Michael Joe Armijo's Blog, page 7

Pillow Fights

‘You are always choosing.  We don’t always control what happens to us.  But we always control how we interpret what happens to us, as well as how we respond.’--Mark Manson, in his book, THE SUBTLE ART OF NOT GIVING A FUCK 

Well, Cousin Edward Michael Espinosa, kept his word and came to visit us in Marina Del Rey. We arranged a rooftop picnic for him.  In attendance were Edward, Alan’s mom (GLORIA), Alan’s eldest daughter, Lauren, Alan and me.  We had some good laughs, and it was a perfect summer evening for a gathering on the rooftop.   I managed a photographic memento as well.

Edward wrote us a sweet note as soon as he arrived home: 

August 21, 1998 

Dear Alan and Michael, 

The rooftop picnic was delightful and delicious. 

Thank you and Alan’s gracious mother for a very nice evening. Let me repay your hospitality sometime. 

Love, 

Edward. 

Edward is from my mom’s dad’s family (the LUCERO line).  His grandfather, Dario Lucero, and my grandfather, Fidel Lucero, were brothers.   

The Family Reunion in Denver next week will be from the GARCIA line of my family (my dad’s mom).  My grandmother, Matilde Garcia (pictured here), had six GARCIA siblings: Augustin Jose (the eldest), Jesusita, Eulalia, Antonio Abad, Manuelita and Loretta Helen.  Everyone in attendance has a link to my grandmother Matilde or one of her six siblings.   

Here’s a preview of some of the forthcoming days: 

My niece, Holly, jumping on the hotel bed.   What is it about jumping on a hotel bed filled with pillows?  I suppose pillow fights are rather fun.  It releases anxiety. 

A group photo of my brother, Tony, his wife, Helen, and the girls, Lauren and Leigh. 

A pic of Tony and four of my nieces and my Aunt Julia and my mom, hidden behind Holly. 

The grand group photo of all: my grandmother Matilde’s descendants including me who were in attendance.   

Too bad we didn’t have a big section of pillows for all of us to have Pillow Fights.  I bet that would have had us laughing a lot more.  I wonder who I would have thrown the pillow at harder than the others.  Still, it was amazing to meet family members I had never met.  You’ll see more next week. 

“To see what’s in front of one’s nose requires constant struggle.” --George Orwell 

The Knife Incident

‘We all sat outside the house for dinner under a moon or starlit sky, listening to the radio—or telling stories after a magnificent meal.’--Dimitrie Sissi Mukanyiligira, in her book DO NOT ACCEPT TO DIE 

I received Four Letters this week.  All of them seemed to have a different theme.

Letter One from Marie-Antoinette: 

August 12, 1998 

Dearest Cousin Michael, 

Received your beautiful card and the wonderful things you say.  You’re so good for my ego!  I’m so sorry my writing or should I say correspondence has been few and far between.  I don’t know if I mentioned that my son, Joe, and daughter, Bernadette bought me a six-month membership at a Fitness Club, and I tell you it works wonders for me.  I work out with a personal trainer three times a week for an hour and a half each day and it feels great. 

I’ve shed about twenty-five pounds, and I’ve had my teeth fixed a little—had a few dental implants done, so I’m looking better than when you last saw me and feel 100% better.  I figured I have a few loves ones depending on me, so I had better get in shape to keep up with every one of them.  

I’ve tried talking to my brother, Gilbert, about going down to Cerrillos, NM and collecting a few of my things but he has become so uncooperative ever since I took legal action against him to get mom out of the nursing home.  I’m not giving up yet.  They say persistence pays and I’m that if anything!  Persistent!  I don’t mean to burden you with all of this, but I just wanted to let you know that it might be a while longer before I get my hands on those journals I wrote in as a young girl.  However, I will start a journal just for you with whatever I wrote in those journals (diaries) about my grandparents.  It was what I learned from mom and dad because you see I never knew any of them.  The only grandmother I was told mostly about was mom’s mom (Vicentita) and she passed away in December 1945, six months after I was born.  She lived with us in Madrid, NM up until her death.  I just wish I could remember what was in the diaries I saved.  I was in my teens and that was a lifetime ago.  Never fear.  I’ll keep trying.  Gilbert has no idea what I want from those sheds, so no harm will come to them.  I’ve also planned my trip again to Mother Cabrini Shrine this coming weekend.  Only time will tell if I can get good nurses to cover for me when I’m away from home and mom.  I can only take off when I’m sure she’s well taken care of in my absence.  I’ve made so many plans to do so many things that they’ll have to wait.  Mom has to come first!   

Anyway, I’m so excited for you and the trip you’re planning.  You’ve probably seen the world by now, haven't you?  Oh, you’re so lucky, Michael!  Take advantage of all the opportunities that come your way!  That’s what I keep telling my son, Joe.  He’s such a fine young man that I pray he achieves that greatness that’s within him.  I hope one day you two will meet.  My children don’t know any of my cousins or second cousins like yourself and I hope one day he’ll know all of you.  You’re the sweetest cousin I’ve known in a long time! 

Well, I told you I would have a long letter and more of my rattling on... 

I just got a letter from Aunt Genevieve (your grandmother).  It was so wonderful hearing from her.  I just feel so bad that I never got to see Uncle Fidel (your grandfather) before Our Lord called him home.  She sounds terrific and she’s 85 years young.  I’m going to try and see her before too much time passes by again.  I might pay you all a surprise visit one of these days. 

Please give me a brief account of what it was like growing up around all your uncles.  I was about 12 or 13 years old when they moved away from New Mexico to California, so I have no idea how they turned out.  In California they all probably turned out very successful, huh?  

Michael, again, have patience and I will have more information on my family as soon as I can. 

