Michael Joe Armijo's Blog, page 42

True To Life

“This is the gentleman who saved me,” she said. She loved using “gentleman” to describe men; it also was less weighted with the sexual overtones contained in the word “man”. --Joan Juliet Buck, THE ONLY PLACE TO BE, a novel
Another romantic-looking card from Dorothy Rua, responding to my last correspondence to her:
12-4-91Dear Michael,Your cards did indeed brighten my mailbox.  I saw the “glow” long before my key slipped into the lock! 
Card #1 was bright enough to light all of Walnut Creek!  Even I was taken back by those sleek, embracing nude bodies!  I mean, your recent cards have been fairly conservative, so you really caught me off guard!   Too bad you live so far away---makes it impossible for me to shadow you to all the places you find these cards that don’t seem to be in the places I look. 
Card #2 reminds me of you a little…maybe because you always seemed to dress fashionably (without overdoing it) when we worked together and I assure you still do.
Card #3 makes me wish I could wear that backless dress and get away with it!  Maybe I could wear the rose in a bright enough color to distract from the larger item spreading out below it!  
And how could I not fully appreciate Card #4?  It’s absolutely wonderful and so TRUE TO LIFE:  there’s the wife, viewing a pretty painting of a bowl of fruit (or whatever) and there’s hubby, eyeing the very sexy nude next to it!  How perfect! 
Yes, Card #5 does have shades of D. J. Rua running through it.   First of all, as the picture reflects, I would have something covering my hair in the convertible so the six hairs would stay in place!  But more important are the eyes and what they’re telling.  They’re saying there’s a lot going on inside of me and I want to be left alone.  When I feel the need to be with someone, or people, I hope I’m lucky enough to find laughter with him/her/them.  Until then, I’ll keep driving alone with my thoughts.  Michael, they’re all GREAT cards and I really appreciate that you’ve shared them with me.  I love them all and thank you for not only brightening my mailbox but also my day, my week and perhaps more!
From your cards and what you told me on the phone, sounds like you have your hands full with all of the studying you have to do for IDS.  Here’s wishing you luck o you next hurdle or two.   It all sounds much more interesting than MOST jobs!
I was planning to take Nicole to see MAN ON THE MOON this past Sunday but it stopped playing in Walnut Creek.   It is currently only showing in Pinole, so we’ll wait and see if it shows up somewhere else around here.  I definitely plan to see CAPE FEAR also!
Glad to hear you’re still in touch with Laverne, though sorry to hear she and her husband are having troubles again.  Oh well, some problems just can’t be worked out and people rarely change---no matter how much you may want them to!
Hope your THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY was fun.  Mine was enjoyable and busy, busy, busy.  I had so much to do and only four days to do it in!  Knowing I was going to be housebound from 12-5 until about 12-16 I knew I had to do as much Pre-Christmas stuff as I could that weekend.  Yes, 12-5 is LASER TREATMENT time again and yes, since I know what to expect this time I’m dreading it!  Part of the reason for this card.   I am looking beyond the 5thand the 10-days that follow.  I’m trying to visualize the Christmas/New Year holiday season and the joy I always hope it brings!   This LASER TREATMENT period will have past!   And doesn’t’ this picture on this card imply wonderful things?
Dorothy’s card abruptly ended at that point and then inside the card I found three more handwritten pages that continued where she had left off:
12-6-91Well Michael,I had hoped to get my response to your last cards written and mailed long before now…but I had so much to do at home and at work before 12-5.   So here I am, hoping to finish writing with only one eye that will open!  I got my LASTER TREATMENT at UC Medical yesterday and can’t wait until the bruising, swelling, soreness and discoloration disappear so I can get on with things.  As the saying goes “THIS TOO SHALL PASS” and I am thankful my condition is really minor compared to so many other people’s problems, medical or otherwise!
Anyway, back to your cards again.  I want to tell you how much I enjoyed them all, pictures and your writing.  I know how hectic things can be at times, some I’ve sort of been expecting for a while but wondered if you’d ask.  I guess I can stop wondering if you ever notice.  I rarely mention Peter.  I do, or have had, my reasons for not saying much during the past 2 years or so and as I’ve mentioned before I’ll share some of those reasons with you sometime.  I do appreciate your specific questions and do want to answer them now.
Peter and I met while we worked for the same company in San Francisco.  We socialized with the same group of friends at work and we dated for over a year before anyone knew we were seeing each other.  I guess it was our way of trying to keep work separate from our personal lives.  One of Peter’s dreams was to return to EUROPE for the Olympic Games in Munich, Germany.  He had been stationed in Athens, GREECE while he was in the Air Force.   Since I had become a part of his life he asked me to join him while traveling through EUROPE.  How exciting for a 23 year old girl, so, of course, I agreed!
We lived in EUROPE for a year, spending time in several countries and working while in Germany.  We also married while in Munich.  This coming July 6th 1992 we will be married 20 years.  Yes, 20!   We’ve traveled so many roads together but many times it doesn’t seem like that much tie has past…especially when I often feel I’m still that 23 year old girl!
Living with another person it’s always easy to come up with things that annoy you about them.  What’s the MOST annoying thing about Peter?  I suppose I could come up with an answer if I spend time thinking about it, but I’ll pass on this one for now and move on to your next question.One of the most wonderful things about Peter is that he has dreams and he’s not afraid to make those dreams come true.  Many of us are fortunate enough to have dreams, but we don’t all, always have the courage to make them come true.  And as one matures, you tend to realize how difficult a thing this is!
What does Peter do?  He’s been in Sales and marketing for quite a number of years.  Throughout the years the products have changed, but he remains an Independent Contractor and also does consulting work for small businesses.   The other thing he does is make time for Nicole and Jean-Paul to ensure a close relationship between himself and his children.  I include this because with the busy lives we all live; it’s often very difficult to find time to do what you want to do.   Some other area usually must be compromised.
I can already hear your thoughts!  “Jeez, I’m sorry I asked!  It reminds me of Carol from the SMART RESOURCE CENTER and her gagging comments about her husband.”  Ha-ha.
Michael, of course, I’m not painting the full picture.  LIFE is not perfect.  I’m merely answering your questions and I get the feeling I’m not being/playing fair.  I mean, where’s the dirt?  Right? Ha-ha!   Oh, those stories as we visit and rock in those chairs on the white verandah will be something indeed!Rosemarie returned from her cruise with her “sweetheart”, Michael, and apparently both came back exhausted from all of the fun!  Of course I’m jealous.  She’s supposed to call me today with all of the details!   Who’s living life vicariously through her friends?  Ha-ha.
It looks like San Diego won’t be in the plans for the holidays like we thought.  After working on the cost of four people for 8-days it just didn’t seem worth it.   I think we’d rather go skiing in Tahoe (or tubing) and save any extra funds for a better trip next year.   We’ll see.  
Any travel plans on your agenda?  You always seem to have something on the burner.  Let me know.  Also, let me know how you do with your next test with/for IDS.  Keep watching those videos, but make sure they’re business related!
Hope it won’t be long before I can get to the post-office to mail this!  And I need to get out and buy Christmas Cards so I can mail yours!  Until later…Love, Dorothy
And of course, Dorothy, found an ARTSY card of PORT OF LE HAVRE by Claude Monet as my Christmas Card that arrived a few days later:

