2024 Travel Adventures: From Helsinki to Lisbon

I
We’re traveling east on IcelandAir
To the country where summers are fair.
First, two weeks in Finland
To travel east inland.
We’ll be traveling with family “Bear.”

II
Helsinki
A relaxing day at the hotel,
Due to jet lag, wanted to rest well.
Sit in our room to plan.
Tuesday, see policeman
To renew passport. It will be swell.

III
The police station is very cool.
We stood in line and followed the rules.
They renew passports here.
Their instructions are clear.
All settled and we’re nobody’s fool.

I need a sim card for my cell phone,
To “R-kioski” store we will roam.
Online I couldn’t pay.
In person, I will say,
“I hope the cost is not overblown.”

IV
Tonight we met Jussi and Anja.
A lovely dinner and no drama.
At Lucy In The Sky
All was great, my oh my.
We talked about travel and opera.

V
At dinner with the Uusnakki clan
We talked bout lots and my birthday lamb.
Dinner this time we knew
Would be equal to few.
Meeting again next year is the plan.

VI
Lappeenranta
Tapani drove to Lappeenranta.
In the back sat Anne and Erja.
Empty road was magic,
With no Russian traffic.
We went to meet Pepe and Raija.

Lemin Särä was my birthday feast.
It was a short trip coming from the east.
Just potatoes and lamb.
It was really moist . . . Damn!!
Full bellies and no one was displeased.

VII
Pepe and Raija had a great brunch
For all six of us in our bunch.
Then coffee at train station.
A cute, old location.
Left quickly ’cause the rain had a punch.

Small town, Hamina was the next stop.
A small apartment, the backdrop.
Visit godmother Miku.
We stayed for just a few.
Then off quickly to Lohja nonstop.

VII

Lohja
Today was a big cousins party.
Silvonens didn’t party hardy.
First, tour the large Manor.
Two sisters were planners,
Over 20 was the total body.

Pippa created a family tree.
In Excel, she did it for free.
It was 10 meters long.
All correct, nothing wrong.
Good family records are the key.

Iiro plays like he’s a mechanic.
Under the car is very dramatic.
He has all the right tools
And he follows the rules.
His methods are always systematic.

IX
On the houseboat, it’s a cloudy day,
Chilly, but better than yesterday.
For Erja and I
We cannot be shy
We like this better than a workday.

Heading now Northwest into the sun.
In the sky are some clouds almost none.
The cabins by the shore
Are hidden even more
By the veil of light green natures done.

X

Helsinki
Jaska, Tuija met us on Lohja.
They’re very kind to drive us. Voila!
We checked into hotel,
To a room where we’d dwell.
Then to dinner at “Olivia.”

XI
Heidi and Juha met us for food.
We all had fish and talked as we chewed.
Anne got her passport
Needed for next airport.
She’s in great shape now for next trip, dude.

XII
Tonight we went to a Czech restaurant.
Good food that anybody would want.
Our friends came from Espoo
Just to meet this duo.
Time with Katri and Tapsa was pleasant.

XIII

Lahti
We boarded a fast train to Lahti.
Anne’s wants to see everybody.
Leena met us for lunch,
And we talked a great bunch.
El Toro steak was very hearty.

Samppa and Anne drove us around.
My Anne’s house and both schools we found.
Red Bull sponsored a race,
Up the ski jump they chased.
The great effort to climb was profound.

XIV

Helsinki
We shopped for more chocolate and candy.
The K-Market is very handy.
One for me, two for you.
For that we’ll take a few.
All this shopping makes me quite happy.

The dinner at Notes was fantastic.
The foods were all a Finnish classic.
Mirja and Pauli
We greeted them warmly
And sat for an evening nostalgic .

XV

Espoo
Sana and Jussi live in Espoo.
With Adam, family is larger though..
Great reindeer stew was served
And Adam we observed.
He’s active and put on a good show.

XVI

Helsinki
We met Liisa and Hugh at airport.
On our way to Lisbon, check passport.
When there, we got a car
To Porto which is far.
I cannot tell if it’s a seaport.

Porto
Hotel was really hard to get to.
Streets were narrow, for cars only two.
Hotel in the middle of town.
Many things upside down.
Many plants sideways and the pool too.

Dinner at Wine Club was Portuguese.
Empanadas, tuna, duck, Yes, please!
The wine from the Douro
Put on the greatest show.
Later we had cake, Hugh, Liisa cheese.

XVII
We walked for 2 hours in Porto.
We had a hard time uphill also.
We stopped for a short drink.
We had to stop and think,
We thought next time we’ll take an auto.

We all met for dinner at seven.
The sea bass selected was heaven.
Calamari was great.
Then the peppers, no wait.
But dessert was out of the question.

XVIII
Yesterday, World of Wine was WOW.
The wine info was great. Holy cow!
Our lunch was amazing,
Each dish we were praising.
Then up the hill we go for port, now.

There was a short walk to see Taylor.
A place to visit, the WOW neighbor.
After the short intro,
You got too much info.
Thank goodness the tasting was later.

Dinner was a short walk from hotel.
They were rated 4.9 as well.
The menu was tapas.
We made quite a ruckas.
Just a few small bites and wine as well.

XIX
We just sat on the deck and relaxed.
Our long walking and moving was maxed.
At Wine Club we had food.
We enjoyed all we chewed.
And 2 bottles of red wine we axed.

