Michael Joe Armijo's Blog, page 39

RiffRaff

I liked to imagine my words traveling across the seas, and I hoped that one day a letter might come back for me.--Lawrence Hill, SOMEONE KNOWS MY NAME
Alan’s daughters (Lauren and Carrie) left on a Colorado ski trip to Breckenridge, an old Victorian town that was brought back to life because of the advent of skiing in Colorado.   They sweetly sent me a postcard.  Lauren and I have a “cute” joke about bigger titties, so she wrote a funny anecdote to our ongoing joke at the end of the postcard.
Hi Mike!We’re having a great time!  It’s really pretty here.  This is an old English town and it is way different from L.A.  We are making lots of friends from all over the world.P.S.  My titties are getting bigger.  Miss You, Lauren and Carrie
I was also happy to escape the riff raff of L.A.  As Alan often says, “It’s good to go away to different places because it works a different part of your brain.”While Alan and I were in New York we were enjoying the Towers Club Floor (thanks to Gloria’s husband, Jack, who is a frequent guest there).  I used the complimentary postcard to write mom a day or two after we arrived:
7-3-92Hi Mom,I found Grandma a scarf.  I couldn’t resist getting you something, too!   I wrote Grandma that I’d give her the birthday surprise over the July 31st weekend.  Alan and I slept for three hours when we arrived here because “3” ladies kept talking and gossiping throughout the entire flight!   We went shopping today (and eating too, of course).  Having Fun….Till next time, Love You, MichaelAlan sends his regards!
“You shouldn’t take good fortune for granted.”  He seemed to be telling him to quit complaining and enjoy it while it lasted.--Christopher Bram, HOLD TIGHT

Start Laughing More

Basically, kindness and compassion for oneself comes down to asking oneself, “WHAT IS REALLY GOOD FOR ME?”--ALTRUISM by Matthieu Ricard
Some weeks are easy to describe as simply a quick and busy ‘work week’.  It happens to all of us and eventually we hope it pays off.  I am making new efforts. There is always an employee (or two) that gets on your nerves.  Why do certain employees think they are ‘all that’.  There are such power trips.  There are often a few customers that are rather rude, sinister or strange.  I simply take it with a grain of salt and try to focus and be on the move for the next uplifting moment.  
I do feel happy (especially when the weekends arrive).   I did have a new film to look forward to this weekend.  Alan and I continue to love our movie nights out. 
Alan’s mom, Gloria, went on a trip (with Jack) to Canada and sent me a historic postcard of THE LAST SPIKE from 1885, a salute to the Canadian Pacific Railway: 
Sunday 6/30Hi there, We are having lots of fun meeting all kinds of folks from all over the states (and even England).  The place is magnificent and you would appreciate all of this beauty.  Have a good time on your trip.Love Always,Gloria and Jack
And so, it was movie time.  We chose to see A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN.  I don’t usually like ‘baseball-related’ films but this one included MADONNA!    How could we miss it?  It also had Tom Hanks, Geena Davis and a funny gal named Rosie O’Donnell.  It seemed to have a humorous side and we were in the mood for laughter.  Laughter is necessary for every single person.  My advice to all is to ‘start laughing more’.  It’s better than a spoon full of sugar.
We did love the film.  As it turned out two sisters had joined the first female professional baseball league and struggled to help it succeed (amidst their own growing rivalry).   It reminded me that many things are hard in life but we need to keep going until we find that path that takes us where we want to be (with a major focus on happiness).   The hard and difficult path will payoff in-the-end. 
A couple of days later I sent Paloma a COOL postcard while in-flight to New York again.  I loved the Coca-Cola aura of it.  I wrote:

July 3, 1992Hi Paloma,I’m on an American Airlines flight with Alan right now.  We are going to New York for the 4thof July weekend.   I got your last letter and don’t worry---I got your hint.  I will definitely be sending you some RAISINETTES soon.  Ha-ha.   We took the “red eye” flight to New York that leaves Los Angeles at 10:30pm.  It is now 6:30am in NYC and we are about to land.  I brought a Frisbee to play with in Central Park.  Later, Love, Michael
'It's supposed to be hard.  If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it.  The hard ... is what makes it great."-- Jimmy Dugan (played by TOM HANKS) from the film, A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN

On The Move

“That’s science for you.  You cannot predict in advance what will or will not prove useful.  You must keep an open mind.”--Christopher Bram, HOLD TIGHT On Friday (June 18th) Alan and I went to see the new BATMAN RETURNS movie.  It was cool to see Michelle Pfeiffer as the new Catwoman.  She was incredible.   Danny Devito was pretty creepy as the Penguin character.  It was a typical plot about a corrupt businessman and the grotesque Penguin who plot to take control of Gotham City.  Only Batman (played by Michael Keaton) can stop them.  The Catwoman had her own agenda which included a bit of romance and flirtation with Batman, of course. 
My adorable niece, Ashley, sent me a new postcard.  She’s so excited about having her very own bedroom: 
6-18-1992Dear Uncle Mike,I miss you so much!   Did you know on the 10thme and Mrs. Harlan’s class are having a picnic?  My room is almost finished.  I am going to get my own room!Love, Ashley
Dorothy Rua also sent a new, delightful card of a cool SUMMER DAY ON THE SKAGEN SOUTHERN BEACH painting from 1884 by Danish artist, P.S. Kroyer: 6-18-92Hi Michael, The ELVIS card was very appropriate.   The media had quite a time with the ELVIS stamp.  I didn’t give much thought to choices but guess I would have favored the younger Elvis photo.  Your card was representative of a typical memory of “THE KING”…always with a pretty girl!
Sounds like you’re enjoying your new home in Marina Del Rey…must be a great place and great location!  How’s your tan this summer?  I imagine it’s easy enough to work on since you’re so close to the beach…lucky you!
Glad to hear you’re still very much ‘on the move’…not just one, but two more trips planned to New York!  That free mileage you’ve accumulated must be endless.   Do your trips include business for Alan or are you guys just going for fun?   How wonderful to share the experience of New York with someone who really knows the city.  I’ll be thinking of you while you’re there—let me know which plays you see and what new Art Exhibits capture your interest.  
It seems like a while since I last wrote (your Birthday, I think).  Not much in the way of excitement has gone on around here this past month.  School is out for Nicole and Jean-Paul.  They worked hard all year, earning good grades and remained active in sports.  Now they’re ready for summer! 
Nicole begins her first real job next week as a counselor for the Walnut Creek Summer Day Camp Program.  Jean-Paul’s only regret is that he won’t be getting a paycheck and Nicole will.  Oh well, another lesson in life.
I would have written last week but was much too miserable recuperation from yet another laser treatment.  The doctor can’t say how many more I’ll need before the “blips” disappear, just have to wait and see every three months when he checks me out.  I just remind myself that many other people have more to complain about than I do!
Anyway, guess who I saw driving alongside me on Ygnacio Valley Boulevard yesterday!  Tonee Owens!   We hadn’t seen each other in ages, so we spoke on the phone later.  We talked and laughed for over an hour!  She’s still at the SRC-SMART Resource Center and had all kinds of “dirt” to share.  I’ll have to call you one day for a good chuckle!  Tonee told me to say “hi” to you.  So “HI” from Tonee!
Say, how is your job going?  Are you still with the same company (Charles Schwab)?   I hope you’re making lots of money!   I’ll let you know when I win the lottery!  As always…later…Love, Dorothy On June 20th, Alan and I celebrated our anniversary (the 20th of each month).   This time we went to see that classic South Korean film called THE LOVER.  It was so very well directed.  We absolutely loved it.
Alan also wrote out an Anniversary card from me, using an image of Cambria, California (a place we have escaped for a weekend more than a couple of times): 
June 20, 1992Michael,Happy Anniversary!  I Love You!  Remember this road, the road you would not loosen up on!  After thirty-seven months…I want one more thing!  Please love me on this road, on any road and everywhere.  It’s time to let loose and how your love everywhere.  Please!  I can’t resist you anymore and I hope you feel the same.  Please BE HAPPY, smiling and ready for more time with your boyfriend.
Love, Alan
A day later I found a postcard in my mailbox from Barbara Reynolds.  It was a strange postcard of the Onyx Chamber at the Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky).  Leave it to Barbara to find the unusual postcards:
21 June 92Happy Summer Solstice!
It’s my last night here in Bowling Green, Kentucky.  I really enjoyed being with my friends here.   We went to the museum today and this cave on Friday. 
Staying home with kids was fun.  I made cinnamon muffins yesterday with Jennifer (9 years old).  I’m going to miss them while flying home tomorrow.  I think Kentucky has a postcard shortage.Love, Barbara
I have thought of how much my parents planted in my mind in the short time we had together.  They made sure that I learned how to cultivate a field.  As a young child, I was just as quick and capable as an adult when it came time to seed.  I knew how to dig with my right heel in the soil, drop seeds in the little hole, cover up the hole with my toes of my foot, move on a step and do it again.  I knew how to pull weeds, and I understood that you hoed thee soil so that the rain, when it came, would kiss the soil and marry it—not kiss it and run away.  Yes, I knew how to cultivate a field, and I had been shown that the mind had to be grown.--Lawrence Hill, SOMEONE KNOWS MY NAME

