lead until he knows where he’s going.” --actor Terry O’Quinn as John Locke in the series LOST 
 I received a sweet card from my Aunt Lela Gallegos-Armijo-Rego: Michael,  It’s nice when you’re near, but when you’re not, It’s nice to keep you near in thought! You haven’t been here in how long? I sure wish you could come up while Donna’s here (September 26 thru Oct 10).  I’d love to get her together with all of her favorite cousins.  You're one of the top ten you know.  I’d love to see you again. Do try, okay?  Love Aunt Lela God Bless. Take Care.  
I can also count on Reed Campbell for a postcard, too.  He was recently in Washington D.C.  There was a freak accident there recently: 
Shortly before 2 a.m. on this day in 1994, a red and white, two-seat, propeller-driven Cessna 150 flew low over 17th Street in the heart of the nation’s capital, banked leftward in a U-turn near the Washington Monument, and headed toward the presidential bedroom in the White House. 
Gliding just over the treetops, the Cessna passed over the fountain and the red cannas flowers blooming on the South Lawn, bounced off the grass just short of the mansion, crashed through the branches of a magnolia tree planted by President Andrew Jackson and came to rest in a crumpled heap two stories below the Clintons' unoccupied bedroom. The impact immediately killed the pilot, Frank Eugene Corder. 
9-1-1994  Dear Michael, We missed the plane crash at the White House by a few hours.   We did see the Vietnam Memorial...very impressive.  I am here for a family reunion.  The house in Minneapolis is still not complete—very frustrating.  I hope to be in S.F. the first of December and in Las Vegas on Dec. 18th.  I will write in detail...later. Best Always, Reed 
We had a fun BBQ on the roof here in Marina Del Rey with Jack and Gloria and some friendly Charles Schwab clients (of mine) named Bob and Sherry Tedeschi.   
And then, September 2nd arrived and mom and I left for NYC.  We did so much.  Luckily, I have experience of NYC from the times Alan and I had gone together.  I knew I could lead this tour for mom easily.   It’s hard to remember every little thing but we did it all.  You had to be there.  We had dinner at the CHINA GRILL across the street from the New York Hilton Towers (the hotel where we stayed).  Jack and Gloria always stay there when they go.  Jack still works in the jewelry business and goes to NY, Boston and Miami often.    Mom and I roamed around NYC and one of my favorite past times was taking a photo (of one of us) in front of a phone booth. 
“I’m telling you mom, one of these days there won’t be any more telephone booths so we need to take photos as a sort of time piece, a memory of what was.”  
She thought I was silly but we had fun with it.   It was fun to see the various advertisements on the phone booths as well.   “The advertisements will be time pieces, too...just wait and see,” I said. 
We walked and walked.  We made our way to Central Park where we sat on a bench and simply watched the many people walk by.  They were from so many places all around the world.  It was quite the metropolis.  I loved being under the trees.  Mom liked it too.  We found ourselves in the strawberry fields area of the park near the John Lennon IMAGINE memorial where we took photos inside a quaint gazebo.  We went to ZABAR’s for potato knish, pastries and coffee.   That was fun. “This is a ‘must do’ for New Yorkers, mom---to go to ZABAR’s!”   
There was a major ad campaign by THE GAP for KHAKI’s pants.  I had mom share her story of when she moved from Santa Fe, New Mexico to Oakland, CA and she had to wash and iron all of her brother's white t-shirts and khaki pants.  Who knew?  Andy Warhol even wore khaki pants when he was a lad.  We walked Fifth Avenue and checked out the Warner Bros. store and visited the Metropolitan Museum of ART. 
We took the Liberty Ferry to Liberty Island where we got off of the boat and explored Liberty Island.  We shared a fresh, hot pretzel with mustard while we were there.   It was fun on the ferry boat because we were among so many tourists speaking various languages.  Who knew where they were from?  I assumed various parts of Europe. We explored the GALLERIES LAFAYETTE department store.  It opened recently.  This department store is from Paris, France; so, it was fun shopping in there---we pretended we were in Paris while shopping there.  It was fun to explore the difference from this store to BLOOMINGDALE’s and MACY’s.  Yes, we went shopping at both of those places, too.  
I took the opportunity to photoshoot mom at various places.  Mom used to love Coca-Cola so whenever I saw COKE, I took a photo; I took a photo of her in front of a posh townhouse in the Upper East Side. “Mom, if you lived in New York—this would be your house,” I explained. I photographed mom near a car that had a decal on their rear-view window of VIRGINIA TECH UNIVERSITY.  And since mom’s name is VIRGINIA it was only appropriate.  Mom laughed.  Mom loved it. I photographed mom inside the FAO SCHWARTZ toy store.   We found a strange bookstore and couldn’t resist browsing there after our NORMA’s breakfast at the Le Parker Meridien Hotel. It was kind of foolish but I took mom to this famous PANCAKE HOUSE where they prepare these huge pancakes.  There’s no way we could eat it all—but it was all for fun.  Mom had no idea...but she couldn't take the sight of it.  We agreed that we prefer little silver dollar pancakes. Ha-ha. I took mom to the top of the Empire State Building.  She had a great overview of the entire city from there—as did I.   There was a Vietnam Memorial in Battery Park City and I took a photo of mom in front of the monument where there was a Private from the US ARMY listed by the name of ERMILO T ARMIJO (a definite distant relative).  That was special.   
And yet, we still had a Broadway Show to see!   We sure slept well at night with all of the walking, exploring.  We were looking forward to seeing MISS SAIGON on mom's actual Birthday night of September 6th.  How did we do it all?  I guess...you had to be there. 
“When mother was gone I was LOST.  I found music.” --actor Ed Stoppard as Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (as heard in the 2007 film TCHAIKOVSKY: THE CREATION OF GENIUS) 

