Michael Joe Armijo's Blog, page 91

Happy Thoughts

"Sometimes I think I'm a better friend than you are to me."
-Art Garfunkel to Jack Nicholson
CARNAL KNOWLEDGE
1971 motion-picture

Twenty-five years ago today:

March 8, 1987
Sunday

I slept in until 11AM. That was great!

I lounged for a while and glanced through pages in my HOUSE BOOK.   I realized that Stuart spells his first-name 'Stewart' and not Stuart.

Stewart Western wrote in the House Book last night.   He chose to write underneath an image of a muscle-bound guy driving a white convertible with a bunch of gym equipment in the passenger seat (as a blond gal looked in awe). 

3-7-87
After a hard work out at the gym.

Why am I doing this at 3:00AM after a night at DV8?

Stewart Western
I wrote about Richard Weinstein on February 1, 1987:

…Which reminds me-My newfound friend, Richard Weinstein, is into glass art.
I'll pretend this shot is cheers and a toast to my future happiness as well as his.
We should all maintain happy thoughts like this! Happy February 1987.  MJA
Cheers:  Togetherness. 



Bob Guild wrote next to a magazine clip of Mel Gibson that I posted in my House Book because of my fascination of him in his Road Warrior film:

THE ROAD WARRIOR! MJA
To think we met on the road!
B.G.
1-12-87

Mom called to say, "Breakfast is ready if you want to come over."
It didn't take me long to get there. That's for sure.

PHOTO:  Happy Thoughts
My mom, Virginia Marie Lucero-Armijo, 3-8-1987

I am planning on a trip to Los Angeles for the weekend of March 20th.  Julie of ASK MR. FOSTER Travel has not returned my call to refine the details though. Wench!

CAMILAI should have gone bicycling but after breakfast I felt like a movie. I watched CAMILA at mom's house.   Mom and I loved it.   It was a very sad story. I was touched and saddened at the end of it. It took place in 1840's Buenos Aires, Argentina and was based on a true story; whereby, a beautiful young socialite named Camila falls in love with Ladislao, a Jesuit priest. After several failed attempts at fighting his feelings he ultimately succumbs to her. The two eventually escape to a far off, secluded village where they assume new identities as husband and wife. They begin running a children's school and have several months of happiness until their true identities are discovered by a local priest. Under moralistic pressure from both Camila's family and the Catholic Church the authorities apprehend the lovers and imprison them for sacrilege. I went home and slept after the movie.

Before I knew it the time was already 4:45PM. I went to mom and dad's house again to find my brother, Tony, his wife, Helen and my niece, Lauren there. I snapped a good photo of Lauren.
PHOTO: Lauren Michael Armijo
When I returned home at around 7PM with intentions of attending that Private Party at DV8 in San Francisco I realized that I had missed two phone calls from the dreamy green-eyed Gary in Los Angeles.

I telephoned Eileen.
Eileen said, "Katrina and I are off to a movie now."
And so, I decided to just stay home and write letters to Eileen, Gary, Suzanne Van Schoor, Jeff Sombat, Stephan LeBrack, Carla (of Hawaii), Bill Matson and Troy Nelson.

Then I decided to go to bed when Eileen called.
Eileen couldn't hold back the gossip.
"Oh Michael, my ex, Dave told me he saw us in Burlingame. I told him that I liked you."
"I guess he still wants you."
"Maybe," then she asked, "Are you seeing anyone else?"
I answered, "No."

Gary Conger called me from Los Angeles and I told him of my intentions to visit on the weekend of March 20th.

I recalled that Steve Flander had called me on Saturday Night, wanting to go out to a flick. Give me a break!
I used that line that my sister-in-law Helen had taught me, "Well, I have other plans."
Steve is a fat, friendly sort but not one I care to pursue any sort of lasting friendship. He's just a business acquaintance. He's so very questionable.

He had none of the charm or sexiness everyone else talked about. Perhaps this was just how CIA men were. They were motivated by their missions.
-Olen Steinhauer
THE NEAREST EXIT

The Cream Puffs

So sinful are these thoughts that I hardly dare write them here. But if not put down here, they are left to linger inside my thoughts, and that is far more destructive. Once my thoughts find their way into your pages I am free to start over. You save me with your listening!
-THE DIARY OF ELLEN RIMBAUER
My Life at Rose Red

Twenty-five years ago today:

March 7, 1987
Saturday

I like sleeping in. I woke up at 9AM on this Saturday morning. I drove over to mom and dad's house for breakfast.

I took a one-hour bike ride. The weather started out nice and then it began to look gloomy. I decided to return to mom's house for a while for some nap time. The idea of doing aerobics was in the back of my mind but that's where it stayed (in the back of my mind).

Later this afternoon, while lying naked in my bed I listened to a recorded message from Eileen Grabinsky and decided to return her phone call.
Eileen said happily, "I'm off from noon until five today!"
She persuaded me easily. I decided to drive across the bay via the San Mateo Bridge to meet her for lunch. We ate at a place called TROLLS in Burlingame (a great burger and shake joint).  It was fun. We took a bunch of Polaroid snapshots all around the Burlingame neighborhood.  She has a fixation about my 'Jake Jaguar' alias, so every time we saw a Jaguar she took a photo of me in front of one.

Eileen saw her ex-boyfriend (Dave) drive by while we were walking. We later learned that he did indeed see us. So what!

We parted ways and I drove back to Alameda to see mom.  I bought her a couple of cream puff lemon meringue pies at a bakery in Burlingame. She was happy with the delivery.  I had her model for them, positioning them just so. She laughed at my silliness but I snapped a good Polaroid of her holding the cream puffs.

