Michael Joe Armijo's Blog, page 5

A Gift to Myself

‘You’ve changed me more than you know, and will always be a part of everything I am.’--Paula McLain, THE PARIS WIFE 

Now that 1999 is upon us the Y2K (the Year 2000) problem lurks.  Many are worried that thing will malfunction technologically on 01-01-2000.  It remains to be seen.  I’m sure many are biting their nails over it. 

I received letters/cards from four cousins that really seem to be ‘sticking’ as far as keeping in touch:  Linda Tafoya-Korenke, MaryAnn Montoya-Gehling, Marie-Antoinette Anaya de Lucero, Edna Garcia-Maestas: 

An email and belated Holiday Newsletter from Linda: 

Saturday, Jan 9, 1999 

HI Michael.  You are welcome for the newsletter and current info on Tony’s family.  Also, I forgot to put that Antonia’s birthdate is Jan. 27, 1942. 

Yes, our newsletter is usually about a week late.  It is so much more relaxing to do it after Xmas.  If you could see all that I do for Xmas you would know why!  I realize everyone is busy during Xmas and has lots to do.  This year was extra busy because we had Grandma Korenke and Bob’s sister, Marie, here.  Then, we also helped a needy family on Xmas Eve.  We were frantically getting a banjo fixed up for Kirk for Xmas.  The original repairman clunked out on us, so we had to find someone else on Xmas Eve to get the job done.  Everything worked out OK but I was really stressed on Xmas Eve. 

Sometimes I think we try to do too much.  We all love to five and we want to give the best and most authentic gifts.  Maybe we cause our own stress.  I bought a Xmas ornament today that says “Jesus is the Reason for the Season”.  How appropriate, huh?  I also bought a pen that is a Xmas pen that says the same thing.  I will put it around my neck next year when I am wrapping gifts to help me remember! 

What a great uncle you are to get Ashley plane tickets and take her to her favorite pop group N’SYNC!  Have a great tie.  Tell here I said HI.  I remember her at the reunion and helping us set up and at the end...and also her sister, Holly. 

It sounds like you are off to a terrific stat with $5 million in only seven clients!   

Can you send Antonia a copy of the family chart?  I know she would appreciate it.  Enjoy your warm weather. 

Love, Linda 

PS:  Did I thank you for the beautiful picture you took while in ITALY?  What a beautiful place to have brunch!  It really is a gorgeous place.  Thank you very much!  I’ll have to put it by the great cad you sent me from Italy! 

Love, Linda 

The dot.com bubble is bubbling at this time.  Everyone is in a frenzy over the latest dotcom company.  I, personally, love Amazon.com.   It started in 1994 as an online bookstore.   

A typewritten letter from MaryAnn, that was rather “heavy”.  Perhaps it is A Gift to Myself that requires re-reading. Truthfully, my BLOG is A Gift to Myself.

January 9, 1999 

Dear Michael,  

I saw a movie tonight, SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE (from 1993).  Dave wanted me to watch it.   

All through the movie I waited for the sign that Dave wanted me to see It didn’t come until the end.  The hero puts out his hand and the heroine takes the hero’s hand.  There is a close up shot of the hands joining together. There is a close up shot of the hands joining together. Dave said, “Take Michael’s hand M.A.”  That was the first sign. 

At the end of the movie the elevators close and when the two doors come together, they make a picture like the Virgin Mary with rays of light around her.  Dave Said, “M.A., remember the first time the Light told you that He has destiny for you and Michael?  The Light told you that you are like a ray of light to him.  You are like a mother and child to each other.  You teach one another.  You asked for a sign that it was the Light talking to you and when you went to church you saw a picture of the virgin with rays of light around her, and at her feet was the baby Jesus.  It was just like the Light had describes to you.  The light told you then the you are to bring Michael home.  You wrote Michael the story behind the story.  Taht was the second sign. 

There was a song playing at the end.  It was sung by Jimmy Durante.  “Make someone happy. Makes just one person happy.  And you will be happy too.”  “Stay in Michael’s life, MA.  You will make him happy and you will be happy too,” Dave said.  That was the third sign. 

Photo: Jimmy Durante

What you don’t know is that I was giving up on you.  But Dave had me to see the movie.  He reminded me we have a destiny. 

I don’t care if you believe this or not.  It happened to me tonight.  I jerked and sat up straight when I saw the hands and the outline of the Virgin on the elevator.  I listened when Dave talked to me.  It HAPPENS TO ME.  I HEAR IT.  I FEEL IT.  I HAVE FELT SOMETHING STRANGE SINCE THE FIRST TIME I GOT A LETTER FORM YOU.  It doesn’t matter if you believe me or not.  It’s the truth.  AND THAT IS WHY I GET HURT WHEN YOU TREAT ME LIKE JUST ANOHTER RELATIVE AT THE REUNION.  That is why I get hurt when you don’t call me on Christmas.  We don’t have an ordinary relationship.  We are not just cousins, and we are not just friends.  Our relationship is almost spiritual.  It’s special.  A GHOST, Michael, brought us together.   GOD, Michael, sent that ghost to talk to me.  GOD, has a destiny for us. 

According to Dave, we are brother and sister whether we like it or not.  Well, there are many times when I don’t like it, and I don’t want it.  Then there are other times when I think we are definitely kindred spirits.  

I don’t understand this anymore than you do.  But I know this, I am not crazy.  I am not imagining it.  It happened to me.  Messages continue to come to me, CONSTANTLY.  And they all have to do with YOU.  If you think I want this to happen to me you are crazy.  If you think this is fun for me, think again. If you think it doesn’t scare me at times you are wrong. 

So, while you live your life in California and think of me once every two weeks, I am getting messages daily on how to make you r life happier.  And what’s more, I don’t care how weird this sounds.  IT HAPPENS TO ME. 

Just do me one favor.  Don’t answer this and say, “What a nice letter you sent me, Mary Ann.  I’m glad you liked the movie.  Did I teel you I am going to a play tonight, and that my business is going well?” 

FOR ONCE GET THE MESSAGE.  IT DOESN’T HAVE ANYTHING TO DO WITH YOUR DAILY SCHEDULE, YOUR BUSINESS, OR YOUR ENTERTAINMENT.  If you don’t understand this letter, DON’T ANSWER IT. 

The impeachment trial of President Bill Clinton continues.  It centered around two issues: 

Perjury:  lying under oath about his relationship with Monica Lewinsky 

Obstruction of Justice: trying to cover up the affair.  

Photo: President Bill Clinton with Monica Lewinsky, his intern

A letter from Marie-Antoinette: 

January 11, 1999 

Happy New Year!  Dearest Cousin Michael, 

Hope and pray your New Year started out GREAT!  Thank you so much for the beautiful gift! When I first opened it—it looked like an original.  You're so professional.  Michael, God Bless you! 

Again, I apologize for not being consistent with my correspondence but my daughter, Bernadette, just started working at the Federal Prison in Florence, Colorado and I’ve got the baby, Destiny, all day—five days a week—and it’s really difficult, trying to make or give quality time to all of the important people in my life (including you, of course) and feeling satisfaction but lately I’m falling a little short of time and energy.  You can whip out the violin any minute now.  No, seriously, we should have forty-eight-hour days, don’t you think?  Oh well, the more the wonderful Lord gives me I seem less appreciative these days but they say we’re supposed to improve with age, so I’ll wait patiently!   

What’s new with you?  Any new trips planned--you world traveler, you?   

How are all the relatives down in California?  Be sure and give them my love when you see or talk to them, would you please?   