HAPPY HOLIDAYS MICHAEL!Warmest greetings of the Season and every good wish for the Coming Year.Thinking of you and wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Wonderful New Year!Love, Dorothy
Another card arrived the same day from my dear friend; Lottie (signed LOTTIE, MICHAEL, REIDA and BOO DOG.
I am beginning to feel the holiday cheer as 1992 approaches.  What will my new year bring for me?
His LIFE would not be about who he could become, but about what he could acquire.
--Elizabeth Gilbert, THE SIGNATURE OF ALL THINGS

Even Broke You Are Lovable

To teach someone how to be perfectly quiet you don’t need to speak to them.--BEL CANTO, a novel by Ann Patchett
A few days ago Alan and I were invited to a Red Carpet Premiere of a film called MY GIRL starring McCauley Culkin and a new young actress named Anna Chlumsky. .  I must tell my nieces, Ashley and Lauren, to see it.  I think they will love it.  It was a cute film and the after party was interesting.  I saw Dan Ackroyd (who was also in the film) and his wife, Donna Dixon along with Jamie Lee Curtis.  Alan and I were wearing sport coats, so I thought, “You know…people probably think we are Producers.”
“Of course,” Alan said, “we are.”  I laughed out loud.
While mom was visiting she brought along her Great Western Account for my reviews.  She owns a lot of shares in a stock (BRK) known as Berkshire Real Estate Investment Trust which pays a decent dividend.  Her cash dividends and capital gains are reinvested and now that I’m studying about securities I instructed her to stop the reinvestment as she could use that cash for investment elsewhere or in her pocket. It was a nice discussion and a preview of what I will be doing as a PERSONAL FINANCIAL PLANNER with IDS-Investor Diversified Services.   So many people own holdings and they have no clue what the securities are that they own.  Now mom understands what she has—although she has too much of this holding.“We will talk another time about diversifying into other investments.”She was happy with that.
I received a Happy Thanksgiving card from a Staff Clerk (former coworker) in San Francisco named Gloria Romero.  She’s a bit of “strange bird” but it was nice of her to take the time to write me:
Michael-It’s THANKSGIVING—enjoy!  Thinking of you, with Love Always, GloriaI enjoy keeping in touch very much and at a Book Festival in San Francisco I thought about you when postcards were in different sections of books, cooking class and the children’s corner.  It was a nice event.  I have enclosed various postcards (FREE) for you.  I got a lot.  They’re all different and interesting.  I hope you like them.George and I are doing fine.  Raisin, the dog, is doing fine (though she is 14 years old).Well, write when you can.  Enjoy TURKEY DAY.
And also in my mailbox was a "HELLO" card from my Aunt Lela who was married to my Dad’s brother (Joseph Eligio Armijo).  He sadly passed away at the young age of forty-two (b. August 21, 1938 d. January 15, 1981).  I was always so fond of Lela when I was a child, growing-up.  She should have been a schoolteacher for elementary school kids.   She would have been THE BEST in that role.  Lela wrote:
November 27, 1991Mike, Every once in a while it’s nice to send a friendly little hello to someone you really like!I’ve wanted to get in touch with you since Donna got married but I didn’t have an address for you.  I got it finally (from Donna). So how’s life for you?  Everything’s really good for us.  My family keeps growing as you know.  Can you believe Mona has five?  And now my little Donna will be a mommy again in the summer.  I’m so thrilled Danielle will have a brother or sister.  She’ll make a good big sister.  Joey and Michelle have quit with three.  That’s good for them.  They’re doing well.   Well, I hope you have a nice Thanksgiving.   And if you’re ever in the neighborhood be sure and come by and say “HI”.   …Regards to your mom and brothers when you talk to them.Love, Aunt Lela
One day later I received a cool letter from my seven year old niece, Ashley Marie Armijo.  The letter was in her handwriting (using a pencil) that was quite touching.  They were a few simple words but it made my day.
UNCLE MIKE,WHAT DO YOU WANT?  LOVE—ASHLEYUNCLE MIKE, WHAT DO YOU WANT FOR CHRISTMAS?ASHLEY A.
Paloma send a cool postcard AND a letter.  29/11/91
Dear Michael,Here are some flowers to thank you for the video tapes. Of course I know MYLENE FARMER, the singer.  She is famous here.  I like what she does but I don’t like her as a person that much.   She is kind of weird.  She’s a very depressive kind of girl by crying when she sings.  She is attracted by weird things but she makes great songs pretty often (her boyfriend writes them).
Michael, are you drunk, doing drugs or something.  You’re sending me a picture that you took last month and on the back the date written is October 1990.  
Then I find it funny that you almost have the same phone number as your mom.  Is your phone number 510-865-2001?   That’s the one you just sent me.  If it’s the right one then it’s not just the area code that has changed.   That’s OK Michael.   Don’t worry.  You can be stupid.  You still look good (just kidding!).  I’m glad I got your letter.  I was kind of worried.  It’s very rare that you stop writing for so long.
Thank you for the brochure about NEW ORLEANS.  As you (already) know we’re not going anymore (maybe some other time).  I wonder when we will go to the states.  We probably will not come next year (especially that in February after our Caribbean holidays…we will be broke) and as we might buy my dad’s car next year (an OPEL VECTRA, you don’t have that car in the states…I know because when my brother—from the states—came last summer he wanted to buy it to take it there!  Nuts!
Our car is still almost brand new (Alexandre really takes care of it) but my dad’s car is such a good deal.  We usually fight with my bothers about such a good deal (especially with Louis since Edward is in the states).  Lucky us…Louis couldn’t wait for my dad to decide to sell his car and he had to buy a new one (especially since it was his turn to get the VECTRA).  I am sure you know what I’m talking about since it seems you’ve been pretty much doing the same deals with your apartments, right? 
Who lives in your house in Alameda now?   That house was great.
How did your tests go?
I’ve heard of CAPE FEAR on TV but it didn’t come out here in France yet.  Maybe I’ll see it in Paris for Christmas.  It’s the best time for us to go to the movies since my parents can babysit.   Well, at least I really hope so.  My dad hasn’t been doing too well lately.  I’m really worried about that.  I’ve never seen my dad like that before.  He is very depressed.   The other day he cried o the phone.  I’ve never heard my dad crying before.   It would be too long to tell you why.  He tells us he is so depressed.   To make a long story short it’s because my Aunt (his sister, the one who used to live in Cuernavaca, Mexico) came back last September to live in France with her son (40 years old).   She is now in a hospital dying.  She has had cancer for a few years.  Louis and I think it might not be the only reason he is depressed since he is not very young (67 years old).   We are very worried.Tell me dear Michael…didn’t you know that you can’t play FRENCH videos on your VCR?  I already told you.  Stop drinking!