I telephoned Stuart Western, leaving a message on his answering machine. I wanted to know if he was serious about going out tonight.

I was sleeping at home when my phone rang at around 9PM.  It was Stuart.
Stuart sounded so energetic:  "Hey Mike, let's go out!"

I was in agreement and gave him instructions on how to get to my townhouse. When Stuart arrived I took a Polaroid photo of him.  He liked my pad. Then we left for San Francisco to a club called 'DV8'.

While we were having a drink at the bar I saw a pretty Asian girl and just got up my nerve to go ahead and ask her to dance.  Her name was Jeanette. I also met a pudgy-type named Julie from Santa Clara. Julie was pretty cute though. I was surprised when she told me her age as she looked much younger.
Julie smiled, "I'm actually twenty-one. I attended USC."
PHOTO:  Stewart Western

Then I met another gal named Cathy who was from Marin County.  I also met Bonnie, the waitress, who gave me free passes to this Sunday night's Private Party for HAIR EXPRESSIONS here at DV8 in the City.
I handed one of the free passes to Stuart and said, "Just in case you want to go."

I was home by 3AM.  It was fun but I'm not so sure Stuart had a good time.  Stuart came in the house with me and signed my House Book. Then he left.  I find Stuart cute but he's a construction worker and I wouldn't dare 'make a move' on him for fear that he might beat me up.

I could easily let myself get carried away in a fantasy.
-D.M. Thomas
THE WHITE HOTEL

Nachos and Quesadillas

"Knowledge is the second most important thing…first health, then money."
-Manhattan Murder Mystery
A Woody Allen film

Twenty-five years ago today:

March 6, 1987
Friday

It was a quick Friday. They usually are. I am so very glad of that. I was able to get a lot of work done today.

My co-worker, Rhoda Takeda, had the day off.

Carla and I finally joined forces for lunch once again at DON MIGUEL's. I was already full from the nachos and quesadillas that Eileen and I shared last night.

I ended up driving straight home after work and took a nap.  I love to sleep these days. Perhaps it was that tropical sun in Hawaii that makes me want to doze.

My dad called to invite me over for a visit. He was in need of some company. I joined him and really liked the tuna sandwiches and soup that mom had left before she departed for work. Dad and I kept each other company all evening. It was fun. I actually watched Louis Rukeyser Wall Street with him.
I said, "His hair cracks me up. It reminds me of George Washington."
I watched more television with Dad.

By 10:30PM I decided to head over to my place. I was tired. I just went to bed for the night. Tomorrow is another day and I think Stuart Western wants to go out to San Francisco to scope out the dancing club scene.

When men know their world well…what idea can men have of the passing of time?
-V.S. Naipaul
A WAY IN THE WORLD
New Clothes: An Unwritten Story

Green-Eyed Gary

It's never the changes we want that change everything.
-Junot Diaz
THE BRIEF WONDROUS LIFE OF OSCAR WAO

Twenty-five years ago today:

March 5, 1987
Thursday

At 6:35AM I received a phone call from Hawaii. It was Stefan LeBrack.
Stefan whispered, "I can't talk a lot because Jeff and Carla are here."
It was nice of him to call. I guess he was thinking of 'me' (interesting).

Within fifteen minutes Jeff called me from Hawaii. It's lucky I was still at home, getting ready to go to work.
Jeff said, "We're probably going to get a new apartment by the time you come for a return visit."
I asked, "Will it be cockroach proof?"
He laughed aloud as he knew of my predicament at that horrible hotel.

It's funny because I was planning to write to Jeff and Stefan last night.
I actually told the both of them about my intentions to write, "…and then I just got lazy."
I didn't bother to tell them that I wrote to the dreamy green-eyed Gary who works at THE RAGE in Los Angeles. I also wrote a postcard for my office.

Today was the OAKLAND Close Day for yellow page advertising. It's a fairly hectic day because everyone is scrambling to get into the book at the last minute. My creepy boss, Steve Adams, had to assign me six OAKLAND accounts to work. Yuck! I did pretty well on getting them current with their past due payments though.

Carla Guzman ditched me for her model friend, Larry. He looked like a "fat" duded to me. How could he be a model? I guess they need all types. Or it could be that he won't be a model for much longer (if he still is).

I recalled how Troy Nelson (of Utah) said to me in Hawaii, "You should really look into modeling."
Perhaps I will.

I ate lasagna for lunch (alone) at THE PIZZA BOAT.

Carla and I had fun during our morning and afternoon breaks. We always do. Sometimes we stretch our fifteen minute breaks into twenty or twenty-five.

After my work day I couldn't help but sleep. Then I drove to Hillsborough where Eileen Grabinsky and I left for Burlingame to 'pork out' on nachos and quesadillas. We also sipped on Café Mocha's at DOUBLE RAINBOW. We did some window shopping and actually ran into Eileen's ex. It was a true "yikes" for Eileen…but it was strange as it seemed to be an "exciting yikes" for her.

Eileen and I sat on a bench, hugging and kissing. Then we walked around for a while longer until it was close to 11PM. I drove her home and looked at her ski trip photos. She really liked the 'On-Location Beverly Hills' tank top that I purchased for her in L.A. She also loved the shells and puka shell necklace that I found for her in Hawaii. It was nice to see her. I realized how much I had missed her. The fantasies I've had of her started to come back to my mind.
PHOTO: March 7, 1987, Eileen and Michael J,
allowing their lunch to digest on Burlingame Avenue


I called Gary (the green eyed bartender) in L.A. while I was at work today.
I explained, "I work for Pac Bell Yellow Pages, so it's easy for me to call him during my work day."
Gary went on about how he's thirty-two years old and added, "I've been tending bar at THE RAGE for three years now."
"You sure don't look thirty-two," I said, sensing his smile through the phone wires.
Gary said, "You're welcome to stay with me next time you come down to L.A."
I thought he was being a nice chap. We'll see. I actually mailed his letter today but decided against telling him about it. Instead, he will be pleasantly surprised.