Douro
XX
We all celebrated Marinell.
Being with our fond friends was just swell.
Villa was more than fine.
We all drank lots of wine.
Food was great and the cod did not smell.

XXI
We spent all Sunday at the best pool.
The sun was hot and the water cool.
We had gin and tonics,
And tunes with harmonics.
But the white cake and champagne did rule.

XXII
Today we all watched the forest fires
Under control by fire fighters.
It will be a hot day,
In the pool we will stay.
We’re happy as pool noodle riders.

XXIII
We all watched wildfires again today.
They’ve been going since early Monday.
The smoke was very thick.
Stay inside was the trick
Watch movies, the hours wile away.

XXIV
Cleaning pool was on the agenda.
Pro Angelo was the right fella.
The men chatted with him
As he vacuumed and skimmed
The Mark and I fixed the umbrella.

XXV
There once were four men in the kitchen.
What they were cooking came from chicken.
We all had eggs to eat
It was a special treat.
The clean up was done by the women.

We went to Covela winery
All their wines were white; but not for me
The firefighting planes,
Then the passenger trains,
And the river cruise ship added glee.

XXVI
While most of the group were out to roam,
Anne and I were in the pool at home.
We all made leftovers,
The roamers and loafers.
It was the best must-go dinner known.

XXV
Lisbon
Drive to Lisbon on a narrow road.
One lane, two cars, there’s no traffic code.
Meet our friends at the pool.
We eat at someplace cool.
Great menu there and taste buds explode.

XXVI
We had lunch at the Time Out Market.
The cool wine shop was our first target.
Three whites and two great reds
Ham, and cheese with no bread.
The bill was easy on the pocket.

Then we went to fabulous Pink Street.
The party had music with a beat.
We sat in a cafe
Not very far away.
The atmosphere was classic and sweet.

The waterfront was off the large square.
There was plenty to see; we walked there.
We sat for a short while
And I said with a smile.
How about another drink to share.

XXVII
Too tired to write a rhyme today.
From Lisbon to Boston on Wednesday.
Eight hours gate to gate.
Then a three hour wait.
We’ll get home sometime early Thursday.

Surace Anniversary Cruise

I
We fly to the East for a party.
The cell service may be somewhat spotty.
We will not be on land,
Because that is the plan.
We’ll be at sea to party hearty.

II
While we wait to board, we tour the town.
With no car, it’s too far to downtown.
We’ll visit Hoboken
Where Sinatra is spoken
With reverence and hollowed renown.

III
We board after the 4th in Jersey
For our wonderful 7 nite journey.
Florida the first stop,
Bahama the next hop.
We’ll have lots of fun, don’t you worry.

IV
Go for an anniversary cruise,
Janet and Richard sing 50 year news.
I was there at the start,
They have nothing but heart.
The Caribbean will have great views.

We sail with the family Surace.
The ship is huge so we’ll have the space.
Aunts and Uncles are there.
And grandchildren to be fair.
The memories will be hard to erase.

V
The first day at sea was igniting.
For slot pull, family was inviting.
We all put in our cash
And we didn’t lose our ash.
We won double our bet. How exciting!

For dinner we dined on great sushi.
We dressed up but my tie is goofy.
Tonight was formal night,
But my pants were too tight.
Went to bed instead of a movie.

VI
We took a Port Canaveral tour,
Seafood tasting, Space Museum and more.
It was too hot to walk.
It was too warm to talk.
The best part was the NASA Gift Store.

VII
Jersey to Florida, now day four.
We finally made it to Nassau.
Our first stop was Rum cake.
Paradise gave us a break.
Then the Queens Steps if you wanted more.

Chocolate factory was the next stop.
John Watling’s Distillery the last hop.
Back to ship we desire,
To leave this hell fire.
Then long walk to the ship where I drop.

VIII
Last night while we slept and dreamt and snored,
We cruised to Coco Cay where we moored.
We relaxed by the pool,
Cause we are no one’s fool.
To the beach, 6000 guests were lured.

Dinner at Wonderland was quite grand
There were surprises from sea and land.
The Mad Hatter was there
And so was the March Hare.
Not one of the ten dishes was bland.

IX
There was no one to see at the pool,
Yet all the big tubs were chuck full.
We each had an ice cream
Then back to room to clean
For a great dinner with better fuel.

Scallops were first, sliced thin, hard to see
Then lobster, a treasure from the sea.
Tomato soup had smoke.
My crustini bridge broke.
A total of appetizers three.

Branzino is a wonderful dish.
A delicate and tasty white fish.
If that was not enough,
The filet was the best stuff.
A chocolate dessert my last wish.

Did I mention the various wines.
Most were from delicious white vines.
The red was for the steak,
Of which we did partake.
After, an Espresso Martini shines.

X
We left the ship with no great fan fare.
On the Newark bus without a care.
The airport was empty.
Two delays were plenty.
It’ll be late before we reach our lair.

I Could Have Died

As I reach the age of 76, I find myself reflecting on my life and my own mortality. Twice in my life, I have had experiences that scared me close to death.

The first time occurred when I was working a summer job with my father at American Cystoscope. The company manufactured medical equipment and devices, including opto-digital technology for a variety of medical purposes. They also had a contract with the U.S. Army to make periscopes and other optical equipment for tanks. As a government contractor, they were required to hire teenagers for summer jobs, and so I was employed there after my sophomore year of college.

