Michael Joe Armijo's Blog, page 58

Confessions of a Male Model

“When you decide to pursue investing or whatever your fancy, do not underestimate the value of due diligence.”
-Jim Rogers,
A GIFT TO MY CHILDREN

Diary Notes from November 9, 1988Here I am dwelling on Amy Louise Platt once again.  I happened to come across a photo of Amy, me, and her friend (Karen) during my Christmas Party 1987 (last year).   I know Amy is thinking of me.  I’m holding my own. I still refuse to contact her.  She really made me feel like crap when I was feeling such emotion.  Que sera sera as Doris Day sings so smoothly.

I think I got the idea of modeling from Amy.   She was doing it a bit and suggested I give it a try on the side for extra money.   And now here I am going to classes at the ELITE MODELING Agency in San Francisco.   Why is it that I dread going to the sessions?  It seems my heart isn’t into it as much as it should be.   I already paid the fee in advance, so I may as go through with the program.   I’m a bit nervous about the big Fashion Show that is to take place in San Francisco in December.    Once I’m there it’s easy.   Some of the other guys are just doing it for the same reasons as I…just for fun and to see how it goes as we kill time finding our way.    Another nice factor is being surrounded by some other folks that look pretty good.   I'm becoming friendly with a girl named Dustin Nipper that I like very much.  Maybe I can one day write a book or shorty story about the 'Confessions of a Male Model'.   There seem to be so many stories behind all of the modeling contenders.   They're in search of a brighter path and definitely unsure of where the path will lead.
PHOTO: Michael Joe Armijo
I got my photos.  My color high-fashion headshot photo seems ‘okay’.  I know Paloma will like it because I’m wearing the suede/leather jacket I bought with her while in Paris in 1985.    I can’t wait to mail her a copy of that photo.   Maybe she’ll smile…maybe not. 
The commercial photo head shots were also ‘okay’.   I don’t think they’re the greatest but the agency says they’re good.   Whatever.It’s all a game.   That’s the way I see it.  I can’t compete with the Brian Buzzini Super Male model of the day.   Then again…it’s important that every model have one’s own distinct look.  That’s what they say at ELITE.   

I found the last Polaroid photo I took of Amy Platt when she was at my place the last time.   Looking at it tempts me to call her because this photo shows her humorous side.   I’ll let her call me though.  I refuse.
Maybe it’s just like flowers…Or like the gardens that grew at our old home.  In time, they grow.   But it can’t happen all at once.   Give them too much water, and they’ll die.  You can’t force them to grow.  Nature has its own rhythm—its own mystery.

His relationships were little more than fleeting, thrilling encounters, offering little more than an escape from the day-to-day isolation he felt.-Paul Huljich
BETRAYAL of Love and Freedom

I've Been on LEAVE

“Whoever you are,
whatever unit this is…I want in.”
-GI JOE, the movie

November 1, 1988

Holly was being her loveable toddler self when I dropped by at mom’s house today.   To my surprise, mom had other guests, too.   My nieces, Lauren and Ashley, were there enjoying mom’s pasta lunch.  They were happy to see me.

“Uncle Mike!”  That’s becoming a regular phrase these days.
I happened to be wearing the ideal t-shirt, too (Mighty Mouse).   The girls are all at that love-the-cartoons stage.

Ashley began to get moody.Mom said, “Oh she just needs a nap.”

Ashley wasn’t in a cooperative photo modeling mode either.   She’d duck and cover whenever I tried to snap her.   I did manage to get a sneak peek while she tried to use mom as a hiding place.

Lauren was entertaining her cousin, Holly, in the patio.   Lauren was willing to pose, patting Holly on her bald head.  Ha-ha…that was funny.

 I said to mom, “Well, I’m going home to check my mail.  I want to catch up on some letter writing, too.”
“Okay.”
“I’ll come back tomorrow.”
November 2, 1988 The next day I witnessed Ashley in creative mode, brushing the hair of her newest doll.


Holly started to cry.
I wasn’t in the mood for loudness.   Ashley became moody once she learned that I was leaving for an extended bike ride.“Don’t worry,” I said, “I’ll be back before you go to dance class, ok?”
This seemed to reassure her as she nodded shyly.

As soon as my mom lifted and carried Holly she suddenly stopped crying.  Is that all she wanted? 
"Someone please pick me up from this floor."

I kept my promised.  I returned and took a photo of Ashley in her dance gear.  She was happy and ready to dance.





November 7, 1988I had received a few postcards over the last few days.  One from Johnny in Southern California; one from Paloma in Southern France and the biggest surprise was from Michael Munn, the US Marine I had met from Honolulu, Hawaii.
I received a JOHN WAYNE postcard today.   It wasn’t from John Wayne’s granddaughter though (how disappointing).   It was from Johnny in Los Angeles.  It was postmarked Santa Ana, CA.  Johnny wrote:
November 3, 1988

Hi Michael,I presumed that you like JOHN WAYNE since you have a mammoth poster of him in your room.   I thought this was a perfect one for your postcard collection.   …hope you sill like the new job and all.   I hope time flies by until I see you again!   Johnny

Paloma wrote:Agde le 5/11/88
Dear Michael,
First of all, THANK YOU for JonathAn with an ‘A’.   I thought this was never going to happen.  Nice cards…lazy bum!   See…I can’t walk by a bicycle without thinking of you.  My English is really poor.   Tonight I am tired and I really hope you don’t think I always am.  You are just so mean with me all the time.   I don’t know why.   I’m just such a nice girl. 


How do you feel knowing you have a baby girl out there?  I know it isn’t nice for people who can’t have children but I wouldn’t like that…but again…I’m a woman and it’s very different.   A baby really is a part of yourself.   I believe I’ve made Jonathan alone and Alexandre just helped for the delivery…

Michael Munn was simply a sexual fling I had while in Hawaii.  It just sort of happened.  Eye contact, romance, lust are my recollections of the incident followed by dialogue in which we both seemed to question 'now what?'.    He was a Marine and I never really thought I’d hear from him again.  We exchanged addresses and telephone numbers.  Initially, we exchanged a few letters but it never continued.  He is stationed in Honolulu.   I was surprised to receive this ALOHA postcard from him out-of-the-blue. 