Mom and Destyne, my granddaughter, and of course, Ruben, my husband, keep me on my toes but I’ll find time to keep in better touch with you because meeting you was one of the greatest highlights in my life.  

God Bless you Always.  Take care and give my love to all the family there! 

Love Your Cousin, 

Marie-Antoinette and Family 

Letter Two from my niece, Lauren Armijo: 

8-13-98 

Dear Uncle Mike, 

How is your Barbie Collection going?  I think my favorite Barbie is MY FAIR LADY.  Have you seen it?  It is so pretty.  The Barbie I want most is the I LOVE LUCY Barbie.  Have you gotten any new Barbies lately?  

My Beanie Collection is going well but I wish my parents would give them to us more often.  I heard you were going to England, so I wanted to send you these Beanie pictures of Princess and Britannia.  I also sent you other pictures of Curly, Maple, and Place which are hard to find. Maple, the Canadian Bear, is only found in Canada.  There are 14 new Beanies, so go under the internet under the TY BEANIES on the top left there is a list in small writing.  CLICK on BEANIE BABIES and then CLICK on NEW BEANIES and it will have the pictures and names of all the new Beanies. 

If you didn’t know.  We started taking Karate lessons.  It’s pretty hard but fun.  They haven’t scheduled the next test, but we are going to take it to get black strips on our belt.  We (Leigh and I) are taking it with Leigh’s best friend, Julia. 

I cna’t wait until we go to Denver, Colorado for the Family Reunion.  I wish we were staying in the same hotel, so we could do more together.  

Love, 

Lauren Armijo  

P.S. Please, write back! 

Letter Three from my niece, Leigh Armijo: 

August 13, 1998 

Dear Uncle Mike, 

I just got your postcard yesterday.  Have you gotten any new beanies?  We got a couple of fourteen new beanie babies.  There are 14 new beanie babies.  We have Fortune the Panda, Jabber the Parrot, Tracker the Bassen hound and Stinger the scorpion.  They had about 7 of the new ones at a toy shop the other day but we missed them.  A lot of places sell the new ones for $20 but that is way too much. 

My Barbie collection is doing good, too.  i have one of the MY FAIR LADY dolls but I want the other two.  My sister has a man and a woman.  My mom would have gotten me the man but there as only one left.  The one my mom wanted to originally get us was not there.  I also want the I LOVE LUCY doll.  I hope mom and dad will get it for Christmas.  I only have about twelve Barbies, nowhere close to you. 

Karate is doing good.  Next time they have a test Lauren, Julia and I will take it. 

We are still taking ballet.  August 23 we are going to do our dance at a fair in Oakland.  Then, in October we are going to do the same dance and a tap dance number. 

I will see you at the Family Reunion. 

Love,  

Leigh 

Letter Four from Alan Neil Freiman: 

8/15/98 

Dear Michael, 

This card speaks for itself (when you THINK YOU'VE SEEN IT ALL).  I thought I knew it all until this weekend when ‘The Knife Incident’ surfaced.  Remember you always must protect yourself from people like that.  I hope you have learned that I am a very good psychologist and am always available to help you with your problems.  Let’s pick a hotel in ROME, Italy.  Love you...Why don’t you go to NY with me in October? 

Love, 

Alan 

‘The Knife Incident’ was regarding cousin, Mary Ann Gehling, who disclosed an incident when she was a young girl and left alone in a truck while her dad went inside a hardware store and a man WHO LOOKED LIKE ME came along with a knife in hand and tried to entice her away—but then he ran away.  She never forgot it.  So, now I’m the one who looks like the molester she can never forget, known as 'The Knife Incident’.  Oh brother... 

'One hundred perfect yellow roses would surely please...'--Thomas Thompson, in his book, BLOOD AND MONEY

Who is Cristobal Colon?

‘He had reached one of those minutes which he called the “superior moments of his existence”, those which alone give a value and a price to life. --Maurice Leblanc, THE CRYSTAL STOPPER I’m on the phone a lot speaking to cousins Linda Tafoya-Korenke (Idaho Falls, ID) and MaryAnn Gehling (Colorado Springs, CO) as we are focused on this GARCIA DESCENDANTS family reunion in Denver at the end of this month.  I’m excited to meet all of these relatives I know by name but have never met in person. 

Alan wrote a very naughty postcard dated 8/8/1998.  I will have to “x” out some of the comments but if you use your imagination, you may figure it out: 

Dear Michael, 

I couldn’t resist this card for you.  It reminds me of what xxx...  The motorcycle by the pool, the facial expression and xxx...  So, my advice is to look at the card, then go upstairs, take a shower and xxx...  Then, you’ll xxx.  This card was photographed in 1977 when I was 25, so when xxx... 

Love You, 

Alan 

Meanwhile, a day later I gathered five artsy photo postcards in my unique boxed collection and wrote to Paloma.  The first card was a Paloma Picasso portrait taken in 1990.  Yes, she is Pablo Picasso’s daughter.  

8-9-98 

Hi Paloma!   

How are you?  Here’s another PALOMA.  You probably recognized her right away. 

I just came from a Sunday Morning Breakfast at NATE N’ AL’s and the commentator/radio and TV personality, Larry King, was there.  Do you know who he is?  He’s internationally known from CNN as the guy who interviews everyone who’s anyone.   Although he has not interviewed me yet.  Haha. 

About two weeks ago I had one of my best celebrity sightings ever: AL PACINO in Santa Monica, California.

I loved the photos you sent me of the celebrity homes.  I know the Nicolas Cage and Patricia Arquette house very well, yet, I had no idea it was theirs.  Jeez, I could do a tour with the information you sent me. Haha 

And you are SO, SO RIGHT!  How can anyone NOT like movies?  Hello? 