Dad made small medical instruments, like scalpels for biopsy devices. He always carried one in his wallet in case someone would ask, “What do you do?” He liked to joke that the blueprints were on a huge piece of paper, yet the device was one-half inch long.

During my time there, I was tasked with a job that involved drilling holes into a metal piece. I had no idea what I was making. I just did what they said. I had a foreman who set up the job and showed me how to work the drill press, and I did the job for hours on end. One day, I was drilling several holes into a metal piece, and I had to load it into a metal jig that ensured it was in the correct position and aligned for drilling. To drill the holes, I had to align the vertical drill above the appropriate hole in the jig and then gently pull down on the feed wheel/lever, which lowered the spinning drill into the jig.

However, I was working too quickly, and the drill bit became stuck in the metal piece in the jig. The jig, then began spinning violently, and I lost my grip on it. For a few seconds, which seemed like an eternity, I watched it spin and wobble out of control at 1000 RPM. I was standing about a foot away from this tornado of cold metal. The drill bit eventually broke causing the jig to fly 20 feet through the air and it sparked when it hit the concrete shop floor. Luckily, I was not in the way or injured. I was never asked to work on that drill press again.

The second time I was close to death occurred when I was driving to work after dropping my daughter, Andrea, off at preschool. The road was wet, and I was heading down a slight decline when I spun out of control on black ice. I headed straight for a ditch on the left side of the road, narrowly missing a telephone pole. I was then stuck in the ditch, unable to stop until the front of my car hit something and the rear swerved to the left, causing the car to roll sideways.

I don’t know how many times the car rolled, but it was enough to scare me. When I stopped, I was still in the ditch, right-side up, and perpendicular to the ditch. I couldn’t open the doors, so I climbed out of the driver’s window. Luckily, a couple of women stopped to help me out of the car and took me home. I didn’t suffer any major injuries, thanks to my seat belt, but I did have a mild AC joint separation that was caused by the seat belt.

In both instances, I was lucky to come out unscathed.

The Gang Goes to Hawaii

One

We are on an aircraft once again

Heading west, arriving don’t know when.

We left an hour late.

Not cancelled. That was great.

Honolulu, hopefully by 10.

Two

Airline’s problem cancelled many flights.

Maintenance crews working days and nights.

They’re fixing all the planes,

So no one complains

Instead they are met with delights.

Three

We arrived, 17th floor, us two,

We made it by 11, phew.

I rented a Tesla

It has a lot extra.

This morning, just look at our view.

Four

The car is very quiet, and clean.

The number of controls is obscene.

Driving is not scary,

Surrounded by safety.

Enjoying the ride with my queen.

Five

For drinks we met Molly and Gabor

Friends I’ve known for 50 years or more.

They brought Steve and Mary Pat

and then after that

With friends, we had dinner by the shore.

Six

We ate dinner at 100 Sails.

First drinks, it was me and 3 females

The whole meal was divine

With starters and wine

But before that a few great cocktails.

Seven

We all had the most fantastic meal.

The drinks and four courses was for real.

No easy choice for wine.

Ok, this one is fine.

But the great dessert made us all squeal.

Eight

Yesterday we drove to the North Shore.

It was windy; there were waves galore.

First to Haleiwa,

Then to Waialua

There were gift shops and food trucks and more.

Nine

Back to HNL with my small squad.

Outrigger has drinks at MonkeyPod.

The menu had pupu

So we ordered a few.

I eat way too much, I’m full. Oh. god!

Ten

Mai-tais there are known as the greatest.

Having two would make you the bravest.

With great liquors unknown

Pineapple slice and foam.

You can even have it for breakfast.

Eleven

We had trouble finding a table.

We got one as soon as they were able.

Since, outside was windy,

And city view pretty,

We’re “al fresco”, it wasn’t painful.

Twelve

Still windy, tho we sat by the wall.

Most were a little comfy, not all.

Since it was chilly,

Ryan got something frilly.

So Anne ended up with the shawl.

Thirteen

Our great dinner was at Merriman’s.

Raisa made most of our dinner plans.

Each and every dish

Was really delish.

We recommend that place, we’re big fans.

Fourteen

Luau is always so much fun.

After the setting of the sun.

Excitement is higher,

When dancing with fire.

It’s sad when the show is all done.

Fifteen

They greeted us with leis and photos.

One woman had a bra of cocos.

The pork was so tender

With drinks from a blender,

And dancers with swinging elbows.

Sixteen

Coco and candle are famous nuts.

Wearing the former takes lotsa guts.

The hula is graceful

As you sway your navel.

You can also shake your hips and butts.

Seventeen

Last night we ate at the Hula Grill.

Raisa made the plans, she knows the drill

We all had a great view.

And Kelly was there too.

Wonderful food! We all ate our fill.

Eighteen

For starters we had lots of great fish.

Everyone agreed it was delish.

Then we got our entree,

Someone had a chardonnay.

Ordering dessert was our next wish.

Nineteen

Check out the menu, we had to try

A Pineapple Cake and a Hula Pie.

The cake was pretty good

As they both knew it should.

The Hula Pie was huge, my oh my!

Twenty

At the gate, we had our last Mai-Tai.

We have an hour before we fly.

Get on board, get comfy,

Soon we will be hungry.

Once in S-E-A we said goodbye.