He kept it brief and he signed the postcard in a very incognito way.  He addressed the card as MJA, too.   I was really attracted to him but I doubted I’d ever see or hear from him again.   I don’t have a photo of him but I did find an image of a guy in a crew-cut who sort of looked like him. 
Michael Munn wrote:
MJA,
Hello.   How are you?  It’s been sometime since we’ve wrote.  I’ve been on leave and am now back in Hawaii.   I hope you are fine.   Write soon and take care of yourself.
XOXO
M. Munn

He was almost tempted to write the experiences off as nothing more than young, idealistic romances.  But he knew that was NOT the truth.  He knew that what he had experienced was real.-BETRAYAL of Love and Freedom
a novel by Paul Huljich, Based on a little truth

Princess Matilde

The common people know me, and I am master.
But a stranger in a strange land, he is no one.  Men know him not, and to know not is to care not for. 
I am content if I am like the rest, so that no man stops if he sees me, or pauses in his speaking if he hears my words.
-Bram Stoker, DRACULA

While in Berkeley not so long ago I bought several postcards.  The toughest decision is trying to decide which ones to mail out.  I hate to part with them.  I chose two for Paloma today (October 24, 1988).
Two Little Sisters on the potty
(Caroline et Marie-Lys) postcard

Hi Paloma, Just came from the fragrance depot and talked to a sales girl.   I learned about the ‘little’ perfume bottles that you have been talking about.  Do you know offhand which bottles you want?   Also…I will be talking to a few gals at work to see what they know about perfume miniature collectibles.   One in particular may be interested in doing trades with you.  

Oh…by the way did you know I have a hobby?   Painting.   I don’t know if I ever told you or not.  One postcard you sent me of the Red High Heels stepping on the cigarette…well, I drew it on a larger canvas and had it framed.   I get a lot of compliments on it.  Also, the 8 x 10 print you sent me once of the high fashion lady in black with a hat and low cut cress in the back…I recreated it on canvas and framed it.  I get compliments on that one, too.   Send me more HOT postcards.  You send the BEST.   I’ll be on the lookout for perfume bottles. Love, Michael

“One is worth a thousand words” postcardPALOMA,

This is little Billy who just got beat up by Jonathan.   That’s a tough little boy you got there.  Later, Love,
Michael J Armijo

To my pleasant surprise I received a cool postcard of THE SMITHS from ‘Jim from the Gym’.   I especially liked how Jim went beyond postcard etiquette and wrote on the face of the card "happening suit"!  On the reverse of the postcard Jim wrote:October 26, 1988

Greetings Mike! I thought this card might give you some fashion tips.  I think shades were a pre-requisite to be in “THE SMITHS”!

Jana (she’s from Denver)…REALLY!   …is coming this Thursday till Tuesday.   I would like to introduce you to her.   We can all see MINISTRY or something.  “MAYBE” Chris will go too. Well, it’s time to tuck myself in bed.   See ya at the gym.  Keep Cool!

Your Friend, JIMHalloween 1988

After writing to Paloma the other day and reading Jim’s card about ‘fashion tips’ I tried to add some zest to my look today.   I put my LIVE-105 QUAKE Radio t-shirt on.   I also chose to wear my French beret that I bought in Paris.   A part of me feels very European these days.  While I am most clearly an ancestor from SPAIN I always wonder if I have a French side. 

My paternal grandmother was named MATILDE.  The origin of this name is very French.   I researched and learned that the Princess Matilde of Bavaria was born in August 1877 in the Villa Amsee, Lindau, Kingdom of Bavaria (German Empire).   My grandmother, Matilde, was born in 1898 and I strongly believe that she was named after this Princess.   The Princess surprisingly died at the young age of twenty-eight in 1906: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Princess_Mathilde_of_Bavaria_(1877%E21906)
I take great comfort in thinking of my grandmother as Princess Matilde.  I only wish she hadn’t died when I was about to start kindergarten (September 1964). I took a leisurely bike ride and dropped over at mom’s house and captured Ashley feeding her little sister.
“Hey, this is good practice for you when you’re a mommy someday.”
Ashley simply frowned that way that she does.

It’s Halloween but I don’t think this holiday can ever be topped like it was when I met Paloma.   I was dressed as a baby in a diaper.  She was in her cave girl outfit.  Her green eyes stunned me.   We danced together like we fit so perfectly.  It must be that Western European appeal/attraction.

“I always looked upon you as a woman of perception and understanding.”-as heard while watching the Noel Coward playBLITHE SPIRIT, An Improbable Farce

 
 
 
 
 

Wipe That Silly Grin Off Your Face

“We’ve all got a past that can hurt us.   Don’t let yours hurt you.”
-Will Gardner (actor Josh Charles)
to Alicia Florrick (actress Julianna Margolies),
Season 5, THE GOOD WIFE TV-series

October 20, 1988I received a postcard from Johnny S. in Los Angeles last month.   It’s on my mirror because I love it so much. It inspires me with invincibility.  Mad Max has no fear. It’s a photo of Mel Gibson in character as MAD MAX.   Johnny knew my weakness.   I believe I replied with a postcard back to him but I kept my words simple.   I don’t want to lead him on.  I have no interest—but friendship.  

Johnny wrote me using my alias name (Jake Jaguar) that I shared with him.   Too funny…he wrote:Hey Jake,
How’s my favorite Bay Area Dude, eh?
Things are okay here but I wish you were around.
I saw this Mel Gibson card and KNEW who to send it to!  I still haven’t’ seen anymore ROAD WARRIOR t-shirts though.
Anyway, you’re the best, bro.   Be cool!   I mean, uh…have fun and all that.   Always, Johnny

I wrote Paloma a letter today to detail the latest happenings.  I included a memo pad sticker with the words imprinted HERE’S A LITTLE SOMETHING TO WIPE THAT SILLY GRIN OFF YOUR FACE:Dear Paloma,
I really liked the AGDE postcard.  It reminds me of you.  I picture you walking around there.   It’s neat to see postcards like that, showing where you live.   I want to visit.   Someday…maybe?

The other postcard of the psychedelic girl silhouette kind of looked like you, too!   That reminds me of you ‘getting wasted’ at the I-BEAM.  Ha-ha…Do you remember that?   Oh well, we’ve grown out of ‘getting wasted’ now, haven’t we?  I was never that bad. Today, I am playing ‘boss’ at work, so it gives me a chance to write you a long letter.   I am pretending that I’m doing some heavy duty business letter to a client here even though I am only writing to you.  Ha-ha.

I’m glad you liked the cassette tape of songs I sent you.   I’ll try to make time to do another.   There’s a lot of good music out there fighting to be heard.   I love hearing NEW French tunes.  It has such an easy, relaxing sound (even if I don’t understand the meaning of the words half of the time).  I’ll find some non-faded 501 LEVI jeans for Alexandre and Jonathan.   What size waist is Alexandre…28 or 30?   There’s a kids GAP store here in San Francisco that surely carries Jonathan’s size.   How old is he going to be…age 3 in February 1989, right?    My niece, Lauren, just turned 3 on October 18, 1988.   I will have to check out MACY’s, THE GAP and other stores for you within the next couple of weekends.

