Chilly Willy

"Life is made up of routines.
Strengthening my mind and body is my routine."
Mental and physical strength are connected.
-as heard while watching
KYLE-XY, Season 2

When you have two minutes to spare please watch the attached video of one of my childhood favorite cartoons: CHILLY WILLY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AjRACCuh3vc
After watching I remembered the time I was at the Kansas City, Missouri airport in freezing temperatures in 1991. My teeth were chattering uncontrollably as I waited for a taxicab to take me to a business appointment. Brrrr...it was quite 'chilly willy'!

If you only have 25 seconds, then just listen and watch the CHILLY WILLY theme song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inIABmgkcU4&NR=1

Now become a CHILLY WILLY FAN by signing his ice wall here:
http://www.chillywillyfan.com/


Twenty-five years ago today:

October 13, 1984
Saturday

I woke up rather early (8am). I telephoned Karyn Kossoff but she was in no mood for calls at that hour.
“I’ll call you later,” Karyn said with a yawn, rustling under her covers.

I decided to call on mom.
“Do you want to go to College Ave. with me today because there’s a sidewalk sale going on?” I asked.
“Okay.”
Mom and I stopped at O’Tooles Baby Clothes and mom found Ashley a few fun things.

I saw those Woody Wood Pecker and Chilly Will T-Shirts that I liked so much. I decided not to get them this time around. I may go back for Woody (especially since I saw a few things I liked at the Cyclery Shop: lycra bike shorts).
PHOTO: Woody Wood Pecker

Mom and I grabbed a bite at a local eatery.
“Those people are giving you the eye, looking at your boots” Mom said.
I laughed.

I had the feeling mom had questionable curiosities as to my bisexual preferences. She never outwardly says anything about it though. In a way, I am glad that she does not say anything. I would feel hurt and embarrassed, I think. Then again, the topic may come out eventually.

After lunch I dropped mom off and went cycling in and around Alameda.

I returned to Mom’s for a bite to eat. A little later Michael Miller dropped by and we went cycling together on Bay Farm Island for a while. He’s cool. We stopped our bikes at a garage sale, the Harbor Bay Library and continued on along the lagoon paths.

Michael went home and I ended up calling him an hour or two later. There was no answer. And so, I returned to Mom’s house and played with Ashley. John and Sherri went to Victoria Station for a dinner outing.

I watched the movie “Cover-Up”, starring Jon-Erik Hexum and Jennifer O’neill with mom. I don’t know which one I prefer (Jon-Erik or Jennifer).
“You look like the Hexum character,” Mom said.
I didn’t say anything aloud but I only wished I looked like him. He has much bigger muscles.
“The only difference is his blue eyes,” Mom added.
I laughed it off.

I left there at 11PM and went straight to bed.
Helen Wong telephoned from her sisters’ house and left a message on my machine.
“I’m spending the night at Geneva’s. I will stay at your place on Sunday and the rest of the week though,” Helen explained.

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Life Changes on a Dime

He paced up and down on the porch,
feeling hot and restless,
running nervous fingers through his hair.
-Nial Kent
"The Divided Path

Who coined that phrase ‘Life Changes On a Dime’? It really is a true point in thought.

On July 30, 2009 my cell phone rang at around 2:30PM and it was Bob Lewis. Who is Bob Lewis? Well, he is the father of my sister-in-law, Sherri Lewis-Armijo. When one gets a phone call from someone who does not call very often it is usually a cause for concern.

Bob called to inform me that Sherri (my sister-in-law) was in a four car pile-up accident on July 29, 2009. She was the only one to get hurt, breaking both of her forearms. She was in surgery from 6PM until 2AM.

The next morning (July 31, 2009) I updated my Face Book status to this:

Michael J Armijo is upset & sad after learning yesterday that my sis-in-law (Sherri) was in a 4-car pile-up accident. She was the only one hurt: broke both forearms & was in surgery from 6pm till 2am on Wednesday!!! ;(

I received an overwhelming response for her ‘getting well soon’.
That evening I received this heartwarming email from my niece, Holly Alyssa Armijo, who wrote:

PHOTO: Holly A Armijo,
April 2009

Hey Uncle Mike,

I’m not sure if you heard yet, but my mom got in a really bad car accident yesterday morning. It was a chain reaction and my mom was the 4th and last car.

There was nobody in the car with her but she was the only one that got hurt. She broke both of her arms from her elbow to her wrists (her forearms). She broke pretty much all the bones in her forearm and in more than one place. I’m not sure about the numbers but I know her right arm had about 6-8 breaks. Her left arm had about 4 breaks.

She was in surgery all last night because they are putting metal plates or whatever they are called in her arms. Depending on how she is feeling they may release her tonight...or hold her for a couple of days.

There is no permanent damage and she will be OK. She really is a strong woman and I know she can pull through this, even though she won’t be able to use her arms for a while and will need a lot of assistance.

Sorry to put a damper on your day. I love you very much.

-Holly

PHOTO: Ilene R Kaplan,
January 2009
One dear family friend (Ilene Rosenzweig-Kaplan) had emailed me that she and her husband were just talking about how ‘Life can change on a dime’.