Open Up Your Eyes, Look Up To The Skies

Time was necessary in order to gain information, to understand, to strategize.--Taylor Stevens, THE INFORMATIONIST
I keep hearing this song during my drive to work in the morning called YOU’RE NEVER GONNA GET IT.  It’s so “catchy”.  I found out it’s really called MY LOVIN’ (YOU’RE NEVER GONNA GET IT) by En Vogue.   The lyrics are so brainwashing.  I guess it is playing for all of those that want to play HARD TO GET, Ha-ha.   
The other song that I’m really hooked-on though is by QUEEN right now called BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY.  I love it:  “Is this the real-life, is this just fantasy?  Caught in a landslide no escape from reality…Open your eyes; look up to the skies and SEE…I’m just a poor boy, I need no sympathy…”
Well, this week is going very well.  I’m much more comfortable on-the-job at Charles Schwab & Co.  I have regular clients who want to only deal with me.  I must have a bit of charm for the chosen few.  I like these two twin girls from Taiwan named Su Ling and Su Ping.  They’re UCLA students but they love to play options and they’re the richest students I’ve ever come across.  I guess their parents trained them at a young age.   They like me and always come to see me ‘together’.  It’s twice the fun (or is it double-trouble).  They don’t speak the best English but they’re very smart!I received another sexy, seductive looking card from Dorothy Rua (a Black and White of a man and a woman in a warm embrace while dancing).  Dorothy wrote:
Dear Mike,I received your last letter.  I opened the envelope and then I realized it was from you!   Who else would be creative enough to figure out a workable way to keep those cards in the envelope?   I do want to let you know how much I appreciate you.  Your note and cards truly lifted my spirits more than you’ll ever know.  You ARE special.
As I mentioned in my card, Carmel by the Sea was beautiful.  I could not have picked more perfect weather.  I really enjoyed the MISSION RANCH INN which has a beautiful view of the ocean, sheep grazing on the green grass and goats too!  I had a great dinner there while watching the sun set.  You would enjoy it there—it’s your kind of place, too!
Best of all though was walking on the white, white sandy beach with the huge waves crashing so close by.  I thought of you as I strolled between the beautiful ocean and the equally beautiful homes while I was on the shoreline.  I could fully appreciate your need to live where you are (close to the ocean and sunshine).   All that was missing was your palm trees!   Having grown-up on an island (GUAM) the ocean is so much a part of me.  I sometimes feel I’ll go nuts if I can’t see it or feel the sand between my toes.  My older sister (who still lives in Guam) often says she’d rather not live if she can’t live by the sea.  I understand.  Did I have to be physically dragged while screaming to get me out of Carmel?  Almost!  Ha-ha.
The question now is how do I fall back into the pattern of everyday life in suburbia?  I don’t know.  I truly don’t—but as you often say:  “I’ll manage somehow.”  Lord help me if I ever get out of her for more than a few days.  I may never return.  Ha!
I could get into news of the work/job scenes and I do have a few things to share but I’ll do it another time.  I can’t seem to get in that mode today.
I’d rather discuss your New York City trip.   I don’t even know how long you were there.  It sounds like you made the most of every minute…and how wonderful it all must have been!   Three great plays and who knows what else during just one trip.  You know I’ll want all of the details and I can’t help but be a little jealous of all of your fun!  My stronger feeling is happiness for you.  You were ready to get away!   And you did it!   Alan must be a great travel partner and friend.  He did accompany you, didn’t he?
Aside from my usual allergy problem I am glad Spring is finally here.  I’m ready for this kind of weather.  My body really can use some fresh air.  I feel like I’ve been in a (winter) cocoon forever.   
My clothes feel tight.  Thank God all of the OREO’s are gone!   Well, not quite…some are still on my thighs, etc.!  Ha!  After doing nothing these past few months I finally went on a 4-mile walk this morning.  And yes, I am sore…very sore!   But the thought of putting a pair of shorts on will keep me going.  I wish I had your beach in Malibu!  You don’t even thing about the exercise, just the beauty and power of the place…
Let me know what you’re up to after you wonderful jaunt to NYC!Also Thinking of You,Love, Dorothy
I immediately sent Dorothy a postcard to acknowledge receipt of her card.  I also wanted to keep her eyes open for a new film coming out from South Korea called THE LOVER.  I saw the preview and it looks like one extraordinary drama.  I can’t wait to see it.  Of course, I’ve already informed Alan that it’s a must-see.

A day or so later I received a letter from April Stosur (my cohort that I met during training in Indianapolis for CHARLES SCHWAB).   April wrote:
June 11, 1992Hi Michael –I love the cards.  Keep them coming!
I’m writing you from my car at lunchtime.  I normally take lunch in the car as there are no restaurants that service anyone with only a half hour lunch.   And getting out of the office is a MUST.
The only lady in the office I get along with is leaving.  This means no more “fun” work atmosphere.  One hundred percent of the remaining staff (2 people) are weird, so hyper.   I don’t think I’ve used the words “CHILL OUT” so much in my entire life.  Oh well…I probably should have called that FIDELITY guy back. 
My furniture arrives from Seattle in five days—not too soon.  I’ve been without my stuff since March 25th (just about 3 months).  It amazes me how meaningful all of it is to me:  my couches, my tables, my lamps, my towels…   I had absolutely no idea I would feel so uncomfortable without it and with using other people’s stuff in the meantime.  I’m not easily adapting to the changes.  I must be getting old and ‘set in my ways’.  I’ll let you know how I feel about things once my “stuff” arrives.
My job consists of lots of customer service and very few trades per day (only 3 or 4).  I’m in charge of calling on all outgoing money, checks, Transfer Out of accounts, SREG details and to find out why they are taking their money out and if we can win them back.   I’m also involved with making sales calls over the phone to bring in more money.
We have to do to Downtown Chicago for a PCF II Training next week.  Whoopee!  I have to listen to Al Leitz and Terry (?) tell us how to be customer forward.  I should have returned that call from FIDELITY.
I sure do wish we could go out this evening to THE GRILL for some dessert and coffee (without that woman---see, I remembered…what was her name again? just kidding). 
Well buddy, a half hour passes quickly.  I have to go back.  The office is like a record playing at 78rpm—just a little spastic (and those are polite words). 
Write again.  I love getting the cards.  I would have sent one but have about used up the supply in Winnetka, IL.  I will buy some more when I get to the City.P.S.  I loved the PARIS card (the writing on back was in Latin so I have no clue as to the meaning).Love, APRIL That was about all of the interesting mail for the week.  I’m still quite excited to see the upcoming film called THE LOVER.  In the meantime, Alan and I are making good use of our evenings.  If it’s not a casual dinner it could be a semi-elegant one.  And if it’s not a movie at the AMC in Santa Monica or in Century City we are fine with just staying home.  I encourage a game of chess now and again. I often say, “Chess is a good way to stop, observe and come up with a strategy…slowly.”
“Maybe we can discuss it over a bottle of Cabernet and a game of chess.”--Taylor Stevens, THE INFORMATIONIST