Thank you also for wishing us a great THANKSGIVING but we don’t celebrate it here.  I just heard about that day on the news and I thought about you eating turkey and pumpkin pie.  I love pumpkin pie but we don’t have it here!   If you find the recipe you can send it to me (the cheesecake one, too).  I’m sending you a brochure of porcelain dolls.  Is that the kind your mom likes?  Does she only collect the old ones?  
You really need to learn French because I’m also sending you two pages of the FRENCH Cosmo magazine talking about vacation sin Hollywood.  I think you once told me about SPAGO, right?   They say you can see Warren Beatty, Tom Cruise and people like that there.  I’m sure you know that place.  Do you know the other places (HY’s Bar, POLO LOUNGE, and SCHWAB’s Bar)?Well, I spent a big part of my afternoon writing to you (one of my favorite things) but I’ve got tons of things to do.  So write me…Love, Paloma
P.S. Do you fall in love with prostitutes or what—that you can’t afford it?  Just kidding—but if someone can’t love you because you can’t buy her dinner that’s not the right person!   Believe me…even broke you are lovable (or is it loveable).   I wish I could speak better English.  I just hope you understand me.  Well, we’ll talk about that some other time.
The reverse side of Paloma's COSMO magazine clippings are cool too.  I liked the golden hues of this blond gal in one photo and there was another on the reverse of the Hollywood restaurants of an image of Carmen Miranda.  It made me think of that song by her called MAMA EU QUERO.

After my festive Thanksgiving time in Alameda I returned home to Los Angeles for some Hanukkah festivities at Alan's Sea Colony apartment in Santa Monica.  I had already begun to move-in some of my stuff (including one of my paintings that Alan insisted on hanging in the living room area).  That was nice.

I've been getting real estate advice from Alan about selling my condo.  I may choose to sell it as it's too ridiculous to make the $1300 monthly mortgage payment.  And if I end up moving-in with him officially it might be a good idea.  West Hollywood has a rent control rule so I wouldn't get much rent; however, that's also an option. 
On the 6th night of Hanukkah, Alan's mom, Gloria, came over to Sea Colony to join in on the holiday.  Alan's daughters (Lauren and Carrie) spent the night.  It was fun.  I enjoyed the festive time.  Carrie loved her new bike.  Lauren was more happy about completing her math homework.

After the girls went to bed I drove back to West Hollywood to my lonely condo.  I would have rather stayed in Santa Monica with Alan. 
LOVE was action.  It came to you.  It was not a choice.--BEL CANTO, a novel by Ann Patchett