It is a reminder to us all that when things like this happen we must treasure our time here. We are so thankful that this accident was not fatal as so many can be. Shower the people you love with love.
http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=shower+the+people+lyrics&docid=987654783117&mid=4CF802460ECF2FE640DC4CF802460ECF2FE640DC&FORM=VIVR#


Twenty-five years ago today:

August 10, 1984
Friday

I did my usual exercises in the morning (fifty arm curls, fifty push-ups, one-hundred and a half sit-ups and one-hundred jump ropes). It was not too exciting to know that Linda Nannizzi had called in sick. I would not be seeing her at the BART station. Oh well…

Training was a long, dull, trying day as we learned about Directory listings. Peggy (one of the instructors) keeps teasing me. I get even with her though. I think I am her ‘pet’ in class.
After work I walked to the Embarcadero area and waited until Ron Shelly showed up with Jim (the fat Mexican that French-kissed Karyn on her Birthday without her consent). Ron gave me my repaired bicycle pendant. Ron and I had a good talk about relationships and ‘the like’. While we were seated Ron unexpectedly grabbed my leg.
“You have nice legs,” Ron said.
I did not bother to say ‘most bikers do’.

Later that evening (and after a few drinks) Ryan grabbed my rear end while my back was turned. It was obvious that it was him.

Karyn was being her usually bubbly, friendly and ‘touchy’ self. I had finished about three Long-Island Iced-Teas.

Ryan and I went downstairs and I snorted a little coke (cocaine) from his key. This was very unlike me but I was feeling adventurous. Later, Ryan, Ron and Maurice went to Maurice’s mom’s car for some additional coke snorting (not me).

And then, even later that evening Ron and I went into some bathroom to snort another line. I thought it was really nice of ‘Ron and Ryan’ to want to share their lines of coke with me. I, especially, like Ron. We talked again about being Gemini’s, and the topics of love and lust. Ron complements so nicely, too.
“You’re good-looking,” Ron said.
He is being too nice. I have to be honest and truthful here. Everyone likes to hear nice things about oneself from someone new every once in a while.

PHOTO: Gemini image ceramics
I painted the brunette while my mother painted the blond during one rainy day in Alameda, California 'way back when'.

We all ended up dancing at Barnaby’s until about 11:30PM. We followed the wild atmosphere by going to a quiet bar.

The new destination was the downstairs lobby of the Hotel Miramar on Market Street (a tacky Hotel bar if you ask me).
Karyn, Tom Kidwell, ‘Ron and Ryan’ and I moved on to ‘Ron and Ryan’s’ apartment and we all spent the night there!

“If you get stood up I’ll leave with you to some other bars,” Ron told me.
I laughed and continued to think of him as very ‘cool’.

Karyn and I slept together on a very uncomfortable box spring. It was twenty-something amusement. It was cool. We woke up at 8AM. Ron had to go to work. Karyn drove me to the BART station. I drove Tom Kidwell home (he lives in Alameda, too). Tom said he went out with Renee Miller and knows Don Cotton (Suzy’s infatuation and ex-boyfriend), too. Tom said he had just attended Don’s wedding. It’s a small world after all.

I was just relieved that my car was untouched after being at the Fruitvale BART station parking lot all night.

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Work & Family Life

“Masturbation is the thinking man’s television.”
-as heard during the
On-Broadway show
starring Matthew Broderick,
“The Philanthropist”

Yesterday, I was reading a book and I read the line 'family life could be overrated'. Coincidentally, over the weekend a retired Miami Beach, Florida City employee, named Hank, said, "Work is overrated".

In my opinion, it is 'family life' and 'work' that allow for growth, production, new minds, new ventures and the progressive changes this world needs to continue for the better.

Never discount 'family life' or 'work life' as it benefits the globe. It is all connected in more ways that you can begin to know.

Twenty-five years ago today:

July 2, 1984
Monday

It was so busy at work today! I had breakfast with Ben Nunley. I telephoned Salima at home because she did not make it to work. There was no answer.

I popped over at Emporium-Capwell’s department store with Tony and Helen and bought two pairs of ZODIAC brand boots.
After work, my brothers (Tony and John) and I went to Sherri’s Dad’s house to get Sherri’s piano. It was a bit of a work out, lifting a piano. And I had just helped John move his mattress and desk from my place on Solomon Lane. I was exhausted.

I hate to say it but I enjoyed another meal at moms’: homemade hamburgers. I lounged there for a while watching Dad get high from a bottle of red wine.
“I want you to know that you don’t owe me a red cent and that everything that is mine is yours,” Dad said in-between sips of his red wine. He went on and on. I guess the wine was giving him a very positive outlook on life. It was kind of funny but his words made me feel good.

I started to wonder if I was missing any phone calls from ‘God knows who’. I decided to walk on home. I showered (in a 'thinking man's kind of way') and was realizing that I did not have one phone call since I had returned. It is now 9:30PM and I think it’s time to go to bed early. So, that is what I will do. Yawn.