Could It Be A Spring Fling?

Most of humanity, when trapped in an uneasy silence, would say something, anything, in order to free themselves from the discomfort of quiet.--TAYLOR STEVENS from her novel, THE INFORMATIONIST
I was so busy with work there was no time to feel lonely.  When I was free from work I’d spend most of my time with Alan.  I did have some lonesome, quiet moments during my lunch hour and I would often take my letters to read them (and even perhaps answer one or two).  In my silence I like to write or read words.   I also liked to walk over to UCLA and hang out inside THE COFFEE BEAN café.   I wrote mom a postcard of MONO LAKE this week:
June 3, 1992Dear Mom,I had to write you to THANK YOU for the wonderful Birthday Card you sent me!  It really made me feel good.  I Love You!Here is my summer itinerary:6/13—6/20:  Mom and Ashley come to visit L.A.6/27:  Marina Del Rey BIKE-A-THON7/3—7/5:  New York City visit with Alan7/31—8/2:  Oakland-Alameda visit 8/7—8/9:  Lake Tahoe visit9/3—9/7:  New York City visitAnd…I will probably come to Alameda again in August or September.  When I talk to you over the phone I often forget to tell you some things.  The most important thing is that I miss you, I love you and I can’t wait until June 13th when you and Ashley arrive.Love, Michael
What a cool COULD IT BE A SPRING FLING? Card that Barbara Reynolds sent me!6, June 92, 2127 Roosevelt Ave, Berkeley, CA 94703

Dear Mike,I just got home from a walk from Emery Bay and I saw BASIC INSTINCT with Alice.  I picked up this (COULD IT BE A SPRING FLING?) postcard on the way.   
It sounds like you are BUSY.  I, too, loved CAMBRIA. New York…great trips!  I fly to Nashville on June 17th and return June 22nd to visit my friends in Bowling Green, Kentucky (fun old price wars).
Isn’t Ashley your eldest niece?   It’s so nice for her and your mom to have a week with you.  I’m looking forward to seeing horses (and my friends, of course).  It is still Spring, right?   I am playing this week.Have Fun!  Love, Barbara
I decided to write to Paloma this week.  I haven’t kept her too updated lately.  I also she likes to know about the American movies I see, so I had much to share.   She had also written to me and I hadn’t had the time to reply to her many questions: June 7, 1992Dear Plaoma,I saw a good movie on Friday night called PATRIOT GAMES starring Harrison Ford.  It’s really good.  I’m enclosing a Preview Movie Guide that I found at the show.  The last page shows a movie starring French actor, Gerard Depardieu.   They showed a preview of it last night.  It starts on October 9th and it is about Christopher Columbus.  The preview looked very good!

I’m wearing the DEVANT TES BIEN T-Shirt you sent me right now.
I also saw a new film starring Whoopi Goldberg called SISTER ACT which was pretty funny.   The next big box-office hit will likely be on June 19th when BATMAN RETURNS opens.  Michelle Pfeiffer plays the CATWOMAN.  Danny DeVito plays the PENGUIN and Pee Wee Herman has a small part as the PENGUIN’s father!
I recently heard a lot in the news about some French guy who did really well at the French Tennis Open.   Did you hear about it?
I didn’t know Louis Malle was married to Susan Sarandon.  I never saw that movie with Brooke Shields when she was only thirteen years old.  Here, they called the movie PRETTY BABY (1978).  The disco club in BASIC INSTINCT is called “DV-8” in real life; however, like I mentioned in my other letter it’s not as wild as it appears in the movie.
I have never heard of MODELS, THE MOVIE here, yet.  Those models do look familiar, of course.  Cindy Crawford is the most popular.
I really do enjoy my new job.  It’s interesting to purchase stocks for people and take people’s money.  Ha-ha.  I learn new things each day.  I had a brochure mailed to you with a note.  Look it over.  You may want to open an International Account.  It would be good to set it up for Jonathan’s future.Oh yes…BIRD ON A WIRE was pretty good.  Did you like it?  Until the next time…Love You, Michael
“Beauty comes and goes.  Strength, you keep forever.”“What about old people?”“They are the strongest of all, for they have lived longer than all of us, and they have wisdom.”--Lawrence Hill from his novel, SOMEONE KNOWS MY NAME

Birth of a Salesman

“A single dream is more powerful than a thousand realities.”― Nathaniel Hawthorne
It’s that time of year.  For my 33rd Birthday (May 26th) I received a good amount of Birthday Cards in the mail:From Alan’s mom, Gloria, a postcard from ZUNI, PUEBLO in New Mexico and another card:
5-26-92Happy Birthday Michael,Sorry we can’t be with you but I am sure you know we’ll be thinking of you a good deal of the time.  This is one of the pueblos we visited and thought it was apropos at this time to send you a card from there since you will be visiting New Mexico soon.  It will ‘sort of’ get you in the mood.  Have the best birthday ever.Love Always, GLORIA and JACK
And on the other card from GLORIA and JACK:
From one birthday to the next you become sweeter and dearer to us.  We hope this year we can become closer than the year just passed!  Love Always, GLORIA and JACK From Dorothy Rua:

“THIS BUD’S FOR YOU!  HAPPY BIRTHDAY”Michael, Wishing you a fun-filled day, a fun-filled year.  May ALL your birthday wishes come true!  Love, Dorothy
From Julie Waller Dignan, a BIRTH OF A SALESMAN CARD: Dear Michael,I got your postcard.  So, Mr. Stockbroker, how do you like your job?   What kind of stock do you deal with?I have a friend who lives in Hermosa Beach.  I really love living by the beach.  We stayed in Marina Del Rey when we were in L.A. last year.   We’re thinking about taking a trip to L.A. again this year, My girlfriend has a convertible BMW.  I usually go with the girls.So, who are you dating, Michael?   When are you going to settle down?We recently moved into our new house.  This is the biggest place I’ve lived in.  I totally love it (2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, marble floors, the whole nine yards).  You should come by for a visit.How is your mom?   I will write soon.Love, Julie DignanHave you heard from Suzy?
From April Stosur, my cohort from Charles Schwab training who lives in Chicago:5/26/92, Wednesday