I have a Family Reunion on August 29th in Denver, Colorado. I’m one of the people organizing it, so it’s keeping me very, very busy.  

I will give my mom and Gloria your telephone number and the information about that restaurant. I know they will have some free time.  So, maybe they can see you.  I don’t know.  They’ll be on a Walking Tour, etc. They won’t have a car, so that might be limiting.   

You made my mouth water when you described LE CABRO D’OR.  Yummy! 

Alan and I are just now getting the details done on our trip over the first two weeks of October.  We are going to Amsterdam, Holland, then to Rome, Florence and Venice, ITALY.  Have you taken all your vacations for the year?  Maybe we can meet you in one of those places...for dinner or something? 

We are two busy people, but we do a good job keeping in touch.  

I was very happy to hear France win The World Soccer Championship, too.  I did also hear about the bicyclists.  What a shame that it ruined the whole mood of the race this year.  And very funny...as the extent of my drug intake is solely an aspirin every now and then.  Haha. How do you like this card?  It’s ME after a weekend.  Thank God I don’t have to shave for 2-3 days.   

I saw this third card and I’ve never heard of the movie (A BOUT DE SOUFFLE from 1959).  It looks like it came out when we were babies.  I thought you would appreciate it.  

I might go see the new Nicolas Cage movie called SNAKE EYES tonight that Nicolas himself directed. 

Oh yeah!  Alan told me to ask you if you know of any good restaurants in Amsterdam, Rome, Firenze or Venice.  Please let us know! 

Yes, I wish they’d stop picking on Bill Clinton.  And what about those bombs in Africa?  How terrible is that! 

Oh, Wolfgang Puck, the chef, is very famous here for his restaurants, so that one in Provence must be good. When you come to the States again you can maybe stay with us for a few days.  We will take you to SPAGO in Beverly Hills (the new one).  We ate there a few months ago and Tony Curtis and his daughter, Jamie Lee Curtis, were there. 

I hope you like this collection of five postcards.  Alan found this one for me in France when he took his daughters, Lauren and Carrie, there last month.  I wish I could have gone.  I had to work.  Guess what?  On January 15, 1999, I am quitting my job at CHARLES SCHWAB & CO. I will become an Independent Investment Manager and spend more time doing my ARTWORK I love to do.  My goal is to do 1000 pieces of ART (original works on canvas).  I will have to mail you an ARMIJO original.  Ha-ha 

Oh, speaking of ARMIJO.  I learned that in my family research that ARMIJO originated i a village called Laredo, Spain (near Santander).  At least that is where the earliest known Armijo can be traced (in a cemetery there).  Then, many ARMIJO’s moved to Southern Spain, near Andalucia.   

Next year, Alan and I plan to visit Spain, bringing our mothers with us.  I want to see those parts of Sapin.  What part of Sapin was you dad from?  I also learned that ARMIJO is a Castilian name.  This was all very interesting to me.  There’s more to tell. 

Here, on this fifth postcard, is another cool photo of a model, wearing Gianni Versace clothes.  Isn’t it terrible what happened to him (being killed just outside his Miami home last year, July 15, 1997)?  

Thanks for your recent letter, Paloma.  I love hearing from you.   

THE PERFECT MURDER film was good.  You must see GREAT EXPECTAIONS too starring Gwyneth Paltrow, Ethan Hawke, Anne Bancroft and Robert DeNiro.  I loved that one! 

I wish I was there, but we are having great sunny weather now, too.  Lots of tourists are here in town. 

The HOT restaurant in Santa Monica right now is LAVANDE.  The Chef had his training near you in Provence.  The restaurant is attached to the Lowes Hotel. 

More Later,  

Love, 

Michael  

Say HI to Alex and Jonathan! 

After proofreading my cards to Paloma I had to laugh.  What?  Do I think I can become the new Pablo Picasso. I can’t imagine completing 1000 masterpieces; however, one never knows.  Perhaps I can become committed to the project.  

I might have mentioned to her about my most famous ARMIJO descendant.   Drum roll please...it is CRISTOBAL COLON, b. 1451, d. 1506.   He was married to Felipa Moniz Perestrella.   One of his descendants, born around 1860 was Jesusita Armijo, is related to me.   

Now, you may be wondering ‘Who is Cristobal Colon’?  Well, in the United States he is known as Christopher Columbus.   He left Castile, Spain in August 1492 at the age of 41 with his three ships, the Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria (and Armijo’s were known to be on board).  He made landfall in the Americas on October 12, 1492, discovering what is now known as the United States of America.  I don’t need to brag.  Why be obnoxious?  Just the same, learning this is still a kind of superior moment of my existence.  

Photo: Cristobal Colon, aka Christopher Columbus

One thing you can count on is a letter from an inmate in prison.  They have time on their hands.  And so, my cousin Sandra Donald (aka Rita Sandra Cordova-Donald) wrote me again August 10, 1998 

Pearl, Mississippi 

Dear Michael, 

How are you today?  I did receive a card from NY, telling me what a wonderful time you were having! 

We have had a very difficult summer.  The heat index has been as high as 115 degrees.  I don’t believe we have had any summer quite this HOT before.   I won’t mention our living quarters are not air-conditioned.  

My son, Harmon, is presently in Africa on a job assignment with his company.  We finally heard from him last week.  They arrived safely and will be there for ten weeks or more. 

My grandson, Blake Harmon, had his first birthday on July 1st and he is walking now.  I am frustrated because I can’t seem to get out and see my family.  Please Lord, give me the strength and patience to hold on. 