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The Imminence of Terror

The imminence of terror lurked in what you read,
what you did for sex,
how you dressed,
what you thought about religion,
what you knew about science,
where your political allegiances lay.
It drove private life underground.
-when describing life in Milano, Italy
in the 1570's as read in the book
"M-The Man Who Became Caravaggio"
by Peter Robb


Twenty-five years ago today:

May 21, 1984
Monday
When I telephoned Chris Cordellos at 9AM he was still asleep.
“Something’s wrong with our phone because I was home when you called last night,” Chris pleaded innocently.
I don’t believe him. If he wanted me to know where he was I believe he would have told me.
“I will call you when I get there on Wednesday night,” Chris said as closure to the conversation.
We left it ‘at that’.

My supervisor, Robert, told me I should be hearing from the Placement Center anytime now. I don’t know what to think. I would rather not hear about it anymore until it actually happens.

After my quick bicycle ride for the day I called Suzy Miller. Suzy was really ‘teed off’ because her business deal for her Toyota Celica purchase is not going well.

I decided to do something off the cuff and telephoned Tammy Duhr. She doesn’t live with her mother anymore. Her stepfather wouldn’t give me her forwarding telephone number. Oh well. It is her loss (I guess).

I telephoned Michael Miller but he wasn’t at home. I decided to call Sherri and we talked a bit. Ashley is a full-time job. I learned why my snapshots at her Baby Shower didn’t turn out very well. I neglected to set the film speed.

Michael Thoennes telephoned just before I was about to go to sleep for the night.
“Why don’t you just ditch Chris on Saturday night and come to the party?” Michael T asked pointedly.
Now that was ‘direct and to the point’. I don’t think I will do that though. It’s not in my heart to do so.

I went to bed early. However, I am determined to celebrate the rest of this week. It “is” my Birthday week!

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Only A Matter Of Time

"You couldn't tame me,
but you taught me."
-Ben Quick to Clara Varner
(Paul Newman to JoAnne Woodward)
in the 1958 film
"The Long, Hot Summer"

My 50th Birthday Month began a couple of days ago and it's off to a roaring start. I am in New York City, making the best of City LIFE.

I had to laugh after receiving a funny e-mail from a dear friend (Herb Braha) though. The subject heading of his e-mail read 'Only A Matter Of Time'.

Now I want to look into a 'boot camp' to whip me into shape annually after seeing these 'BEFORE' and 'AFTER' photos. The photos were trying to get the message across that the passage of time leaves out no one!


"I don't even like to look at myself naked anymore."
-Anonymous

Twenty-five years ago today:

May 3, 1984
Thursday

I spent most of my lunch hour shopping for shoes at Emporium-Capwell. Tony and Helen were kind enough to accompany me. I found a pair for $20. What a deal!

Pay day was a consolation prize of $588. Bank of America approved my collision deductible of $500, so that was good news, too.

Helen invited me to dinner tonight. Now that I dwell on the invitation I wonder if she invited me because she knew she was being such a 'snot' with me the other day. Whatever.

I am so excited about this Friday. The new Mel Gibson movie called "The Bounty" opens. I must see it!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AA1dMkKNTIY

Mom made me a homemade hamburger. I made a grand vanilla shake. Then I had to go on a bike ride! The ride lasted until 7:15PM. It's tough being back at home, living with the folks sometimes. I have a good mind to tear 'out of town' tomorrow after work and drive off to Arcata. Maybe I will. Perhaps I won't. It's a definite possibility though.

I do need to get my oil, filter and lube job done on my car by Saturday. I don't really feel like hangin' out for the baby shower on Saturday either.

While watching the situation-comedy, Family Ties, the youngest daughter on the show was going to have her tonsils removed. She was writing in her diary about how mean she'd been with her family. At the end of her diary entry she wrote each member of her family 'sweet notes'. The clincher message was 'I Love You'.

I do LOVE mom and dad and my brothers. I don't know if that clincher message will change my mind about heading for Eureka tomorrow. We shall see.

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Honor & Duty

...because of Honor and Duty
"We are not gods who can fashion events to our desires.
We are mere mortals who must learn not to contend with life
but to yield to it."
-Bette Bao Lord
"Spring Moon"

Twenty-five years ago today:

May 2, 1984
Wednesday

Work went smoothly until Helen 'snapped' at me. I was waiting patiently at her cubicle to go to lunch. After she 'snapped' so rudely at me I split the scene. I ended up eating alone at the 'Pot Belli Deli'. I suspect she and Tony went off somewhere 'into the sunset'.

Later that day, Helen wrote me a note of apology for her actions. She wrote that a close friend of hers had died. I still don't know who though.

I did make that daily phone call to Chris Cordellos at around 2PM today.
"Why don't you come up to Arcata this weekend?" Chris asked.
"Ugh, I don't know," I paused.
"There's a big party this Saturday night. It would be so much fun!" Chris exclaimed.

I would like to go to Arcata but I doubt that I will do it. I would dread the twelve hours of driving (round trip).


I kept my 5:30PM 'Sperm Bank' appointment with Robin. I filled my car with fuel.

Mom accompanied me to the '3348 Solomon Lane' townhouse. Sherri was there. I was able to get my mail that had been delivered there. I also left my rug and toss pillows there (for when I am able to move back into the pad).

I ate dinner with Tony, mom and dad. Then I went for an exhilarating bike ride.