Hi Michael,Is a Happy Birthday in order?  I hope you have a good one with fine dining, etc.  We had a 32 degrees cold MEMORIAL DAY weekend; otherwise all is well.I’m going to be in Seattle on Friday (closing on the house).  The completion feels good.April.
From sis-in-law Sherri Lewis-Armijo; I was really touched by her choice of words:
Mike, A glass of champagne and a body like this and I’ll be doing fine.  Instead, I chose a beer drinking man and a body that bore four kids…but I also got YOU as part of the deal.  A life with you as a brother-in-law/uncle is a blessing.  HAPPY BIRTHDAY!  And to think I thought you were old at “30”!  Now you’re really old!Much Love,Sherri
From PALOMA in the South of France:
Dear Michael,Happy Birthday!  How does it feel to be “42”?  You know now the feeling, sweetheart!  In fact, we’re still just babies at “33”.   Today I talked to a really pretty woman who is “58” years old.  Can you imagine (we will be 58 in 2017)?  She was almost our age when our mom’s gave birth to us.  Well, I will think about you on May the 22nd (just kidding, I KNOW when your birthday is, the 26th!).We’ve heard you’ve had a few problems in L.A.  I don’t know if you were there—in fact—since you were writing me from Indianapolis but I am sure you know what I’m talking about.  They’ve talked a lot about it over here, so I can imagine how it was in the States.  We’ve had big problems too.Today, I got two cards from you.  The palm tree one and the coffee shop one.  THANK YOU.Yesterday, I heard the song RED RED WINE by UB40 on the radio.  As usual it made me think about you.  That reminds me of how much fun we used to have together.  Too bad we can’t do it anymore.  Maybe someday…who knows?
It seems like you got your Birthday card too early since today is your birthday.  It’s also my stepmother’s birthday.  Its 5pm right now, so the day is just starting for you.  I hope you have a nice one.  My birthday this year was very sad.   That was the day my dad had his operation.  He was sure he was never going to wake up.I didn’t like the movie WILD AT HEART either.  It was too weird.  I have seen AU REVOIR LE ENFANTS too.  It was ok.  Louis Malle is very famous here.  Did you know that he made Brooke Shields famous over here with a movie called LA PETITE?  She played a very young prostitute.  I guess she was about thirteen years old.  He likes American women I guess since he has been married to Susan Sarandon and I think he is now married to Candice Bergen (at least he was not very long ago…I think she is American, right?).I have also seen BASIC INSTINCT.  That was interesting.  You’re right.  I liked it except that there is something that I didn’t understand and it seems like I am not the only one.  The girl with the black hair killed the cop in the elevator, right?  Or is the blond girl (Sharon Stone) guilty of everything?  Maybe you can explain who killed who?  I like Michael Douglas.  He is a good actor and good-looking.  I also liked Sharon Stone’s house and cars.  I bet you did, too!  That was nice to see San Francisco again.  I didn’t recognize the disco club, did you? I just saw another movie you would probably like, too:  MODELS, THE MOVIE.  Maybe you’ve seen it.  It’s about Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista, Tatjana Patitz and Stephanie Seymour.  I am sending you the pages where they talk about it in the French MARIE CLAIRE magazine.  Pretty good-looking, huh?   I hope Cindy Crawford likes gerbils.  Do you know that I don’t like Richard Gere anymore since that story you told me about him. I bet the guys who burned down your eyeglass store got some GIROGIO ARMANI glasses even cheaper than you did.  Of course, we’ll go to EURO-Disney as soon as we can (and as soon as it’s a little less crowded).  Jonathon is going to be “5” in June.  He probably will love it.  I had a good time in DISNEYLAND (and an awful time with you in Santa Cruz, remember how mean you were on that Ferris wheel?)I am sending you another t-shirt.  We get along pretty well with the guys who own the movie theater here in Balaruc (and in Montpellier), so every time they get advertising things they give us some.  It’s a pretty bad quality and it already has a hole in the sleeve but I’m sure you mom can fix that (or you can just cut it to go bike riding).  With French t-shirts all of the French people in L.A. are going to talk to you.   Too bad you won’t be able to answer.  Ha-ha. How is your new job going?Pretty soon I am going to see BIRD ON A WIRE.  I think that’s the right title.  You told me it was good, right?   I’ll write again soon.  Miss you.Love you, Paloma

Earlier last week I sent mom a postcard of a baby in a crib.  I wrote:
Mom,
Here's the CHARLES SCHWAB & CO. Directory of Attorneys that I was telling you about.  Call the attorney on Page 9 in Berkeley and set up an appointment for your Living Trust/Estate Plan.  If they schedule appointments on Saturday (which I doubt) set it up.  You need to do this.

Here is the article I saw when I learned about BENNY HILL, the comedian.  I just talked to you on the phone.  Tony's taking you to dinner tonight.  Alan and I have to leave now because those guys are working on the floors.  We're going to a couple of estate sales to browse.  Later.
Love You Mom!
Michael

Mom replied back by phone on her promise to set up the Living Trust.  She also sent me the sweetest Birthday Card.  She included some cash with this:  P.S.  Have Dinner on me.


In her own handwriting she also wrote:
Dear Mike,
Well, here is your Birthday Card.  You are getting old but you don't look '33' years old.  You look like you are '20'.  You look so young and that's good. Ha-ha.

I'll be seeing you pretty soon.  I'm glad I'm going to visit for a week because when I go for a weekend the time goes by so fast.  It will probably go faster with a week when you'r having fun.