My gym buddy, Stuart Western, telephoned.
"Hey, when are we going out?"  Stuart asked.
I had called him earlier but he wasn't home. I guess we'll be going to some club 'somewhere' soon (possibly this coming Saturday night).

I need to figure out my income tax for 1986. That's always a chore. I am sure I will be getting a refund though. I better be!

Life didn't have to make sense, I'd concluded: that was the big joke.
-Wally Lamb
I KNOW THIS MUCH IS TRUE

I Pulled Down My Pants

And at that moment, for reasons you will never quite understand, you are overcome by the feeling, the premonition, that something in your life is about to change.

-Junot Diaz
THE BRIEF WONDROUS LIFE OF OSCAR WAO

Twenty-five years ago today:

March 4, 1987
Wednesday

I am getting back into the swing of things at work.

I enjoyed lunch today with Laverne Butler and Dale Orlando. Dale's last day at the Pac Bell SDC is next Friday. He will then move on to Pac Tel Info Systems. Laverne really wants to transfer to Pac Bell Directory. Time will tell.

A fat chick named Terry Macklin came in to the office today. She's a surplus employee in Key Accounts and she has inquired about the Account Collection Representative position. I hope she doesn't get the job. I'm not so sure I like her attitude. She's not the prettiest as far as looking at either. Who knows? Maybe she is nice and I am pre-judging too soon.

Carla loves my Hawaiian tan.  I pulled down my pants for her so she could see my legs. She giggled excitedly.
Carla said, "I'm off for my Mexico vacation next month."

I accompanied Carla to the pharmacy and bought myself a candy bar.
Carla announced seriously, "You know, Michael.  It was good while you were gone. I didn't eat as much!"
I laughed but I thought she'd gained a few pounds while I was away.

When I made it home I was thrilled by two phone calls from Gary, the dreamy green-eyed bartender at THE RAGE in Los Angeles. I returned his call twice but we still haven't spoken to one another. I wrote him a letter tonight also.

I hit the gym and saw Patty. One of her friend's was talking to me continuously and hinted at going to a movie together. She's NMT (Not My Type).
She lives in San Leandro and said, "I know Geneva, Helen and your niece, Lauren."
I was surprised at that fact.

Mark Landreth has not been to the gym. I wonder what the scoop is with him lately.

I came home and called Suzy Miller to say, "You know, you're on the Missing Persons list for our class reunion!"
I sent my thirty-five dollars to attend our 10-year Alameda High School Reunion. I was asked to write in my accomplishments in life thus far. I wrote: World traveler, avid bicyclist, hopeless romantic and 'more to come'.

Carla (from work) called me on this evening.
She confessed, "Augustine and I are still and item."
I could tell that she really did miss my absence while I was in Hawaii. Her words made me feel good. I missed her, too.

"She thinks when you put a toy down it will still be there when you want to play with it again."
-DOWNTON ABBEY, Season I, Episode 5

He Became A Different Person

If I tried harder, tomorrow would be better than today, another place would be better than this place.

-Tony Parsons
AS IT IS

Twenty-five years ago today:

March 3, 1987
Tuesday

Oh Yuck! It's back to work.

Carla Guzman called in one of her EWD (Excused Work Days) at the last minute. She won't have any of those days left at the rate she's going. She was to meet me for lunch with her daughter and she stood me up.

I ran into Dale Orlando this morning. He received my postcard and was happy about it. Dale, Laverne and I are planning on a lunch together. Laverne Butler is planning to shoot for Directory Telephone Sales. I think she'll be in my department. That would be exciting.

I am so very tan right now. I keep getting double takes. Ha-ha. It's pretty neat to have shoulders turn at a moment's notice.

I didn't bother going to the gym because my sister-in-law, Sherri, called me.
"Michael, do you think you could watch Ashley tonight?"
"Sure," I replied.
How could I say no?  I like to do it.

I telephoned mom while I was at my office. I spilled the beans about my dad's harshness with me last night. She must have said something to him because he called me at home on this very evening.
Dad asked, "Hey, do you want to come over for dinner?"
It was like he became a different person.

I explained that I was going to babysit Ashley. Ashley and I had macaroni and cheese and we watched PEE WEE HERMAN. We followed the movie with a visit to the Ice-Cream Dock and returned to my place. Ashley was feeling tired. We were both falling asleep.

I watched a movie called I'LL TAKE MANHATTAN, starring Valerie Bertinelli. Valerie is around my age, so I can identify with her. The movie was good but I think it would have been better with a different actress.

Ellison (that Documentary video dude) called me. Johnny Schaefer also called. Bob Guild called me, too. I spoke to all of them but the conversations weren't any big deal to write about.

I am looking forward to seeing Eileen this Thursday night. These four day weeks seem to drag. Now I have to think as to when I will take my pretend 'poison oak' week in order to have a real vacation from the vacation.

"It is part of the scientific effort to search for something."
-as heard while watching the 2011 Brazilian film
The Sky We Were Born Under

A Flight and A Fight

Travel is the most private of pleasures. There is no greater bore than the travel bore. We do not in the least want to hear what he has seen in Hong-Kong.