Living In L.A. - Two Years

“LATER!” ---meaning exactly what I wanted it to mean for a change:  NOT just goodbye, or be off with you, but afternoon lovemaking.  I turned around and was instantly on my bike, speeding my way back downhill, smiling broadly, and almost singing if I could.--Andre Aciman, CALL ME BY YOUR NAME
It wasn’t that long ago that Sherri was here in L.A.   She needed to breathe some Southern California fresh air.   It’s not easy being a mom of four kids and dealing with a bigger kid (John) at times.  She has her act together though.  I’m confident she’ll get through this tidal wave.  I got her mind off of things when she saw the 8-page script I had to memorize.  I’ve said the beginning opener part so many times:  “Financial Planning means different things to different people.  What does it mean to you?”
I received a cute THINKING OF YOU card written by Sherri (signed THE REAL ARMIJO5):
11-21-91A WISH FOR HAPPINESS NOW AND ALWAYS, Love, Sherri, John, Ashley, Holly and Ally, ‘The Real’ Armijo5Mike,…just a short note to say THANKS for picking me up and cheering me up.  It made it easier to forget my problems even if it was only temporary.  Well, I’ll see  you next week for the Thanksgiving feast.  How’ the job going?  How much have you memorized?  I’ll have to test you when you get here.See ya later,S
After reading Sherri’s letter I was in the mood to write, so I decided to write Paloma (in response to her recent cards) and tell her more about my new job as a PERSONAL FINANCIAL PLANNER (especially now that I actually have a business card):
November 21, 1991Dear Paloma,Thanks for the ‘couple and the Harley Davidson’ card.  It was a very nice card.It’s funny you should mention Halloween.  Of course I thought of you!  I flash back to Halloween 1983 and realized it was “8” years ago.  WOW!   It’s funny when you realize how much time has passed.
Lately, I’ve been studying.  My latest adventure—besides doing a painting every couple of months—is IDS (Investor Diversified Services), an American Express company.  As it turns out I have been hires as a PERSONAL FINANCIAL PLANNER.  The only problem is that I am not officially appointed until I memorize an 8-pay script about financial planning that I would verbally say when introduced to new clients.  I also have to pass a State of California Insurance test next Tuesday (November 26th) and pass a Series 7 test which is the National Association of Securities Dealers License test.  So…I’m studying to see how far it will take me.  Here is my latest business card:
I am just nervous about the tests.  Memorizing the 8-page script is a pain.  I have the first three pages thus far but I’ve had my negative moments. 
Oh…before I forget to tell you…please correct your address and telephone number book.  My area code has now changed.  My home telephone is 310-652-2001.  My mom’s area code also changed to 510-865-2001.  They needed to split the 415 (San Francisco) and 213 (Los Angeles) area codes because the phone company was running out of numbers (too many people).  
I did see DYING YOUNG starring Julia Roberts; however, the best movie I’ve seen in a long time just came out last weekend.  It’s called CAPE FEAR and it is with Robert DeNiro, Jessica Lange and Nick Nolte.   DeNiro should win BEST ACTOR for it.  When it comes to a theater near you please go see it!   It is really great.  Here’s a newspaper ad for the movie.  As you can see, the reviews are all positive.

When I was in FRANCE in July 1990 I bought this music video (but of course it didn’t work on my VCR due to foreign regulations).  
Alan (remember him?) also bought one, so I thought I’d send the videocassettes to you since they don’t work for us.  I am not even sure what this singer sounds like.  I think you have heard of her because I noticed you put one of her songs on one of my tapes that you made for me some time ago.I thought Michelle Pfeiffer was sexy on THE FABULOUS BAKER BOYS.  I liked it when she would sing.  You are right about it though.  Overall the movie didn’t have the greatest story to it.  I am sure you were mostly jealous because Jeff Bridges (your idol) was in the arms of Michelle Pfeiffer and not you. Ha-ha.
How did your new passport photo come out?  Speaking of photos here is one of me taken last month in Washington D.C.  I’m in front of the State Capitol.   The same guy (whoever he is; his name escapes me) who designed Paris is recognized in D.C. as designing the plans for the city mall alignment in Washington D.C. (PIERRE CHARLES L’ENFANT b. Aug 2, 1754 d. June 14, 1825).   It’s very similar to Paris.  D.C. is a very nice place.
I am also enclosing a brochure I found about New Orleans.  When I saw it I thought of you (a la the French Quarter).
My mom is flying here to Los Angeles this Saturday, November 23rd and then I will fly back to Oakland with her on Wednesday, November 27, 1991 for Thanksgiving.  My nieces sure are growing up, so I guess that means that Jonathan is getting up there too.
Very funny…no, I am not IN LOVE with anyone right now.  I can’t afford to be IN LOVE right now.  I can only afford my own living, entertainment and expenses.  I am happy with ‘just me’.  Yesterday was my two year anniversary of LIVING IN L.A.  I am supposed to move back to the Bay Area (my plan was Berkeley) now).  However, I do like it here in L.A. now.   I am really not sure what will happen.  I kind of want to wait and see where this new job will take me (or where I WILL TAKE IT).I hate to sell my condo here in L.A. because the real estate market in Southern California is in a downswing period.  It’s a buyers’ market (good time to buy).  It’s a bad time to sell.  If and when I do sell I want a hefty profit in my pocket, so  I may stick around here for a while longer.  I don’t know yet.
I should be studying my 8-page script right now but I am not-in-the-mood.  I’d rather write to you.
I am in Santa Monica at the beach right now.  I’m at Alan’s condo.  He is at work and has allowed me to come over here at any time.  It’s convenient for when I’m in the mood to bike ride or take a walk on the beach.  I admit that it might be more fun to enjoy walks on the beach with someone as pretty as Paloma—but time will tell.  I’m in no rush.
I am looking forward to THANKSGIVING next week.  I really like spending time with my nieces when they’re all together.   Two hours ‘of them’ is quite enough.  Ha-ha.   When Jonathan is old enough to write we sill set him up with one of my nieces as pen pals.  That’ll be fun.Here are a couple of promotional postcards for you that I picked up last night.  I’ve never been to either dance place.  In fact, I haven’t been out dancing in a long, long time.  I guess the last time was in September when I was in New York.  Whatever…I thought you’d be entertained by these two postcards.
I guess I will take a walk to the post-office now so you will receive this in a timely fashion.I’m sorry I have not written lately but as I sais I’ve been studying for this new job; whereas, I would get appointed in January or February 1992 as an “official” PERSONAL FINANCIAL PLANNER if all goes well.  I’ll keep you posted.   Have a great Thanksgiving.Till the next time…Love Always,Michael J Armijo Mom arrived on November 23rd.  I took her out to see a new film called FOR THE BOYS starring Bette Midler.  We both loved it.  The music was very fun and it made me want to dance to that 1940’s Swing sort of stuff.  I especially liked the song STUFF LIKE THAT THERE by Bette Midler. I said, “You know, Mom, when I hear that music from the twenties, thirties and forties I feel like I lived during that period.  It connects with me.”“I like it too,” Mom said.“I have to take Alan to see it.  I know he’ll like it.”A couple of days later I selected the restaurant that Alan and I love at 606 N. La Brea Avenue called LOUIS XIV.  It’s French and the steak frites are divine.   As I was driving up Santa Monica Boulevard and glanced over at mom on the passenger seat.   She was crying.I was astonished.Mom, what’s the matter?” I asked.She sobbed as she wiped tears with a tissue, “It’s nothing…it’s just that you’re the only one that takes me out.” “Oh…mom, don’t cry.  It’s okay.”
Her words touched me.  I will never forget it.  I made her laugh by the time we reached the next stop light.  Our dinner was fantastic.  She loved it.  The place has candles and dim lighting.
“Doesn’t this place remind you of DARK SHADOWS?” I asked.“Yes, it does…especially that chandelier.”“Yeah, if it wasn’t a restaurant people could easily have a séance here.”She laughed.“You know, mom.  I can’t believe I have been living in L.A. for two years already.  It’s really not so bad.  It’s like anywhere.  One has to clear out the people who are the phony ones.  Human beings are really the same everywhere but one has to find the ones where a connection really clicks.”
Paloma found the coolest MADONNA postcard and I received it yesterday.  Her mental telepathy knew a letter was overdue from me.  I swear she is very clairvoyant (as I just mailed her letter the other day).  I showed the artsy postcard to mom.“Isn’t this the coolest card that Paloma sent me?” I asked mom.“Yep!”
23/11/91Dear Michael,So…it seems like I haven’t been the lazy one lately!  That’s OK.  I know what the problem is.   Well, I hope you’re OK.We are not going to the states anymore.  My brother is supposed to move back to California at the end of December, so no Disneyworld for Jonathan now.  We will have a Disneyland right next to Paris in April 1992.  We are going to the CARRIBEAN to Guadeloupe from the 8thto the 22nd of January.  I’m pretty excited about that.  I can’t wait to swim in a blue, warm sea and get a gorgeous suntan on a beautiful beach with white sand and palm trees.   And I’m not even talking about eating lobster and tropical fruits all day long!   How does it sound?I might be a little bit mean but I kind of remember someone telling me about his trips, too.Love, Paloma
“We all share the same human nature, feel the same emotions of joy and sadness, benevolence or anger, and are all trying to avoid suffering.  Thus as human beings we are basically the same.”--The Dalai Lama