Birthday Cruise

Ft Lauderdale

Last week in Scottsdale.

Now, Ft. Lauderdale.

Here we go again,

For a birthday 7 times ten.

On the plane, first a cocktail.

We traveled en masse

This time, in First Class,

To Florida for 3 days,

Leaving behind the thick haze,

In hopes it would pass.

III

We came to the sun.

No surprise to anyone

To get on a cruise ship.

For a 21-day trip

Of Caribbean fun.

We did check out the lobby, then pool.

It was inviting, shady, and cool.

We saw a gecko or two.

On the deck it was true

Don’t feed the animals, is the rule.

Otherwise, we didn’t do much,

With great friends, we got in touch.

Before dinner, Tad bought drinks

And we shared our old hijinx,

But for dinner, we went Dutch.

We met Sue and Tad,

Of this I am glad.

We first met in Germany.

Friends forever certainly.

A great time we had.

VII

We’re excited; left hotel sleepy.

Waited in the lobby with sweetie.

Transfer to ship was fast,

Though terminal was vast,

We were on the ship quite speedily.

VIII

On Board

Priority: our cabin we’re bound.

Corner room, and deck that wraps around.

Then we stopped for some food,

And I drank something brewed.

Then pool, bar, and cabana, all found!

We dined early at Club Orange.

The menu was great, no challenge.

Roses finally came;

I was about to go insane.

The ship I was prepared to scavenge.

Bahamas

Fortunately, our sleep was great;

Conversely, our breakfast was late.

Room service called to check.

I said, “What the heck!”

They said, “Sorry for the long wait.”

Celebrating our lucky number.

Tonight will be a sushi supper.

Next month it will be eight;

Ninety-six will be great.

I love my life with no other.

XII

There is plenty of room in this suite.

Everything is put away. A treat!

Now where did I put it?

I can’t remember shit.

When I find it, we can go to eat.

XIII

At Sea

Today is a quiet day at sea.

We will take in a movie at three,

As we cruise by Cuba,

On our way to Aruba.

By the way, the movie was “Barbie”.

XIV

After movie, we had a smoked drink.

One negroni made a big stink.

Then the Old Fashioned

Was made with passion.

We raised a toast and glasses went “clink”.

Aruba

We could have done a catamaran.

Stay in the room was our better plan.

Room service was great.

I’m telling you straight,

It’s harder that way to get a tan.

XVI

From the cold, rainy days we did run,

Longing for the Caribbean sun.

I think it’s ironic

With a gin & tonic,

One hour in the heat, WE’RE DONE!

XVII

At Sea

You see, the sea is perfectly flat,

And the land, we’re very far from that.

Funny, this may sound dumb,

Where did these bugs come from?

“Why is there a moth and a gnat? “

XVIII

Cartagena

For me, first time on this continent.

Heat and humidity are constant.

Old city walls are coral.

And the people cordial

Cartagena is great in my judgment.

XIX

The old town is very colorful.

Cathedrals, churches, it’s cultural.

We cruised the city bay,

And danced the day away.

The vendors are very commercial.

For sale: rosaries, water and shirts,

Women with fruit hats, colorful skirts.

“No, thank you” won’t matter,

They don’t hear your chatter.

Persistence, each vendor exerts.

XXI

Colon

Panama Canal is not Venice.

The water here is not a menace.

Three locks we take,

Up to the lake.

An engineering feat, in fairness.

XXII

Twenty-six meters from ocean to lake.

Carefully tugged with hardly a wake.

Locks open and shut,

Through the new cut.

Two and a half hours the trip will take.

XXIII

Once on the lake, we cruise around

Lush forests and jungles surround.

We stay here awhile

In luxurious style

Turn about and we’re Atlantic bound.

XXIV

To transit the Canal, it’s not free.

Plan ahead, a date and time, the key.

Just to hold a spot,

In dollars, it’s a lot!

35k is the reserve fee.

XXV

Back to Agua Clara locks we go.

As before we will take it real slow.

A big tug in the rear,

And one in front to steer.

I’m very glad we don’t have to row.

XXVI

Puerto Limon

Supply of bananas, coffee, ample.

Exotic fruit here is pink pineapple.

Where do you buy this fruit?

It could cost lots of loot.

Amazon can provide a sample.

XXVII

The landscape is full of lush trees.

It’s warm, but thanks for the cool breeze.

Here in Costa Rica

They say “Pura Vida”.

It’s a common greeting if you please.

XXVIII

Montego Bay

We made a stop in Montego Bay.

Canceled the dolphins; still had to pay.

Anne hurt her back;

She stayed in the sack.

We’ll come back to swim another day.

XXIX

At Sea

A day at sea after Jamaica

To return to good ole Florida.

This day we’ll dedicate

The time to celebrate

Anne, ‘fore we go to Aruba.

XXX

Ft Lauderdale

After we returned to the shipyards.

The birthday started with gifts and cards,

Flowers for Queen Anne,

A little cash to play.

Everyone else sent their best regards.

XXXI

Post dinner we hit the casino.

We had better odds than Reno.

We played the magic slots,

Winning like hotshots

Enough to buy a cappuccino.

XXXII

Aruba

The crystal water is blue and green.

I got that line from my birthday Queen.

Tonight we have dinner;

It won’t make me thinner.

Kukoo Kunuku Dinner, the scene.