-Vita Sackville-West
English writer (1892-1962)

Twenty-five years ago today:

March 2, 1987
Monday

Jeff Sombat had informed me that he knows actor, Michael Damian, of The Young and the Restless. I will have to tell mom about that one. She's still watching that soap-opera on occasion, so she might find it interesting.PHOTO: Actor Michael Damian
The flight to San Francisco from Honolulu was not as exciting as it was going. I sat in the last row of the place next to a black gentleman that barely said two words. The window was on my right side; whereby, my window and I couldn't converse without folks watching me strangely. The flight took four hours and fifty-nine minutes but now they're saying the flight will only take three hours and fifty-eight minutes. I guess it depends on the wind factor.
I wonder if Mike Miller will show up for me when I arrive at SFO (San Francisco Airport). If he's not there I guess I will call him. I can decide at that point as to how I will get home.
Michael Miller didn't show up, so I took a shuttle bus home. I arrived at SFO at 3:05PM but I didn't walk into my house until 5:20PM.
I called Mike and Mrs. Miller answered the phone.
Mrs. Miller said, "Oh, Mike and I got into a fight. He left home. I think he went to his Dad's house in Arkansas."
I was surprised, but then again…I can relate to it when I get pressure from my dad at times.

While home I rummaged through my mail. I received personal letters from Eileen Grabinsky, Gregg (in Chicago) and Johnny Schaefer (in Anaheim), Margaret Lai and Richard Weinstein. The phone calls on my answering machine were from Stuart Western, Johnny Schaefer, Margaret Lai and Richard Weinstein.
I unpacked some of my things and left my big bag in the garage. I want to make sure it's cockroach proof before I bring it in the house.

I decided to hit the gym.

I telephoned Eileen but she made plans for tonight. We may meet up on Thursday night. I stopped by to see my dad and Sherri and Ashley dropped by while I was there. Sherri was going to an ex-neighbor's funeral. Ashley stayed with her grandpa. I drove off to the gym.

The only person worth mentioning that saw my Hawaiian tan was Patty (Ann Alberti's friend). I didn't see any of my other friends. I didn't stay long. I decided to NOT overdo it on my first day back at working out.

I returned to see my dad and gave Ashley the Hawaiian dress that I purchased for her. I made the mistake of showing her the other dress.
"This dress is for Lauren."Ashley got mad. I think she wanted that dress, too. Ha-ha.

Sherri picked up Ashley and I was alone with dad for a while. I showed him a few of my photos from Hawaii. He started to nag me about the cash he had loaned me while I was in Sacramento. He may go 'on and on' about it but I think he's jealous of the good time I had in Hawaii. I think it's because he never tries to move on with travel and exploration. He wants to retire to New Mexico one day. I think he's looking forward to retirement but while he's working he has to take out his uneasiness on someone.  I was the choice-pick verbal fight of the day.

I chose to vanish because he was blurting things that he didn't really mean. I knew that if mom wanted to see me she'd come over to my house. Too bad she was at work. Dad said such cold things. He really made me mad.  I could really relate to Mike Miller and his fight that he had with his mom now.

I came home and Johnny Schaefer called again. We spoke briefly and then I showered and went to bed.  I felt like watching Joan Rivers on the Tonight Show but chose to get a full night of sleep instead. I will have the burdens of my desk at work tomorrow.

I was expecting a five-thousand dollar check from Pacific Telesis Savings; however, all they could distribute for me was one-thousand nine hundred dollars. Oh well…that's better than nothing.

Jeff called me from Hawaii. I also spoke to Carla, too. They're too cool. I guess they missed their new mainland friend (me). I will get free room and board from them the next time I visit Oahu. How nice is that?

I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational to read in the train.
-Oscar Wilde (1856-1900)
Writer, Irish playwright

The B-52 Cocktails

Life is full of regrets but no matter how hard you try you can't change the past.
…Tomorrow's a clean slate.
-KYLE-XY, Season II

Twenty-five years ago today:

March 1, 1987
Sunday

Troy and I woke up and went to see Suzanne at WOOLWORTHS. I snapped a grand Polaroid photo of her.  She gave me her address. It was a brief...but fun...visit.
PHOTO: Suzanne, the German lady with the heavy accent
and the schizophrenic 29 year old daughter
Troy and I proceeded to the OUTRIGGER's for a smorgasbord breakfast. It was a windy day but it felt good because I got slightly sun burnt on my left cheek from lying on my side while speaking to Irene yesterday.

I gave the following people my Alameda address: Carla, Troy, Jeff, Stephan, Suzanne, Irene, and Bill. Let's see what kind of response I get back when the reality of being home sets in.

After breakfast, Troy and I went shopping. I bought some GENERRA pants. He bought some cool, blue and white colorful print shirt. We walked about and had an ice-cream. I could've sworn I saw Dough, the waiter come in but it was too brief a visit inside the ice-cream joint to be sure.

Troy and I hung out at his hotel until it was time for him to go.

It was about 2PM now and I knew it was my last day in Hawaii. I decided to sleep under a shady tree. I was tired. I slept until I woke up and happened to see Stephan once again.
Stephan said, "That guy you spoke to last night was gross!"
I knew he was speaking of Troy and I asked him, "Why do you say that?"
"Oh, I just have a sense for a persona versus looks…I really do."
"Oh, well, you may be right. I don't know him well enough to say."
PHOTO: Carla and Jeff
Stephan and I walked over to ESPRIT to see Jeff Sombat again. Then I accompanied Stephan to the apartment that 'Jeff and Stephan' shared.  I wanted to make a move on Stephan but he was hard to read and I didn't think he was interested in me at all. I took a nap there and woke up at 7PM.   Stephan implied that Jeff has a 'major crush' on me.   I couldn't really read Jeff either and it made me flash back to that first night he looked at me at the Arcade bar with 'the look'.