The flight attendant, Camille that I met, is history.   She was only 4 feet 11 inches!   Much too short…and I decided to hold off on calling her for a while.   She never really takes the time to call me either…so (?).   Does that sound familiar?   I guess I’m just not HOH (Head Over Heels) for her.   Kelly, the ex-flame, from November 1987—June 1988 called me a week ago.   It was awkward.   I wasn’t sure if she was running back to me ‘for more’.   I actually ran into Kelly last Saturday night because my friend (Jim from the Gym) and I went to Cal’s in San Francisco.   Jim is only twenty-five.  I believe his hair may be receding a bit.  I wonder if that will happen to me soon (?).     While Jim and I were at Cal’s in SF we unexpectedly bumped into Kelly who was with her sister and Christine Hicks (Jim’s gal).   We had a good time despite the silent tension between Kelly and me.   Only time will tell.   I do still have feelings for Kelly (strong ones)…but I’m not planning to just jump right in ‘just like that’.   I called her Monday night but there was no answer (perhaps that was a good thing…and meant-to-be).   Didn’t we pass by this restaurant while I was in Paris in September 1985?   This was in today’s newspaper and I remembered.   The Champs Elysees rings a bell.

   In the SF CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 20, 1988 it was written:  FOUQUET’s, an 88-year old restaurant on the Champs Elysees, was rescued from closure yesterday when French culture Minister Jack Lang declared it a historic landmark.   International film stars, including Jack Nicholson, cheered Lang’s speech as waiters wept with joy in the cafe where Marlene Dietrich, James Joyce and Charlie Chaplin once whiled away the hours.   The PARIS bistro had been threatened with a huge rent increase during the summer, and patrons feared that a fast-food establishment would replace it.   Saving FOUQUET’s is all about saving the soul of France, Lang said in announcing the rescue at the packed restaurant. I started going to the gym again semi-regularly.   I recently attempted a 3-day diet.  I’m on my second day already.   Here’s a copy of the diet (next page).   Maybe you’ll want to try it IF you ever get fat.  I’m not fat.  I’m just doing it for fun.  I’m not looking forward to lunch today:

5 crackers1 cup of cottage cheese

Yuck!   It’s kind of a fun 3-day diet deal.   Try it…or give it to any fat people you may know.  Ha-ha. Have you heard of that new movie called THE ACCUSED with Jodie Foster?  It sounds depressing but Jodie Foster’s performance has been widely acclaimed.   I may go see it tonight just to break up the usual work week.


I haven’t taken any pictures yet at the ELITE MODELING CENTER but in a couple of weeks I will be ready for my photo-shoot.  I will definitely keep you posted.   I better become a major star, so I may wine and dine and fly to the South of France for vacations.  Ha…it’s competitive but I’ll never know unless I give it a small try, right?  I’m going to cut this letter short for now.   Here…I am throwing in a couple of my favorite postcards for you.   Now, the big test for you:   Guess which one of these postcards reminds me of YOU!   I’ll never tell.

Thinking of You, Love, Michael J Armijo October 23, 1988
It was time to visit the local pumpkin patch with mom and my niece, Ashley today.   It’s that time of the year.  I love my mom’s homemade pumpkin pie.   I haven’t had any pumpkin pie yet.  
This evening was my niece, Lauren’s, birthday party.   I planned to attend with mom, Ashley and my grandmother.   It was taking place at Helen’s parents’ house in Oakland.I took a photo of Ashley later, eating a donut with sprinkles.   I think I was more interested in the donut than I was about Ashley.   It looked so good. 
    
Ashley was the perfect model today.   She even posed next to the mail box that I set up in front of mom’s house.  

I love these festive family times.   It’s probably more fun when it’s all over and I can browse the many photographs that I happen to capture.   I like to look back.   I also like to move forward.   What’s next?

The food was pretty good at Lauren's Party.   I was hungry.   It must be from my recent rounds of working out at the gym.   If I wanted to find food all I needed to do was look for my brother, Tony (that’s where the food would be).   It’s hard to believe that Lauren has hit the three year mark.  

Time does fly but it’s wonderful to be around during all of the progress.   The key for all of the kids is to keep telling them to ‘love thy self’ more than anything and build their confidence.    They can do anything they want in life if they set their minds to it.   I plan to be a part of their lives forever more.   Who knows if I will have kids?  

Oh yes…I mailed Paloma another postcard today, a photo of A DAY IN THE ZOO.  

I wrote:
Hi Paloma,
I just wanted to warn you in case you and Alexandre were thinking about taking Jonathan to the zoo.

This is also just another note to let you know you’re heavily on my mind.  Oh yes…here is some HOT news.   Did I ever tell you I was a sperm donor in 1984 for six weeks?   I don’t think I told you because I kept it quiet.   Anyway, some anonymous lady out there had my baby (girl) biologically in August or September of 1985.   She should be about three years old now.   I signed a contract, allowing the child to seek me out and have my identity when she turns eighteen.   Scary, huh?  

I just thought about it because my niece, Lauren, is age three now.   I am going to her Birthday party today (just family). Love, Michael J.

How rich we are as human beings.   There is so much to live for.   He threw his arms open to the night sky, feeling the ocean air on his skin, the only sound the gentle lapping of the sea against the sand.-Paul Huljich,
BETRAYAL of Love and Freedom
A novel, based on a little truth

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

History Tidbits

Where did the name HOT COFFEE come from?
In the late 1800’s a man opened an Inn along a highway in Mississippi and sold HOT COFFEE to travelers.   This sign outside said “HOT COFFEE”.   Everyone remembered the place because of the drink, and started saying things like “Let’s stop at HOT COFFEE”.   Eventually, the name came to be used, not just for the Inn, but for all the farms and houses in the neighborhood.
--David Crystal
A LITTLE BOOK OF LANGUAGE

October 9, 1988
I rode my bike to mom’s house.  Mom had some cinnamon rolls, so I helped myself.   They tasted so good with HOT COFFEE.  
My brother, Tony, dropped by with my sister-in-law, Helen, and their ‘cutie-pie’ daughters (Lauren and Leigh).   Once again it was photo opportunity time.   My favorite shot of the day was the one of Lauren in the green wagon.   The green had great contrast to her purple dress.Later that afternoon mom came over to my place and did her clean-up routine.    She simply has the magic touch.   She is always so willing to help make things better for me. 