Let me know what’s new with you and I’ll have a little more info for you next time.  I have a big favor to ask of you.  Could you please say a prayer for Ruben, my husband.  We have an appointment with a couple of specialists this afternoon.  It seems when the doctor ordered a Cat Scan, they found a tumor in the carotid artery or the left side of his neck.  They don’t want to do a biopsy because if it’s malignant it would spread, so they are going to diced today when to go in and try to remove it completely.  I’ll keep you posted on how everything comes out. So, please keep him in your prayers.  You're such a sweet and wonderful guy that you probably have a direct line to the Man Up Above.  Lately, I’ve asked HIM for so much that I’ll use you as a go-between, ok?   

Love Always, 

Your Cuz, 

Marie-Antoinette 

Britney Spears has a hot one going on right now called BABY ONE MORE TIME.  

And there’s a great Robin Williams movie that we loved that’s based on a true story.  It’s about a doctor who uses HUMOR to treat his patients.  I love it.  All doctors should see this movie and a course study on using HUMOR to treat patients should be a requirement.  This would be A Gift to Myself---and to everyone else! 

A sweet floral card from Edna: 

1/5/1999 

Dear Michael, 

Happy New Year!  I’m sitting here working a special election as an election clerk and I’m bored out of my mind. I came in at 6AM and I’ll be here until 8PM.  My New Year is going nice and slow—the way I like it.  Ha-ha.   

My family (immediate) isn’t big, so there’s a lot of time for individual attention and time.  My life is at a standstill right now.  I hope it's a blessing and not the calm before the storm.  My dad stopped drinking...again!  Thank God! 

So, what’s up with you?  How were your holidays?  Did you party, eat, drink and be merry?  How about work—are you planning a change in the near future?  Resolutions—did you make any?  How’s your family? 

Oh...I did cut my hair very short.  I’m happy with it.  Teresa was my encouragement. She’s doing good.  Mike’s doing good.  Rickie’s doing good.  Cheers to everyone doing good including yours... 

Edna 

“He could bring laughter like a stray thread of sunshine to brighten even the most shadowed room.” --Kate Quinn, THE DIAMOND EYE 

The Beginning of Verona

‘Sometimes when ‘my leg goes to sleep’ and I feel a thousand pins and needles tingling inside it, I say to myself, “Aha!  So, THIS is what being alive really is!’  (In French: “ants in one’s leg”; Dennis the Menace quote: “ginger ale in his leg”). --Douglas Hofstadter, I AM A STRANGE LOOP  

29th/12/98 

Just a few words from PARIS where we had a good time, since we are leaving tomorrow.  I like to see again places where I used to go.

That was also a lot of fun to be with my dad and brother for Christmas. 

Guess who was standing next to me the other day in a tiny lingerie store?  Woody Allen and his wife!  

This morning, we went to Notre Dame and this afternoon I still have some shopping left before we leave, so I’ll write again soon.  Hope you had a great time for the holidays, too. 

Love, 

Paloma 

1999 has begun and my days at Charles Schwab & Company are over.   I have begun taking the steps to start our boutique business that will be known as Verona Capital Management. When Alan and I were in Venice last year (1998) we took a day trip to Verona, Italy and loved everything about that small Italian city.  I am President and Alan is Vice-President, but we are both the only Investment Advisors of the firm.  It’s an exciting launch for us.  We will take it slow.  I have only one or two clients from Schwab who want to be clients of ours but—as time goes by—we will grow the business. 

Gloria (Alan’s mom) gave me a beautiful martini glass photo card to commemorate my retirement from Charles Schwab.  She, too, will be a client along with her husband, Jack.  This is the beginning of Verona. 

“99” 

Dearest Michael, 

Let all retirement dinners be the proverbial watch as a token of long service.  Hence, here it is!  

Loads of Good Luck and exclusive clients at Verona Capital.  May it prosper and bring you all you wish it to. 

Your Grateful “Exclusive” Clients, 

Gloria & Jack 

“Alan, all we need is one client like MADONNA and then we’re set,” I announced after reading his card. 

Jan. 2, 1999 

Michael, 

I can’t believe it!  We will finally get coffee together EVERY morning!  WE have to have a schedule 21 days in a row but key words are CNBC, VERONA 25, RELAX, NO STRESS, EXERCISE, WORKOUT, RUN, BEL AIR HOTEL, NATE N’ AL’S, GENTLEMAN10. 

I love being with you all day.  Health and then, wealth but most of all CONGRATULATIONS on being a total WINNER at everything you do. 

I Love You, 

Alan 

“How do we know if we don’t try?” 

‘I work alone, which is the reason my fees may be more than most.  I provide services not everyone provides.’--Mary Kublica, in her book LOCAL WOMAN MISSING  

The Washing Machine

While walking-- “After four or five miles, I find I have clarified the most puzzling problems.” --Irvin D Yalom, WHEN NIETZSCHE WEPT 

The holidays can be a beautiful time for families, but it is often a lonely time for people that do not have anyone.  I find that making friends can become part of your family.  I hope more people realize that they can build relationships that can become even better than your real family at times.   

I did receive more Christmas Cards this week from Rebecca Ortega-Banks, Victor Lucero, Rossana Lucero-Logsdon, MaryAnn Montoya-Gehling, Dottie Montoya-Gerstner, Angie and Gabe Romero.  The cards that struck me are the ones that wrote more personal words:

From Rebecca Ortega-Banks: 

To My Dear Cousin Michael, 

You have grown to be such a handsome man.  You look so much like your dad.  I’ve seen pictures of Uncle Nelson, looking just like you, the same poise.  We miss him very much! 

Have a wonderful Holiday.  If you ever come to the Bay Area, please look me up.  Like golf?  I live on the Half Moon Bay golf course, 4th hole.  Bring your mom.  I would love to visit with her. Love you, Your Cousin, Rebecca, Don & Jessica

I laughed a little at Uncle Victor Lucero’s card.  He is actually my Grand Uncle.  He signed it “Uncle Victor Lucero & Common Law Wife—LaVinnia Vialpando for 26 ½ years”.   I thought that funny because if he’s been with her for 26 ½ years why not marry her?  The fact that he wrote ‘common law wife’ insinuates that he’s been living with her but they never married. 

Rosana Lucero-Logsdon wrote a sweet note that included a family photo: 

Dear Michael, 

It has been great getting to know you.  I’m so glad you contacted me about our family history. It’s amazing to me how “small” this world really is.  I would really love to get to meet you in person some time.  My half-brother, Bill, who lives in Colorado told me you had tried to contact him.  He didn’t know who you were, and there is another attorney named William Lucero where he works.  This other attorney is a single guy, and he, my brother Bill, is always getting the other Bill's mail.  Anyway, I told him who you were and he felt a little embarrassed.  I hope you have a great Christmas! 

I know Bill could probably tell you a great deal about the family.  He has been to visit Uncle Frank in South Carolina.  He has visited a woman in New Mexico who knew all of the Lucero “Boys”, including your grandfather, Fidel, when he was young.  He has learned of books written of the Lucero history.  I think it is entitled LUCERO DE GODOY.  Anyway, I just wanted to say, thank you again for looking us up and bringing the Lucero’s together.  What a wonderful gift! 

Your Cousin, Rossana 

From MaryAnn Montoya-Gehling: 

Michael, 

Thank you for the Christmas gift.  The print of the Italian Window is simple, yet interesting.  Don’t you wonder what goes on behind the glass?  I’m sad that I can’t hang it anywhere.  It has deep gashes and scratches all over.  You were thinking of me when you sent it, and that’s what counts.  M.A. 