Jeff got out of work and was happy to see me. I accompanied him to the New Tokyo Restaurant for dinner to see Stephan. It was really good Japanese food. Carla also showed up. After the meal we went to HULA's where I was introduced to a new dessert-type of drink called a B-52 that is similar to a Pina Colada, only much stronger.
PHOTO: Doug and Karen of HULA's

I took a great Polaroid photo of Karen, the beautiful waitress, and Doug, the cute waiter who seemed to like me but wasn't comfortable fraternizing with the customers. I wrote Karen a brief note on a napkin "GORGEOUS" and left it at that. I felt a bit of attraction towards Stephan and wrote him a similar "GORGEOUS" note.
Doug whispered, "The only reason I didn't respond to you the other night is because I have a boyfriend."

Stephan whispered, "I have limits from doing a return note."
I knew this meant that he didn't want to interfere with the fact that Jeff had a 'mad crush' on me (from our earlier conversation).

After getting 'totally smashed' from the B-52 cocktails I found myself departing HULA's with Jeff, Carla and Stephan. We went to Waikiki Beach for a dip in the night. It was FUN-tastic and memorable. I couldn't help but think of that film 'The Creature from the Black Lagoon'. 

We all went back to the 'Jeff and Stephan' apartment where four Japanese guests were lying on their living room floor. It was late and I left. I slipped Stephan my hotel address and room number.
Stephan looked at it and whispered, "I may come by later."
He never did come by.

PHOTO: Jeff Sombat and the cool aquarium in his apt.
Ring…Ring…Ring…It was six o'clock in the morning.
It was Jeff in the lobby of my hotel.
Jeff said, "I just wanted to come by and see you off."
I thought, "Wow…what a cool champ of a friend."
"I'll write to you. I will, hopefully I can come visit again soon."
Jeff smiled.

I met some cool people. I did have a good time.

"Single people get to call the shots."
-TALES OF THE CITY,
1993 TV Series

Postcards to My Mother

"You practice anything a long time, you get good at it."-Denzel Washington, SAFEHOUSE, 2012 motion-picture

Guess What?   There was no February 29th in 1987 ('Twenty-Five Years Ago'), so I have decided to post some memories/postcards written/saved by me for today. I found postcards that I had written as far back as July 1979. It was from 1984 through January 1999 that I would write to my mother quite often. I was very close to my mother and father. When my father passed away on August 29, 1987 I felt an obligation to take good care of my mother. I recalled a conversation I once had with my father when he told me if something ever happened to him that he knew I would take care of Virginia, his wife, my mother. Now, my mother has passed away on January 24, 2000. I am sad because I have now lost two of my very best friends. How can I go on? Well, I am happy that my mother and father are together again. I believe they would want me to continue to have a healthy and happy life.


First, I would like to clarify a bit more about my mother. Who she was and what she stood for. I will also include memories I have recalled. I am sure I will remember more even after this is in final print. Then, you may read the many cards I wrote her. I have even included a few cards that she actually sent to me. This was rare because my mother was not a writer. She liked to talk on the telephone and face to face. Finally, I will end with the memorial or eulogy that I gave during my mother's memorial service. I am comforted in knowing that fifty-percent of me 'is' my father, Joe, and the other fifty-percent of me 'is' my mother, Virginia.

Virginia was born in 1935 in the small town of Cerrillos, New Mexico. It's practically a ghost town now. The town is between Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Her father worked for the Santa Fe Railroad and her mother was a homemaker. She was part of a large family with six brothers and two sisters. She was the second eldest. From the stories she told me she had fun growing up in this small town. She had a girlfriend named Isabel that she would walk to school with and gossip about the other boys in school. Her friend, Isabel, still lives in Cerrillos:

ISABEL PEREA, 75, of Cerrillos, NM, passed away on January 19, 2012. She was born on March 5, 1936 in Santa Fe, NM. Isabel is preceded in death by her father, Charles Kozlowski; mother, Lorinzita Montoya-Kozlowski; husband, John Perea; and son, Steve Perea. She is survived by her daughter, Anna Perea and boyfriend, Paul Narvaiz; son, Martin Perea; daughter, Cecilia Chavez and husband, Louis Chavez; grandchildren: Mariah Chavez, Brandon Roybal and Mandie Archuleta; nieces and nephews. Isabel worked as a senior companion with the city of Santa Fe. A Rosary will be recited on Thursday, January 26, 2012 at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Cerrillos, NM, where a funeral mass be celebrated at 11 a.m. the same day. Burial will follow services at the Cerrillos Cemetery.

Virginia finally reunited with Isabel in the summer of 1997 during a trip we took to New Mexico. The winters were cold and filled with snow in Cerrillos, NM. A number of cold seasons would come and Virginia would find herself coughing and coughing as a little girl. Her father would yell at her, "Oh go eat some more snow!" in Spanish. Her father was extremely strict. When I look back and hear my mother say, "No one tells me what to do." I realize that it stems from the strict upbringing she had to endure.

By the mid-fifties, Virginia's brothers were moving to California for employment because the job prospects in New Mexico were scarce. Virginia would go to California in the summertime and she would have a job ironing all of her brother's white T-shirts and Khaki pants. She knew how to press a pair of pants to the point of looking like a new garment. It was around 1956 when she was living in Oakland, California. The radio was playing "Love Me Tender" by Elvis Presley and classics like "Rock Around The Clock". It was through a cousin that she met my father who actually had an uncanny resemblance to Elvis Presley.
Virginia gave my father a hint of wanting a commitment to their relationship or she would be moving on. My dad knew he didn't want to lose his Jane Russell starlet lookalike so he proposed marriage. They married on June 15, 1957. It didn't take long for a family to form. Tony was born on May 12, 1958. I, Michael, was born on May 26, 1959. John was born on June 9, 1962. We were at the tail end of the baby boomers.