Thinking of You, 

Love,  

Sandy 

Cousin Marie-Antoinette sent an invitation to her granddaughter’s 2nd birthday party in Pueblo, Colorado at the FURR’s BANQUET ROOM that is scheduled for September 5th.  I wish I could be in two places at once but it’s not possible yet (maybe someday): 

August 17, 1998 

Dearest Cousin, 

Our granddaughter, Destyne, will be ‘2’ shortly.  It would be nice if you could be here but I’m sure time and distance do not allow you to... 

You’ll be present in our hearts; just thought we’d share this special celebration with you! 

Love Your Cousin, 

Marie Antoinette 

What will tomorrow hold? It made me wonder after knowing the name Destyne. What will be her destiny?  What’s in store for me next month?  There’s no point in dwelling on it.  Focus on the present moment. Do the very best you can do.

‘Walter Benjamin said he was still not sure what the purpose of philosophy was, as there was no need to discover ‘the meaning of the world’.’--as read in the book by Gershom Scholem, WALTER BENJAMIN, THE STORY OF A FRIENDSHIP 

The Sun Was Red

“I’ve always believed it’s important to accept the people in your life for what they are. There’s no such thing as a perfect friend—and if you slag everyone in your life for their many and varied failings, you’re going to miss appreciating the good stuff they bring to the table.’--Mickey in EDWARD ASHTON’s book, MICKEY 7 

The 1998 United States Capitol shooting occurred on July 24, 1998, when a gunman named Russell Eugene Weston Jr. entered the US Capitol in Washington DC armed with a .38 caliber Smith & Wesson revolver. He bypassed the security checkpoint and opened fire, resulting in a horrific scene. 

The attack claimed the lives of two brave United States Capitol Police officers: Officer Jacob Chestnut and Detective John Gibson. Officer Chestnut was shot at point-blank range while providing directions to a tourist. Detective Gibson, who was assigned to the dignitary protection detail of then House Majority Whip Tom DeLay, encountered Weston and was fatally wounded in an exchange of gunfire. The shooting spree lasted only a few minutes but left a permanent mark on the nation’s history. The Capitol was in shock, and the event led to increased security measures. Both officers were honored for their heroism, and the entrance where the incident occurred was later renamed THE CHESTNUT-GIBSON MEMORIAL DOOR.  

Weston was apprehended and found to be mentally ill. He was deemed incompetent to stand trial and has since been confined to a mental health facility. The incident remains a somber reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face in their duty to protect and save. 

My CORRESPONDENCE FOR THIS WEEK: 

July 28, 1998 

Michael, 

We’re in Washington! I’m enjoying myself and thinking of you right now. I’ve been very busy, but I hope to see you in Denver. The mood here is somber due to the deaths of the two officers who were killed. I enjoyed a beautiful sunset while we were at Capitol Hill. The sun was “red”. Hopefully, I’ll write again before the gathering.  

Cousin Edna Garcia-Maestas 

July 28, 1998 

Howdy!

From the Santa Fe RODEO and OPERA!  

Edward M Espinosa 

July 31, 1998 

Hi Michael, 

This is our ship. This is a great ship. Good food, good cabins, fun, etc. Almost through though. We hit Vancouver B.C. on Sunday and then home to Minneapolis. If you haven’t cruised (on a ship) you would love it. The scenery is spectacular, and the crew is good too.

Best,

Reed

And from Paloma with a most unique, giant 'Printed in France' photo card from photographer, Francis Giacobetti, writing her latest:

Le 30 Juillet 98 

Dear Michael, 

It sure took me a long time to write to you, but you know how it is...always busy! I told you I was going to send you some pictures of the CANNES FILM FESTIVAL, here they are. Sorry it took me so long. They are not actual at all anymore—so many things happened since then. France is the SOCCER WORLD CHAMPION. I’m sure you’ve heard about that, for once, that we are WORLD CHAMPIONS. Believe me that’s something they hadn’t seen with many people celebrating on the Champs Elysees since the end of the war in 1945. And now, I guess you heard about the mess of the TOUR DE FRANCE. I knew all bicycle fans were drug addicts, right, Michael?  

As for the States, the most we hear about is poor Bill Clinton’s problems. I’m sending you a few pictures of your neighbor’s houses. I’ll take STING’s or JACK LEMMON’s house.  

If your mom wants to stop here with Alan’s mother, I will be very happy to show them around. Thell them to call me if they need any help. If they go to Provence tell them to go to les Baux de Provence. That’s just gorgeous and they should eat at a restaurant called “LE CABRO D’OR”, Tel No. 04 90- 54 3321. That’s also a hotel, it’s great. They might just have a little problem with the menu that even French people find it hard to understand. You know whatI mean. Fancy names they can’t just call potatoe e potatoe! And it’s not that expensive either. We gook the Saperstien Family there. They have a menu at about $35. They liked it that much that they decided to sleep there. They took a suite at about $300; I think. They speak English (at the restaurant, I mean).  

I know someone who has told me he knows very well the owner. I think, or maybe the Chef or I don’t remember!) of SPAGO. In fact, he told me that right after we came back from LA, he told me we should go. Next time I see him I’ll ask him and let you know. 

I like the actor Jean Reno, too. He was fantastic in LEON. Have you seen it? That’s also ‘for me’ one of the best French movies. He also has just played in a really bad one called LES VISIEURS II. THE PROFESSIONAL I guess that’s how you call “LEON”, Besson’s movie, right? He also played pretty much the same part in NIKITA (the Fench one of course, also the best one, sorry, Michael!). They are not showing the movies you tell me about yet, but I’ll see the ones you liked for sure. I’m interested in THE PERFECT MURDER. That’s the remake of the Hitchcock movie with Grace Kelly, right? LE CRIME ETAIT PRESQUE PARFAIT in French. It wasn’t perfect but almost. I will take Jonathan to Las Vegas (or to San Francisco, of course, too), for sure. I don’t know when, but I’ll let you know. It’s kind of hard to find a fun place for a kid. He loves to ski.  