MaryAnn also sent me a short ‘true’ story/letter that I must share.  It’s personal but heartfelt: 

THE WASHING MACHINE 

The day after I told you I had had cancer I had an episode with the washing machine.  I woke up Monday morning, remembered I told you about the mastectomies the night before and burst into tears.  I cried while I got dressed, made my breakfast drink and started my daily chores.  Then, I stopped myself.  I wasn’t going to go through the day crying.  

My book needed some work, so I turned on the computer and put a load of laundry in the washing machine.  I was just on my way to study when I noticed the washing machine sounded weird.  I went back to check it and noticed the water was to the top of the tub, but the water was still running.  I turned off the washing machine, the water kept coming.  I pulled the plug, the water gushed out onto the new tile floor in the kitchen.  Frantic, I turned the water faucets.  One moved, but the other one was stuck.  The water was seeping into the living room and the carpet.  I screamed and grabbed the mop, but it was coming so fast I couldn’t keep up.  I pulled on the faucets again.  Nothing happened.  The floor was covered with water, and more was coming.   

Faster and faster, I grabbed the phone and called my son, Robert.   

Robert said, “I’ll come over right away.” 

He lives twenty-five minutes away.  I couldn’t wait.  I called Honey at work.   

Honey said, “I’m on my way.” 

I went back to mopping.  By now, the water was in my shoes and creeping up to my ankles.  I made a barricade with towels to the entrance of the living room.  This kept the water from invading the carpet. 

Honey made it home in record time.  He came in the house, turned off the faucet that was stuck with one yank and began mopping before I could even move. 

By the time Robert arrived the water was cleaned-up from under the table and stove.  Soon, the kitchen was dry, and we had fans going to dry the water under the tiles. 

That afternoon, Honey and I went for a walk in the bluffs.  I explained how the water had a purpose.  It was determined to get out of the washing machine, and nothing could stop it, not even unplugging the machine.  It’s as if the water needed to free itself.  Once it did, it allowed Honey to turn it off. 

We walked in silence for a while.  I thought about the washing machine and YOU, the tears started.  We were outside, in public.  I wanted to stop crying.  I tried but I couldn’t.  The pain of my mastectomies longed to be exposed.  It was time to look at it.   

I had dealt with the first mastectomy beautifully.  I changed my lifestyle, went into therapy, researched breast cancer from every source I could find.  I even went back to church.  In my research I had discovered in order to be well and healthy, you must heal your body, mind and spirit.  If one is out of whack, the whole body suffers. 

I did everything.  I joined cancer survivor groups, changed my diet, meditated and talked.  Oh, how I talked.  I wanted everyone to know that cancer wasn’t a death sentence.  When I gave speeches, I had it in my bio that I was a breast cancer survivor.  I gladly told the audience cancer was curable. 

For five years I fought to keep my other breast.  I told everyone I could bear losing my left breast because I still had the right one.  Then, one day after I had a minor surgery on my breast, I was told I had a pre-cancerous condition.  It was only a matter of time before the right breast would develop cancer.  I was devastated. 

When I left the doctor's office I decided to have another mastectomy as soon as possible. Something in me died.  I didn’t want to fight any longer.  I had done everything I could to keep the cancer from claiming my other breast.  Nothing worked.  The cancer was back.  My body betrayed me.  I stopped crying.  I stopped feeling.  I threw myself in work.  I became an activist for the community.  Every time I thought of the mastectomies I stopped and told myself I would think about it later.  But later never came. 

Then I told you about the cancer and I couldn’t put off the grief any longer.  The tears started when I talked to you on the phone.  They haven’t stopped.   

My grief is like the washing machine, overflowing with water.  It has a mind of its own and it will free itself whether I want it to or not. 

Please understand, Michael.  I don’t want to involve you with my pain, my loss.  But the tears won’t stop.  I need time to heal.  The only way to turn off the faucet of my grief is to let the tears come.  I love you.   M.A. 

I am on that bridge.  I’m crossing over the river of grief to solid ground. 

I hope you understand.  I’m not trying to unload all of my pain on you.  It just happens that somehow you are connected.  I had to tell you about the mastectomies.  They are a part of me.  To keep that a secret meant I had to lie to you.  It kept you from the truth of who I am.  M.A. 

She ended with this photo of a Bridge, making me recall that beautiful song that lifts me from any sort of depression, A BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATER. 

‘This is either an accident so extraordinary that we have no right to admit it or an actual fact which proves that our two lives have already touched in the past as some mysterious point and that will meet again in the future, never to part.' --Maurice LeBlanc, THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE 

In the Recesses of My Mind...

‘Families can be vicious; he was fond of saying.’ --Hadley Richardson, describing her husband, Ernest M Hemingway, in the book THE PARIS WIFE by Paula McLain 

More Christmas Cards this week from Natalie Littrell, Reed and Deanna Campbell, Marc and Maria Angell, Dorothy Rua, Lorraine Lucero-Mason & Ronald Mason, Lottie, Michael and Reida Powell, Willie Lucero, Chad Mark Glen...and a Master of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering announcement for Denise Dawn Padilla scheduled for December 19, 1998 at the University of New Mexico. 

Cousin MaryAnn Montoya-Gehling in Colorado Springs sent this beautiful photo card of a tree. On the back of the photo card, it is printed: “Friendship is a sheltering tree.”--Samuel Taylor Coleridge.  MaryAnn wrote:  

Michael, 

I love this card of the tree.  Do you know where I found it?  

One day I was cleaning out my files and I found my box of cards I’ve save through the years. This card was given to me by Danita many years ago.  She knew i would love it and she was right.  Now, I want you to have it.  Read the back of it: “Friendship is a sheltering tree.” 

In this short time, we’ve known each other I think we have sheltered each other.  

I love this tree.  I want to have a picnic underneath its branches.  I would serve fried chicken, pasta salad, homemade biscuits, fresh fruit salad and chocolate cake.  I would wear a long white dress with high top shoes and carry a pink parasol.   

I would read Pablo Neruda love poems and listen to Pachelbel's Canon in D.  Ah, romantic! My imagination does go wild sometimes. 

And she continues... 

Dec 6th, St. Nick Day 

It’s German custom to celebrate St. Nick’s Day.  The children put a shoe on their front porch on December 6th and wait for St. Nick to knock on the door.  When he does, they run to the door, peek outside, and check their shoes.  If they have been bad, they get a piece of coal.  If they have been good, they get candy or a toy. 

Honey grew up celebrating this holiday and we have carried on the tradition with our children and grandchildren. 

When Tanner peeked outside the door tonight, he saw his shoe was filled.  He jumped up and down and screamed, “Oh my God, I can’t believe it!” 

And then she wrote further... 

STOP THINKING ABOUT IT 

Do you remember when I told you that MEN think about IT 20,000 times a day? 

This is a reminder to STOP THINKING ABOUT IT! 

I did laugh out loud at this one. 

And lastly, she wrote: 

Michael, 

I saw this in a magazine and I thought of us right away. 

That’s me and you and our journey together.  I’ve felt like we were on unstable ground, about to fall in the water.  We've made it so far because we had SOMEONE TO GUIDE THE WAY. That someone has been Dave, the Light and sometimes You and sometimes Me.  

We have guided each other when we needed it. Notice what the kids are doing—holding hands.

Hold my hand, Michael.  Be my brother.  

M.A. 

And just for fun I must add a list I printed that it titled UNFORGETTABLE LINES/PHRASES mostly heard from Gloria Weiner Freiman-Cohen (Alan’s mom), during a trip to New York City in April 1998. I recently found the list and it made me smile, imagining Gloria saying it all. 

“Then you’re going to sound like sour grapes.” 

“You know...in the recesses of my mind...” 

“It’s an Arabic, Aerobic, Aromic, Aeromatic Candle...” 

“I’m a Court Jester.” 