Learn A New Activity

“You know what Fitzgerald said, in your thirties you want friends, in your forties you know friends won’t save you any more than LOVE did.”--Christopher Bram, IN MEMORY OF ANGEL CLARE, a novel
I persuaded Alan go to and see the animated Disney film of THE BEAUTY AND THE BEAST.  We actually enjoyed it very much.  It was interesting to hear ROBBIE BENSON do the voice as The Beast.  Angela Lansbury’s voice was quite recognizable as Mrs. Potts.I wrote mom a few postcards on Veteran’s Day:
November 11, 1991Hi Mom, This house is in Marina Del Rey and it was asking $1,375,000 but they’re willing to take $1,200,000.  Alan loves it and made an offer for $1,100,000.   Who knows what will happen next.  It’s Alan’s turn to make another move.  He may go to $1,120,000 or $1,150,000.  I don’t think he’ll go any higher for it.  It sure is a nice house though.  It even has an elevator.   The kitchen is so nice that it makes one feel like cooking.  Time will tell as to what will happen.I’ll send you a postcard of the other house that is a little bit more expensive…but very nice.Later…Love, Michael
Hi Mom, This is the other house.  It’s asking $1,650,000 (or at least that is what they are hoping for).  It’s really nice—believe me.   Alan really likes this one but it’s just a matter of whether the seller will go any lower (like at least $1,200,000).  If not…I think Alan will for the one in the other postcard in Marina Del Rey.  If that will not work then the one for $740,000 (a townhouse next to where he currently lives will probably be his next move.  I’ll keep you posted on what happens.   I’ll see you on the 23rd.I may go see STRICTLY BALLROOM again with Jim from the Gym, Cwissy and Michael Miller when I come for the Thanksgiving escape.  I love that movie and want to see it again and again.  I’ll take you to see it also.
And a third “SUMMER CLEARANCE” postcard of Abe Lincoln that I picked up at the Palm Springs Cabazon outlet in the Kenneth Cole story some time ago was the last card I sent to mom (along with a book I thought she’d like to read):
Look Mom,…even Lincoln’s ears at the Lincoln Memorial get cleaned. I saw this book at the store and thought you’d like it.Love You, Michael

Oh Wow…just when you think you’ve seen the best film (STRICTLY BALLROOM) a new one comes out that is quite spine-tingling.   It’s called CAPE FEAR.   Robert deNiro was phenomenal.  The new young actress, Juliette Lewis, was something else, too.  Alan and I saw it on November 15th, the release day.  What a creepy (but excellent) show…deNiro was so hateful. 
Alas…movies (and a good story) are always enlightening.  It’s time to merge more exercise into my routine.  It makes me feel better.  Perhaps it is time to learn a new activity.
In any learning activity, changes at the level of the brain and temperament are more marked when one practices an activity regularly.
--ALTRUISM, by Matthieu Ricard