For 5 years now there has been a guy working with us at the reception. We finished with one for 4 years named DANIEL and now we have a new one called OLIVIER. I chose them because they like movies. Don’t you find it hard to talk with someone who does not like movies? How can someone not like movies anyway? That’s proof of bad taste, isn’t it? 

We have lived in SETE since 1993, we don’t know for how long, but I hope for a while. I can go to the beach walking, and we’ve got a gorgeous view of the sea. We keep looking for a house to buy though. I must go now. Regards to Alan. Regards from Alex and Jonathan.  Love,  Paloma 

‘There is a type of person who has a quality about him that sets him apart from other and more ordinary human beings. Such a person has an instinct which is usually found only in small children, an instinct to establish immediate and vital contact between himself and all things in the world.’--Carson McCullers, THE BALLAD OF THE SAD CAFE 

Measure of Beauty

“It’s deeper than that. I’m done for. I can’t eat, I can’t sleep. I can't write, man. I can’t even write...it’s LOVE.” --John Collier, from his short-story, EVENING PRIMROSE 

Marie-Antoinette wrote to me once again. I loved the 32-cent postage stamp of Barney Google. She wrote: 

July 21, 1998 

Dearest Cousin Michael, 

Hope and pray this short note finds you well and happy. We’re all fine here! Sorry it has taken me so long to write but a longer letter will follow shortly. Just wanted to let you know I’m still among the living- chuckle-chuckle—slightly! 

My children went and bought me a membership at the Fitness Center, so that’s one of the reasons I’ve been a little busier than usual. Maybe by the next time you see me you won’t know me...tee-hee! 

Love to you and all the family! God Bless!  Marie Antoinette 

Funny how I received a card from a few months ago...it must have got lost in the postal shuffle. It was from Cousin MaryAnn Gehling in Colorado Springs, CO. I had sent her a cassette tape of recorded songs that I loved, wanted to share: 

Tues, March 28, 1998 

Michael, 

WOW! Thank you for the beautiful music. It touched my heart as I’m sure you knew it would. It was so professionally done. I’m impressed it took a lot of time to put it together. I appreciate it. I listened to it ALONE. Fantastic. I don’t know which is my favorite. SALT FISH by Mighty Sparrow cracked me up. Loved the French and Spanish songs. Wonderful from the musical GIGI (Thank Heaven for Little Girls). It’s one of my favorite movies. 

Hey, um, Michael...wasn’t that heavy breathing on the UNIQUE by CLUB 69 ‘that’s what you are’? Shame on YOU!  

The songs with poetry...ooohh!  

Noticed you underlined MY TIME. Did you want me to pay special attention to that song? Were you trying to get across that this ss you time now—and Dave, my brother, is gone? 

I loved the cassette cover. I’ll run across the bridge and meet you on the other side. Then I’ll pull out a squirt gun and shoot you with water, no pink Kool Aid.  

Love, 

M.A. 

And Cousin Edward Espinosa sent a card along with a printout of an email—IN ALL CAPS--he sent me on July 17, 1998 (in case I had not received it): 

HI MICHAEL 

GLAD I FINALLY WORKED OUT THE BUGS (ACTUALLY IT WAS A SHORT CIRCUIT—BETWEEN MY EARS). YES, I’M STILL COMING TO LONG BEACH BUT IT’S GOING TO BE THE 13 OR 14 NOT TEH LAST WEEK OF THE MONTH, SO MAYBE WE CAN STILL GET TOGETHER. I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO DINING AT LOUIS XIV (YOU PROMISED).  

WE’VE HAD UNMERCIFUL HOT WEATHER AND LITTLE RAIN. IT RAINED SO MUCH LAST NIGHT, SO WE’RE ALL VERY DARK, EXCEPT MARGARET. DENISE IS THE DARKEST—A LOT OF WWATER SKIING TRYING TO STAY COOL. I’LL LET YOU KNOW MORE ABOUT COMING OUT TO LA WHEN CLIF CALLS THIS WEEKEND. MARIO MIGHT BE COMING OUT TO ABQ O THE 27TH. WE’LL DRIVE UP TO TAOS AND SUPRISE CLIF (HE LOVES SURPRISES).  

SAY HELLO TO ALAN AND I’LL BE STAYING IN TOUCH.  

EDWARD (A BIG HUG FROM MARGARET) 

His Hallmark card depicted the cutest little boy in denim at the wheel of a car. I love it! 

7/24/98 

Dear Michael, 

Got your “Cover-Alls” card, yesterday. Glad you’re going to make it to ITALY this year. ITALY is where you see more beautiful people per capital than anywhere except maybe SPAIN (unless Your Measure of Beauty is Nordic Blond).  

You said you received my e-mail but I’m wondering which one. Did you receive this one I’m sending a copy of (enclosed) because if you did then you know we’ve done everything right. Some of them have disappeared into Never-Never WEBLAND!  

Call me and let me know. Shop: 800-437-8182 or send e-mail. 

Love You, 

Edward 

Alan and I went to see the film, SAVING PRIVATE RYAN. We really loved it. Actor Matt Damon is my favorite.

We also saw THE MASK OF ZORRO and it featured a new actress that I really fell HOH-Head Over Heels for...her name is Catherine Zeta-Jones. When she appeared wearing Blue Velvet in one of the scenes I almost melted. She’s so utterly BEAUTIFUL. I can’t decide between her and Matt Damon. Ha-ha, it’s clear my Measure of Beauty is variable or skewed. I’m in LOVE twice. No, it’s true. I was magnetized by the silver screen as they both seemed to see me. The connection was there. I suppose it was partly imagination, too.  