“Don’t put your shit on the table!” 

“They imported that man from...” 

“She must be in a severe depression.” 

“I need closure.” 

“It’s a Prix-Fix Dinner.” 

“Look, There’s a car from Minnesota!” 

“You’ve got to learn to Play the Game.” 

“Ok everyone...OPERATION GET ALONG.” 

“If someone gives me a half a loaf, I give a whole loaf back.” 

“The liquor is clouding my mind.” 

Since Gloria is so philanthropic; Since Gloria is a philanthropist.

“What is this?  An eating orgy weekend?” 

“Oh, you’ll find it at Bergdorf-Goodman...I stand corrected.” 

“Love is blind and Marriage is the eye-opener.” 

Character and Intellect: ‘One without the other is but halfway to happiness.  It is the fool’s misfortune to fail in obtaining the position, the employment, the neighborhood, and the circle of friends that suit him.’--Baltasar Gracia, THE ART OF WORLDLY WISDOM 

CHEEK TO CHEEK

‘At the most tragic moment in life, when the mind is no more than a seething confusion, when the whole body is shaken by the tremor of anguish, a certain logic continues to connect our ideas...’--Maurice LeBlanc, THE SECRET OF SAREK 

I had forgotten at the Denver Family Reunion this past summer that I had given everyone a ‘Getting to Know Us’ survey for all to complete.  Sadly, only sixteen surveys were filled out (and some of them not completely); however, it’s fun to read them now.  Here are the responses (including mine): 

Edna Maestas from Santa Fe, NM, Descended from Augustin GARCIA: 

I’ve been told that my grandfather Augustin was the first person to own a vehicle in the village of Ledoux, New Mexico.  My grandmother, Juanita, used to show off her coffin.  

I am most proud of my immediate and extended family.  My grandfather’s children, grandchildren and great grandchildren all reside within a 250-mile radius (with the exception of one family). 

My earliest childhood memory was when my parents, brothers and I were on a long journey.  I later on in life realized we were traveling to El Canon, the area where my Grandfather Augustin and Grandmother Margarita lived and the property that I now own. 

The death of my daughter and brothers has encouraged me to appreciate life.   

Isabel (aka Izzy) Montoya from Farmington, NM, Descended from Jesusita GARCIA: 

I remember my grandmother, Jesusita, rode horses side saddle. 

I’m proud of music, getting my Master's Degree. 

My first memory was being scared of my Grandpa Montoya. 

Our immediate family are all very clumsy. 

Patrick Montoya from Tuscon, Arizona, Descended from Jesusita GARCIA: 

I am most proud of my music as a vocation. 

My earliest childhood memory was kicking my older brother, Frank (18 years older) in the shins for fun.  I didn’t know it hurt until I saw him moaning on the bed. 

As far as my immediate family...we all have bad backs and loose bowels (addendum to my sister, Izzy’s comment).  

Noel Rosser (married to Susie Garcia Rosser) from Moore, Oklahoma, Susie is descended from Mela GARCIA: 

I married Susan Garcia.  I am proud of helping my mom wash clothes in an old black kettle. 

Susie Garcia Rosser from Moore, OK, Descended from Mela GARCIA. 

My mother, Mela, was a workaholic.  She made the best homemade beef jerky.  I am most proud that my mother was Mela Garcia.  My earliest memory was probably when my parents separated.  

Craig Rosser from Oklahoma City, OK, Descended from Mela GARCIA. 

I remember Mela’s homemade tortillas, green chili and deer jerky.  I also remember her smile and her laugh.  

I am proud of my Marine Corps experience and my 4-time rifle expert and company as high shooter during boot camp.  

My earliest childhood memory was being bathed in a large tin tub. 

A story about my immediate family was when I was going to a California Angels baseball game as a kid.  I had to go pee, so Dad took me and when we returned, we found out a baseball landed right in my seat!  It’s probably a good thing I had to go pee! 

Brenda Rosser from Moore, OK, Descended from Mela GARCIA: 

I remember how Grandma Mela used to make homemade tortillas and the best jerky ever! I am most proud of my son, Samuel Alexander Rosser. 

Johnny Cisneros from Cheyenne, Wyoming, Descended from Mela GARCIA: 

I’m most proud of my hobbies of hunting and fishing.  I am very happy that somebody in our family could put something together for our big family.  THANKS A LOT, Michael! 

Chris Hayes-Zullo of Denver, CO; Descended from Julia GARCIA: 

I spend many summers with my Grandmother, Eulalia and George. In their garden in Hayward, California.  Lisa Casados and Cassandra Hayes-Neptune remember the house on York Street.  I remember Grand Aunt Lore (Loretta Garcia Chavez). 

I’m proud that I’ve been married to Raymond J Zullo for 21-years and that we’ve raised two beautiful daughters (Raemon Chirstine Zullo and Megan Larissa Zullo).  I remember at around three years old living on High Street before Nathan’s birth.  

My mother, Virginia Marie Armijo from Alameda, CA, Descended from Matilde GARCIA: 

Matilde was my mother-in-law.  I married her son, Joe Nelson Armijo.  She was a very nice lady.  I am most proud of my family, my three sons, Tony, Michael and John.  I’m most proud of my grandchildren: Ashley, Holly, Ally, Dylan, Lauren and Leigh. 

My earliest childhood memory was when my Uncle Frank and my Aunt Mollie took me to Las Vegas, New Mexico for the weekend.  They took me shopping and bought me a coat, a dress, a pair of shoes and a doll. 

My most sad experience is when my husband, Joe, died.  I’ll never forget that incident. 

Ashley Armijo from Alameda, CA, Descended from Matilde GARCIA: 

Matilde is my Grandpa Joe’s mom. 

Holly Armijo from Alameda, CA, Descended from Matilde GARCIA” 

Matilde is Grandpa Joe’s mother.  I know that she’s my great grandma.  I know she got married twice.  I also know that I’m on the Armijo side. 

I’m most proud of my swimming because I get lots of ribbons.  I’m also proud of my family because they will be there for me like I’ll be there for them.   

My earliest childhood memory was of my dad and mom taking me to fun places.  My dad always plays with us outside in front of the house.  My mom always cooks my food.  I always play with my brother and sisters.  I also remember when I was in first grade and my study buddy really liked tennis.  I also remember that her tennis teacher really loved her green carpet. 

Something happy was on Christmas when we opened presents on Christmas Day and Eve. Also, going around the block and getting candy for Halloween made me happy.  Seomethign sad was when my mom and dad got in a fight, so my dad moved out for a while but it’s good he came back.  

Daniel T Vigil from Santa Fe, NM, Descended from Matilde GARCIA: 

My grandma Matilde was a good mother, very accomplished and hard working on her farm.  She could do many things.  She was a very good cook.  She baked good break in an Indian “oorno” like the Native American Indians did.  She was good at sewing and even cutting men’s hair.  She would cut all of the grandchildren’s hair.  She would make some good tamales.  She made wedding dresses, blue shirts and plain skirts, etc. 

Josie Vigil-Gonazles-Wright from Sacramento, CA, Descended from Matilde GARCIA: 

My mother, Matilde, was good mother and always loved to have her family around.  She made everyone feel ‘at home’.  She taught us about the values of life; to know God for without him life has no meaning and purpose.  She taught us to always be forgiving and love one another.

My hobbies are walking, golfing, helping my community through volunteer work.  

When I was about six years old my sister, Jennie, and I would go visit my aunt and she was always very good to us.  I also remember sleeping with my Grandma Juanita Garcia and how she used to make oatmeal in the mornings.  It was the worst cereal, gummy and awful. 