When I returned from the bike ride I watched "The Young & The Restless" and "The Edge of Night". After the steamy soap-opera story lines I 'hit the sack'.

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Something Better Happen Soon

I have witnessed many storms in my life.
Most storms have taken me by surprise,
and so I’ve had to learn—and very quickly too—to look farther off,
to understand that I cannot control the weather,
to practice the art of patience, and to respect nature’s fury.
Things do not always happen the way I would have wanted,
and it’s best that I get used to that.
--Paulo Coelho
‘Like The Flowing River’


There is a song by R.E.M. called “Don’t Go Back to Rockville”. The R.E.M. band originated from Athens, Georgia. Between 1983 and 1986, R.E.M.’s first four albums defined a type of music still taking shape at the time (an as-yet unnamed “Alternative Rock” was then emerging).

This song was released by R.E.M. on November 30, 1983 and I really loved it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erBvUeQCeVs
The lyrics to "Don't Go Back to Rockville":

Looking at your watch a third time waiting in the station for the bus
Going to a place that's far, so far away and if that's not enough
Going where nobody says hello, they don't talk to anybody they don't know
You'll wind up in some factory that's full time filth and nowhere left to go
Walk home to an empty house, sit around all by yourself
I know it might sound strange, but I believe
You'll be coming back before too long

Don't go back to Rockville, don't go back to Rockville, don't go back to Rockville
And waste another year

At night I drink myself to sleep and pretend
I don't care that you're not here with me
'Cause it's so much easier to handle
All my problems if I'm too far out to sea
But something better happen soon
Or it's gonna be too late to bring *me back

It's not as though I really need you
If you were here I'd only bleed you
But everybody else in town only wants to bring *me down and
That's not how it ought to be
Well I know it might sound strange, but I believeYou'll be coming back before too long


Twenty-five years ago today:

Sunday, April 15, 1984
At approximately 9AM my telephone rang. It was Chris Cordellos calling.
“Hey, why don’t you come over,” Chris suggested impatiently.

I arrived in Concord, CA at around 10AM. We played by the pool with ‘James the Dog’. Barb came out later. We decided to head out to The City (San Francisco) to see Barb’s friend, Sue.

We ate at Scott’s Seafood Bar & Grill near Chestnut Street. After the scrumptious lunch we hung out at Sue’s bar called DANNY’s.

Chris and I escaped to a store called HEADLINE’s where I purchased a new pair of boots (gray in color). Chris thought they were so “hot”.

Chris bought a few greeting cards. One of the cards depicted a girl on a surfboard (for who this was bought I do not know). He also chose a card for his friend, Clay, although he would not show me this particular card. I wonder if he picked a card for ‘me’. I should be so lucky-if he did.

Chris browsed through some clothes at 3rd Avenue. He did not buy a thing. We jammed on back to pick up Barb.

It was 3PM by now and we decided to stop at Jack London Square at Gallagher’s. My brother, John, was tending bar there. He treated each of us to a drink. Both Barb and Chris were dreading the idea of going back to the US Coast Guard base up in Humboldt County. We filled the car with gas.

Chris called his friend, Clay. I learned that Clay is stationed at the Oakland US Coast Guard base. I was surprised--to say the least--to learn of this news. Then again, Chris is not the ‘blab and tell all at once’ type. He is well known for that.

We grabbed an evening bite at the Willows Shopping Center in Concord, CA. We munched at Fuddruckers’ Burgers. We continued to ‘hang out’, browsing through a few of the mall shops. I chauffeured them to Chris’ mom’s condominium in Concord by 7:30PM.

I drove home, wondering where C.C. (Chris Cordellos) and I stood after such abrupt goodbyes. The song by R.E.M. was playing on the radio, “Don’t Go Back to Rockville”. Chris and I have an ongoing joke, relating the tune to his going back to "Arcata-ville".

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Hollywood Glimpse

"Do not think that beauty means much in life."
-Bette Bao Lord
"Spring Moon"


It is the 81st Annual Academy Award presentation tonight. Hugh Jackman is the master of ceremonies.

I saw him in the 2008 film AUSTRALIA. I absolutely loved it. I would have chosen it as a 'Best Picture' nominee. He has great showmanship and I believe him to be a great choice.

It will be interesting to see who wins the coveted Oscar this year. My personal choices for Best Supporting Actor and Actress are Heath Ledger (The Dark Knight) and Penelope Cruz (Vicky, Cristina Barcelona).


My personal ARMIJO AWARD goes to Kate Winslet for 'The Reader' and Sean Penn for 'Milk' as Best Actress and Best Actor.

They are both so OUTSTANDING.


I would not be disappointed if Frank Langella won for 'Best Actor'. I saw his performance in the 2007 film "Starting Out In The Evening" which was phenomenal. And his "Frost/Nixon" performance was truly brilliant.

The Best Picture will likely be "Slumdog Millionaire". It is the all around favorite.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIzbwV7on6Q
I liked the "Curious Case of Benjamin Button" and "The Reader" better.
There were more significant lines throughout these films that captured me.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=7L6K3fkwr-Y
"The Reader" was one of my favorite books this year, so I knew a lot of the intricate details while watching the film. It's quite emotional.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=kifRQG_M-Do

I read in the Sunday New York Times this morning that an honorary Oscar will go to Jerry Lewis. It's so well-deserved after so much time. It will be fun to see the film clips of his magnificent career.