I remember clinging to my mom's leg at just four years old. She yelled at me during that time for trying to put an uncooked spaghetti noodle into my little brothers' ear. She was like an older sister sometimes. She was a mother but made it her place to be my friend at the same time.

My father was a skilled machinist for Del Monte Corporation for twenty-eight years. My mother worked for the US Postal Service for twenty-five years. They worked hard together and devoted their time and money to improving our lives. It's not what they did for a living. It's the kind of people they both were. They were caring, down to earth, loving people.

When my father passed away of heart failure in 1987 my mother screamed frantically at the local Alameda Hospital. My brothers and I were there for her but she was in shock. Fortunately, the love from my brothers and her grandchildren kept her strong. There was one time in early 1990 when she came to visit me in Los Angeles that she broke down and cried. She was so happy and yet, so sad. I was taking her out to dinner at a French restaurant called LOUIS XIV and she made a comment about my being the only one who takes her out to nice places. I reassured her that it is okay and I realize now it was her way of expressing how much she loved me. I really should have no regrets because I ended up taking her on so many trips including occasional weekends and even weekly visits from Northern to Southern California. It's just that you always want more. There is never a perfect time to lose someone you love, never.

I am making a video of over four hundred plus photographs I have of my mother from 1946 through 1999. When I took my photos to the video production company the owner said, "At least you have pictures." It never dawned on me that some people would never take photographs of their friends and family. I find myself fortunate that my relationship was special.

I remember telling my mother to see the film, "Tuesdays with Morrie", in early December 1999 (a month before she passed away) after I had read the book. After she saw the film she said, "Why did you tell me to see that? I cried and cried!" She cried because she knew how much being surrounded my love meant. I am so happy that she knew she was loved by many. I miss you mom. You will read the countless times that I wrote, "I love you." During our many telephone conversations I am glad I spoke those three words, "I love you." If I could give advice to anyone it would be to never hesitate to express your feelings of love.

Postcard: Dusk at Waikiki After an eventful day in Hawaii. All that is needed is the breathtaking view to appreciate the many romantic moods of Polynesia.
July 16, 1979
Dear Mom and Dad,
Elisa and I arrived here at 12:20pm. It is very hot, humid and nice! Our Western Airlines flight was cancelled for some reason or another. We "took off" as stand-by passengers on United Airlines.
The room we are staying in is nice. We just bought a bunch of groceries (yummy). Tonight we are going to the Infinity Room at the Sheraton Hotel. It's a disco that will definitely be playing Donna Summer tunes.
The tan bodies are nice to look at around here. I am still searching for the best (ha-ha). See you soon.
Love,
Mikeeee

Postcard: El Palacio Gobierno y la Plaza de Armas, Jalisco's State Capitol and Main Square I Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
February 1982
Hi Mom,
Don't even ask where this Plaza is because 'HE-double toothpicks' if I can tell you. I am at the Guadalajara Airport right now waiting for Howard Edelstein to (hopefully) show up soon. It's kind of scary being in a foreign country and not knowing anyone.
It is 8AM currently. It was a fine flight. I just disliked it when someone asked me something in Spanish. I kept saying, "Lo siento, yo no se." (Translated: I'm sorry, I don't know.) I am sure that made the two of you laugh.
I will fill you in on everything else when I get home.
Love,
Michael

Love is Blind Card: Bessie Pease Gutmann remains one of American's foremost illustrators of children and the gentle world they inhabit. Her direct offspring, various nieces, nephews and relations served as models: this intimate understanding and knowledge suffuse her work with a special, touching quality. Nearly forty years after her death, the paintings she created continue to breathe with the warm tenderness humor and innocence of childhood.

March 31, 1984
Mom,
I bought this card in Ferndale, California. It's great and too, too relaxing up here!
Tonight, Chris Cordellos, Barb and I are going to a club called "Mo Joes"!
When I saw this card it reminded me of your dream for a granddaughter. Who knows? Isn't little Ashley cute?
See you Wednesday, Love, Michael J Armijo

Cees von Gelderen, 1980 Maja Postcard of Naked Overweight Woman

April 3, 1984
Well, Virg,
I saw this "Pillsbury Dough Girl" while at a shop called Jacoby's in Arcata, California and it made me laugh. I just had to share it with you. It is somewhat artistic, but don't show it to dad because he might get excited and fantasize about rolling around with her!
Love You,
Michael J Armijo

A postcard of an Indian Chief and his wife posing nude in the Andaman Islands in 1872: Photographed by G. E. Dobson and part of the Photographic Collection at the Royal Anthropological Institute in London, England

October 31, 1984
Well, Mom and Dad,
Isn't this photograph disgusting or what? It's times like this that I am glad you two are my real parents! (Ha-ha)
It's nice and warm here in Los Angeles. I think I am going to see about renting a bicycle tomorrow. I may make my rounds in and around Beverly Hills. I bought some film so I just hope I snap more photos this time. See you soon…but not too soon because it is very nice here!
Love, Michael J

A postcard photograph of Elvis Presley taken in 1957, printed in London, England (1957 was the year my parents married).

October 31, 1984
Hi Joe (Dad),
I thought this picture of Elvis might bring back some good ole 1950's memories for you. Remember when your 1957 baby blue car was the "eye catcher" on the road?
In any case, when I saw this photo of Elvis it reminded me of that one wallet size photo mom has of you wearing a similar plaid shirt. Maybe if you lose another 30 pounds you can look like this once again (ha-ha). Don't forget to exercise and eat right.
Your Son,
Michael J

A postcard of Lauren Bacall (Printed in Germany)

October 31, 1984
Mom,
I arrived in Los Angeles at 1:15pm. I left Alameda at 7:30am. It was a pretty carefree drive via Highway Five. The right music helped the time pass. So, I think I made pretty good time.
I got a postcard of Liz Taylor and Natalie Wood and could not decide which one to send you. Since Lauren Bacall is one of your favorites I thought I'd send you this shot of her when she was young and gorgeous. I will keep the Natalie card but Liz resembles you in the other card (except for the heavy make-up) so I will send that to you also. I should be home soon enough. Writing these postcards is relaxing after a long drive.
Michael J.