One sad story was that my dad (Eligio Vigil) was killed as a very young man.  I was only two years old and don’t remember my dad at all. 

Julia Vigil-Casillas from Oakland, CA, Descended from Matilde GARCIA: 

My mom, Matilde, used to make break from a brick oven outside.  I would grab a whole loaf and put butter or lard on it and rand like hell to eat the whole loaf.  I was very hungry. 

I am proud of my donations.  I don’t have any childhood memories.  I’m too old, a long story. 

Michael J Armijo (me), Descended from Matilde GARCIA 

I remember when I was four years old, walking to the house of my Granda Matilde.  I lived only a block away from her in Oakland, CA.  She gave me a crewcut and she would call me “juedito” (means little blondie) because of my blondish hair back then.  I also remember she had a cherry tree in her backyard.  She had many lace fabric doilies on her end tables and coffee tables.  I remember she loved me and I felt very close to her as I recall hugging her leg as a small child. 

I am proud of my creative output and my ongoing travels.  I like to paint and be artistic, using oil or acrylic paints.  I also like to do ink drawings, pastels and sketching.  I feel good when I finish something I create.  I also feel proud of the many places I have visited: Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, Barcelona, Ceret, Paris, Hawaii, St. Kitts, NYC, Washington DC, Milan, Venice, Firenze, Switzerland and Amsterdam. 

I remember one time I went to the grocery store called FOOD FARM in Oakland, CA that was a few blocks from our home with my mom and dad.  I think they wouldn’t buy me a certain item and I got mad at them.  So, I ran and hid outside in the parking lot between cars.  I watched them come out of the store.  They looked for me but I stayed hidden.  When they drove away, I was able to find my way back home by walking.  I was only about seven years old.  I know they were worried.  It’s a different scenario if I had done that today. 

A happy time was on 8-8-1987.  It was my dad’s 52nd Birthday and I bought him a round ten-inch cake and put a big 5 and 2 candle on it.  He was so HAPPY.  I remember the smile on his face.  His smile went from ‘CHEEK TO CHEEK” when he saw me walking towards him with the cake with the candles lit.  

A sad time was the same month on 8-29-1987.  I went over to my parents' home and my dad was in his t-shirt and boxer shorts on the sofa.  He looked pale.  He said, “I have this pain on my side.”  He massaged it but his face still demonstrated pain.  I could not persuade him to go to the doctor—but my brother, Tony, came in and called 911-Emergency.  The ambulance arrived and it was a relief.  He would be ALL better.  He was, after all, going to the Alameda Hospital in safe hands with the paramedics.  My brothers and my mother were waiting impatiently in the hospital waiting room.  A young intern finally took us in a small room and told us, “I done know how to say this but we did everything we could do.”  My mom shouted with a yelping scream.  I shuttered and something froze within me.  I could not and did not want to believe it.  I knew it was a possibility, but I thought it would be okay because we got him out of the house and to the hospital.  The intern allowed us to see him.  I still recall the four of us (mom, me and my two brothers, Tony and John) standing over him. There was a white warm blanket over his body but his face was showing as if asleep.  I grabbed his lower right leg—tightly—and I had a feeling he knew I was touching him.  I felt his soul above us—and him saying, “I Love You All”, “Be Good”, “Take care of Mom”.  I know I’ll see him again.  

I received more Christmas Cards this week from my cousin, Edna Maestas, my grandmother, my cousin Luisa, my Granduncle Frank Lucero and his wife, Mollie, my cousin Shawn West and family, my Aunt Lillian, my 2nd cousin Peggy Mayall-Ragsdale and my Aunt Julia.  Here’s what they wrote inside their cards:   

Dearest Michael, 

Thank you for the handsome Christmas Card.  We hope and pray that your “holi” days are peaceful and joyful.  I’m about finished with my shopping, baking and card sending.  So far, I’ve made a double recipe of fruit cakes, and X0mas assortments of sugar cookies with icing. On Sunday my mom and I will make tamales and hopefully next week I’ll bake biscochitos. The three of us will spend three days in Ruidoso, NM, next week.  I still need a tree—maybe from our mountain! 

God Bless You,

Edna, Michael and Rickie  

Dear Grandson, 

I got your package.  It’s under the Christmas Tree.  I love you.   I’ll be seeing you for Christmas if God permits.  

Grandma and Betty  

Michael, 

Have a joyous Christmas!  I really liked your Xmas Card.  Glad you had the opportunity to visit Italy.  I imagine you had a wonderful time.  You'll have to share your slides or prints.  We are all doing find and hope you are too.  Keep in touch. 

Your Prima,

Luisa & Felix, Joseph & Krissa 

Thanks for the nice card.  Merry Christmas to you and all the family.  

Mollie & Frank Lucero 

Happy Holidays!  

Shawn, Reina and Dana West. 

Dear Mike, 

Every year I get a picture of you and you’re not getting any older. You’re getting younger. What’s wrong with this picture?  Did you find the Fountain of Youth in your many travels? 

Love you, 

Here’s a picture of my granddaughter, Dana, 9-mothns and Tori, 6-years. 

Howard & Lillian, Your Aunt 

Michael, 

Hope this card finds you doing well.  Everyone here is doing well.  Sorry I have not written sooner.  Thank you so much for the wonderful pictures. They were great.  Hope you have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.   

Love, 

Leon, Peggy and Blade Ragsdale. 

Hello Sweetie Michael.  

I am wishing you the merriest Christmas and a Happy New Year.  I Thank you very much for the beautiful chihuahua dog and bank.  I put piece of white tape by this back and wrote ‘drop a coin and make a wish.  It is almost half-0full. When it’s full I might share it with you, ok? 

Take care and thanks for your thoughtfulness. 

I love you, Aunt Julia...Accept these markers as a souvenir. 

Gloria and Jack went on another cruise and she sent four postcards from Buenos Aires, Falkland Islands, Ushuaia and Chile: 

She wrote:   

12-9-98:  The 2nd biggest attraction is the Theater de Colon where we took a tour.  They have ballet, opera and philharmonic events.  Harrod’s Dept. Store in London opened here five years ago and closed last year.  It gives a clue to the mentality of Buenos Aires people.  The tango is their proudest achievement.   Love Always, Mommy and Jack 

12-10-98: This ship is lovely, much higher category than LAFTA (LA Film Teachers Assn).  We had a drink with Debby and Alan last night.  They are friendly and NOT boring.  So far, our ports have been Montevideo, Uruguay; Puerto Madryn, Argentina; Port Stanley, Falkland Islands.  Great time.  Love Always, Mommy and Jack 

12-12-98:  Took a tour to National Park for a nature trail, bards, animals, plants and passed Cape Horn last night—very thrilling.  

Love Always,  Nana & Jack 

12-13-98:  Dear Sweethearts, Had a delightful day in Puerto Arnas, Chile.  We went to see the penguins, a one-hour ride and a one hour walk (3 miles) to see them.  Having a great time drinking martini, madras and cosmopolitans...puff-puff. 

Love Always, Mommy & Jack...weather cold “Br Br Br”.  

‘The death of a parent is such a big and inexpressible event that all you can do against it is shut yourself down.’--Meg Wolitzer, THE INTERESTINGS 

And From...

“He was very gentlemanly—way too classy for this part of town, if you know what I mean.” --Ian Patrick Williams, A.I.-P.I. 

Tis the season and I was happy to receive a good amount of Christmas Cards: 

And From Cousin MaryAnn Montoya-Gehling in Colorado Springs: 

Dec. 1, 1998 

Michael 

I was reading a magazine and saw this picture with the inscription.  I got the strongest feeling that the light wanted me to cut it out and send it to you.   Can you tell me why?  Does it mean something to you?  Please responds. I am dying to know. 