I enjoy being with you guys.  Say 'HI' to Alan and the girls.  See You,  Love, Mom
From Barbara Reynolds, a handwritten letter with no illustrations or pictures:
26 May 1992Dear Mike,Happy B.D.  How was it?  Do you celebrate?
Have you seen VOYAGER or HOWARD’S END?  I saw both today.  Tuesday is $2.00 at-the-movies day.  I saw HOWARD’S END this afternoon and tonight I saw VOYAGER.  It is with Sam Shepherd, a Greek tragedy.  Both are excellent and dreamy.  Both have foreign scenes and gentle folk.  I think you would enjoy these tow.  I especially liked VOYAGER.  I think I must see HOWARD’S END again.  Tomorrow I will see INCIDENT AT OGLALA with Alice and Toni.
It has been ages since I painted (except clothes and walls).  It is something I have thought of often recently.  Do you have photos of your paintings in which you could Xerox?  I’ve never used acrylic or oils…only watercolor (which I love, so fluid).
I’m happy to hear you’ve found this job you love.  I guess I’ll wait until I absolutely have to return to PACIFIC BELL.  I had a good time with Howard, Nancy and their daughter, Sierra (she is 20-months old and talking sentences already). 
Howard took me up with his plane pilot test and we took another ride over to Point Reyes from the Petaluma Municipal Airport.
I don’t think I told you me “nice nurse” story yet…so here goes:   It is part of OUR story, you know.  I used to work with your mom (at the post-office) and our dad’s both worked as machinists for can companies in Oakland, right?  Well, after eleven days of fevers after my appendix surgery I had a cat scan.  The nurse assisting had his name tag appropriately in place.  His name is CHARLES HUM.  I had good girlfriend in junior high school named HUM.  It turs out CAROL HUM is his older (3-years) sister.  So he was happy to talk about his sister and family.  Great!  Then, the next day I’m back in the cat scan room for a procedure to withdraw what has showed up a cloud (all well and good).  Anyway, CHARLES HUM was there again to assist so I have to ask him if he knew HELEN WONG (your sister in law).  Helen had told me that she had been engaged to one of Carol’s brothers.  So…yes, it was CHARLES HUM that Helen was engaged to and he was on-this-day wearing an I.D. bracelet engraved by Helen.  He removed the I.D. bracelet to show me.  Amazing, huh?  So we talked about this weeks later. CHARLES was super nice to me, explaining procedures and holding my hand.  He came up to check on my later in my hospital room.  Then he wrote a very sweet card.  Oh yes, we are also neighbors.  He is living around the corner from me (in the house he grew up in (with his twin 16-year old twin boys.
After I got home I received a call from CHARLES HUM and we talked a lot.  He has been warm and willing to talk.  He is a very positive influence on me.  He is so stable and I don’t believe I’ve ever known anyone like him.  He even has something in common with my father.  He is part of Berkeley’s Police Reserve.  We share so many Berkeley memories.  In common with you…he has personalized license plates: TOYS.  He has an amazing collection of toys.
I am (I believe) healed from my illness and surgery; however, I don’t have the strength I did previously.  I have a lot of important stuff to do before returning to work.  I could wait months to return (if I had a choice).
Last week I went to my first U.C. Berkeley graduation.  My ex-neighbor, Mary, came to receive her PhD in Slavic Languages.  It was entertaining and I was glad I could be there especially since her parents were not able to be here.  I hope someday to visit her in Salem, Massachusetts.  Have you been to New England?  She lives in HISTORY.  Her parents are conservationists and are into restoring very old houses.  The one they live in now is where Nathaniel Hawthorne met his wife.  There is a graveyard next door with very old graves.
I guess I will wind this up now and get some sweet dreams.Oh yes, I love the postcards of the horses you sent (so interesting).  Thanks.  When will you be up here again to visit?  It has been so long…five years or more since we’ve greeted one another. So long for now, Love, Barbara
And the winner of the Birthday Card giving goes to ALAN who sent me five different card with cute, personal messages.   
We also went to see the movie SISTER ACT on May 29th.  We laughed at that one (maybe I laughed a bit more than Alan did). 
A few days later I sent Alan a postcard that I had made myself:
June 2, 1992,Dear Alan,This is a response card to the beautifully written and ‘thought out’ anniversary card you wrote for me on May 20th, 1992.  You sure did come up with a number of great memories.  As you know< I have my own memories like: 
You and I dancing in Paris at that BOY BAR and the doorman telling us in his French accent, “This is for homosexuals!”  I guess he thought we were at the wrong place.
Or how about our walk on Malibu Beach and “my” seeing and saying hello and getting a hello back from actress SHIRLEY MCCLAINE.  
Or how about getting directions to STRESA in Italy and feeling the “stress—a” and not knowing whether we’d find a hotel or not!   
And what about the tie we went to Pepperdine University for a volleyball game.   
And what about your visit to the mid-Wilshire area to meet me at VALENTINO’s for lunch when I worked at PAC BELL DIRECTORY?  
How about when I dropped (and lost) my passport at the Cincinnati, Ohio airport?  
The list could go on and on.  How about our visit to San Francisco and my driving around there?   Oh well, there’s always more to come with us.I Love You Lots,MJA
“You know what I like about you?  You enjoy being in control.  Like me.”—Actress Sharon Stone as Catherine Tramell in the 1992 film BASIC INSTINCT

Your 90s Haircut

I feel as if I’ve been looking for you for a very long time.--as heard from the 2017 film, PHANTOM THREAD
Wow!  Alan took the time to type me a one and a half page letter.  I loved it:
May 20, 1992Dear Michael:It’s been thirty months since we met and I thought you’d get a kick out of some memories of our relationship:  the order of memories has nothing to do with how important they were.I was attracted to your 90’s haircut, I thought you were in your 20’s and untouchable.  The best time, up until that date, was the weekend in Newport Beach--the bike ride, Crab Cocker (by the way, this letter may seem like a list of restaurants), the pineapple pizza with the Reese’s peanut-butter, and finally “he touched me”.
The rental movies we never really are able to watch them completely.  Why?  Because when we watch a movie in bed we can’t keep our hands off of each other.
So…we go to the movies.  I won’t try to list all of the movies but here are a few of the hundred memories:  JEZABEL’S KISS, BACK TO THE FUTURE (in French—just to get cool air), HOT SHOTS, and IMITATION OF LIFE.  We were the first to see PRINCE OF TIDES and that crunching of candy during the MY LEFT FOOT movie, the terrible pizza after MAHABHARATA.  Then there was the movie we saw back and forth to Hawaii called NAKED LUNCH or MY SWEEL LIFE (?).  I’d say that of all the movies that we’ve seen you liked THE CRENSHAW STORY the best!   I only like going to the movies with you and sitting on the aisle with popcorn and raisinettes from The Price Club. I guess it’s time to review LIVE SHOWS.  My favorite was THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA (Oh!  What you did to me, how you insulted Michael Crawford in that show), MISS SAIGON, LOST IN YONKERS and the best walk to a show (LES MISERABLES) when you showed how you really move under pressure.  Don’t forget the PASADENA PLAYHOUSE shows, the JAMES DEAN lookalike on Melrose Avenue, the RODEO or ‘sleep sleep’ GRAND HOTEL.  I love a live audience when you sit next to me.
Vacation rates with the best probably being NAPA VALLEY at Auberge du Soleil (the mud bath and lunch in that beautiful place).  TOSSA DE MAR, Spain…the best place!  Paris that first time was great (which is just my favorite all around city) especially the bread, salmon, tomato, strawberries and post-office.  New York (both times) for EATS, bacon and egg and the HILTON DEAL and Washington DC for the hearings, the sights and you!  San Francisco for lunch at NORDSTROM and the “interesting” night life there was fun.  Newport Beach, San Diego was fantastic but San Simeon and THE HEARST CASTLE followed by the BBQ gas station and the ride in the woods which frightened you.  The ride in SF Bay to that scenic town of SAUSALITO with that Art Gallery by the obnoxious blond-haired creep who I drove to Balboa to see with you because I love you.  Was it the Tour de France, MOM’s Apple Pie in Sebastopol or the 2600 miles in Europe driven by me.  It seems that every new trip is the best because I get to know you better.  Therefore, CANCUN was the worst (even with the wind, the rainstorm and your MICHAEL made-of-nickel ring.
It has not only been good times there was the long walk home, the BLUE BAYOU a la mayonnaise or sometimes your stubborn, “I ISAID I DON”T WANT RICE!” comments.  It’s worth it.
I’m going to fool you.  I won’t talk about the restaurants except to say the FOUR OAKS was great.  HAVANA really “stunk”.  And the Caesar Salad in CANCUN said it all.  We must diet and lose weight and exercise starting tomorrow!
The best times were those days and nights of constant companionship and fun by having a good time and simply enjoying it.  I’ve done it and I am ready for a commitment.  No more Indianapolis!All in all, I could write fifty pages about the last thirty months.  Suffice it to say, I’m happy and satisfied and I hope you feel the same. 
By the way, I bought FD-Federated Department Stores stock at $11.50 and Merrill Lynch at $47.875.  I’m getting involved, so it must be the top!  I’m also getting registered again.  The guy is sending me the applications.
I love you.  Happy Anniversary.  These were just ‘some’ of my thoughts.ALAN FREIMAN
Michael Miller surprised me with a cool PALM TREE postcard from his latest trip (advanced Birthday greetings): 2063 Alameda AveAlameda, CA5/21/92Happy Birthday again from MEXICO.  I’m here in PUERTO VALLARTA by the pool.  It’s my first time to go to Mexico.  I like it.  I’ll be here until Saturday.I hope you like your new address.  I like the name MARINA DEL REY  I went swimming in the ocean and was stung by a jelly fish but it was non-lasting.  It is beautiful here (warm and hot).Take Care.  See you soon, Michael M.  Alameda
And a colorful letter from Ashley arrived.  I love the handwriting of an eight year old.