XXXIII

Aruba nightlife is not benign

The isle is colorful by design.

We’ll walk a little bit.

Then, gratefully, we’ll sit

For dinner and a glass of wine.

XXXIV

The Aruban dinner was super.

Drinks after could’ve caused a stupor.

The music was loud,

So we left the crowd,

And they called us the party pooper.

XXXV

Curaçao

Signed up for a scenic cocktail tour.

The Curaçao liquor was the lure.

They were blue, green, and pink,

That’s three, not just one drink.

On board, a gin & tonic, the cure.

XXXVI

Another visit to Curaçao.

Willemstad is colorful and wow.

All the buildings were white.

Ole Mayor said, “Too bright.”

New law: only color they allow.

XXXVII

Colorful buildings are very quaint.

How did they come up with all the paint?

The mayor’s mastery

Hid he owed the factory.

So, it seems he wasn’t a saint.

XXXVIII

The very curious word “Dushi”

Conveys a certain pleasantry.

It is very charming

To call your sweet darling

That word, but not your enemy.

XXXIX

At Sea

We are rounding Cuba once again.

On our way home, Bahamas, and then

The Florida airport.

We may need our passport

To board the Seattle plane. AMEN.

FLL

At the airport, and we are camped out.

We found a seat, more comfy, no doubt.

Wait eight, fly for seven,

With luck home at eleven.

Finally, “HOME!”, I’m sure we will shout.

XLI

We are currently at the Sky Club

For a rest, charge, and a little grub.

We’re waiting three hours,

But this space is ours.

Quieter than the terminal hubbub.

Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah

Can you tell from the images below who is sick? Actually, it’s the little boy in PJs.

My three-year-old son Michael was admitted into the children’s ward at our local hospital late one December. To the best of my recollection, his symptoms were mysterious, and his pediatrician wanted to have him tested and observed. I remember his bed was a large crib with slatted sides and a Plexiglas bubble on top to prevent any escapes. It seemed appropriate for the little rascal.

As Christmas got closer, all the parents, who had children in the ward, were notified they could take their little kiddos home for the holiday, EXCEPT US. Michael had to stay in the hospital during Christmas. The doctors were uncertain about his condition and didn’t want him to leave the hospital. The staff of nurses was very kind and gave us the direct phone number to the pediatric nurse’s station, which was right outside Michael’s door. We were sad Michael had to stay in the hospital and maybe a little relieved we had a direct line to the nurses on duty.

For the holiday, we had scheduled family to come over for dinner, and it was too late to cancel or make other plans. So on Christmas Day, everyone showed up for dinner, but all we could think about was Michael. As the afternoon wore on, we decided to call the nurse’s station, and maybe we could speak to Michael. Maybe he would like to hear from his parents and grandparents.

So we called. There was no answer at the direct line to the nurses on duty. There must be something wrong. We gave it a few minutes and called again. Again, no answer! What gives! Who the heck is taking care of Michael, the ONLY child in the ward.

I’m unsure how many times we called, but the phone was finally answered. Trying to remain calm, I had to ask why the phone at the nurse’s station had been unanswered for so long. There was a simple answer.

One of the wonderful nurses heard Michael singing in his room and alone. Soon the whole staff was in Michael’s hospital room singing a song he had been singing solo:

Zip-a-dee-doo-dah, zip-a-dee-ay
My, oh, my, what a wonderful day
Plenty of sunshine headin’ my way
Zip-a-dee-doo-dah, zip-a-dee-ay!

Mister Bluebird’s on my shoulder
It’s the truth, it’s “actch’ll”
Everything is “satisfactch’ll”

Zip-a-dee-doo-dah, zip-a-dee-ay
Wonderful feeling, wonderful day!

As Michael led the nurses in this joyful song at the top of their lungs, it’s no wonder they did not hear the phone ring.

At the time, I’m not sure why Michael was in the hospital at all. After speaking to Michael now, over four decades later, he says he was in for pneumonia. Who knew?

(NMN) No Middle Name

I was named after my paternal grandfather, Pietro DiSantis. I was not born with a middle name, which was uncommon. Almost everyone I knew had a middle name, or so I thought. I guess I felt left out. So upon Confirmation, according to Catholic traditions, I got to choose a new name; I assumed the name David as my middle name. I chose David in honor of Davy Crockett, the King of the Wild Frontier. Davy Crockett was a popular Disney character who appeared in movies and on television. I used to sing his theme song all the time. My three-year-old sister, Janet, also tried to sing it, but it came out wrong. She sang, “Davy, Davy ChaCha.” Cute.

So why is this middle name important? I signed legal documents with it, and no one complained. I used my middle name all the time. My military records included my middle name. One employer used the middle initial in email addresses, but for some reason, they inserted an “X” instead of a “D.” So I petitioned for and obtained the “D” as my middle initial in my email address: Peter.D.DiSantis@xcompany.com.

Everything went smoothly from 1957 to 2001. After 9/11, many things changed, particularly air travel. Your identity and the documents to prove it became essential. As I was frequently traveling for business, I found it necessary to apply for TSA PreCheck. This U.S. Government system at airports would grant certain privileges to frequent flyers. One particularly important privilege was keeping your shoes on while walking through the metal detectors and not having to remove your laptop and other items from your carry-on bag. This convenience was greatly appreciated by all frequent travelers.