I will be watching the entire Oscar show at the CAMEO THEATER in St. Helena, California tonight. Exciting!

Twenty-five years ago today:

February 22, 1984

My work day was all right. I telephoned Chris Cordellos this morning. We are going to see the Nastassja Kinski film tomorrow night. His father has promised to pay for his therapy in Arcata, CA. I guess that means he will be moving further North in about eight weeks time. Who knows when he shall return? We have made plans to celebrate on March 3rd or 4th for his 21st birthday.

I watched a preview of the movie "Angel" today. I actually saw some of the actual filming in Hollywood, CA (when I was there in June 1983).
www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xLhYLToOuk
I have not heard from Paloma, Leslie or Nancy. I guess they are now part of my past.

I forgot to document my visit last Sunday to the Ice-Cream Dock. I had an orange sherbet freeze there. It is so cool and refreshing. I bought some Cookies n' Cream Ice-Cream for my brother, John. Then John had to go and rent a dumb movie again (Spring Fever). We watched 'Dynasty' together afterward.

Ann-Margret is on my agenda for tonight. She has a guest appearance on The Tonight Show. I am so looking forward to her world premiere TV movie "A Streetcar Named Desire". Everyone "desires".

I fell 'in love' with Ann-Margret after watching the exciting chemistry between her and Elvis in the classic film "Viva Las Vegas".

I applied for a CITICORP Visa with a $5000 credit limit. How exciting!

Do you love shocking surprises? I was informed by Chris today that he is 'definitely' leaving for Arcata.
"I have to leave at eight o'clock tomorrow morning," Chris said sadly.
This was discouraging news. He made a point of expressing his sadness. I, too, felt rather distraught.
"Oh well," I thought, "another one bites the dust."

I took my bike for a spin until 6:30pm to analyze my situations. A few new people crossed my path and gave me nods of the head or a brief "hello". I am curious to know the lives of some of these people that I randomly see as I pass them on my bicycle. Perhaps I shall.

"I told one my good friends, Clay, about my feelings about you, Michael," Chris continued, "and I told him how I have continuous thoughts of you."
"You did?"
"Clay couldn't believe it," Chris said.
Chris went on to say that Clay told his friend, Elliot, about it all. Elliot got angry and 'chewed out' Chris.
"I don't want a faggot as a friend," Elliot screamed at Chris.

I could understand Chris' hurt feelings. Even though I have never experienced anything like this I understood the discrimination. I tried to reassure Chris that 'Clay and Elliot' seemed NOT to be as great of friends as he thought they were. Chris felt better after we had discussed the incident. In time, our relationship might work.
"I am learning who my real friends are," Chris said.
It made me wonder who my real friends would be (if they knew about this other side of me?).

I was dozing off after the 'Dynasty' episode when the telephone rang. It was for me. I was kind of surprised by the phone call.
"Oh, hi, it's you," I said when I heard Paloma's voice.
It looks like there has been a turn of events as Paloma and I made a date for tomorrow night to see Nastassja Kinski in "Moon In The Gutter".
www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wgj__wUFzM
I was beginning to feel that Paloma and I were so "over" because whenever I tried to make a date on a Friday or Saturday night she would never commit. It was only weekdays with her because she would prefer to go out with her girlfriends. At least this is how she makes me feel. I won't even get into how she 'faced me' with three excuses regarding the potential lunch dates. I don't know what to make of it. She did make a point of saying she would definitely meet me for lunch sometime.

"I'm going to Paris for two months this summer," Paloma said.
Everyone is going somewhere (except for me). I am envious. I wish I were going. At least I can trust that my Huntington Beach, California trip will be a provocative escape.

Paloma and I had a most exciting chat this evening. I even made a suggestion that she become my roommate. (?) My brother John will be moving out. I don't know. Maybe Chris should be my roommate. All I know is that I am so happy that Paloma called. We are going to see "Nastassja" tomorrow.

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I'm In Heaven

'All endings are also beginnings. We just don't know it at the time.'
-as heard in the film
'The Five People
You Meet In Heaven'

A special someone recommended I read the book 'The Five People You Meet In Heaven', written by Mitch Albom.

When I realized there was a Hallmark movie version I recently added it to my NetFlix movie list. I'm so glad I did. I saw it during this past week. It's one of the best films I've seen this year.

There were two songs in the film that just thrilled me.
1. Pocketful of Rainbows by Elvis Presley:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2vbHWsEsAs
and
2. You Made Me Love You:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbkrzJjoC5Y

The other lines that captured me in this highly recommended film are:

-'Strangers are just family you have just come to know.'

-'No life is a waste.'

-'Hatred is a curved blade.'

-'Life has to end...Love doesn't. Memory becomes your partner.'

Speaking of 'HEAVEN' I shall close on one of my favorite tunes called "I'm In Heaven" by N-Trance:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTj6WydIlas

Twenty-five years ago today:

Work breezed by.