October 11, 1988A few days later I was at mom’s house again and she was showing me this photo of (my 2ndcousin once-removed named) JOHNNY TAPIA of New Mexico.   Johnny Tapia’s mother was Virginia Tapia.   She was murdered and he was raised by his grandparents (Esther Martinez-Tapia and Michael Tapia).   Esther was my mom’s first cousin.  Esther’s mother was Carlota Leyba-Martinez (my maternal grandmother’s sister).  

Johnny Tapia is making a popular name for himself in the State of New Mexico as a prize-winning boxer.   His first professional fight was held this year in Irvine, CA on March 25th  (1988) when he fought Effren Chavez.    I never met my cousin Johnny but mom let me keep the photo.   I found it odd that he would have a tattoo of the Virgin Mary on his chest.   Mom explained, “His mother was named Virginia Marie…like me…and because she was murdered when he was a little boy the tattoo is his way of keeping his mother close.”
“Wow…that’s cool.  I love all of the family history tidbits from New Mexico.”

PHOTO:   JOHNNY TAPIA, 1988: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Johnny_Tapia October 14, 1988Paloma wrote me again and included two cool postcards.  One of the boats in her town of AGDE and the other was a silhouette image that actually looked a little bit like Paloma!

Hello Michael, Thanks for the tape and the postcards.   I recognized some of the tunes like RED RED WINE by UB40, of course…and MAKING PLANS FOR NIGEL by XTC (I really like this one)…and INDOCHINE is one of the most famous groups here.   I didn’t know they played their songs over there.  That’s funny!    I recognized some other songs too but I don’t remember right now.   The tape is in the car.

I really liked the postcard of CARMEL BY THE SEA.   I just drove by that place once when I went to L.A. with Carmela and I thought that was a gorgeous place.Michael, are you on drugs or are you trying to commit suicide?   This is my last advice…my son’s name is JonathAn with an ‘A’ and not with an ‘O’.   I’m starting to think you’re doing this on purpose.   From now on I’m going to call you MICHOEL…this is your last chance.
I’m not too excited about Halloween this year because on November 2nd Jonathan is going to some daycare program.   I’m going to start working again.   It’s going to be the first time he isn’t going to be with me all day long.   I’m afraid it’s going to be hard for the both of us.

I got a letter from Lisa yesterday (remember her?).   She is now twenty years old and she lives in a recovery home in San Leandro.   She just got out of a drug/alcohol rehabilitation program (some news!).   I didn’t know anything.   Her mother didn’t tell me. I’m getting some really bad news from the States.   I learned an ex-friend of mine (I was mad at him when I left) has got AIDS.   I can’t believe it.  

I hope I get some of your ELITE MODEL pictures soon. We’ve got 501’s over here too but not for little boys like Jonathan.   They cost about sixty-dollars for my size.   I don’t need any right now but one of these days I might send you some money so you can send me a pair for Alexandre.   First I’ve got to ask my mom how she sends money to my brother in Albuquerque.   There is no way you’re going to pay for me.   Are you kidding?  That’s nice enough if you send them to me!   Could you tell me what is the smallest size (for a baby) you can find?   I don’t want them faded for Alexandre.  He fades them fast enough.

I’ve got something else to ask you.   Since you work for PACIFIC BELL do you think you could find out if there is some club (or whatever) for sample perfume collectors in the States?   Wherever I go I can write and make some trades.   Thank you. If you want something from here just ask me, of course.

Do you know I am still not smoking?   It’s been two years now.   I stopped and I don’t think I ever will again.   I can’t stand it now.   I hardly drink either.   Pretty good, huh?   The only thing I can’t stop is sweets!  How is your girlfriend?  The one who works for an airline… I don’t remember her name. 

Well, I hope to read you soon.   I miss you.Love,  Paloma

‘The trick was to keep love going.  It might work if you gave enough love.’--Darcy O’Brien
A WAY OF LIFE, LIKE ANY OTHER

Don't Worry Be Happy

“IF she had a grain of real sympathy for you she’d listen to what you have to say.”
-Noel Coward (as heard in his play,
BLITHE SPIRIT, An Improbable Farce.

Monday, October 3, 1988PHOTO:  October 3, 1988,
Solo of Ashley M Armijo in mom’s kitchen

Autumn is always an interesting, beautiful and crisp season for transition.   It is as if ‘new beginnings’ are supposed to happen now.  The new school year session has begun and leaves are changing and falling.   I was happy that I had a floating holiday.   It stretched my weekend and I dislike that Blue Monday feeling sometimes.
Unique to the season is my fondness for my niece, Ashley.   She is becoming so much more cooperative by my requests for posing for my photographs.   I loved the one I arranged on my mom’s bed.   Ashley’s hair looked perfect and she seemed so loving and happy next to her baby sister, Holly.
 My brother, John, dropped by and I managed to get a photo of him and his little girls before he ventured off to work.   I took a few more shots of ‘Holly and I’, ‘Mom and Holly’ and ‘Sherri and Holly’.   We didn’t have to worry.   We were happy…that’s what the photos depicted.   Once again a photo is worth one-thousand words if you want it to be.

There’s a song that is being played regularly and I just love it.   It’s by Bobby McFerrin and it’s called DON’T WORRY BE HAPPY: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-diB65scQUIt’s how I yearn to always live my life.   I don’t want to worry.  I just want to be happy.   It’s as if the song was written for ‘me’.   If every person in the world knew to play this song when things are rough and tough they’d surely feel better.  I never get tired of hearing it.  The lyrics are words to live by:
Here's a little song I wrote
You might want to sing it note for note
Don't worry, be happy
In every life we have some trouble
When you worry you make it double
Don't worry, be happy
Don't worry, be happy now
Oo, oo-oo-oo, oo-oo-oo, oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo
Don't worry
Oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo
Be happy
Oo-oo-oo-oo-oo
Don't worry, be happy

Ain't got no place to lay your head Somebody came and took your bed
Don't worry, be happy
The landlord say your rent is late
He may have to litigate
Don't worry, be happy
Look at me, I'm happy
Oo, oo-oo-oo, oo-oo-oo, oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-
Don't worry
Oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo Be happy
Oo-oo-oo-oo-oo
Don't worry, be happy