The TSA application process requires several forms of identification. I had an official copy of a birth certificate, a driver’s license, and a U.S. Passport. I had “my papers,” and I believed they were in order. However, before obtaining TSA PreCheck, I had to present my documents and answer a few questions at the TSA office. When the TSA officer reviewed my credentials, he rejected my application because my name did not match on all the documents. My Washington State Driver’s License included my middle name, whereas the other documents did not. Fortunately, rectifying the issue was simple—I needed to obtain a new license. I applied for a new Washington Driver’s License using my birth certificate as evidence, and a few weeks later, I received the updated license. I then scheduled another appointment with the TSA, and this time, all my papers were in order, leading to my acceptance into the TSA PreCheck program.

Since different branches of the government do not communicate effectively, I had to address my name change with the Veteran’s Administration. I attempted to work with the nearby VA Hospital and submitted an application to change my name, including copies of all my paperwork, which the TSA now approved of. However, I never received any response from the VA, and I was unsure how to follow up. It seemed that all that paperwork disappeared into a vast black hole. Years later, I received helpful advice on how to apply for a government name change, which involved using the same paperwork but a different application process. Thankfully, it was approved. However, the process wasn’t over yet. I had to inform the VA that the government had approved my name as Peter DiSantis, with no middle name (NMN).

Finally, everything has been resolved, and Peter DiSantis is at peace.

“That’s all I have to say about that.” ~ Forrest Gump

My Father, Tony

I am very proud of my father, who had the distinction of being one of the first U.S. Army Rangers. Darby’s Rangers hold a unique place in military history as an elite unit renowned for their exceptional skills and unwavering courage.

The Rangers

At the height of World War II, an extraordinary group of soldiers emerged known as Darby’s Rangers. Led by Lieutenant Colonel William O. Darby, this unit was unlike any other, characterized by their unparalleled determination and remarkable combat abilities.

Darby’s Rangers underwent rigorous training with the British Army Commandos in Scotland to hone their skills and prepare for the challenges that lay ahead. From mastering advanced combat techniques to developing exceptional marksmanship and survival skills, these soldiers exemplified the highest standards of military training. A 1958 movie, “Darby’s Rangers” starring James Garner, as LTC Darby depicted a brief history of the unit.

Throughout their distinguished service, Darby’s Rangers engaged in numerous combat missions that showcased their extraordinary capabilities. Notable missions, such as the assault on Cisterna during the Italian Campaign and the crucial role they played in the invasion of Anzio, demonstrated their prowess and tenacity in the face of adversity. Anzio was a brutal battle with many American casualties. My father said he was there after the beachhead had been established and not during the initial bloody invasion.

The legacy of the Rangers paved the way for the establishment of the modern U.S. Army Rangers, who continue to uphold the same values and traditions that defined Darby’s original unit. The legacy of Darby’s Rangers will forever remain a testament to the power of determination and courage.

My father attended Ranger Reunions every two years, often with my mother. The conventions were held around the country and were the highlight of Dad’s summer. Every two years, he would grow out his mustache as it was when he was with the unit. I remember taking a road trip to Milwaukee, WI sometime during the 1960s. We even toured a brewery (I was underage at the time). I also recall my mom and dad going to Des Moines, IA, Dallas, TX, and Washington, DC for Ranger reunions.

During the reunion, my dad would sit in the hotel lobby where the event took place and watch his old friends walk in the door. As the years went on, more men became aware of the reunions and attended whenever possible. In fact, for the last 20-30 years of his life, Dad wore a black beret with a Ranger patch, proudly advertising his association with the battalion. I don’t know how many men he recruited to attend the next biennial reunion, but I’m sure even one would have been plenty. My dad especially loved reconnecting with friends who he thought had been casualties at the reunion. It brought him great joy to see those old comrades again.

I have Dad’s black beret, his stiletto, and a book titled “Darby’s Rangers” by James Altieri. The book was published in 1945 and chronicles William O. Darby, the formation of the unit, its training, and operations during WWII. My dad is pictured once in the book and listed on the roster of the Ranger Force Headquarters. I remember this book has a cardboard cover, but my father had it proudly leather-bound.

Within the covers of this magazine-formatted book were some of my dad’s cherished Ranger mementos: old newspapers and clippings, his discharge papers, a Special Official Pass (to travel to Naples, and any other “off limit” areas), a color photograph of my dad and other members of the Northeast Chapter of the Ranger Battalion Association, a telephone roster of Northeast Chapter members, and an invitation from Warner Brothers Pictures to a “special screening” of “Darby’s Rangers” in New York City.

The Rangers were a significant part of my dad’s life.

Recently, while reading his discharge papers, I came across things I knew, forgot, and never knew. After U.S. Army Basic Training, Dad served 30 months as a Sergeant in the 1st and 4th Ranger Battalions in Africa, Sicily, and Italy. He was overseas for almost 16 months. He was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, a Distinguished Unit Badge, with an Oak Leaf Cluster, a European – African – Middle Eastern Service Medal, and a Good Conduct Medal. His last 10 months of service were as a Private First-Class, Military Policeman. He was honorably discharged after 3 years, 8 months, and 11 days from Fort Monmouth, N.J.

Working With Dad

I might have been 10 years old when I first went to work with him. We left our apartment in The Bronx, and walked to the newsstand, where he tossed a nickel and grabbed a New York Daily News. Then we went to the diner on Fordham Road for a fried egg sandwich on a hard roll. My eggs were scrambled. Afterward, we waited for his boss to pick us up for the hour’s drive north to Westchester County.