May 22, 1992 Dear Uncle Mike, Guess what?  I got a crown.  Do you have any?I loved the gift you game me but my mom said I have to wait till I’m older.  I miss you a lot.  I cannot wait until I get to see you!  I really love you and miss you.  Sorry so sloppy.Love, AshleyP.S. WBS-Write Back SoonP.S.S Sorry I didn’t write sooner.
“Sometimes the wrong turns in life bring us to the right place.”--as heard from the 2018 film,FINDING YOUR FEET

Let Me Know When It Really Pays Off

She taught me that a man should always watch birds carefully and draw conclusions from their behavior.--Jerzy Kosinski, THE PAINTED BIRD
The schoolteacher in San Francisco, Pat Crowley, that I would visit and tutor her class in order to inspire writing sent me a postcard after I wrote her from Indianapolis:
May 14, 1992Dear Michael,
Thank you for your postcard from Indianapolis.  It’s great to hear that you’ are a stockbroker for CHARLES SCHWAB & CO.  His company is definitely a success story.  I am glad you like your work.  That’s most important.I can always tell things are winding down at work because everything begins to pile up.  The class just planned and carried out a luncheon for TEACHER’S DAY.  I’m involved in many projects, as usual.Will write again…Fondly, Pat
And Lottie wrote again also: 5-14-92Dear Michael,We must be on the same beam.  I think about you.  You think about me.  Our plans are still ON for JOSHUA TREE.  We plan to look for property this Winter.  We will come visit…I promise.Stockbroker!!!  How do you do it?   Any good tips?I know absolutely nothing about stocks.  I hope you enjoy your new job.  I think of you often.Love, LottieP.S.  I love the Palm Tree stickers you sent me!
I have a cool new friend named April Stosur.  She’s a fellow broker at Charles Schwab & Co.  that I met during Indianapolis training.  She will be working in a Chicago branch.  She is married to a man involved with Barnes & Noble and they have a baby girl.  She sent two postcards to me from Chicago after I wrote to her:

5/14/92Thanks for the postcards!  I actually bought this one before I went to my P.O. Box only to see one from you.  Can you believe it…work is actually fun!  Louise is quite a saleswoman, so she doesn’t get too upset when I mess up on Operations stuff.  My current job is to be in charge of all outgoing money wires, checks, S1 checks, and Transfer of Accounts.  I get to call the customer and ask why they are leaving us.  I like it.  It’s fun.  Michael, I thought that CHICAGO AT NIGHT card was kind of cute but I also thought you should get a picture.  I haven’t been to any museums yet, so you’re getting tourist postcards.  Ha. I miss our dinners in Indianapolis!
I met Chuck Schwab yesterday.  He’s a nice man.  He explained why we’ll be open every Saturday.  It was my Regional Manager’s idea, Al Leitz.
Also, there’s no more overtime for us.  I could obviously go on.  I better buy a card next time versus a postcard.  I’m looking forward to your next card.April.
Barbara sent a cool postcard of the EAST RIVER in New York City.  She wrote:
5-15-92Dear Mike,Thanks for the L.A. card LOVE THOSE PALMS.  Yes, I knew Mitch Schwartz.  Sorry to hear he died.  I didn’t know. 
When are you going to Yosemite?  It is great there any time of the year.  It can get crowded at times.  I have kind of stopped going because I don’t want to kill it.  I’ve been using my car a lot this week (and helping my mom).  Yes, I have been to HEARST CASTLE.  Have you?  My ex-neighbor, Mary (she’s been living in Salem, Massachusetts) stopped by this morning.  She will be here on Monday to receive her diploma at CAL Berkeley, a PhD in Croatian Languages.  We will have breakfast together on Monday A.M.I saw THE PLAYERS last Saturday with Alice.  I know you would like it.  It’s very humorous.It’s time for my walk now.  I think I’ll be able to resume YWCA workouts soon…but then it will be back to commuting.  I’m thinking about working back in Oakland.  Changes.  I’ll tell Ching “HI” from you next time we talk.Love, Barbara
Another dear friend, Cheri Potter, that started working around the same time as me with Pacific Telephone in Operator Services (April 1977) wrote me a sweet card also.  She knew Mitch Schwartz as we’d both worked at PBD-Pac Bell Directory with him in San Francisco.
5/18/92Hi!I was so happy to hear from you. When Mitchell passed away I called 411 to get your telephone number and I called.  The TAM (Telephone Answering Machine) was on, so I wasn’t sure if it was you or not.How are you?  How did you get into stockbroking?  I’ve always been interested in that.  I just completed a six-week class in investing.  Marcus has always wanted to be a stockbroker.  He will attend the University of Oregon in September.   I’m not too happy about it.  He’ll have to take out a lot of school loans.How is your family?  Now that Hele is in Yellow Page Sales I never see her.  I’m still in Litigation.  I’m really bored with it (and the people).  A lot of the managers took early retirement.  Unfortunately, not my boss.I won the QUEST IV YOUR BEST trip this year.  I went to Arizona last weekend.  It was real nice.I’m having my 15 year luncheon on June 5th.  Can you believe it?  I wish you were here to celebrate with me.You take care of yourself and keep those postcards coming.Love, Cheri Potter
And another couple of Black and White cards arrived from Dorothy Rua:
5-18-92Hi Michael!
I received your Downtown Indianapolis card which was a pleasant surprise.  I’d already received your previous card/letter from Indiana, so it made me feel good to know I was in your thoughts!   Then I got your ‘WMWF A DAY IN CLAY” card—looks like the couple was deep into their feelings before they dipped into the clay!  You’re right though…spending a Sunday messing around in clay would be wild!   As long as the experience was shared with someone you enjoy.  Ha-ha!So…you’re officially a Marina Del Rey resident and near the ocean, too?  Do you have any idea how jealous I am?  If only I could split Dorothy Rua in tow:  leave one here to tend to all of the responsibilities require of this life and send the other to visit with you for long walks on the beach, visits to art galleries and people watching from the sidewalk cafes, etc.  Your sharing does bring me a degree of pleasure, so do stay-in-touch.  You never know, one of life’s paths may lead me down there, yet!I do wish we had the opportunity to get together every now and then.  I have lots of questions to ask you about your job/work.  There is too much to get into through cards and letters.   The same goes for my Michael Rachwalksi Story. Did you and Alan find anything interesting at those Beverly Hills Estate sales?  I imagine it was a lot of fun looking.Rosemarie and I had a rare opportunity to get together this past Friday night.  We went to see BASIC INSTINCT and we both thought it was ‘okay’.  I felt it was well done for what they wanted to do.  I couldn’t really get into the intimate scenes because we kept waiting for the ice pick to come out!  Later, we had dinner, and then went to MR. LUCKY’s on Locust Street in Walnut Creek for an Irish Coffee.  When Rose first suggested MR. LUCKY’s, I said, “Right, only time I’d ever noticed that place was when twenty-two bikers with tattoos pulled up to the place a few months ago!”All I needed was to crawl out of there with a knife wound!  Ha-ha.  Well, I let her talk me into it and it turned out fine.  Not your top notch crowd but I left with all of my body parts!  Ha-ha.This card?  Well, figure I’ve been way too good this entire year…a saint?  Time to walk on the WILDSIDE a bit!  Makes me wonder…should I send you a conservative Birthday Card or???  I’ll give it some thought.Until Then,Love, Dorothy
Oh, and Dorothy’s KISS ME ‘Gorilla postcard’ was fun to see, too.  She always lifts my spirits in some indirect way: What exciting events are taking place now, Michael?Maybe because I had stars in my eyes because I was visiting Michael Rachwalski (my true love) at the time and I was thrilled just to be with him.  Ha!  Gag!  Who knows?  He asked me to come along to “meet the family” and although they seemed okay, I knew within a short period of time I did not want to spend a lot of time in Indiana.Maybe you’ll find some excitement at the INDY 500 if nothing else.  The ‘people watching’ should be fun!  By the way, how do those early work hours agree with you?  Does it allow for late afternoon trips to the beach and other fun things?   Imagine it’s fairly early to bed most nights, considering those early mornings!   I don’t believe you allow too many restrictions on your social life! Ha-ha.It sounds like you’re having fun with your financial investments.   Let me know when it really pays off.Love, Dorothy
People can’t survive terrible times without the help from others.--Charles Belfoure, THE PARIS ARCHITECT