 Give you my phone number
When you worry, call me, I make you happy
Oo, oo-oo-oo, oo-oo-oo, oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo
Don't worry
Oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo
Be happy
Oo-oo-oo-oo-oo
Don't worry, be happy
Ain't got no cash, ain't got no style
Ain't got no girl to make you smile
But don't worry, be happy
'Cause when you worry, your face will frown
And that will bring everybody down
So don't worry, be happy
Don't worry, be happy now
Oo, oo-oo-oo, oo-oo-oo, oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo
Don't worry
Oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo
Be happy
Oo-oo-oo-oo-oo
Don't worry, be happy
Now there, is this song I wrote I hope you learned it note for note
Like good little children
Don't worry, be happy
Listen to what I say
In your life expect some trouble
When you worry you make it double
Don't worry, be happy, be happy now
Oo, oo-oo-oo, oo-oo-oo, oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-
Don't worry
Oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo
Be happy
Oo-oo-oo-oo-oo
Don't worry, be happy
Oo, oo-oo-oo, oo-oo-oo, oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo
Don't worry
Oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo
Be happy
Oo-oo-oo-oo-oo
Don't worry, be happy

Tuesday, October 4, 1988 After work today I arranged a visit with Christine Hicks.   She drove over to my house in Alameda.  She’s still dating ‘Jim from the Gym’ and she’s still best-friends with Kelly.   I was curious to get the latest scoop on what was going on with Kelly.   Christine is always good for being a great confidant.    I also like that she enjoys to look through my box of photos (Polaroids). 

She’ll ask, “Who’s this?”  Or she might ask, “Where’s this?”
And then she will laugh hysterically about one of my photos, making us both laugh even harder. 

Christine wouldn’t be ‘Cwissy’ if she didn’t question me about ‘Jim from the Gym’ either.   I gave her as much information as I could; however, she knows him much better than I.   I tried to refrain from asking about Kelly too much.   After all, my game plan was to ‘let go’ and ‘move on’.
I simply said, “I don’t think Kelly has much sympathy for me…she won’t even listen to what I have to say.”
I asked, “Have you seen GORILLAS IN THE MIST?”
Christine gives me a look of terror with her beautiful green eyes.
“It’s not a scary movie!   I loved it.   It stars Sigourney Weaver and she’s the best.  It’s based on a true story about Dian Fossey,  a scientist who studied in Africa.  You have to see it!"

I fell in love with Sigourney while watching “The Year of Living Dangerously”  from back in 1982 (also starring Mel Gibson).   I doubt Christine will go to see GORILLAS IN THE MIST.   Maybe Jim will talk her into going.  It's a fascinating film.

I set the timer of my Polaroid and took a photo of the two of us on my living room floor.   I was feeling a tinge of attraction towards her.   She’s really so much fun.   She asks a zillion questions but I love answering them.   She asks about ‘me’.   She makes me think about what’s next for ‘me’.   Of course, I asked about her, too.   I think she and Jim have so much fun together.    Wonders never cease as Kelly and I always thought they’d break-up before we did.   They would always bicker.   Jim would give in, then she would give in.   It was a bit like a tug of war.


To LOVE and win is the BEST thing. To LOVE and lose is the next BEST.
…the ability to forgive allows LIFE to be free.
--BETRAYAL of Love and Freedom, a novel by
Paul Huljich
(Based on a little truth)

Share The Joy

He could not write to her in the same way.  Instead his letters were full of news, detailing what he was doing rather than what he was feeling.   There seemed to be a block between his heart and his mind, and his brain refused to commit to paper the myriad of emotions that welled inside him for her.  There was an empty space inside him that she had filled.  Now, he was hollow again.
-Betrayal of Love and Freedom
a novel by Paul Huljich
based on a little truth

September 29, 1988
I wrote four postcards to Paloma today. 1.  The Beverly Hills Hotel and Bungalows Postcard

Paloma,
Thanks for the cassette tape and the French tunes.   Well, I guess I shall thank Alexandre.  I am working on a cassette tape of music right now (for you).   I hope you like it.  You may recognize a few of the tunes….Anyway it is exactly what I am listening to these days.
With regard to family…all is well.   My brother, Tony, and his wife, Helen, bought a house in Castro Valley, California.   My brother, John, and Sherri are ‘okay’.   Sherri just got a new job at STAR ROOFING COMPANY.   John is working at the HOLIDAY INN.   My mom is still working at the post-office.   She’s doing okay.   I spend a lot of time with her.   I took her to the CLIO Awards last Sunday (the Awards for the BEST TV advertising commercials).   That was a great postcard of the ‘LEGS’ that you sent me!
  2.    Beautiful Carmel Beach Postcard

I hope you’re teaching Jonathan some English, too.   You don’t want him to come here and hate it like you did ‘at first’ because of your hard time with English.   I wish I’d met you when you first arrived here.
WE do have Levi 501 jeans here that are sold ‘already faded’.   They don’t expressly say that they are two year old jeans though.  They run about $28 to $30 (I guess).  If you want a pair I will look for you.   You don’t have to send me the money.   Just give me your size (38 inch waist, right?).  Ha-ha.  I’ve seen them at THE GAP, too.
I framed the photo of your dad, Bernadette, me, you and your stepmom, standing arm in arm.   It looks good.   I also have a number of those photos from that Paris evening in 1985 in my photo album.   You look so good in this photo.
As soon as I get some ‘top notch’ shots of me from the ELITE MODELING CENTER in San Francisco I will have to send them to you.
 
3.    Sunset on Waikiki Beach, Honolulu Postcard

I guess it looks like I stole your idea here of writing you via a variety of postcards.   I used to buy all kinds of postcards (and save them)…but I’ve decided to SHARE THE JOY and send them out to those that I know won’t just throw them out.
I haven’t made definite plans for Halloween 1988 yet.   I may fly to Los Angeles OR I may celebrate at a new San Jose Club called ONE STEP BEYOND.   They’re celebrating their 3-year anniversary at this club and MINISTRY is supposed to perform there.   MINISTRY is the group that plays that song called EVERYDAY IS HALLOWEEN.
  4.    Sailboats and the Golden Gate Bridge Silhouetted by a Beautiful Summer Moon postcard

That is pretty wild about the PALOMA RESTAURANT in Berkeley, isn’t it?   I will have to eat there one day.   Then I will see if I can find out why they named it after YOU.   Maybe it’s an ex-admirer of yours!  Ha-ha
I actually collected the enclosed postcards from 1) Beverly Hills 2) Carmel 3) Hawaii and this 4th one from San Francisco.  I hope you look closely and like them all.   Also…enjoy the tunes.
I had to babysit for three hours the other night for Ashley and Holly.   They were good girls though.   We watched THE SUMMER OLYMPICS. 
Have a happy day and tell Alexandre for helping your choose the great music.   If I counted on YOU it would’ve been strange (probably). Ha-ha.
Later…LOVE, Michael
September 30, 1988

It was Friday morning and my sister-in-law, Sherri, called to see if I could come over to watch the girls (Ashley and Holly) for a couple of hours.  John and Sherri had some errands to run.   I was more than willing and able.   I was also a stone’s throw walk to their house on Cook Lane.   This was too easy.