And my former co-worker, Reed Campbell, is still cruising around with wife, Deanna. He sent a cool postcard from ALASKA, and I especially liked the copy on the card:  

IF YOU ARE NOT THE LEAD DOG THE SCENERY NEVER CHANGES 

July 27, 1998 

Hi Michael, 

We are in Anchorage, Alaska for the cruise to Vancouver B.C. 7-Days of rest, etc. 

Thanks for the news in your last letter. I am having ‘seeing problems’, so I can’t write too well. 

Will send our e-mail address soon. 

Best Always, 

REED 

‘A look flashed between the two, and for an instant held—and that instant was timeless. It was an extraordinary pause in which a great deal of wordless interplay took place in the space of a second.’--Catherine L. Moore, in her Sci-Fi novella, VINTAGE SEASON 

Love Me Again

‘As the ancient Spanish Jews used to say, what time can accomplish, reason can too.’--Gershom Scholem, Walter Benjamin-The Story of a Friendship 

I saw an ad next to work on a giant billboard about the new Antonio Banderas, Anthony Hopkins film, THE MASK OF ZORRO. I want to see it. 

With Alan in Europe and now with the ease of e-mail I can write to him and get a more instantaneous reply. I love that; however, I wrote an e-mail on Saturday, July 11th but he didn’t reply until Tuesday, July 14th. That’s ok—he's having fun, exploring. I told him of my fun visit from my mom, Ashley and Ally, here in L.A.  

My e-mail on Saturday, July 11, 1998, 9:36pm: 

Well, when I last spoke to you in Rome you were ready to go on a guided driver’s tour. I hope it was fun. You sounded guilty in tone. Do you have something to tell me?  

As I said, GYPSY was exceptionally and surprisingly good. 

The facials were a success with Ashley and mom. Ally had some moodiness and homesickness between 9-10 while Ashley was getting her facial. Ally would not eat breakfast.

Between 10-11am, Saturday, while Mom was having her facial, I discovered the GALAXY VIDEO store on Ocean Park. I became a member. They have an excellent FOREIGN FILM section. I bought a movie for $9.95. I couldn’t resist (BEYOND RANGOON). I also rented a great film, CABARET. Did you know Michael York was one of the main stars? We saw him at the Scavullo Photo Exhibit—you, me, my brother Tony, and Herb Braha attended, remember?  

After the facials we went to Century City and had lunch at JOHNNY ROCKETS and saw the movie MULAN. It was great the second time around, too. Disney support doesn’t hurt either, huh? As I write, Ally and Ash are saying they want to see MULAN again (good sign). I appreciated a couple of the MULAN songs and I looked to find the soundtrack but could not. However, I did buy 3 soundtrack tapes (not CDs again, couldn’t resist). I bought MURIEL’S WEDDING, ALL THAT JAZZ and CHORUS LINE. 

Ally and Drew (your cuz) have something in common. They both love the marble game downstairs.  

After Century City I went running, watched CABARET with mom as the girls were upstairs reading. Oh yeah, back to CABARET...interesting for a film made in 1972 with the subliminal homoerotic scenes. It was directed by Bob Fosse, too.  

Then, we went to the CINEPLEX in Marina Del Rey and saw MADELINE (SONY support) and it was totally “predictable kid stuff” ...ugh. We went to PIZZARITO for a bit of din-din and now I’m home.  

Thinking of you, AGAIN. 

Love, 

Michael 

PS-Barb Streisand and James Brolin wedding photos are all over the recent issue of PEOPLE. Interesting. You know she approved every photo before it was allowed in the mag. 

PS2-Your United Kingdom check arrived: $53.40. If it’s okay w/you I will deposit into your account Monday, so you’ll earn 4.95% interest on it immediately, ok? 

Love Me Again.  

Alan e-mails back on Tuesday, July 14, 1998, 2:14pm: 

Hi there. I’ve been looking for an internet store for days, walking and walking. I finally found it now ‘to update’. Rome was very HOT in temperature...the sights, food, and hotel were excellent. The kids had a great time. We saw GREASE in Italian and walked a lot a lot and ate plenty of gelato and past. I spent every minute of my day and night with them. They are behaving very well—a little grumpy at times—but overall, pretty good. We drove to Florence in 3 hours in our rented VOLVO. Lauren slept instead of navigating and Carrie did too. Lauren understands your reason for hitting me because it took 1-hour to find the Hotel in Florence which is an A. Carrie is in-charge of translating but she keeps talking to the people in French. They don’t understand us at all.

We love Florence...great sights, great hotel, great dinner last night. We are visiting the DUOMO today and the UPIZZI, then the DAVID by Michelangelo. They liked the VATICAN and the Sistine Chapel in Rome.

As I was walking by the Hotel Medici pool yesterday in Florence, I saw two people who live in Santa Monica. I waved to them. Then they called me over to their table to sit and talk. They were MEL BROOKS and ANNE BANCROFT. She is filming a picture here. Later, I introduced Carrie and Lauren to them. They enjoyed meeting them—very friendly and nice people.  

I see that the market (DELL, MSFT, INTC, DIS) look good. Keep it up. As far as our trip in October, Florence is a MUST for 3-nights. You will love it. Be good. I love you so much. HOH all the way. Wish I can kiss u and feel your body. You’re so hot...can’t wait until next Thursday night in L.A. If you want u can call tonight at 11pm your time or tell my mother to do the same. I miss you all. Hope your mother and the kids had a great time. Be good while you’re alone. U know how U are. Be careful. I love you. I’m headed back to the DUOMO to meet the kids. They’re shopping. Respond. I’ll try to get back to you as soon as I can find the next computer.  