Dance Like There's Nobody Watching

Defend yourself with vigorous exercise.Go forth in the world and learn how to become a gentleman.--both lines in Chapter 2 of THE SIGNATURE OF ALL THINGS, a novel by Elizabeth Gilbert
I found a JUST MARRIED postcard that Paloma sent me earlier this year (on March 11, 1991).  I loved the creativity of the photo card.  It was simple, sweet card from.  Paloma wrote:Balaruc…Dear Michael,Thank you for your last letter (with the pen) and your card from Las Vegas.  Did you stay at CAESARS PALACE?  I’d like to go there.  
Here’s proof that I think about you.  Isn’t this card one-of-a-kind.  I have another one that I will save for next time.  I don’t want to give you too much pleasure at once.  And also…this way you’ll ve to write to get it.  How far is Vegas from L.A.?So…I see you’ve chosen my favorite color for you….TURQUOISE.Love, Paloma
And a more recent card arrived on le 6th Novembre 1991 from PALOMA:
Dear Michael, I thought about you for Halloween.   What did you do?  In 1993 it will be our 10thAnniversary.  I justsaw a sad movie with Julia Roberts.  I think it’s called DYING YOUNG (in English).  It was Ok…have you seen it?  I also saw THE FABULOUS BAKER BOYS.  I didn’t like it that much.   What about you?   I thought it was kind of boring even if Michelle Pfeiffer looked gorgeous.  I’m just writing this short card to tell you that I think about you…
I have to go soon.   Jonathan and I are going to the hairdresser to get our hair shortened a little bit.  Alexandre went this morning, it’s always a family thing (and they don’t even give us family prices).  I want to look nice because I’m also going to have the picture of my new passport taken today.  Interesting…isn’t it?  Oh well…I still don’t know about our holidays but we have to decide by next week.
Who are you IN LOVE with that you are not writing much?  Or AM I WRONG?  Well, I hope you’ll write me soon.Miss you…LOVE, Paloma(Nice card, isn’t it?)
Paloma knows me too well; however, how do I break the news that it is very true.  I AM I LOVE.  I am in love…but with a MAN!   Gulp…I shall tread gently—but she is one that wouldn’t be shocked.   She’s the type that would probably find it exciting that I’m open-minded to be willing to explore all roads.  And speaking of roads…there are more bike trails and roads to explore.  I am always reminded of this when I get a new card from Birda.  She sent a humorous card this time.
11-7-91Michael,I am in UKIAH and on my way to EUREKA.  I’m so sorry it has taken too long to write.  I am back to work and there’s no time to even eat or sleep.Why didn’t I see you when your cousin got married?  Did you make it to the wedding?  And will I see you around—or even on Thanksgiving (I HOPE, I HOPE).   Why is it so hard to see you?  It used to be so easy.  I’d just get ON THE BIKE and ride, you’d be there.I think you should move back NOW.  I know it’s not fair but it seems like you’ve been gone forever!  And now it’s time to come home.  Okay…if you just call around Thanksgiving we will go riding.  Yes!  I have a bike.  You’ve been talking to Mike Miller.   And…I won’t make you move back.  Deal?   Ok…breakfast…before or after we ride?  You decide and let me know.  I’ve got to go to sleep.   Goodnight.See You soon, Love, BirdaP.S.  Good Luck on your new job (when you get it).  Keep in touch.  I loved that postcard of the boat going up river to the castle).  I’m so tired. 
And the following day Alan and I saw such a feel good move.  It makes me want to dance.  Now that’s my new VERY FAVORITE movie.  It’s called STRICTLY BALLROOM.  I saw the lead dancer/actor as “me”.  I wanted to be him: the character in the film as well as the actor in real-life.   Speaking of dancing…I’m reminded of a quote by William W Purkey (author of BECOMING AN INVITATIONAL LEADER).

“You've gotta dance like there's nobody watching,Love like you'll never be hurt,Sing like there's nobody listening,And live like it's heaven on earth.” ― William W. Purkey
Well, there are many things in life that we want…and we do not always get them.
--Elizabeth Gilbert, THE SIGNATURE OF ALL THINGS

The Naughty Priest

It was never too late to be true to oneself.  YOUR life was still in YOUR own hands.--Paul Huljich, BETRAYAL, Of Love and Freedom, a novel
Halloween was just around the corner.   Alan and I didn’t feel like walking the walk in West Hollywood this year.   So we remained at SEA COLONY and didn’t get one trick-or-treater.  Oh well…so much for feeling that holiday.
I did get a nice feel for Halloween with a costume photo my sister-in-law, Helen, sent and when Dorothy Rua sent me a cute pic of herself and her coworkers dressed in costume.  Dorothy was dressed as a black cat but the one that won me over was the pregnant nun.  I had to chuckle at the sight of that one.  
I thought of writing Dorothy back that if I worked there I would have come dressed as the naughty priest.  That would’ve added to my reputation in that office. Ha-ha.
Alan and I had fun looking at OPEN HOUSES.   On Sunday, November 3rd we walked into a cool house in Pacific Palisades after we had a private lunch at our secret spot on El Medio Avenue.  The next day I wrote mom a postcard using the promo postcard of the house we’d seen.
Nov. 4, 1991, MondayHi Mom,I went to see this house yesterday in Pacific Palisades.  It costs $3.5 Million, so it’s definitely out of my price range.  It’s a brand new house and did not have any furnishings inside   This photo card was part of the brochure and I decided to cut it out and make a postcard out of it for you.
Tomorrow evening from 6PM to 9PM will be my first class at IDS-Investors Diversified Services (an AMERICAN EXPRESS Company).   You just called and said that John and Sherri’s phone is off the hook.  I wonder what the whole story on that is about.  I guess you’ll call me later on it.I slept in late today just like you.  I guess I have to be up for a while before I feel totally awake (and not so lazy).There are only nineteen more days until I see you on November 23rd.   And then, on November 27th we go home for Thanksgiving Dinner.  I was also invited to a Thanksgiving Dinner at Alan’s and at the house of Alan’s brother, Richard.   I’m so lucky to have so many folks who care about me (including my family, of course).  Oh well, I think I crammed enough words in here on one little postcard.  Have a GREAT DAY and I will see you soon.   I will continue to keep you posted on the latest via telephone.Love Your Son,Michael
I wanted to be alone.  Shower.  A Book.  A diary entry perhaps.  Stay focused on midnight yet keep my mind off every aspect of it.
--Andre Aciman, CALL ME BY YOUR NAME