A postcard of Elizabeth Taylor
October 31, 1984
Mom,
Here is the card of Liz. For some reason the color of her hair and 'the look' immediately made me think of you!
I am across the street from CBS Television City on Beverly Boulevard where they tape your soap-opera, Young and The Restless. No, I haven't seen any familiar faces and probably won't. I don't plan to sit parked here in my car all day.
Oh yes, Liz is also wearing your fur coat too!
Have a friendly day. I know I will (after one drink, maybe). (Ha-ha)
Love,
Michael J.

A postcard of the MGM Grand Hotel, Las Vegas, NV. The "stars" inside shine as brightly as those in the sky about this brilliant showplace on 'the Strip'.

March 14, 1985
HI Mom,
I am sorry I woke you up at 8:15am this morning with my phone call. I wasn't thinking and didn't realize the time.
We arrived in Vegas by 9:30am. We were beat tired from the drive. Now, it is noon and I don't feel tired anymore.
I am sorry. I put your five dollars to work in the dollar machine. You won four dollars! Then, when I used the last three dollars nothing else came out. I lost $5.75 on the quarter slot machine. "Boo-Hoo". Gambling is just not my game. I am leery about gambling with the little funds I do have. See you Sunday, Love, Michael

Black and White Postcard of a man at a park with his eyes closed as he squeezed two cantaloupes up to his chest as a bosomy brunette walks by in hot pants and black boots. Title: Juicy Melons-"One is worth a thousand words."

May 9, 1985
Hi Dad,
This kind of reminded me of one of those skits on one of your favorite TV shows (The Benny Hill Show).
Mom probably told you I missed my first flight from San Francisco. OH well, things like that happen.
Paris is so "different". I will give you full details when I get back. I took the METRO with Paloma which is similar to our Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART).
I only wish I remembered to bring my French for Travelers Handbook to read on the plane. I miss you all.
Your Son,
Michael

A postcard of a portion of a pink and white bicycle with the French flag on the fender.

May 9, 1985
Hi Mom,
I just wanted to see if you were checking my mail or not! This bike snapshot depicted on this postcard sure caught my eye.
Today, I am having lunch with Paloma and her mom and a friend of her mom's.
Paloma's mom works in the office of the Spanish Consulate. Yesterday, we didn't' go out in the evening. We had a long day of shopping and people watching. Some child tried to "bum off" some French Francs from me! This is an "okay" town but there are "all kinds of types" around here.
Love You,
Michael

A Black and White postcard of a guy dressed in drag and a gal dressed in similar garb.

May 9, 1985
Mommy and Daddy,
Hi. I am getting my hair cut here in Paris before I leave. The clothes here are so neat looking. I want this one leather jacket so very bad. The people are so interesting looking.This day went by so fast. I went shopping today. Some things are really different around here. The buildings look so gothic and historic. Paris is one fun place.
Simply people watching is great fun. I will see you soon.
Love Forever, Your Son, Michael Armijo

A postcard of Paris, A perspective of Champ de Mars: l'Eclole Militaire, Eiffel Tower

May 9, 1985
Hi Mom,
I wish you were here to see. I love seeing the clothes they sell here. I love the clothes people wear as they walk the streets. Paloma is a sweetheart. She is showing me all of the sights. She got me my own studio flat that belongs to a friend of hers who is out of town. I went shopping today (my second day here). I have already bought some great clothes.
Love You, Michael Armijo

A postcard of a fat girl in a red bikini standing on one leg as she stands on a scale to weigh herself. Right beside her is a stool with a strawberry sundae.
Title: 'Another Day, Another Pound'

June 12, 1985
Happy Anniversary!
Look Dad!
Another Day, Another Pound! Just remember that! And, no cheating by standing on one foot as you weight yourself on the scale like this heavy-set broad is doing on this card. Does she turn you on? Ho-ho-ho. Which one would you rather have? The gal or the strawberry milkshake? (I'll take the shake).
Have a happy day. Happy June 15th Anniversary.
Love Your Son,
Michael

A postcard of a bum taking a pee against a wall. Title: "Ouf!"

June 12, 1985
Happy Anniversary!
Hi Mommy,
Remember that time dad was questioned by a police-officer for peeing near an abandoned parking lot or something like that? Well, I didn't know they can take your picture during the act of the crime. I thought this card would make you laugh.
SO, I hear dad is taking you out on Saturday night for your Anniversary, huh? Can you imagine? 28 years? Congrats! I Love You.
Your Son, Michael, Happy Anniversary!

A romantic postcard of a couple embracing on the night of a full moon next to their black Rolls Royce

June 15, 1985
Mom and Dad,
This is your classic looking Happy Anniversary Card. Doesn't it remind you of your younger days? It was the time dad farted in your car when you were courting.
Then, you, mom, had to inconspicuously roll down the window (Ha-ha).
Have the happiest of Happy Anniversaries. You will have a good anniversary, I know!
Love and Kisses Too,
Your Son,
Michael Joe Armijo

A postcard of New York City, Looking northeast over New York's growing skyline.