I love you very much. M.A.

And From my Grand Aunt’s (Lore/Loretta Helen Garcia) daughter:  Cousin Martie (though her full name is Cecelia Martha Chavez-Seper in Van Nuys, CA: 

12-1-1998 

Michael, 

This is a reception for my son, Vic (Victor Steven Seper) and Tara on Dec. 19, 1998, Saturday, 6PM at the American Legion Building, 159 North Cullen, Glendora, CA. 

P.S.  Vic is my son you met the first and only time you’ve been here.  See you there. 

Love, Martie   

Sadly, I could not attend.  We can’t always dance at every wedding. 

And From Alan's mom, Gloria:

Dec 2, 1998 

Season’s Greetings Dearest Alan & Michael, 

Wishing you the best of holidays and may all pf your endeavors in the ensuing year come to fruition.  Have a wonderful New Yare that includes us.  We love to share our lives with you. We count our blessing because you are always there, caring and loving. 

Love Always & Forever,  Mommy and Jack 

And From my Aunt Lela G Armijo-Rego: 

Dec. 1, 1998, 

Michael, 

Season's Greetings, hope to see you while you're here with your family.   

I’m still in Niles, CA just across the street from where you and your mom came to visit that year!  

Joyous doings, healthy New Yars and out love and respect for all you’ve done with our bucks and with the family lineage deal. 

Stay in touch. 

Happy, Happy Holidays, 

Lovingly Always, 

Aunt Lela, Uncle George and all your kin here! 

And From my dad’s half-sister, Josie G Wright: 

Dear Michael, 

Thank you for the beautiful card and picture of you.  I have been meaning to write to you and apologize for not doing it.  I have wanted to Thank you for all of the effort you put into the Family Reunion you put together.  I know it took a lot of planning and time, and I sure appreciate you for taking an interest in all you did.  It was wonderful to see everyone and to see your mother, too.  Venice, Italy looks beautiful.  I bet you had fun.  Someday I hope to see it, too.  Maybe even meet with you and your mom to go for some trip together.  Thanks again for your efforts and the picture you sent us.  Love you,  Your Aunt Josie & Bill. 

Alan’s mom, Gloria and her husband, Jack Israel Cohen, took a jet to Buenos Aires for a cruise and she sent us a few postcards from there: 

Postcard 1:  12/3/98, 7:03PM 

Went on a city tour and received a bird's eye view of the city.  Tomorrow a more in depth look at the city with a lot of walking is planned.  Going to dinner and a tang show this evening. Everything is later, late, late.  Weill try to send Hotmail email from the ship.  

Best Regards, 

Love Always,  Gloria & Jack 

Postcard 2:  12/3/98, 7PM 

This Tango photo is right up your alley, Michael.  Great shot.  Buenos Aires is a lovely city, reminds me of Madrid, Spain.  I sent Alan an email via Hotmail.  I hope he looks at it.  It’s very exhausting tip, so many flying hours and very little sleep.  We had lunch in an authentic Argentinian restaurant for tourists (not a cafe).  Language communication went well with hand gestures. 

To be continued... 

Gloria & Jack 

Postcard 3: 12/4/98, 4:30PM 

This area (SAN TELMO) is equivalent to Soho, Tribeca, NYC, etc.  It’s very Bohemian.  We went to Recoleta where Eva Peron’s remains are.  What a cemetery!  Truly magnificent! What mausoleums—never saw anything like it.  It’s the biggest sight-seeing attraction.  To be continued....

Gloria & Jack 

And From Cousin Judy Simpson, living in the State of Georgia, sent a typewritten annual Christmas newsletter.  I prefer to take note of her only handwritten words: 

Photo: Herman Mumford Jr. and wife, Lorraine Middlebrook

12-4-98 

Dear Michael, 

I like the picture of you.  It reminds me of my dad (Herman Mumford Jr.) and my Uncle Bill (William Mumford): ‘same smile’! 

And From the dearest cyclist friend, I ever had, Birda, in Alameda, CA (even though I almost fell off of my chair that there was no bicycle on the card--maybe it was in Santa's bag): 

12-4-98 

I can’t believe it is Christmas already.  The years are flying.

Hope you holiday is great.  

Have a Happy New Year. 

Always, 

Birda 

And From my dad’s half-sister, Esther Garcia: 

Dec. 5, 1998, Santa Fe, New Mex 

Dear Nephew Michael, 

I received your nice card with a beautiful picture of you.  You really came out nice.  It is really nice to have your picture.  Also, it was very nice for you to go to Venice, Italy.  Those buildings look so nice.  I bet you really enjoyed yourself out there.  I hope you are okay. 

I am okay.  I’m planning on going to California and spent Christmas and New Year’s there. I’m leaving the 18th of December.  I hope to see you there.  You might be there with your mother and brothers. 

So, I might see you there if God permits.  Also, was nice to see you in Denver for the Family Reunion.  We really enjoyed seeing all of the relatives we didn’t know.  Verdad?   

Love you and Happy Holidays to you, 

Love your aunt, 

E.G. - Estolia Garcia 

And From a couple of relatives I’ve never met in Mora, NM:  Manuel Sabino Garcia and wife, Irene Martinez-Garcia.  She included some photographs, too: 

Merry Xmas and A Very Happy New Year from Manuel & Irene Garcia. 

Here we are standing next to our 1962 Chevy.  We bought it brand new in October 1961.  It is a 1962 model.  The Harley Davidson motorcycle belongs to my sister-in-law. 

And From my mom, a very cute Santa: 

Alan and I took a break and went to see the film SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE.  It was well-done. The costumes were great, the lead actors were super (Gwyneth Paltrow & Joseph Fiennes).  

The film was about the world’s greatest every playwright (William Shakespeare, played by Joseph) who is young and out of ideas and short on cash.  Then he meets his ideal woman (Gwyneth) and is inspired to write one of his most famous plays:  ROMEO AND JULIET. It was a brilliant film.

‘Leave something to wish for.  If there is nothing left to desire, there is everything to fear.  When desire dies, fear is born.’--Baltasar Gracian, THE ART OF WORLDLY WISDOM 

A Ritual

‘Sometimes you need to be quiet when you’re all alone.’--Jay Asher, 13 REASONS WHY 

Happy Thanksgiving! Tis the season and Cousin Sandra Donald sent me instructions on how to send money to inmates at her facility in Pearl Mississippi.  Hmm...I guess I’ll send a little something. 

I also received a sweet handwritten letter from Cousin Marie-Antoinette from Pueblo, Colorado: 

November 30, 1998 

“Welcome Back Cuz” 

Dearest Michael: 

As always, I hope and pray that this letter finds you and all the family in great health and enjoying the best of everything. 

Oh, what a gorgeous picture of you.  You look like one of those handsome “Italianos”.  You blend in perfectly! 

I'll bet your vacation was sensational. 

My daughters’ friends came by and just couldn’t stop looking at your picture.  I think they’re planning a trip to California.  Tee-Hee! 

I sure missed your correspondence while you were gone but I’m so glad you’re back.  I’m sure you’re back with so many memories of your wonderful trip. 

It’s so great to have a cousin like you who is so worldly, a young man who has been near and far!  You’re honestly the first cousin I truly got to know and enjoy writing immensely.  Thank you so much for that.  If it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t know where any of you were and I would have just gone on wandering the rest of my life.  You’re truly a blessing in my life, Michael! 

I’d better close for now.  Be sure and give my Aunt Genevieve a big hug and kiss for me and your mom, too.  Consider yourself hugged as well.  I’ll be writing real soon with some good stories for you, ok? 

Love you bunches. 