PHOTO:   John, on a typical Friday morning
 I discovered Ashley in the bathtub.  I was surprised she didn’t scream hysterically when I took a Polaroid photo of her in the bathtub.   I knew I could use this photo as ransom someday in the future…perhaps.PHOTO:  Ashley in the tub



   John and Sherri left the house and I had fun with the kids.   Ashley was riding her tricycle in the backyard.   It was a very summer-like day for the last day of September.   I loved how Holly was trapped in her little walk-a-long stroller.   I didn’t need to keep a hawk’s eye on her given that she was confined in that toddler machine. Mom called by phone.
I answered, “Hello.”
“Mike?” She asked in a surprised tone.
“Yes, I bet you thought you had dialed the wrong number.  You did dial John and Sherri house.  I’m babysitting.  They went out for a while.”
“I was wondering.”
I laughed.
“As soon as they get back I’ll ride my bike over to your house.”
“Okay…are they being good?”
“Yes.  I just took a picture of Holly in Sherri’s desk chair to see how she’d look as an executive.”
Mom laughed.

Holly has been such a cooperative model.   She’s all smiles.  She’s so docile.  I kept her entertained with a few stuffed animals and managed to get her to strike-a-pose.


 
I took a reflective self-portrait of my own reflection, using their round mirror.
 Soon I was free from the babysitting.   I had a great time.   I popped over to see mom (as promised).

 Later that day ‘Jim from the Gym’ came over.   We were going to go out out-on-the-town.   He needed to vent his 'Christine Hicks' frustrations.   I had to vent a bit of my ‘end of Amy’ frustrations as well.  

I had forgotten my sunglasses at my mom’s house, so we stopped at mom's house to retrieve them.   I had mom take a Polaroid photo of ‘Jim and I’ before we left for ECHO BEACH, a San Francisco nightclub.

 
 I brought my Polaroid along to the nightclub. 
“I want to shoot photos of potential dates and get your opinion,” I remarked to Jim.
He laughed ‘his distinct laugh’.

 
  Upon arrival to the nightclub there was a line to get in.   It moved quickly and we saw a real-life blond gal spray-painted in gold near the stage.   I thought that was unusual, yet creative.

The ‘bartendress’ was named Pam.   I carried on a conversation with her and I’m sure she thought I was trying to swoop on her.
I whispered to Jim, “I know she thinks I’m swooping on her.”
Jim laughed ‘his distinct laugh’.
I think Pam, the ‘bartendress’, thought I was a young kid (like twenty-two years old).   After continued discussion I advised her that I was twenty-eight.   She seemed surprised.   She was probably my age but I doubt anything would come of it.  She seemed to have baggage of her own (from her own past).
PHOTO:  Pam, the bartendress
 I also met a girl on the dance floor.   I liked her style.  She wore a black leather mini-skirt and a white blouse.   Her smile and eyes seemed to say something ‘to me’ as we danced; however, I only got a couple of Polaroid photographs of her.   I didn’t get her telephone number, so if fate agrees I may see her again when I return to this nightclub---or maybe not.   Whatever will be…will be.

 

 
      October 1, 1988
The next morning I felt the silence.   I took a photo of my living room area.   It is said that one can tell a lot about someone from their living room.   I wonder what my living room says to the independent bystander.
PHOTO:  My Living Room
Today was the Saturday that mom and I made a visit to the Alameda County Fair with Ashley.    She has an attraction to the MY LITTLE PONY plastic toy that was promoted back in 1983 (the year before she was born), so it was fun to see her on a real-life pony.   She also seemed comfortable with the friendly ducks, sheep and goats.  It was fun to be still, to simply watch Ashley 'experience'.

People are always worried about what's happening next.   They often find it difficult to stand still, to occupy the NOW without worrying about the future.   People are not generally satisfied with what they have; they are very concerned with what they are 'going' to have.--The Art of Racing in the Raina novel, by Garth Stein
 
 
 

Effortlessly and Passionately

I happened to reopen my diary at the same page last week.  And now it's so clear, plain as day: the only two things I care about in this life, and the two things that I felt were now utterly absent in my life.  The same phrase, written three times:
"Love and Freedom."
"Love and Freedom."
"Love and Freedom."
BETRAYAL of Love and Freedom
a novel by Paul Huljich
Based on a little truth

September 24, 1988, SaturdayPHOTO (circa 1950's): 
My Dad’s half-sisters: JOSIE, ESTHER, NELLIE and JENNY

 I agreed to attend.   My Dad’s half-sister, Esther Vigil-Garcia, was having her 50thAnniversary Party event.   Esther married to Reubel Garcia on September 24, 1939 when she was 21 years old.  Mom asked me to attend.  My brothers weren’t too eager to attend family gatherings.   I thought it would be nice to see relatives I don’t see often enough.It was nice to see my cousin, Rebecca (Nellie’s daughter).  I captured a nice polaroid shot of her.
PHOTO:  Rebecca
It felt a bit sad and awkward because my Dad couldn’t be here.   Alas…such is life as it goes on.


I had the honors of driving.  It was a nice affair.  
PHOTO:  Aunt LelaMy Dad’s sister-in-law (my Aunt) Lela was there with her daughter (my cousin) Donna Armijo with her boyfriend, Mike Solorio.  My first-cousin, Donna, looked as gorgeous as ever.   I love her hair…like a model.

 PHOTO:  Donna and Mike
It was especially nice to see my Aunt Esther and Uncle Reubel look so happy with everyone gathered for their GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY.   How often does this happen (after all)?  PHOTO:  Esther and Reubel

My mom has a special, friendly relationship with my dad’s niece, Cecelia Markus (Esther’s daughter).     Cecelia often calls my mom to keep her informed with my Dad’s side of the family.   I liked the loving Polaroid shot I took of mom with Cecelia during this festive gathering.   I teased my mom about it later.  Everyone was a little on the ‘tipsy’ side.  PHOTO:  Cecelia Garcia-Markus and Mom

September 25, 1988, SundaySunday morning rolled along and I rode by on my bike to mom's house.  Mom was on the phone, talking to Cecelia about the gossip and events of the Golden Wedding Anniversary Party from last night.   I think my mom wanted to get off of the phone.   I detected this because she was doing more listening than chatting.