Love, Alan - Say hi to all...your mom, the kids, my mom and Jack.  

Imagine that...meeting Mrs. Robinson from THE GRADUATE! I was so jealous that I wasn't there. After some research I discovered the movie ANNE BANCROFT was filming in Italy was UP AT THE VILLA starring Kristin Scott Thomas, Sean Penn and Anne. We must see it when it’s released.  

‘That was a cozy little moment, when it felt like we’d left behind the bad feeling that had grown between us in the car.’--Kazuo Ishiguro, NEVER LET ME GO 

Work Gets in the Way

“You know what I like about New York? There are so many weird people that nobody takes any notice. We all just fit right in.” --Graeme Simsion, THE ROSIE PROJECT, a novel 

Alan is on his European escape with his daughters, Lauren and Carrie. He sent a postcard from the LE GRAND HOTEL in Rome, Italy. I’m in envy while I wake up daily to go to my Charles Schwab & Co. Office (such is life). I wish I could’ve accompanied them but sometimes work gets in the way. I can always squeeze in another trip later—maybe to New York. I really love how New York is like a new experience each time I visit—just like Italy. 

7/10/98

Mike, Hi!  

Arrived in ROME at 2PM, then we slept for 3 hours and now we are going to experience hour 1st dinner in ROME. It’s hot and humid but it’s very exciting. We saw CHICAGO last night... outstanding. 

Love, Alan, Lauren, Carrie 

Cousin Edward Espinosa of Albuquerque is still keeping to his word by sending postcards my way. I love to receive them as he is on his aligned business network trip with other florist shops that refer business to his Albuquerque shop: 

Dear Michael, 

Roswell is our most ‘mid-west’ city. Neat broad streets and neat tree line neighborhoods of clap-board homes. The New Mexico Military Institute is here to which I attended my freshman year, but I didn’t like the militarism—and anyway I got very homesick, and it cost too much money. We have two associated flower shops here and it’s nice to put faces to the names.  

My next towns to visit will be Silver City and Deming but that won't be until late August (maybe even September). We also have one Colorado town, Durango. I've been there many times skiing and I loved it in the winter and summer--much like Ruidoso, See you soon, maybe. 

Love, Edward 

What I enjoy more than anything else is the wealth of information available in the form of books, magazine articles, and newspaper reports, and the various activities that bring me in to the company of people who share my interests. --Nien Cheng, LIFE AND DEATH IN SHANGHAI 

That Summer Feeling

“...remember having a job and shelter is important, but human connections are even more important.” --Freida McFadden, THE HOUSEMAID 

Marina Del Rey is one of the most delightful places in the summertime and I like the fact that it’s a secret. I hope no one finds out. I took a series of photos that depict that summer feeling. This reminds me of a great lyrical song by Jonathan Richman from 1992 called THAT SUMMER FEELING. It’s a favorite tune for me to listen to during the summertime. 

Here’s a nice card from Dorothy that also gives me ‘that summer feeling’ (because of the memories that were made): 

June 30, 1998 

Dear Michael, 

What a wonderful evening/night Rosemarie and I had with you and Alan. I really enjoyed the conversations we shared, especially Alan’s candor. You got away pretty lightly—not much scoop from you that evening. Ther’s always a next time!  

Speaking of next time, maybe the four of us can meet in San Francisco when next time comes. What do you think? 

You know, I did miss not having any one-on-one time with you. Didn’t really have an opportunity to give you any details on the sketch/painting I’m interested in for my home. Guess we’ll have to have lunch in Elmwood sometime soon. Maybe add clarification to my answer regarding your “Has he seen your bedroom—has he been in it?” questions, while we’re having coffee. 

Also looking forward to a sharing of thoughts on a subject we just barely touched on during our dinner. You wonder what subject that was? 

Enjoy your mom’s visit and all the other fun things I’m sure you have planned for July. Hope for sunshine and blue skies. I’ll be thinking of you, as always... 

Love You, 

Dorothy 

And mom did come for the long 4th of July weekend. It was a treat having her around. We had her accompany us to the Santa Monica Pier with Jack and Gloria, too. 

Mom’s first cousin wrote to me while mom was here, and I read it aloud to her. And now mom’s wondering what has been going on. Of course, there’s always a story in everyone’s life, right? 

July 1998 

Dearest Cousin Michael, 

Just a few short lines to let you know I’m still among the living. Tee-hee! A lengthy letter will follow. Sorry it’s taken me so long to write but rest assured that you’re in my thoughts and prayers daily. In the letter to follow I’ll explain what's up and what’s been going on. Best wishes to all the family and consider yourself hugged. 

Lots of Love, 

Marie Antoniette  

‘Something that remained astonishing in his life was his capacity for concentration, his openness to intellectual matters, and the harmoniousness of style in his letters. There was in him a store of profound serenity.’--Gershom Scholem, WALTER BENJAMIN, The Story of a Friendship  

With a Grain of Salt

‘The skill I was learning was a crucial one, the patience to read things I could not yet understand.’--Tara Westover, EDUCATED, a memoir 

Gloria sent a cool CUPID COMPLAINING TO VENUS postcard from the National Gallery in Washington DC. I think I got too many complimentary comments this week. I will take it with a grain of salt. Did you know the phrase to ‘take something with a grain of salt’ means to accept it while maintaining a degree of skepticism about its truth. Yes, we need to consider these things carefully while considering the statement with caution and not interpret it too literally.  

Dearest Michael,

Thank you so much. You do such thoughtful and wonderful things. You are just great. Love you very much. The book is lovely, informative and easy to read. 