It was a typical evening as I went to visit Dad. I dined with him and watched a bit of television. I ate some great tasting 'sunflower seeds'.

I considered a drive to the Stargaze Club in Fremont, CA but decided against it.

I spoke to Chris Cordellos a couple of times (by telephone) during the evening. He suggested outings at the usual places in The City: Echo Beach, Rathskeller, I-Beam and Earls. I chose to remain at home and read an article or two in my Madison Avenue magazine. There was a story about the telecommunications industry and AT&T and Pacific Bell were mentioned.

I was tired. I went to bed. It is a 'Saturday' work day tomorrow--after all!

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Sliding Through Life

As you slide down the banister of life,
may The splinters never point the wrong way.
-a quotable sharing by,
Joe Fingerett

Here is a story shared with me by John Earl Spencer. It made me chuckle.

Fondling In Bed

After 20 years of marriage, a couple was lying in bed one evening, when the wife
felt her husband begin to fondle her in ways he hadn't in quite some time.

It almost tickled as his fingers started at her neck, and then began moving down past the small of her back.

He then caressed her shoulders and neck, slowly worked his down over her breasts, stopping just over her lower stomach.

He then proceeded to place his hand on her left inner arm, caressed past the side of her breast again, working down her side, passed gently over her buttock and down her leg to her calf. Then, he proceeded up her inner thigh, stopping at just the uppermost portion of her leg. He continued in the same manner on her right side, suddenly stopped, rolled over and started to watch the TV.

As she had become quite aroused by this caressing, she asked in a longing voice.
"That was wonderful. Why did you stop?"

He said, "I found the remote."

Twenty-five years ago today:

February 8, 1984
Wednesday

Helen and I went to the Joseph Magnin store together. She looked at a few dresses (Yawn!) while I stood around to give my opinion.

I spoke to Michael Padazinski on the telephone during my last break. I had to inform him of the 'mandatory overtime' this Saturday. We had scheduled a lunch meeting in Menlo Park to see his new pad where he his training for the Seminary. I agreed to call him tomorrow to hopefully reschedule.

Helen and I went walking around Emporium Capwell department store. I tried on a red Speedo bathing suit. I may buy it for my vacation this summer to Huntington Beach. (It's possible.) I eventually dropped Helen off at her hairdresser.

I stopped by on Dad and ate some of mom's homemade lasagna and a bit of rice. I received a clock--in the mail--that I had won as an incentive prize from work. It's a pretty nice round wooden kitchen clock. Thank God tomorrow is payday. I received my VISA bill today (an ugly total amount due of $420.00).

I watched very little TV tonight. I received a call from the CCAC (California College of Arts & Crafts), informing me that my Calligraphy class had been cancelled. I quickly fell asleep at woke up at 11pm to see The Tonight Show.
Joan Rivers was supposed to be hosting for Johnny Carson but did NOT. How disappointing. She cracks me up.

I plan on an escape soon by seeing the 'Fanny & Alexander' classic this coming Saturday night.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfYbcZFgTGQ
There is a three-day weekend coming next week too. Hoorah!

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Living Outside Your Bubble

We have been very happy.
I have often felt completely alone.
There is always in this life something to discover.
The days and the years have gone by in some sort of blur.
On the whole, I am satisfied.
-Alice Munro
from her short story,
The Albanian Virgin

We all become too routine. It is time to remove yourself from your 'bubble'. Go out and get some of that fresh air. Never limit yourself to new discoveries is my 'blog' suggestion for today.

"Doesn't fresh air give us an appetite?"
-Alice Munro
from her short story,
Open Secrets

Twenty-fives year ago today:

Janurary 31, 1984, Tuesday

It is the last day of January 1984 and the month has proved 'key' in a couple of respects. Chris Cordellos and Nancy DeSilva are new faces 'in the picture'.

I made an attempt to call Nancy. She was attending a school 'Rah Rah" game.

I called Paloma and we talked about the upcoming UC Berkeley schedule of events.
"Why don't we go out on Friday night?" I asked her.
Her tone of voice made me feel she was not so thrilled with my idea. I believe Paloma prefers outings with her girlfriends on the weekends. She should know how that made me feel. Her smoking while she speaks to me on the telephone is most annoying. I can hear her 'blow smoke'.

While at work today I told Ben Nunley a few dirty jokes that seemed to tickle his fancy. It was fun. Ben is pretty 'cool'. I guess it's because he laughs at my corny jokes.

I consulted Salima about what business-like attire I should wear on Friday for our section luncheon. Salima always dresses so high-fashion. She is such a sweet 'looker'.

After work I dialed Helen's number.
"I have a rash all over my body," Helen said.
"How did that happen?" I questioned with much concern.
"It may mean food poisoning," she explained, "the doctors are still checking into it."

I went to bed early (by 9pm). I had tried to call Chris Cordellos at Oak Knoll Hospital but here was no record of his name with the Admissions Office. It beats me? I wonder if he had to get the operation after all? I wonder if Nancy will ever return my call?