August 1986
Hi Mom and Pop,
I probably miss you two the most now that I think about it. Then again, there is so much to do here in New York City that I don't have time to miss you.
I went to bed at 6am on Sunday and I arrived at 5:30pm on Saturday! It's fun here so far. It has only just begun. I will be in touch real soon.
Love Forever,
Michael J Armijo

A postcard of the Full Moon on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. The full moon as it shimmers on the ocean enhances the romance of Hawaii.

February 21, 1987
Hi Ma and Pa,
I made it to the beach. In fact, I am writing you as I lay here on the beach in Waikiki. It is only 7:40am and I am practically the only one out here, but 'so what'. I like to lay here in front of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. I am happy to be getting a lot of my postcard writing out of the way. I miss you two and I do wish you were here.
Michael Joe

Death is the future. It's what we all share.
-A SINGLE MAN, 2009 dramatic film

Just A Cool Guy

Once awakening happens, there is no question of the need to know anything more. Knowledge is for the mind to assimilate and use in order to control.

-Tony Parsons
AS IT IS

Twenty-five years ago today:

February 28, 1987
Saturday

I was alone on this morning and found myself eating breakfast at some nearby café. I went over to the beach at around 11AM. There was no sign of Irene. I decided to lie out on the sand today. Suddenly it was noon and I decided to 'look up' and I saw Irene. I joined her near her spot and we talked until almost four o'clock about this, that and everything. She was easy an easy conversationalist. I felt at ease with her as we discussed Joan Rivers, relationships, yoga, good sex, her forthcoming visit to San Francisco, my sexily clad bathing suit, white fat versus tan fat, Bill Matson, Hawaii, New York and the Bay Area. I gave her an in-depth report of the Bay Area. It was a great afternoon.

Irene left and I stayed a bit longer. I noticed a guy who was wearing the same bathing suit as me. I couldn't believe it. It was Stephan LeBrack (Jeff Sombat's roommate/friend)! I joined him and we talked for a while.
Stephan said, "I just decided to lie out for a while until I have to go to my job."
"Where do you work?"
"Oh, I'm a waiter at the New Tokyo Japanese Restaurant."
I walked with him and said, "Well, I'll probably come by for some sushi."
We walked over to ESPRIT to see Jeff Sombat for a while.
PHOTO: Stephan LeBrack, waiter
I was soon at my hotel again, showering and shining. Then I walked over to ESPRIT to see Jeff again.
Jeff said, "I'm getting off work at nine o'clock."
"Okay, I'll probably see you later then."

I went to the HYATT REGENCY and caused a scene. I wanted a cash advance.
I said, "I'm a hotel guest."
They wouldn't give me the cash advance but they said they would cash my check. I took my check book out of my bag. I was asked for my room number.
I bluffed and said, "Room 105."

The front desk guy said, "You're not registered here."
I asked, "What IS your name?"
Suddenly, the Hotel Manager was there. She gave me her business card and I got the name of her boss.
I said, "You know…my wife has the hotel key. She's downstairs in a rent-a-car so once I verify my room number I'll be back!"
In any case, the manager along with another gentleman and four security guards came outside with me to watch me converse with my wife. Finally, I got fed up from embarrassment of people looking and I just walked off.
I thought, "Gee, I just wanted some extra cash in a legitimate way."
It's funny but after that I decided against going to the New Tokyo Japanese Restaurant. I had lost my appetite. I went straight to HULA's for a chilled CORONA beer with lime.

My waiter, Doug, was really cool. He served me a few bottles of CORONA and water, too. He watched out for me quite well. I think he liked me.
I asked, "Do you think you might want to do breakfast, lunch or dinner tomorrow?"
He never gave me a straight answer.

I stuck around at HULA's and watched silly videos of THE GOLDEN GIRLS. I wasn't even in the mood to scope the scene like most would normally do in this place. I just sat there, drinking. I simply wanted to enjoy my solitude.
PHOTO: February 28, 1987 - Troy Nelson
Suddenly, I met Troy Nelson from Salt Lake City, Utah. I liked that Troy's surname was 'Nelson' as that is my Dad's middle name. He was a nice Mormon chap.
Troy said, "You know, I could've sworn you were Hawaiian, a good looking one."
I laughed.
Troy made it clear that he was in awe of my appearance.
Troy asked, "Do you model?"
He was overwhelmingly complimentary.

Jeff Sombat walked-in and bought me a drink while I was speaking to Troy. Then Stephan came up to me with a few brief words. A few others kept smiling and giving me the eye. I danced with Troy and chose to ignore Jeff, Stephan and their friends. Troy was suddenly my center of attention. He spoke of Utah and his singing.

While dancing Troy said, "My current job is with a Mortgage Company."
"Sounds like a good job," I answered.
"It's okay. I have a Brazilian traveling partner."
I gave him an 'oh I see' look.
Troy became defensive, "Oh no…I have no interest in him whatsoever."

Troy Nelson is twenty-three years old. Jeff Sombat is twenty-two. Stephan LeBrack is twenty. Bill Matson is thirty-nine. I realized that I've met a good mix of people in a matter of a few days.
PHOTO: May 1987 - Stephan, Jeff and Carla

Troy and I left HULA's and walked along the beach. He was so talkative and I felt comfortable with his kind mannerism. He accompanied me to my hotel room. As I uncovered my bedspread I saw a cockroach on my pillow.
I immediately said, "Troy, you can stay over."
Troy had said, "I'm on a stand-by flight and I missed it. I checked-out of our hotel and I thought I'd have to sleep on the beach tonight."

He stayed the night but we were too intoxicated to entertain any intimate moments. So…no we did not. I wasn't super attracted to him physically. He was just a cool guy.

I don't suppose we've met before. So many people, so many lives intersected, fleetingly crisscrossed, brushed by the mad weft warp of our itinerary.
-Joanne Harris
CHOCOLAT