Bronze God

“Whatever you do, do it carefully.”--as heard in the 2017 film, PHANTOM THREAD
5 May 1992Hi Mike,Well, I forgot to insert this enclosed news clipping appendicitis story in yesterday’s letter.  I guess I need more rest and recovery from my appendix surgery.
Since I went to see my surgeon today he was SO pleased with me.  Unfortunately, I expect now I will have to return to work sooner than July 1st.  I know I don’t feel strong enough now and I won’t go back to work before my next appointment with Walter (in two weeks).  I guess I’ll make the best of it.I really don’t have much to look forward to in going back to work.  I wish I had your courage anyhow.   I’m sure that you have no regrets.  Ching Sarmiento has talked about transferring to Yellow Pages.  I’ve thought it would be good to go with her.  I like her a lot.  Did you know that she is a GEMINI, too?   So…I’m learning from this that it takes me help from a GEMINI to go anywhere.  Hmmm---
I do need a change of scenery.  Our office is feeling more and more like the RESIDENCE ACCOUNTS SERVICE CENTER.  Yuck! 
Today is probably my 16-year service anniversary.  Somehow I think I should do 20-years before quitting.  I really don’t think I’ll live a very long time.  I have a lot of fire in my astrology chart and I read that fire sings burn out first.  I believe it. 
I’m simply watching myself and comparing with others like my mother.  She was ‘84’ last year and seems to be better than ever.  Her chart is almost all water.  Water can go anywhere.  Nothing can really stop water.  What I am meaning to say is that I would like to retire early and enjoy my savings before I get too old.  Perhaps I should adopt someone to leave my savings to.  Isn’t this a cheery subject?Bye for now…Barbara Louise Reynolds
The news clipping article by STACEY HOFFMAN, Psychotherapist is an inspiring story (a lesson could be learned) that Barbara Reynolds sent: Photo: By Stacey Hoffman, Psychotherapist
When I was twenty, I left home in New York and moved to this hippie-artist community in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.  I loved my life there; I was young and invincible.  Suddenly I got very sick with lower back pains.  The town had a doctor, but he wasn’t very good.  He gave me some muscle relaxers.  I got worse and worse and two weeks later I woke up with severe stabbing pains.  
A friend pointed out that this could be serious, so he put me in his truck at three in the morning and drove me to another town with a decent hospital.  It was more like a mini-hospital.  It had two stories—the top story was filled with dying Mexicans and the bottom floor had pregnant Mexicans.  It was run by nuns and there was only one doctor.  He examined me and announced that I had to have my appendix removed.  I started screaming and crying.  I had never been sick a day in my life.  
When I woke up I could see I had one of those “Open up the abdomen, take out the appendix and check out the ovaries, too” scars. 
Meanwhile, someone called my mother in Florida and told her I was in a hospital somewhere in Mexico.  She called my brother and said, “FIND HER!”
Back at the hospital, I’m convinced I’m going to die.  I pictured my mother receiving a note that her daughter had passed away.  But suddenly I had this hallucination—it’s my brother, walking into my room in this ‘nowheresville’ medical facility.  I really did think he was an angel.  That’s what I love about my brother—it took him only five days to find me.
A fellow co-worker named EILEEN EBEY that I worked with in San Francisco; Pac Bell Yellow Pages wrote me and sent a kind note.  I had mentioned a planned trip to Napa Valley and I recalled that she lived there so I had sent her a note.  She wrote back:
5/10/92Michael, All is well; however, you won’t be able to visit me in Napa.  I’ve moved to Marysville, just north of Sacramento.  But…’d love to see you and you’re welcome to come visit here.  Take good care and have a wonderful holiday.  My new address:  1406 Eagle Lane, Marysville, CA 95901
It was so good to hear from you again.  I am remiss in my correspondence, hope you will forgive me.You sounded like everything is going really well for you.  Wow…a stockbroker!   I am so impressed.  I guess you’ll have to hand my investments if I ever get to a place where I can make them.
I have to tell you.  I had no idea bout Mitch Schwartz.  No one told me.  And up in Sacramento word travels very slow.  I just can’t believe it.  I didn’t even know he was ill.  And yes, we will miss him!As for me, I am in the process of trying to sell my house.  It’s a BITCH!  People are so scared to make any long-term commitments with the economy in such dire straits.  Let’s see, I have two more weeks of selling before I take a crew and become a full-fledges Sales Manager.  It has been very interesting.  I will see if I can hold my own in the sales environment.  Believe me, it is not all it’s cracked up to be but I don’t enjoy it.
I suppose since you’ve moved closer to the beach that you’re some kind of BRONZE GOD now.  Do you do much traveling in your job?  If you’re ever in the Marysville area you are more than welcome.  I would love to see you.
I am hoping to build a home soon if this place ever sells!  I should be more positive:  ‘WHEN THIS PLACE SELLS’. Well, I better go.  MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE just came on (kidding).  Take care.  Hope to see you soon.Love, Eileen Ebey
Lottie’s daughter, Reida, is now 18-months.  She sent a photo with a new letter:  She wrote it at the end of April but was mailed to my Palm Avenue condo and forwarded to the Sea Colony apartment where I’m living with ALAN now…so by that time it was postmarked May 11th…at least I got it:
4-30-92, ThursdayDearest Michael,I apologize for not writing sooner.  Fall and Winter months seem to fly by.  That is basically the only time Michael is home and we try to do a years’ worth of activities in ‘5’ months.We were in JOSHUA TREE to tack climb in February.  I had planned a visit to you but we got caught in those fierce rainstorms when Los Angeles was washing out to the ocean and would up leaving after three days.  Those three days were fun.  I believe Reida wants to rock climb.  She had a great time.Photo:  REIDA POWELL
Michael returned to Alaska on March 30th, a month ago, today.  He may be coming to the Tower 48 in August.  If not, then it will be in October or November before we see him.  I am a FIRE WIDOW.So, how are things with you?  How’s your love life?I know this letter is short but Reida is waking from her nap and MOM is being paged.Take care.  I think of you often and will try to do better at writing.Always, Lottie

I found a cute BEAUTIFUL LEGS IN THE WORLD postcard and had to send it to Paloma.  It made me think of 'her' and 'I' and the time we were walking into a SAFEWAY in Alameda (Harbor Bay Isle), CA and a strange man said to us, "Wow, you two must look amazing on the beach."
We both started laughing out loud when we walked inside the store.