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A Slice of Middle America

"My mother kept reminding us about other 'strays' of the world, "Don't forget, she may be some body's mother.'
-Janet Frame, An Autobiography

I received a letter earlier this month dated January 9, 2009 from a postcrossing.com friend in Middle America.
www.postcrossing.com
I will change the names to protect the innocent and not disclose the State. I simply feel like sharing an excerpt to show a 'sign of the times' and another slice of life in America today:

Hi Michael,
...I hope you had a Great Christmas, what was it like? Ours was very quiet, just the six of us. My husband, Robert, the grandsons and my son Mark and his girlfriend. It was fun and filled with lots of laughter.

Grandsons had a blast. We had a white Christmas for the first time in years, so there were lots of snowball fights, sledding and making of snowmen. My youngest son built an igloo for my other grandson. Fun was had by all. It's all gone now. It's back to being brown and not appealing to the eye.

I don't have a desire to fly, so I don't see my traveling very far. I am a chicken when it comes to that. Once I thought to go on a cruise but then changed my mind. I am a land lover. That is for sure.

I am reading a book about corrupt politicians (as if there aren't any in the world).

My daughter, Jane, runs a Day Care out of her house, for now. She was a phone representative for Franklin Covey until they closed the office. She is trying to find something similar. For now the Day Care pays the bills.

My youngest son is a Journeyman Framer. He works for a company that is building a new hospital. He does the welding of the framework, fire proofs the walls and things of that nature.

Mark, my oldest son, is a different story. He is almost thirty years old and has NOT grown up yet. He got mixed up with drugs at a young age. Then gave up the drugs and got his CDL. He was truck driver for a few years. He had his sons Jake and Donny and ended up back in the drug scene. From there...his life went downhill. The mother of the boys went way over the edge. When she was pregnant with Donny and learned she was having a boy she starting doing drugs in order to try to miscarry the baby. It didn't work. So when he was born she breast fed him while doing drugs which caused him to have what they call 'failure to thrive'. So we (my son Mark and I) fought and got the baby away from her. That was when Donny was eight months old.

Donny is now doing well. He just had several thousand dollars worth of dental work done for what they call "Meth mouth". All of his teeth rotted from her doing so many drugs. He is really sharp which I find amazing. He is little for his age (only 37 lbs). We had a huge party when he finally made it to twenty pounds at age 4 1/2.

My son, Mark, still hasn't grown up. My husband and I took in the boys to raise. Mark lives in our backyard (in his trailer) with his girlfriend. He does odd jobs to pay for his drinking habit and cigarettes. His girlfriend is thirty-two weeks pregnant with a baby boy. My son just went to stay with my sister to see if he can find a job in her area, so maybe he will finally decide to grow up.

I can pray. We have tried to get through to him but he is so bull headed it just ends up in a huge fight. He wants to raise the new baby boy (I pray he does). He doesn't have a clue what it costs.

Okay...enough of that story. What's new in your life?

It just makes me sad. With all of the opportunity America has to offer. Some just tend to take the wrong path.

Twenty-five years ago today:

January 16, 2009

My office section "A" has to prepare for our introduction next Thursday at a planned conference. My alias on that day is "Machine Gun Mike". I just wonder what will be in store for us on that busy business day.

Helen called in a 'sick day' today. I was on my own at lunchtime as I walked over to the new Dairy King that recently opened around the block.

After the work day it was still daylight and I took this opportunity to go for a bicycle ride for about an hour. It became dark very quickly. I was back home again by 6:30pm. I continued with floor exercises at home as I listened to modern, alternative rock tunes on QUAKE FM99 radio. While exercising the phone rang and it was none other than my new pal, Christopher Cordellos.

Chris seems to be a really nice fellow. He spoke of his folks, his sisters (one is 26 years old and the other is "missing") and his brother is a drummer. He invited me to a 'backpacking and camp out' trip early tomorrow morning that could last until Friday.
"I'd love to go, Chris, but with work and all I will have to take a rain check," I answered in appreciation of the thoughtful invitation.
"Oh okay, man.," he replied with hesitation, "I might move back to Riverside because that's the only place I know I can get a half way decent job, man. I hate my boss right now. He's into cocaine a lot, man. You'd probably think he was cool."
"No, I doubt that," I interrupted.
Chris kept using the word "man" a lot. I found it annoying and couldn't stand it every time I heard it. Otherwise, I find Chris to be very friendly, down-to-earth, and level headed (or passable).

After I got off of the phone with Chris I completed my exercise routine of sit ups and leg lifts. I watched some of 'The American Music Awards'. Entertainer Michael Jackson cleaned up in terms of being the top Award winner. It was funny. The next day a customer asked my name.
"Michael," I said.
"I bet you wish you were Michael Jackson," she announced.
I agreed...but in actuality I am glad that I am "Michael Joe Armijo".
www.youtube.com/watch?v=uy8kIXA4STs

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A Night With 'Insignificant Others'

"When all seems insignificant I remember there's you."
--Jay Kuo

Last night was a wonder of fun, energy and delight while watching the San Francisco musical performance of "Insignificant Others". It was about five friends who move from other parts of the country to San Francisco to find love, adventure, friendship, hope and more. It was the closing night show. I can see it coming to New York or some other major city one day. It's a feel good kind of show. I loved the tunes "Beautiful", "So Many Things", "Tell Me Why", "Do People Just Move On?" and "Evolutionary". The writer, Jay Kuo, is clever. I look forward to more of his musical shows as he soon departs to New York City.