At My Very Own Desk

"A king fortifies himself with a castle”, observed the Count, “a gentleman with a desk.”--Amor Towles, A GENTLEMAN IN MOSCOW
The heat of the moment is still the O.J. Simpson murder of his wife. Last month (on the 8th of July to be exact) there was a six-day preliminary hearing that ended with Judge Kathleen Kennedy-Powell ruling there is sufficient evidence for O.J. to stand trial on two counts of first-degree murder.   On July 22nd O.J. pleaded 100% not guilty to the charges. 
Mom arrived for an L.A. visit and while I went to work Alan and mom were glued to the latest with the O.J. scoop.  It was all over the media nationwide.   The latest for this week was that the Defense council for O.J. filing a motion for the personnel records of Detective Mark Fuhrman.  I guess they’re looking for any ‘dirt’ they can find on him.   
Alan and mom filled me in on the O.J. case whenever I called home for an update.  I was busy at my CHARLES SCHWAB & CO. desk; however, I’d rather be at home at my very own desk (one of my favorite places to be with my music).  
Ashley sent a duo letter for me and mom.  That was so genius of her.  How on earth did she come up with that idea?   I loved how she did it.  On the outside of the envelope she specifically wrote:  DO NOT OPEN TILL VIRGINIA ARRIVES!  Ha-ha... 
I’m thinking of spilling the beans soon.  Mom still has no clue that she’s leaving for New York City on September 2nd. 
Never wait for things to happen, just do. --A. C. Ping in his book “BE”  

BIG PROBLEMS

We smile at each other.  I ask him if it’s usual to be sad, as we are.  He says it’s because we’ve made love in the daytime, with the heat at its height.  He says it’s always terrible after.  He smiles. --Marguerite Duras, THE LOVER 
Paloma must not have had time to go to Montpellier for the fancy looking postcards.  She sent the simple ‘freebie one’ that she provides the guests that stay at her Residence Club.  I still liked it just the same.  It takes me to the South of France.  It's wonderful how one image can take one away.  It works. And it's a good way to remove any BIG PROBLEMS if even for a split-second.  Le 16/08/94 
Dear Michael, 
Excuse me for taking so long to answer you---but I have BIG PROBLEMS with my job, so I am looking for another one—and for another apartment with all the work I still have that keeps me really busy—so I just wanted to let you know that I miss you. 
Love, Paloma I suppose we all have BIG PROBLEMS.  They seem big but as time goes by, they look like they were actually smaller problems.   We all need the patience to get through things.  It’s a part of life. Barbara Reynolds also wrote me this week:  19 Aug 1994 
Dear Mike, 
Hey—How are you?  I haven’t written for a while so here I am again.  Friday night—after acupuncture and a few weeks of work and overtime for some BIG PROBLEMS with phone calls for a few nights.  TGIF-Thank God It’s Friday.   
I saw CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER, the movie, this week.  It’s very good.  And I saw FORREST GUMP sever weeks ago.  You are right—a good one for sure.  Fun, relaxing and ‘so real’.  
So, I’ve got my ticket to fly to Richmond, VA on September 3rd and return from Nashville on Sept. 14th.  I will travel with my friend Spring and her kids (age 12 and 5 year).  They think of me as a kid—such a compliment—and I’m looking forward to this journey.  My first real trip since Hawaii and my appendix removal so... I am still looking at places.  I drove by one tonight that my realtor told me about, so maybe I will look at it with him this week.  This is a fun card.  I thought you might enjoy it. 
Last weekend I had a visit with my British cousin, Rosemary.  She had just been in Australia for a month, so she stopped her for a few days.   It was good to see her. Till Later, Love, Barbara 
It seems we all have little problems that we think are BIG PROBLEMS.   I decided to send Paloma a cool postcard of Polo Grounds scene by William Feldman:  8-21-94 
Dear Paloma, 
I received your postcard.  I hope things are going will with your job.  I know you’ve been under some pressure with that.  Any luck on something new?  
My mom is coming next Saturday 8-27 and then I’m surprising here and taking her to New York on September 2nd through September 7th for her BIRTHDAY. I might be going to Hong Kong in November—it's not definite yet—still trying to work out a deal with frequent flyer miles.   I am going to an AIDS FUNDRAISER dinner party at the Playboy Mansion on the 17th of September.  That should be FUN!  

Go see the movies FORREST GUMP and TRUE LIES when they are released in France.  I saw BELL EPOQUE, a Spanish film the other day.   It was a nice escape to Spain. Later, Love You, Michael  
“For you and for me the highest moment, the keenest joy, is not when our minds dominate but when we lose our minds, and you and I both lose it in the same way, through LOVE.” -as written by June to Henry in the book by Anais Nin, HENRY AND JUNE