We didn’t have a car at the time. However, I remember he drove a panel truck for work and brought it home one weekend. He received a ticket because he parked the commercial vehicle on the street outside our apartment. So hitching a ride with his boss was how Dad commuted to work for many years until he purchased a green 1957 Pontiac Chieftain.

While he was employed in Westchester, he worked for a dry cleaner. He was proficient in all the tasks at the shop: taking clothes at the front counter (the only area where I was helpful), cleaning the clothes in the toxic solution at the time, removing spots if necessary, and pressing the clothes. However, Dad spent approximately half of his day preparing orders for delivery, which included bagging the orders in a plastic bag and loading the panel van, and delivering them,

From the first time I accompanied him to work, he imparted to me the importance of organization. You could say this is where the seeds were planted for my career in small package delivery. I learned the art of organizing the pre-work so that the actual tasks would proceed more smoothly. Additionally, I gained knowledge about the sequential loading of the truck and arranging the customer’s stops in the most efficient order to minimize time and distance. Dad excelled in customer service. He knew the preferred delivery locations for customers who were not home, such as the front door, back door, garage, breezeway, and so on.

Dad taught me the value of quality. Whether it was assisting Uncle Teddy in building my grandparents’ house in Hopatcong, NJ, or playing cards with my uncles, he consistently demonstrated the proper way to accomplish tasks. This laid the foundation for my future career as an Industrial Engineer. It is often said that women build relationships face-to-face, while men build relationships shoulder-to-shoulder. In my case, I understand the truth in this statement. My most cherished memories of my Dad are working alongside him. Two particular instances come to mind: breaking up a 300-square-foot concrete patio in Hopatcong and laying a vinyl tile kitchen floor in their Yonkers home.

Our Name

Another significant lesson I learned from my father was how to spell our last name. He always said, “It’s D-I capital S.” I didn’t realize until many years later that my father had a unique spelling. His family was large, consisting of six sisters and two brothers. I’m unsure how my aunts spelled their maiden names, but my uncles Angelo and Ralph, along with all their children, spell their names as “DeSantis.” D-E! Where did that come from? I never asked Angelo or Ralph. D-E is very common, whereas D-I is not. When we acquired our first telephone in 1961, The Bronx phone book contained pages and pages of DeSantis listings and only one DiSantis entry, which was my Mom and Dad.

But why D-E? I have some clues. It seems to have originated from a clerical error in my grandfather’s U.S. Naturalization papers. The typewritten document stated “Pietro Santis,” and the “De” was handwritten above and between the first and last name. However, my grandfather signed the paper as D-I. Additionally, I possess a copy of an Ellis Island manifest that my grandfather signed as DiSantis when he entered the country. I also have a photograph of him standing in front of his grocery store with his name, “Pietro DiSantis,” in gold letters, above his head, on the plate glass window. (As soon as I find that picture, I will post it.)

DiSantis or Di Santis? No space or space. That is a recent issue propagated by technology. Some apps and systems will not allow a capital “D”, a small “I” and a capital “S”, with no space between the “I” and the “S”. The resulting output is Disantis, with no capital “S”, which is incorrect. Therefore the only way to spell our name correctly would be to add the space.

The Christmas Fire

The cab and engine compartment of the infamous truck

My Mother’s brother Teddy built a house with lots of help from family for my grandmother, Jennie, and grandfather, Stephen in Hopatcong, New Jersey. The house was a great gathering place for the family when it was completed. It was also difficult to get to before Interstate 80 was finished. Being a youngster, it took forever, maybe 90 minutes or longer especially on holiday weekends. Until that time, U.S. Route 46 was the main road off the George Washington Bridge to the Lake Hopatcong area. It went through every small Jersey town west of the bridge, with traffic lights and traffic circles. It was a long haul. Then began the back roads around the lake.

After winding your way around the lake, on your right, there was a small park and beach, The Crescent Cove Beach Club now. Soon began your ascent. The road up the hill had a trajectory NASA would appreciate. My Uncle Teddy wanted a house on the top of the hill and so we floored it. That first hill and the rest of the road up Dupont Avenue were another difficulty to get to Grandma’s house.

Now imagine all that in the winter, IN THE SNOW! They were hearty souls who traveled to Grandma’s in those days. Since the community around Hopatcong and especially up Dupont was a summer community, there were very few permanent residents. So in the winter, the snow was plowed by the city of Hopatcong up to Grandma’s and no further. There was a HUGE wall of snow at the end of Grandma’s driveway.

Christmas Eve, don’t ask me when, probably in the early (19)60’s my mom, dad, and sister made the trek to Hopatcong and stopped when we met the wall of snow. And soon fresh snow began to fall again.

Luckily, Uncle Teddy had a contract to plow the smaller streets in the town. He had a small dump truck (featured above) and a snowplow and had some extra work each winter. He asked if I wanted to ride with him that Christmas Eve night and I was excited to be his shotgun. We were out for an hour or so, (who knows, I was just a kid) when I noticed a strange red glow in the snow bank on the right side of the truck. And it was following us. It stopped when we did and moved forward when we did. I told Uncle Teddy about it and he stopped the truck. We got out to inspect where the red glow was coming from. The outside of the truck looked fine, but beyond the right front wheel, under the fender, the engine was on fire. Holy smokes!

