How did I get to this incredible family group shot? I don't remember much about Easter 1979 other then that I was enjoying the feast my Mom prepared knowing that a short break from home cooked meals was in my immediate future. On the day after Easter I took my first trip on a plane. It was a one way ticket to maybe two years- at most- working for an LA based aerospace company. Yeah, well, 30 years later my mom long gave up hope of a return home. Heck, I've been here longer than when I was "home." My 30 year anniversary will be acknowledged soon via the company newsletter and a little soiree. Haven't decided what to do yet but I'll think of something. I am open to suggestions.
In recent years the boys had Easter break in the same week. For the first time this year we were faced with one child whose break was before Easter while the other was after. Not as if we would always take off for one last week long ski trip during this time but no such options this time. Did take one day off after April 15 to relax a bit. I prepared both my mom's and mother-in-law's federal and state income tax returns, took care of my personal taxes, and made property tax payments. Whew!Vincent got stuck with me and he indulged me in taking a bike ride from our home to the Good Stuff in Hermosa. Vincent wasn't always a strong rider but that was when he was a little guy. He hung in there with me most of the way and I am certain that if he had a decent bike he would have been right there.
First stop was the Manhattan Beach pier. Regular visitors to this blog are probably sick of the pier but I really enjoy the setting. From the pier we rode the path along the strand to the Hermosa Pier which isn't nearly as interesting. The Good Stuff is steps away and hence there we went. Food was soooo good. Vincent ordered a Breakfast California Quesidilla which had eggs, avocado, mushrooms stuffed in a flour tortilla. I had coffee and two small zucchini-raisin muffins that pleased the palate despite the unappetizing combination of dry fruit and squash.
Vincent and I then headed back home without making any stops on the way back. The whole excursion took 2 1/2 hours.
April is filled with birthdays of which the most precious is that of my first born. On April 21 15 years ago my dear wife went into labor. Although we were expecting-hoping- for a short labor baby Joe took his sweet old time and made a grand entrance on the 22nd. Gone already are the kid birthday celebrations for this teenager.
Other notable birthdays this month are for my godson Anthony, my daughter in law Rosie, and little Alexa. I'll never forget Joseph's birth day. Fodder for another blog for sure.
This last weekend the weather was very summer like. Sun was out early and heated the coast area sooner in the day than usual. Vincent had a mid morning soccer game in El Segundo after which we all headed out to upgrade both boys bicycles. Their bikes are too small as evidenced by their knees easily clanging into their handle bars as they ride.
With the new bikes in tow the boys and I did manage a bike ride around the neighborhood and into the nearby shopping areas. Sunday the temps got up to 86 (today it jumped over 90). We paused at Best Buy where the boys went in and browsed a bit. While I took a seat in the shade out front I thought it would be a great time to call Tony back. As I was sitting my phone rang- it was Tony! Weird, weird, weird. We chatted a bit and when the boys came out we trekked over to Pinkberry where the boys enjoyed a refreshing frozen yogurt dessert.
I will randomly mention that this month a childhood neighbor friend was testing for his 4th degree black belt in karate. Sent Dom and email to see how he did. Speaking of childhood neighbors, another kid contacted me through Facebook. He lives in Florida now. I sent the alleged neighbor a quiz to test his genuineness. Let's see if he answers.
April, what a month! Property taxes , Income taxes, bike rides, new bikes, birthdays, Easter, old traditions, new traditions, and for certain new surprises.
1 comment:
great stories and really enjoy reading them.
Post a Comment