I was lucky to be around a number of very "significant" friends and family during my day and night in the City. It makes me want to venture out to San Francisco more often. I feel fortunate that when I reminisce back twenty-five years ago that many of the people I write about are still in my life. Of course some have come and gone and I wonder whatever happened to them...but they were in fact significant at the time...and who knows if they'll re-enter my life again one day.

Twenty-five years ago

Work was through in a flash. I arrived home and was just about to step into the shower when Jackie Woods telephoned. We talked only a couple of minutes. She said she'd call back after my shower but never did.

Frank Vasconcellos called and we talked a good while. My brother, John, stepped out to go to Safeway for groceries. Frank warned me against Bill Helbush.
"You might 'catch' something from that one," he said.
I laughed.
After I hung up the phone I became leery of my own laugh and the romantic incident with Bill. My tongue had some blisters which were irritating me. I had some small red spots that were itching but chalked it up to my occasional eczema (dry skin) during this season. I am hopeful the itch and irritation will pass soon. If not, I will have to try and cure myself and/or see a doctor. I fear herpes with all of the talk of how it has become so common. I have been bathing regularly. I love a bubble bath and appreciate them so much. I tend to feel so much cleaner. Cleanliness is next to Godliness.

John returned home and we watch 'The Whiz Kids'. Soon John left to see Sherri and I hung out at home alone. 'Dynasty' was on and it was "the drama" to watch. I enjoyed my time alone and munched on a few of mom's M&M cookies, too.

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What Matters In Life

Yesterday, I received a phone call after lunch at the Auberge du Soleil resort in Napa Valley from my cousin, Lawrence Vigil. He was sharing the sad news about his mother passing away. His mother was Julia Vigil-Casillas, my Aunt (sister to my father). Julia was a vivacious and talkative soul. In her heyday she was said to be quite the beauty. She was a widow since 1995 when her last husband, Armando Casillas passed away. She always had a chihuahua in the house. She'd fatten it up...and when one chihuahua would die she'd replace it with another. As a young boy I would love visiting her home because she would always have a large glass jar filled with colorful Chiclets gum. She always knew how to make a child smile with candy, cookies or some such goodies. I had not stopped by to see her for several years but always sent her my annual Christmas Card. This morning I was thinking of my dear Aunt Julia (born June 19, 1920 in Ledoux, Mora County, New Mexico) and remembered this poem I wrote a month or so after my mother had passed away. I figured it was a good time to read it again.

What Matters In Life

Feeling the fresh wind swoosh across my face
Walking in a brisk, non-swift pace
Hearing birds chirp and wildly flutter
Touching textures smooth, soft as butter
Reading a story of hope, laughter or joy
Watching a child riding a scooter--his toy
Sensing the smell of baked goods with coffee
Listening to leaves rustle atop the oak tree
Seeing a foreign tourist in couture style
Speaking a new accent for a short while
Waking up each morning to see the sun shine
Sharing a humorous joke to see a face line
Remembering a moment with someone gone 'bye'
Running on the beach, squinting an eye
Musing to music for words to live by
Giving a gift that makes another cry
Living for happiness at every moment in time
Wining, dining and hearing bells chime
Feeling the kiss & embrace from your love
Realizing the simple beauty of a white dove.

I had forgotten about my period of writing poems. I should write more. For a while I was writing a WORD OF THE MONTH and creating a poem from that word. If you'd like to browse at some of my poems (from way back when)...I managed to post some of them here at this poetry website:
www.poetry.com/dotnet/P2450444/Michael/Armijo/PoetProfile.aspx

Twenty-five years ago

It is starting to sink in now (in my mind) about my being an uncle in mid-May 2004. Now that I have shared the news with a few friends and co-workers. In fact it is rather exciting and thrilling.

I discussed spending New Years Eve with Helen Wong, her sister, Geneva and her boyfriend, Derek, over a dinner and dancing plan. Where to do this is still in question.

I received word today (effective January 3, 1983) that I can pay monthly parking in Downtown Oakland for $35 at the usual parking lot I use daily. Good news! Hoorah!

I went to I. MAGNIN during my lunch hour and met Linda. She is a new management hire in the sportswear department. We bumped into one another in the mezzanine hallway due to an exchange in smiles. I gave her my card and she said she'd be working there. So...who knows where that might lead?

Helen invited me for dinner tonight. I drove over to her house and I decided to get my hair cut. We ate salad, chicken, macaroni and vanilla cream pie. It was a delicious homemade meal. We lounged a bit. It seems I tend to do a lot of lounging these days. I exercise too, so I believe it evens out in the long run. Helen and I decided on HORATIO'S in Berkeley, CA as the New Years Eve location. And then we may hit the Hilton for drinks and dancing. It should be fun.

I arrived home around 10:30pm. My brother, John, and his friend, Geoffrey Rookard, were watching my favorite "bike" movie, BREAKING AWAY.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8diYzvCMVQ
I definitely need to get my bicycle 'flat tire' repaired!

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