God Bless You and Take Care! 

Your Cuz, 

Marie-Antoinette and Family 

Meanwhile, while here in Los Angeles Alan and I went to see a movie from Brazil that is getting the whisper of Foreign Film Award nominations.  It’s called CENTRAL STATION.  I loved it so much.  The music melodies in the film were loving and dramatically intense.  The story revolved around a young boy’s friendship with a jaded middle-aged woman who happens to be a retired schoolteacher.  We loved it so much and we are sure it will get nominated and hopefully win the Academy Award.  I would name this one as a favorite.  Living in LA has made movies a ritual for us.  We do love good stories—but not all of them are memorable.  Central Station was one of those good stories. 

‘Wine, music: a ritual – Nothing wrong with rituals.  They were invented to ease the awkward passages.’--J.M. Coetzee, DISGRACE 

SOMEHOW

“The word SOMEHOW is the stamp of a point of view in the making.” --Gershom Scholem, from his book, WALTER BENJAMIN, The Story of a Friendship 

I found an old postcard that Steven Antol sent me on November 10th, 1989.  He wrote this about nine years ago.  He was my friend who was the United Airlines Flight Attendant but died last year on May 13, 1997, at age 36 (of AIDS).  He wrote on a Florida postcard with a postmark of Tampa, FL with a pictorial of bikini clad girls on their bikes.  He knew how I loved bike riding.  SOMEHOW it made me feel good that he thought of me when he saw the bicycles.  He wrote: 

Dear Michael, 

Just finishing up my vacation.  I visited the Cook Islands in the South Pacific, went to Pennsylvania to visit with my family.  Now I’m in Florida visiting my friends from my younger days.  Tomorrow I’m off to L.A, then back to Honolulu.  I hope that you’re doing fine.  Drop me a note. 

Aloha, 

Steven 

As far as current correspondence for the week I have notecards from cousin MaryAnn Montoya-Gehling in Colorado Springs; cousin Edward M Espinosa in Albuquerque, New Mexico; Alan Freiman who remembered our Nov 20th Anniversary (when we met in 1989); and Thanksgiving cards from cousin Patty Richfield in Philadelphia, cousin Edna in Santa Fe, and our dear friend MaryAnn Parsons who we befriended many moons ago at the infamous LAWRY’s Prime Rib Restaurant in Beverly Hills.   

From cousin MaryAnn Montoya-Gehling, writing in glee over the gifts I sent her for her Birthday.  I think she SOMEHOW felt obligated to write me with much sincerity: 

Michael, 

Let’s start over.  Let this thank you be the real one.  Forget the first one I sent.   

I loved the Birthday gifts and the card, but my first impression was that you sent me a psychology book and shower gel...so are you trying to tell me I’m mentally ill and I smell?  I had to laugh. 

I’ve only thumbed through the book so far.  It looks good.  I think there is a message there for me. 

The fragrance set is lovely.  You don’t know this, but I am allergic to most perfumes.  Not this one.  I can use it without a reaction. I LOVE IT. Thank you for the gifts, Michael. 

When I got the package, it said don’t open till November 8th.  I didn't open it until my Birthday, but I held the package next to my heart sand whispered, “Michael remembered.” 

Thank You.  I Love You, 

M.A. 

From cousin Edward M Espinosa via three homoerotic male postcards.  I guess he SOMEHOW thought the male postcards went well with the gay-themed love story, NOW AND THEN.  

Nov. 19, 1998 

Hi Michael, 

Just finished reading the book you gave me, “NOW AND THEN” by William Corlett.  It took me a little longer because any more reading time is regulated to bedtime and most of the time, I fall asleep in the middle of a chapter and then I must go back two or three pages.  But it was delightful.  It brought back some memories: good and not-so-good!  I, too, met a high school “friend” in SPAIN twenty years later.  Not in Cordova, but in Sevilla.  Mine was not gray haired but almost bald.  Though I didn’t have the same feelings Kit had for Steven (in the NOW AND THEN book), it was a very nice meeting, and we’ve kept in touch since.   

I presume that by now you’re back from Europe.  I’m sure it was a great vacation.  Write to me about it.  I love to hear of people’s vacations. 

I’m including copies of an article my niece, Denise, wrote for ROBOTICS MAGAZINE.  Her professor and her teammate took credit for the article, but she alone wrote it.  She passed her Masters Orals with Distinction.  Graduation is on December 16th and though she’s tired of school I think she’s going to press on for her PhD.  

Hope to hear from you soon. My best to Alan. 

Love you, 

Edward 

From Alan, using a picnic Claude Monet image that I love.  I think I was SOMEHOW at that picnic or a similar one during that period.  I felt a sensation when I saw the image.  I love a picnic under a shady tree.   

11/20/98 

Dearest Michael, 

Well, I LOVE YOU and I am major HOH (Head Over Heels).  Always remember that. 

Happy Anniversary, 

Love,  

Alan 

From cousin, Patty Richfield, in Philadelphia, who SOMEHOW makes it a point to remember me on holidays.  I love this: 

11-21-1998 

Dear Cuz, 

Thank you for all your cards.  It sure was good hearing from you.  I envy you.  I love to travel and see new places.  I’ve never been to Europe but maybe I’ll go one of these days.  Hope all is well with you and your family.  Have a nice Turkey Day.  Take Car and God Bless. 

Love, 

Your Cuz Patty 

Cousin Edna Maestas simply sent a cute Thanksgiving card with THE RECIPE TREE, a sort of chain letter to pass on recipes.  Cute idea. 

MaryAnn Parsons didn’t really write much in her Thanksgiving card other than the verse that was already imprinted.  She did write “See you on Thursday!” because we are meeting here with Gloria and Jack at LAWRY’s PRIME RIB where she loves to go around Thanksgiving and Christmastime.  It is a beautiful feeling in that restaurant during the holidays with real life Christmas Carolers singing and all.  SOMEHOW, we all make time to enjoy the holidays in the way we feel they should be.   I know I love the tradition of watching the MACY’s Thanksgiving Parade on the morning of Thanksgiving.  

“We’ve found that gay boys are often more inventive and adaptable than straights.  Could be because they've had to be inventive to get along in straight society.” --James Lord in his book, MY QUEER WAR 

'Actual People'

‘His grandfather had two core beliefs: 1) All things were knowable by anyone, and 2) anything was fixable if you took the time to figure out what was broken.’--Gabrielle Zevin, TOMORROW AND TOMORROW AND TOMORROW 

My cousin, Edward M Espinosa, is so proud of his niece, Denise. I must say that I'm proud of her accomplishments thus far. He sent me an article in the third issue of the magazine known as ROBOT SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY.

She (Denise D Padilla) co-wrote an article called INTELLIGENT EVOLVING SOCCER ROBOTS, Part I with Mohammed Jamshidi PhD and Marco de Oliveira.  That was so kind of him to send me a copy.  I, myself, have a fascination for robotics and our scientific future.  

I have been into computers since the late 1970s, after all, I was a COMPUTER OPERATOR for a couple of years back in 1978.  I was the youngest one working there.  Those were fun days, but I missed seeing actual people!   

In addition, I received a sweet email from Cousin Linda Tafoya-Korenke in Idaho Falls this week.  She wrote: 

Saturday, 14 Nov 1998 

Hi Michael.  Jenny is really interested in the story about Manuel Savino Garcia’s parents. Remember the Frenchman and the Indian girl...his parents, right?  Can you email me all the details about that story?  It is a fascinating story, and I’d like to pass it on to my kids.  Thank you. 

Are you keeping your eye out for HARLEY DAVIDSON BARBIE?  I haven't had any luck, but I have some people looking for me.  There is a number you can order one from up until December 10th.  It’s a TOYS R US Warehouse.  The number is 1-888-333-4108. 