Born To Be Wild

It was like when you make a move in chess and just as you take your finger off the piece, you see the mistake you’ve made, and there’s this panic because you don’t know yet the scale of disaster you’ve left yourself open to.--Kazuo Ishiguro, NEVER LET ME GO
Good news.  On November 5th I will have my first Orientation Class with IDS-Investor Diversified Services (AMERICAN EXPRESS) in my quest to become a Financial Planner.  This is a major step in my next career phase (if all goes well). 
I’m excited about mom coming to visit me in L.A. next month around Thanksgiving; however, I will fly back with her to the Bay Area/Alameda for the actual Thanksgiving Dinner.
There once was a book written by Richard Neely called SHATTERED.   It was one of those psychological thriller books that I would like.   It is a masterpiece of fifties high pulp and a breathtaking plunge into the backwaters of memory, identity, and murder.  The author, Richard Neely, will intrigue you if you are a Neely fan.  He knew what they had told him and that his name was Dan Marriott.  He knew that his wife's name was Judith. He knew that there had been a car crash and that he had been horribly disfigured and that at last the doctors had put him back together again. But he remembered nothing. And suddenly it was terribly important that Marriott's memory come back. Because, in the gaps, there lurked something -- or someone -- that could kill him.
And so…since I missed out on the book a film based on it was just coming out.  I persuaded Alan to go to see it with me.  It had a twist ending.  It starred TOM BERENGER and GRETA SCACCHI.  “That’s the kind of movie we like,” I said to Alan.“Yeah, that was wild.”  “Maybe we’re born to be wild…sometimes.”“Only sometimes….”
“Well, if I somehow lost part of my memory you better help make me remember.  I don’t want to miss out on all of the good things I’ve experienced.”Alan laughed.I added, “And my idea of wild right now is going to the gym and making sure I do my sit-ups!”

He lies down on one of the inclined boards in order to do sit-ups.  This is always something you have to think yourself into; the body dislikes them more than any other exercise. –Christopher Isherwood, A SINGLE MAN

A Dozen Contenders

To the world I looked a pretty, rich, and gay young man, on his way from one pleasure to another, and providing himself, on the way, with the best of everything.  But in truth I was just being whirled about, forward and backward, by my aching heart, a poor fool out on a wild goose chase after a woman. --Isak Dinesen, Seven Gothic TalesTHE DREAMERS tale
The Washington D.C. escape was over but it was quite an awakening.  I especially loved seeing the stacks and stacks of US dollars on crates at the Bureau of Printing and Engraving.  If only I had one of those crates ($100 dollar notes versus $1 notes, of course).  Ha-ha.
I will soon be home to the BAY AREA to celebrate Lauren Armijo’s 6th Birthday.  I’m so happy I will be there for that occasion.  The day before I left I sent mom another postcard with the latest scoop: October 17, 1991Hi Mom,I just thought I would send you another card today.  I got this in Washington D.C. also.  Have you noticed the new Washington D.C. stamps?  I am really excited about coming to see you and to celebrate Lauren’s Birthday.  It seems like it has been such a long time—in fact, the last time I was there was August 2nd-5th.  By the time you get this car I’ll probably be back in L.A. but at least you’ll be here on November 23rd and then we will celebrate Thanksgiving together here in Los Angeles.

I need to start working out.  I feel like I’ve gained weight.  However, you are the wrong person to tell…since you are my mother.   Even if I weighed 500 pounds you’d still say I looked OKAY.I hope the three latest job prospects work out:      1.  Financial Planner with IDS-AMERICAN EXPRESS, this one is taking forever but I’m still in the running.2    2.  Marketing Manager with MALAYSIA AIRLINES, I do have a Business degree with a Marketing concentration so I can only cross my fingers for this one. 3    3.  Special Agent with the FBI, it was rather exciting to be in a boardroom with other candidates for this job at the Federal Building in L.A.   There are a dozen contenders, so who knows?  I may just be on my way to becoming Agent BOND, 007.  Ha-ha.
Time will tell.   Thanks for being there when I need you.  I LOVE YOU.Always,LOVE,Michael
Alan and I found another great film to see that starred AL PACINO and MICHELLE PFEIFFER called FRANKIE AND JOHNNY (Directed by Garry Marshall).   In a nutshell it was about Johnny (Al Pacino) who has just been released from prison, and gets a job in a café beside waitress Frankie (Michelle Pfeiffer). Frankie is a bit of a loner, but Johnny is determined their romance will blossom.  It was a great romantic drama with some comedy peppered-in.  I loved the story.  And yes…two of my favorite actors. 
Johnny: "You don't have to be afraid anymore."Frankie: "I am. I'm afraid. I'm afraid to be alone, I'm afraid not to be alone. I'm afraid of what I am, what I'm not, what I might become, what I might never become. I don't want to stay at my job for the rest of my life but I'm afraid to leave. And I'm just tired, you know, I'm just so tired of being afraid."
--as heard while watching the 1991 film FRANKIE AND JOHNNY