On the postcard I wrote the following:
5-10-92, Dear Paloma,
I saw this card and the two at the far right reminded me of 'me' and 'you'.  Ha-Ha.

I'm back in CALIFORNIA.

When I was in Indiana I ate at a restaurant called THE JAZZ COOKER that served cajun-New Orleans-style.  I thought of your brother who lives there.  Did he and his wife finally end up moving to New Mexico?

I like living in Marina Del Rey.  It's right next to Venice Beach.

Today's MOTHER's DAY.  I just called my mom.   She and her 1st granddaughter, Ashley (8 years old now) are coming the third week of June for a one week visit to Southern California.
Miss You,
Regards to Alexandre and Jonathan,
Love, Michael
Everything needs food to live, even LOVE.  To LOVE means to learn the art of nourishing our happiness.--HOW TO LOVE by Thich Nhat Hanh

Start of the Race

The happiness that arises from meditation IS NOT the same as the feeling that comes from the pursuit of pleasure seeking.  Ask yourself, “Who can I make smile this morning?”  This is the ART of creating happiness.--Thich Nhat Hanh, HOW TO LOVE
On April 29th it was feeling odd being away from California.  Indiana isn’t for me (even if the houses are cheaper).  I decided to write mom and Alan postcards when I had my lull time.  I sent mom a START OF THE RACE, INDY 500 postcard because that’s how I feel (I’m at the beginning of the start of a race).  Alan received the POPPY FIELDS IN ANTELOPE VALLY, California card:
4-29-92Hi Mom,It’s cold here in Indianapolis.I’m going to try to go on a tour this Saturday of the INDY 500 Speedway.  It could be interesting.There’s not a lot to do here.  It’s a nice small town but the roads are long to get places.  June is only weeks away.  I’ll see (or call) you soon!Love, Michael


4-29-92Dear Alan,
This postcard reminded me of the HOWARD’S END movie and the neat journal you got for me.It’s so cold here in Indiana.  There are a handful of fellow new brokers that I like.  The rest I can do without.  Some seem like “schmucks”.   Two are from New Jersey.  One is going to work at the WORLD TRADE CENTER Schwab branch.  Do you remember when we were vacationing in NY and we went there?I may go to the INDY 500 this weekend.  I don’t know.I bought 100 shares of the SAMUEL GOLDWYN COMPANY stock at .75 cents per share.  It’s my last buy.  I promise.  I’m going to sell it when it goes up some (if it goes up).Love You,Michael
Feeling homesick I wrote mom again a few days later.  The pic of the boy on the postcard expressed my feeling of being in Indiana.  5-3-92Hi Mom,I’m sitting right in front of a water fountain in front of the INDIANAPOLIS MUSEUM OF ART.  It’s 2:30pm and I just finished my tour.  They had a neat exhibit of a Swiss painter who did much of his painting in France.  His name is Felix Vallotton.  
I saw a few paintings that you would have liked.  One of them is a painting of PEPPERS ON A ROUND WHITE TABLE.   They had it in the form of a postcard, so I bought it for you.  I bought this card because it reminds me of how I feel about being in Indiana.  I’m a little lonesome—especially this weekend.   At least during the week I have some of the SCHWAB “goobers” to hang out with.  It’s getting a little windy here right now.Love You,Michael
The following day:
May 4, 1992Mom, Here are the PEPPERS on a painting ‘postcard’ by Felix Vallotton that I told you about.  It should look good in your kitchen. Ha-ha.
I’m in the hotel room now.  I bought some snacks of sunflower seeds, cashews and Spanish peanuts.  I’m enjoying them with this great root beer that’s from Biloxi, Mississippi. I can’t believe it’s already MAY.  Did you buy your plane tickets to LA?   You probably forgot to tell me (like that check from IDS).  You got a check from IDS and I never did.  That’s funny. Love You,Michael J Armijo
This week I had mail arriving in my mailbox from Gloria (Alan’s mom) and Jack; Barbara Reynolds; Paloma; and Dorothy Rua.  I would be reading them soon: 
KYOTO, JAPAN Monday, May 4thHi Michael,I’m sure you received this after you come home.  I’m doing lots of sightseeing:  Buddha’s; Shrines, Shinto Temples; Zen Meditation spots…very Japanese!  Miss you.Love you,Gloria and Jack
I adore this card from Barbara Reynolds of a young girl, playing violin in a mustard field.  I want to be there.

4 May 92Dear Michael,So…where is THE LACKAWANNA VALLEY.  It was the postcard you send from the National Gallery of ART in Washington D.C.   And how are the maids’ quarters?  It sounds like a neat change.  I think a lot about moving.  Alas, now is not the best time to think about that. I bet you did well in your training.  You are brilliant.
I was a bit relieved to get your postcards since the blazing of L.A. was happening those days and spreading toward your old location.  You certainly were gone at the “right” time.  Congratulations!You recovered from your appendicitis in 4-days?  How?  Today is 4-weeks since my surgery.  I still feel like I have to walk slower.  It’s certainly not my quick gate.  I will enjoy when it’s possible.  I still have this gut pain.  I’ll see the surgeon again tomorrow.  Perhaps that infection altered my experience.  I just can’t believe you recovered in 4-days.  So, I read this enclosed story yesterday and thought you would enjoy it.  Last week I received a note in response to my note about my story from a friend in Salem, MA (who will be here the 18th for her graduation).  Anyway, Mary told me that her mother’s sister died from a burst appendix at age 21, one year after her marriage.  So I consider us lucky.I just checked the map (for Marina Del Rey) and it is close to Venice.  I have great memories of Venice.Did I tell you my doc signed my disability form so that I go back to work on July 1st?  I understand now why he did that.  I even had another night (the 24th) in my same hospital bed.  I will get better soon.Love, Barbara
Hmmm…there was no insert of a story from her friend in Salem, MA.  I hope she remembers to send it in her next letter.  Oh well…no big deal.
Paloma’s postcard of a vintage baby was short and simple:
Dear Michael,This is the only postcard I could find in my drawers.  I always keep some for you but now I don’t know where they are.  As you can tell this is not a recent one.  I bought it at the open market.  I have to get some new ones.  This is a tiny town.  I think it’s hard to top some cards!United Airlines may still call you, no?  Or do you not want to be a flight attendant anymore?Love, Paloma
And from Dorothy…a Black and White romantic looking one:
5-4-92Dear Michael, I have about 8 pieces of correspondence on my desk at work from the TRAMMEL CROW Company (customer), so when I saw this envelope from your hotel in Indianapolis my immediate thought was, “Oh no, how did they get my home address?”
Obviously, I was relieved to see your address stickers on the back side of the envelope.
I’m really happy to hear from you, especially, with all that’s been going on in Southern California.  First, the earthquake, and then the reaction to the RODNEY KING verdict.  I wasn’t sure how near your home and workplace are to the “activity”.  I guess you’re fortunate to be in Indianapolis through the worst part.   It’ll be interesting to hear how that part of the country reacted to the violent rebellion and how the media presented the news to “middle America”.I hope you eventually find/found something fun to do in Indiana.  I was in South Bend, Indiana in a “previous life” and I don’t recall any of it. Love, Dorothy
So it was believed that neither rain, nor fire, nor wind could ever wipe out the stain of crime.  For justice hangs over the world like a great sledgehammer lifted by a powerful arm, which has to stop for a while before coming down with terrible force on the unsuspecting anvil.  As they used to say in the villages, even a speck of dust shows up in the sun.--Jerzy Kosinski, THE PAINTED BIRD