Have a Great weekend. 

Love, 

Linda 

I forgot how Linda is such a doll collector---even more so than my mom ever was.  I like to say I collect ACTION FIGURES (not just Barbie—and Ken, of course). Ha-ha.   Dolls are fun but ‘actual people’ are the best. I wonder if she ever did purchase the 1999 Harley Barbie? I never did. Will it be worth anything in twenty years? Or am I better off nurturing the relationships of 'actual people'?

‘The grand necessity for our bodies, is to keep warm, to keep the vital heat in us.’--Henry David Thoreau, WALDEN 

Take A Chance

‘Anyone can be a chicken, no matter what their age or size.’-Mary Kubica, LOCAL WOMAN MISSING 

Apparently, there was a Planetary Landscapes exhibit at the Mesa Public Library in Los Alamos, New Mexico for the month of October 1998.  It included Astronomy Art by Michael Peter Robinson.  My cousin, Edna Maestas, mailed me a postcard from Santa Fe (postmarked Albuquerque) with a side note.  It was postmarked with a .20 cent Harry S Truman stamp:   

11/5/98 

Hi Michael, 

I’ve met Michael Peter Robinsons but unfortunately, I didn’t go to this reception.  I was told by his close friend that Mr. Robinson met and knew Pablo Picasso well when he was about 14 years old, talking about realism (?). 

I worked 15 hours at the polls on Tuesday and I'm still recovering. I am so incredibly busy now that I'm NOT working!

I'm still taking care of cute-face Consuelo and loving her is so much fun. I'm still in my bed by 9PM every night! Ha-ha.

Edna

And Alan’s mom, Gloria, and her husband, Jack are still traveling about as we just received a postcard from her in Barcelona this week: 

11-6-98 

Hi, just arrived at the Columbus statue.  

Walking on Las Ramblas and just stopped into the LLARDO shop.  I’m giving Jack a tour of Barcelona. 

Best Regards, 

Love Always, 

Gloria & Jack 

Edna sent another postcard.  This time it was of ANGLE DEL SOL, a hot air balloon that was piloted by Robert Alan Woodall (known to most as Bob Woodall).  He trained to be a hot air balloon pilot.  Now, that’s a unique job to get trained for!   

11/6/98 

Hi Michael, 

I’ve enjoyed hearing from you while you’re venturing about.  We haven't left home, but we have enjoyed the usual...like the balloon fiesta that we attend annually.  We also attended the State Fair and, of course, fiestas.  October kept us busy with birthdays.  We made a life size scarecrow, harvested and carved our own pumpkin.  I made lots of pumpkin cookies and a Casper cake for a Halloween Carnival at Rickie’s Elementary School.  I’m busy keeping up with all his school activities.  I’ll write more soon. 

Love, 

Edna 

My first cousin (once removed), Floyd Rudolfo Garcia, of Taos, NM, who attended the Denver Reunion finally sent me a letter.  He very much loves his family and extended family.  It shows as he had mentioned at the reunion there is even MORE family.  His father was Tony Garcia and was my dad’s uncle (making him my grand uncle).  Here is what Floyd wrote to me: 

Nov. 6, 1998, Taos, N.M. 

Dear Michael, 

It was nice to hear about the family tree.  Here I am sending you a few addresses that we have.  Hope it helps.  I don’t know very much because we moved around so much that I lost track of a lot of relatives.  As far as for moving back to Las Vegas, Nevada we aren’t very sure—but if you are ever in New Mexico try and stop by.  It will be very nice to see you.  Our address has changed to 6093 NOCBU, Taos, NM 87571.  I hope you understand what I wrote.  If we happen to go to California we will look you up. 

Good Luck, 

Floyd and Gloria 

Regards to all the cousins.  Carlos Tafoya might know a lot more.  If you come to Taos our home address is 1030 CALLE DEL SOL, 505-758-8415. 

And, in chicken scratch notes that I deciphered he wrote: 

My dad/mom: Antonio Garciao b. 1904 d. 1995, Raquel Tafoya Garcia b. 1910 d. 1944 

Their five children: 

SABINO GARCIA (wife Irene Martinez-Garcia), 2 kids: Ray and Rudy, address PO Box 655, Mora, NM 87732 

LEVI GARCIA (wife Cleo Romero-Garcia), kids: Levi Jr., Rachael, Betty, Armando, Ricky, Kathy; Rachael’s address:  PO Box 404, Las Vegas, NM 87701 

FLOYD GARCIA b. 3/12/1940 (wife Gloria Apodaca b.11/15/1948, we married 4/28/1966), 1 daughter:  Roberta Ann Garcia b. 10/13/1967 

ROSALIA “ANTONIA” GARCIA-Mercado, kids: Linda Ferguson, Rachael Ferguson, Mary Ferguson, Jose Mercado; address Antonia Rose Mercado: 515 35th St. Evans, CO 80620 

PAUL GARCIA (wife, Shirley); kids: Judy, Becky, Paul 

Other family: 

Nancy GARCIA (husband Walter Abeyta), their 3 sons: Alex, Tim, Walter; address HCR 64, Box 10A, Mora, NM 87732 

Dora Chavez Vigil (daughter of Loretta Helen Garcia-Chavez aka “LORI”), 1221 Santa Paula Ave, San Jose, CA 95110, 408-441-9394 

Lawrence Chavez (son of Loretta Helen Garcia-Chavez aka “LORI”), 2010 So. Gray Drive, Denver, CO 80227 or PO Box 19211, Denver, CO 80219 

Augustine Garcia (wife Isabelita Abeyta), Ledoux, NM 87732 

Carlos Tafoya, (son of Jesusita Garcia); Carlos’ daughter, Arabella Tafoya Bonilla, her address is: 5480 W Geddes Avenue, Littleton, CO 80123, 303-477-4320 

Jimmy Garcia (son of Manuelita Garcia), Cheyenne, Wyoming 82201, 307-634-6804 

Pete Garcia (son of Augustin Garcia), PO Box 577, Ribera, NM 87560 

Evangelina, known as EVA Tafoya-Montoya (daughter of Jesusita Garcia and Juan Tafoya), address 1604 E 31st Farmington, NM 87421 

Names and addresses are a conquest, but in my family research I’ve learned that the stories and photographs behind the names and addresses are where the eye browsing interest comes in. I’m working on that flow.   

Mary Ann Montoya-Gehling (daughter of EVA Tafoya-Montoya) wrote a sweet Thank you to me after I remembered her recent November 8th Birthday: 

Michael, 

Thank You for the book and the SEPHORA Gift set.   

It was very thoughtful of you.  I appreciate the time it took to select the gifts. 

Mary Ann 

To escape and shake things up a bit Alan and I saw an unusual film called VELVET GOLDMINE, starring a new, interesting actor named Jonathan Rhys Meyers.  It also included Toni Collette (who I loved from her MURIEL’s WEDDING film back in 1994) and Ewan McGregor, Christian Bale.  It was about a journalist investigating the career of a 1970s flam superstar by the name of Brian Slade.  I found it original, flashy and fun—very much out of the ordinary of what is currently in the theaters.   

Countdown is on for me.  I’ll be leaving my Investment Specialist III job at Charles Schwab & Co. at the end of 1998. It’s exciting and scary at the same time; however, it’s time to take a chance.  

‘There is thus a curious upside-downness to our normal human way of life perceiving the world:  we are built to perceive “BIG stuff” rather than “small stuff”, even though the domain of the tiny seems to be where the actual motors driving reality reside.’--Douglas Hofstadter, I AM A STRANGE LOOP