Sometimes We Even Have Fun

“I once got this fortune cookie that said, "only when all things around you are different will you truly belong". Well, we're all different that's for sure. I see Jane everyday at the institute, and once in while Dede let's her take us out to a fancy restaurant. Sometimes we even have fun. After a while I was the most famous kid at Jane's school. But then a year later, a 6 year old boy named Willie Yamaguchi got into law school, and suddenly I wasn't such a big deal anymore. But I don't care, because I was happy."--Fred Tate, the genius child in LITTLE MAN TATE, a 1991 motion-picture
Los Angeles has a few perks.  Sometimes I get invited to special screenings before the film is actually released.  Sometimes we even have fun.  Alan and I went to see LITTLE MAN TATE, starring Jodie Foster.  I feel like I know Jodie Foster.   She’s like a peer to me (born in 1962).  I still remember her as a little girl on the TV show THE FAMILY AFFAIR.  I grew up with her.  I’ve always tried to make a point of following any work she does.   She’s good at detail and a very smart woman.   LITTLE MAN TATE is to be released on November 1st but Alan and I had the opportunity to see it early:

Dede (played by Jodie Foster) is a sole parent trying to bring up her son Fred. When it is discovered that Fred is a genius, she is determined to ensure that Fred has all the opportunities that he needs, and that he is not taken advantage of by people who forget that his extremely powerful intellect is harbored in the body and emotions of a child.  Jodie Foster also directed this one so I was anxious to see it.  It was an excellent film.  I loved it.  Some aspects of little Fred Tate reminded me of 'me'.
And then…with a blink of an eye I was in Washington DC with Alan.   While I was there I kept thinking of my mom and I wanted to take her on a trip her.   Someday I will do just that.  I sent mom a couple of postcards.   One postcard depicted Abraham Lincoln’s bedroom; the other postcard depicted a painting I loved at the National Gallery of ART titled MY GEMS, from 1888 by William Michael Harnett b. 1848 d.1892.
October 13, 1991Dear Mom, We went to the VIETNAM MEMORIAL yesterday where thy had the names of all the soldiers who died in the VIETNAM WAR.  I looked up ARMIJO and there was one from Albuquerque named FRANK C ARMIJO, Private First Class.  I wonder where are relations connect with him.
I didn’t actually see this room in the WHITE HOUSE but it’s one of my favorite decorated rooms from all of the postcards I purchased.  It looks nice, doesn’t it?
Washington D.C. has a nice railway transit system that’s almost exactly like BART.  I like it here.   There are a lot of government offices and buildings (everywhere).  Later…Love, Michael
October 14, 1991Hi Mom,I am just about to leave Alexandria, Virginia for the Washington Dulles Aiport.  We went to the Arlington Cemetary toay and I saw the gravesite of JOHN F KENNEDY.You would love the State of Virginia.  It’s really pretty here.We went to Mount Vernon, Virginia and saw George Washington’s house.  I really like it in Virginia.  I wouldn’t mind living here.I got a framed replica of this painting in the museum gift shop because I liked it so much:  MY GEMS.  I got you something from Virginia.  Love you…See You in 4-days…Michael J Armijo
One did not depend on MARINES for good table manners.  One depended on them to have the right instincts when it came to matters of life and death.--Viet Thanh Nguyen, THE SYMPATHIZER, a Pulitzer-Prize winning novel

Politics Of Dancing

“Nothing is more precious than INDEPENDENCE and FREEDOM.” –Viet Thanh Nguyen, THE SYPATHIZER
It’s Helen’s Birthday.  I always miss family when I realize one of them has a Birthday.   Well, the group family photo mom wanted so badly is done.  I have a small copy of it.  I think it came out pretty nicely.  Mom will like it.
Alan and I saw the most wonderful movie called MAN IN THE MOON starring an amazing young actress named Reese Witherspoon.  I immediately urged mom to see it and I also wrote my niece, Ashley, about it.  I know she'll enjoy it also.  It’s on my FAVORITE movies list now.  It just came out on October 4th.

I’m reading a cool book now, too, called THE PRINCE OF TIDES by author PAT CONROY.   I’m excited because the film version of the story is coming out around Christmastime.

I found a cool Polaroid of my nieces (ASHLEY AND HOLLY) in their pajamas that I photographed on February 3, 1991.  It makes me want to see them sooner versus later; however, right now the focus is my trip to Washington DC with Alan.   I’ve never been there and I’m looking forward to this escape.


THE ARCHANGEL MICHAEL 
Oil on Wood Painting Postcard10-10-91Dear Mom,This is one of my favorite paintings at the MEXICO ART EXHIBIT I went to last Sunday.  I guess you can easily figure out why I liked this one (THE ARCHANGEL MICHAEL).  I am at the LAX Airport now at 7:55AM (YAWN), getting ready (excitedly) to board for Washington D.C.

In Washington D.C. tomorrow they will vote on whether Clarence Thomas will be elected to the Supreme Court after his new sexual harassment scandal with Anita Hill was publicized.  Politics…Politics…That’s Washington D.C.!Oh well…it’s only a week until I fly into OAKLAND.  I can’t wait to see you.Love, Michael J Armijo

It’s funny that I’m going to Washington D.C. when ‘in reality’ the only politics that interests me is the song by RELAX from 1983 called POLITICS OF DANCING.   That song gets me riding my bike so very swiftly.  I love the beat and the tune (so very much).Alan and I are having a great time in D.C.  It was amazing to see the billions of dollars on crates at the Bureau of Printing and Engraving.  There is so much CASH!  I wish I had some. Inspiring.

A Postcard for mom from THE CAPITAL HILTON, 
Washington DC
10-11-91, 7AMHi Mom,I’m going on a tour of THE WHITE HOUSE today.   This is where Alan and I are staying (THE CAPITAL HILTON).   It’s very CLEAN here (not like New York).   We are very close to the States of Maryland and Virginia.   We will probably go to Arlington, Virginia on Sunday.See you soon!Love,Michael
A spy IN LOVE was a spy who might be manipulated.--Ben Macintyre, AGENT ZIGZAG