I couldn’t wait…I went on a longevity bike ride.   I was thinking about my evening date with Amy L Platt.   I was driving out to Lafayette to see her later.  I felt a strong connection with her and felt a need to simply ‘go with the flow’.   I believe she wants me.   As I was riding I made a decision to really focus on solidifying our relationship.
And so, I arrived at Amy’s place in Lafayette at about six-thirty on a lax Sunday evening.   She smiled at my arrival and we went for a quick bite at a little dive-place in town near the Lafayette Park Hotel (on Mount Diablo Boulevard).  Amy asked, “So what’s new?”.“Oh…the usual stuff,” I answered, “I went to my Aunt’s Golden Wedding Anniversary yesterday.   It was kind of fun to see a lot of family that I hadn’t seen a while.”

“Those family gatherings can be a bit stressful, too.”“Yeah, but this went over well.   And now, I’m here with you and I’m happy to be here.”
“I’m happy you’re here, too,” Amy smiled.
"So, let’s go.  I wish it wasn't a work day tomorrow."

We arrived back to Amy's pad quickly enough.   She lives in a bit of a guest house that is attached to the house.  It's very private.   Her place is small but I guess it works for her.   She opened a sliding door and I entered.“This is cozy,” I said.
“Yeah, I like it.”
I browsed at the materials on her desk.   I was about to say “I guess I should go” but I felt she wanted me there.
“The people that live here have left for the weekend.”
“Oh…I guess that makes it nice for you.”
“It’s only temporary.”
I felt she wanted me to know that we were alone.   I took intimate steps into my own hands and approached her.  My face was facing hers.  She smiled and I just did it.  I kissed her.   It was nice.  She was ‘into’ it.  I was ‘into’ it.  Her lips were perfect.   I felt that I was embarking on a great journey.   It was mutual bliss.

Before long I realized we were lying on the floor next to her bed.   I was on top of her.  I stopped kissing and looked at her face and into her gorgeous blue eyes.   We kissed again.   The French kissing was superb.   I felt a need to move forward, so I began to unbuckle my pants when Amy startled me.“No…don’t!” Amy snapped.
I thought of the movies when a woman says ‘No’ and really wants more, so I kissed her effortlessly and passionately.   I wanted to continue.
Yet again, she ruined the moment.  She was adamant and angry.   It was as if this was all wrong in her eyes when I knew she wanted it (as much as I did).  
"What’s wrong with you?” I asked.
"Just don’t…” 
I honestly didn't recognize this fierce side of her.
I got up and said, “Okay, fine.   I’ll just leave then.”
I walked out.   I was pissed.   It was over.   Did she feel like I was assaulting her or attempting to rape her?   Give me a break.   I stopped.  She didn’t budge to stop me from leaving.   As far as I was concerned I didn’t want to see her face ever again.  

A couple of hours later I was at mom’s house.   Mom and I started watching a movie.Mom asked, “What’s the matter?”
“Oh nothing.”“You look like you’re thinking about something.”
“Oh…just Amy.   She bugs me sometimes.”
Mom shrugged it off.   During a commercial break I looked at my Polaroid and positioned the timer to take a self-portrait.   I felt a need to mark the moment.   Some people change their hairstyle after a break-up.   I take a photograph.   Would anyone know from this photo that I had just been jilted?
PHOTO:  Me, relaxing after the stress of Amy

"She seemed like a good idea at the time. But good ideas have a shelf life."BETRAYAL of Love and Freedom, a novel by Paul Huljich, Based on a little truth
 
 
 

Beauty Is in the Eye of the Beholder

…so few women know how,
with empty hands,
to remain motionless and serene.
-Colette
THE PURE AND THE IMPURE

Diary Notes for September 12, 1988
It’s ‘on’ again with Amy Louise Platt.   She came to my pad today.   We had such a great time.  I am beginning to like her again…a lot.   She signed my House Book.   I was a little disappointed when she left and looked at what she wrote.   She didn’t write much of anything.  She didn’t even write “LOVE, AMY”.    Perhaps I didn’t give precise enough instruction.I had said, “You have to thumb through the magazines and find an image that strikes you.   Cut it out and then, sign the book.”She literally signed the book and dated her entry.   She also pasted her image but she didn’t write anything else of substance.   It made me read more deeply into the magazine clipping.  She chose ad copy that stated ‘Beauty Is in the Eye of the Beholder’.   I do find that to be a subliminal message for me towards her.    Who knows?   I may be reading more into it.
PHOTO:  Amy Louise Platt
I do feel that Amy likes me a lot.  I look forward to next weekend.   We have a new date planned, so let’s see where this goes (finally).I am taking an acting class at the ACT (American Conservatory Theater) in San Francisco.   I go there after work two nights a week.   I’ve only told Paloma (and my mom) about it.   I just needed a new diversion.   I’m learning a few things but I don’t know if my heart is really ‘into’ it all. 

I have a couple of cool new postcards from Paloma, too.   Where does she find these classic postcards?   I especially like the one for CHANTAL THOMASS clothing, photographed by Martine Devarrieux  for the Saatchi Advertising Agency:PHOTO Postcard #1 of  Chantal Thomass Ad Campaign:

Paloma wrote on each card:September 22, 1988
Dear Michael,
I just got your last card today (the one with the picture).   Thank you.  I’d like to know who the owner of that Paloma Restaurant is, if you ever eat there ask why they called that restaurant “PALOMA”.   They didn’t ask me.  They’re going to have to pay!

How was your acting class?   Tell me about it.   Did they tell you that you were going to be the new Richard Gere?
PHOTO:  American Gigolo, Richard Gere Jonathan is fine.   Thank you.  He is now 15 months old, pretty soon you’ll be able to go out with him and fight for the same girls.   He is very smart.  (I know you’re thinking just because I’m his mom).   He is always finding out ways to do things he isn’t supposed to do.   Right now he is just standing up on his horse.  Pretty scary!   Alexandre is fine, too.   Thank you.  The neighbor just gave me your last present (she kept the package for me) because I was in Paris.   Thank you so much.   I don’t know what to say.   She is moving out next week.   Too bad you won’t meet her.  Do you know I could sell my collection?  I could get around $4000 (at the very least) with all of the rare pieces you’re sending me.   Maybe someday I will and I’ll go visit you.   If I don’t really want to do it it’s because I would lose my hobby.   I’ve been collecting perfume sample bottles for over 15 years (hard to believe since I’m so young, huh?).   Do you already have this card of AGDE?
Love, Paloma
PHOTO Postcard #2 of AGDE, France:
A woman reaching maturity isn’t necessarily aging.  On the contrary, the passing years hold a wealth of secret beauties, unsuspected miracles.   There are even years that stop and never pass.-Jose Luis De Vilallonga
THE PLEASURE SEEKER

 

Explore Each Other's Bodies

He was a social cretin,
apparently unaware that he was anything but suave and brilliant in company.
-Kurt Vonnegut Jr.
PLAYER PIANO

Diary Notes,
September 4, 1988

I managed to photograph my niece, Ashley, when she was in the modeling mood.   I placed her on the hood of my mom’s Monte Carlo.   I love it when she cooperates.   Her Taurus moods aren’t always so easy to handle for the Gemini that I am.

