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