Best Regards and

Much Love, 

Gloria 

Sis-in-Law sent me a surprise FATHER’s DAY-Thinking of You, Uncle card that caught me off-guard and touched me so much. It was even hand-signed by Ashley, Holly, Ally and Dylan. 

Sherri included to beautiful notes, too: 

Mike, 

I just wanted to say thanks for being such a great uncle to the kids. They love you very much and are very lucky to have you. I’ve come to realize being an “aunt or uncle’ is probably the way to go. You hang out for a while, then you send them home!  

Love Your Sis-In-Law,

Sherri 

There was also a cool Leonardo Di Caprio postcard included; whereby, someone wrote MICHAEL- Happy Birthday!! Congratulations!! Your House. 

...but the signature was a scribble so I’m not sure which niece wrote it. The mystery remains. 

And the big event of the week was Lauren Freiman’s Santa Monica High School Graduation. She will attend NYU in the Fall. What an accomplishment. I’m so happy and excited for her. She’s reached a new bridge in her life. 

"Bridges do have a magic all of their own."--Nicolas Barreau, ONE EVENING IN PARIS,

Capture the Feeling

“Treat a man as he is and he will remain as he is. Treat a man as he can and should be and he will become as he can and should be.” --Goethe, from the book “BE” by A.C. Ping 

Barbara Reynolds of Berkeley sent me a beautiful card of colorful roses in a garden. I don’t know many people who love to do gardening. I’m sure being out in the sunlight would make it enjoyable (with a hat on).  

Cousin Edward Espinosa in Albuquerque sent me a trio of postcards from Ruidoso, NM (INN OF THE MOUNTAIN GODS); Bonito Lake, NM and Ruidoso Downs, a premier racetrack that I never knew about in Ruidoso, NM.  

My dear friend (former coworker/pen pal), Dorothy Rua, finally arrived for a Los Angeles weekend visit with her friend, Rosemary. Alan and I planned to meet them on Saturday, June 20th, at the FOUR SEASONS, Beverly Hills, for drinks and yummy bites (they prepare a nice pizza). It was fun to see Dorothy and meet Rosemary for the first time.

Dorothy claims, “I never get out enough.”

And I see now why she likes to hang with Rosemary as she is a fireball of FUN ENERGY.  

When I was up in the Bay Area last week Mom and I managed a brief visit to my Aunt Lela. I was happy to receive a note from her this week.  

On Father’s Day, June 21st, Alan and I went to Santa Barbara with Jack, Gloria and the girls (Lauren and Carrie). It was a beautiful day and I tried to capture the feeling of the day by photographing local people, the art fair, the free lawn and summer mood.  

There were Gloria's classic shoes that caught my eye. The delicious brunch at the Ojai Valley Inn. Everything was perfectly Santa Barbara-ish.

18 June 98 

Dear Mike,  

Wow. Funny...got your letter the day I visited our Charles Schwab Berkeley Office and I’m kind of surprised you are considering leaving Charles Schwab, yet I know you are certainly an entrepreneur of character. 

Thanks for the tip to call your brother, Tony (which I did) and he did message me back as to what is available job wise in his work locale. So, if any more is to happens to me it will be to go back to 370 Third Street in San Francisco. The BIG PROBLEM now is how spoiled I am now working so close to home, and you are correct of course. I would stay 5 years in an office if it had a relaxed work environment. 

This week I began testing out available desks in our office. I just cannot be seated directly under an air vent. The search is on.  

I swapped a vacation day from September 4th today. I took a nap after running around, then tackled the garden. I did some significant pruning and was glad to define space. 

Finally...SUN and FLOWERS and the roses are blooming. I got this card today, inspiring me to write. Funny enough tonight while David was away at school, I did log on to his computer and know now that I could e-mail you, so, good option. I thank you for your gift of cards and happy liked the ones I sent...and you got to a fine spot for your Birthday. 

More films...waiting to see some on your list. I saw “WILDE” (Oscar) last Saturday which was terrific and touching and sad—but very good. We saw THE HANGING GARDEN the week before, good for growth in my life.  

Europe sounds good. I talked to some of my English cousins a couple of weeks ago. They are wonderful to talk with and they are thinking of making another trip to California...sigh. London and Italy both sound wonderful. I can barely remember Amsterdam. It has been twenty-five years since I was there. 

Ashley will be 14 years old? Excited about high school? She is lucky to have you as an uncle.  

Hope you had a great trip up here! I’m just travelling in my mind. 

See ya, Love, Barbara  

6/19/98 

Dear Michael, 

Ruidoso is both a winter and summer resort in New Mexico.
There’s plenty of snow in the winter and cool pines in the summer. We’re having our annual Florist Convention here. Margaret’s burned out on all of this, so I must do the Public Relations work. I don’t mind it. Networking is always profitable.  

Did you get Denise’s e-mail address? If not, I’ll send it to you when I answer your last letter at home. Meanwhile, try mine at the address on my card. Dean says it’s very difficult to access but Johnny writes to Margaret all the time. I still don’t have one at home. Our next Board meeting will probably be in Albuquerque but the next all member event will be in Silver City, another Southern NM resort late this summer. We'll have one more all member meeting in October and nothing more until after Mother’s Day.  

I still plan to go to L.A. late in August (last week). So, I guess I’ll miss you this time but there’ll be other times on the horizon and probably other places. I’ll write to you from home as I have some advice to give you on your business ambitions and some thoughts on that.  

Regards to your mom and Alan. 

Love You, 

Edward 

June 1998

It’s me! 

Well, I found your gift minutes after you left. We sure did enjoy our time with you and we’re looking forward to a visit down to your neck of the woods. 

Lovingly, 

Auntie Lela 

“Anything beautiful should be given a name, do you not agree?” --Tah Twan Eng, THE GARDEN OF THE EVENING MISTS