Ashley, Holly, mom and I gathered together for a visit to my grandmother’s house (mom’s mom).

My brother, Tony, also dropped by.   I captured him holding Holly in her summer outfit (a sole diaper). 

I laughed as we left Grandma’s house because of the outfits my mom and Betty (her sister) were wearing.“Now I understand why you call one another every day to find out what you’re wearing!   Gee whiz,” I said as laughter wouldn’t stop.
Mom and her sister, Betty, work together in the same department at the Downtown Oakland US Postal Service.   If they don’t contact one another daily they could easily be ‘bobbsey twins’ and end up wearing the same outfits.

After the Grandma visit we drove over to Tony’s house in Castro Valley.   Helen’s sister, Geneva, was there with her daughter, Nicole.   I was able to photograph Geneva hanging-out with the girls (Lauren, Ashley and Nicole).

 I also liked the family portrait of Tony, Helen and the girls that they had displayed in their living room.   It was worthy of a photo of the photo for my personal archives.

 
Later on this evening of September 4, 1988 a Birthday BBQ was arranged in celebration of Mom’s birthday.   My younger brother, John, arrived in a timely manner.   I managed to capture a cool photo of my two brothers in front of the BBQ from the second floor window, looking down.  
  I loved the matching ‘Tony and John’ caterpillars above their upper lips (moustaches of the late 80’s thanks to the TV show MAGNUM PI).

I found the ideal Birthday Card for Mom on her 53rd Birthday.   The image on the card depicted a young mischievous-looking boy, standing against a wall with a slingshot hanging out of his pocket while he was eyeing a young, smiling girl as she walked by him.   I thought mom would get a chuckle out of it.   And yes, it implies that I am that young, mischievous-looking boy.
Inside the card I wrote the following:September 6, 1988
Happy Birthday Mom!
Now do you understand why I couldn’t resist buying this card for you?   It sure reminded me of you!
Dad would have wanted you to have a Happy Birthday, too.   In fact, he’s telling me to tell you this:
“I LOVE YOU HONEY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY and HAVE A HAPPY DAY.”
So…Happy Birthday!
Love,
Michael J Armijo

On September 11, 1988 I sent Paloma the coolest looking CALIFORNIA postcard.   I think I subliminally wanted to yearn to come back to CALIFORNIA (and me).  It’s funny how I always write in ‘code’…do people I write to really know that they need to read-between-the –lines to get the additional messages?    

I wrote: 9-11-88, Friday Night
Hi Paloma Dearest,
Halloween 1988 is almost upon us again.   Remember that exciting night we met?   Well, the license plate on the red corvette on this postcard describes my feelings about you (TOY 4 2;  TOO HOT) !   Oh well, I’m going to turn in. 

Guess what?   I may be moving out of my townhouse into a new $275,000 place which has a hot tub!  I fall works out I’ll let you know and give you the new address.   I’m collaborating with mom to sell the townhouse and invest into something new and better.   I’m waiting on a photo to arrive and in turn I shall write again.  See ya soon…in memories anyway.  I was looking at the photos you sent me when I visited Paris in 1985.  One is framed…you know. Later,
LOVE,
MICHAEL J ARMIJO  It’s so much fun writing notes inside cool greeting cards.   I love doing that.   I found a four other postcards from years gone by that I had written.   When I re-read them now it provides key details and memories of the time:
June 18, 1979, Postmarked Honolulu, Hawaii

Addressed to Joe, Virginia and John Armijo (my brother, Tony, was in the US Air Force at the time, so he wasn’t included).   I mentioned Sophie Valdez (my mom’s first cousin because she was renting my parents’ townhouse at this time).   This postcard was sent during an escape to Hawaii with my high-school pal, Elisa Berney.I wrote:  

Dear Folks (including Sophie), We got here at 1:20PM and it is very hot, humid and nice!
Our Western Airlines flight was cancelled, so we took off as stand by passengers on United Airlines.  
The hotel room is nice.   We just bought a bunch of groceries (yummy).  
Tonight we are going to the INFINITY ROOM at the Sheraton Hotel (a disco). 
The bodies are nice around here and I’m still searching for the BEST.
See You Soon,
Love, Mikeeee


September 1980Addressed to THE ARMIJO FAMILY, Postmarked Sacramento, CA
The postcard was an image of the main entrance to the University Student Union Building at California State University, SACRAMENTO, where I was attending Business School.   I wrote:

 Hi Mummy, Daddy and Johnny: This is the Student Union Building.   Students eat here and meet in some of the rooms for meetings, clubs or job interviews.   The cafeteria is nice.   I like to order the California Burger with avocado.

The second floor is relaxing because the cushions on the chairs are so soft.   There is a big TV there and a fireplace.   It’s pretty cozy.  

Anyway, this is just a not to cheer you day and let you know that you’re all remembered.   Too bad I couldn’t spend more time with each of you last weekend.

Oh Mom!  That movie, THE WOMEN’S ROOM, had some interesting scenes!   Maybe I’ll meet an older woman and we can explore each other’s bodies.   I hope you’re laughing even if I’m not kidding.  

I guess I’ll see you guys another weekend from now.  

Tell John to be good to your next-door neighbor.   He’ll understand.
Love,
Mike

1982, Postmarked Guadalajara, Mexico
Addressed to Virginia Armijo, I wrote:

Hi Mom,
Don’t even ask where this is because ‘hell if I can tell you’.   I’m at the Guadalajara Airport in Mexico right now, waiting for Howard Edelstein.  Hopefully, he will show up pretty soon (?).
It’s 8AM.  It was a fine flight but I hate it when someone asks me something in Spanish and I keep saying, “Lo Siento, yo no se.”
I’ll fill you in on everything when I get home… Date unknown, Postcard of two lounge chairs overlooking a brilliant sunset.  I wrote:

 Mom, For ironing my clothes that day…For just plain being the BEST mom ever. 
…because your Birthday is coming up…and because I love you.
Here’s a little something especially chosen for you…by me.
Love Forever,
Michael J Armijo

“I cherished my minutes with her.”
-Darcy O’Brien
A WAY OF LIFE, LIKE ANY OTHER