Gratefully, there was plenty of water in the frozen form and we were throwing snow at the blaze until it went out. We probably smothered it rather than douse it. Anyway, it went out. How exciting!! Uncle Teddy decided then we would go directly home and the job for shotgun was to watch out for any more red glows. What an exciting Christmas!!

BEST 2022 VACATION EVER

As of September 2022

Paris

The first leg of the trip was a breeze.

To Paris, Delta handled it with ease.

The front cabin is best;

To hell with the rest!

With all the drinks that you please.

Barcelona

The next leg brought us to Spain.

Finding our driver was a bit of a pain.

Luggage loaded, he drove to hotel.

For a Spaniard, he drove pretty well.

But for parking, he made his own lane.

III

Checked in and back on our feet.

We walked to find something to eat.

The Gothic Quarter is old.

A good place we were told,

And found a tapas bar with a seat.

We finally took showers,

To bed after 26 hours.

Slept soundly for ten,

Like a bear in its den.

And our rhythm is now off-hours.

There once was a small woman from Spain,

Who led tours through Roman remains.

Streets, buildings, and stories were old,

About saints and kings, we were told,

And everything she said, she explained.

A few friends from afar did we meet.

Three Finns in this town. What a treat!

We sat for a toast.

The view was the most.

But especially, the reunion was sweet.

VII

Clap, stomp, and tap is a great dance.

Is it anger, is it romance?

Guitars and dancers on fire,

We had dinner prior.

Flamengo is more than a prance.

VIII

This glorious church was amazing.

Every inch you cannot stop gazing.

Either inside or out,

You surely don’t doubt,

For the life of Christ, it is praising.

Our dinner was not so extreme.

It was a delight, it would seem.

A single scoop for you,

And I’ll do the same, too.

What’s better than an ice cream.

The market was colorful and fragrant,

All the foods were in its best arrangement.

Candy, fresh fish, or quick treats,

A great selection of meats.

For a snack, a full meal, or refreshment.

We leave Barcelona sadly.

There is a lot we missed frankly.

We’ll have to go back,

For another crack.

I’m missing paella badly.

The Med Cruise

XII

We’re on our way to the Med Sea.

A great voyage it’s bound to be.

We’re going first to Marseille,

We’ll be there only a day.

Then we’ll be in Nice on day three.

XIII

As you can see the Retreat

Is the best. It’s really sweet.

Nothing was unpleasant,

With our own attendant.

A place to get off our feet.

Marseille

XIV

In Marseille, we spent four hours.

Basilica had two towers.

I loved the restaurants along the rue.

By the marina, they had a grand view,

Of all the out-of-towners.

Nice

To get ashore we took a tender,

To Nice to enjoy Provence splendor.

We missed the F1 race by a week,

And the Casino which would be chic.

Don’t be a Monte Carlo spender

XVI

Ez-e was an easy stop,

Coffee and quiche at a shop.

Escaping the rain was the plan.

What else can you do then, man?

Back to the ship was a short hop.

Lucca

XVII

Puccini was born in Lucca.

He smoked cigars, not from Cuba.

One hundred churches if you believe,

And one public W.C. for relief.

Again a stop for a cuppa.

Pisa

XVIII

Oh my, that building does lean.

And the Pisa crowds extreme.

After a quake,

It did not break.

But, fix for 500 years the scheme.

Tarquinna

XIX

No Rome, but Tarquinna instead,

Where Etruscans buried their dead.

In a tomb underground,

Under a mound,

They were laid on a wooden bed.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a total ruin.

Partial buildings, not one human.

600 shops sold lots of wine,

But destroyed in seventy-nine.

The eruption was no illusion

Taormina

XXI

In Sicily, everyone looks related to me.

Maybe a distant cousin, the he or the she.

Toured Catania and Aci Castello.

We sat in a cafe for limoncello.

Then we left Taormina, Sicily by the sea.

At Sea

XXII

Today at sea was very exciting indeed.

Rescued sailboat, capacity it did exceed.

Italian Coast Guard picked them all up.

Were there a dozen refugees? Yup! E

Emergency over, we’re allowed to proceed.

XXIII

Being at sea is not a total loss.

We tasted some wines without any flaws.

They served wines from the Northwest,

Which we believe are the best.

But we like them no matter, just because.

Corfu

XXIV

We toured the winery in Corfu.

Of large Greek islands, there are a few.

We got a cookbook and demo for bread,

A zucchini bake, and tzatziki spread.

Besides wine, they made olive oil, too.

XXV

They baked Corfu bread with their red wine.

The special ingredient, divine!

The water they did not trust.

Iron it will always rust.

Anne’s rye bread she thinks she’ll redesign.

At Sea

XXVI

A relaxing day at the cabana.

We had a lunch then shared a banana.

We are killing some time,

While I work on this rhyme,

And there’s no time to smoke my Havana.

Dubrovnik

XXVII

At night we went to Dubrovnik.

From the port, the ride was darn quick.

Medieval was the old town,

For Game of Thrones, it is renown.

Azur Restaurant the tour guide did pick.

Kotor

XXVIII

Kotor in Montenegro was a bust.

Winds were too high; our safety was a must.

No tenders to take us all ashore.

No way to disembark or explore.

The Captain nixed our plans. We did adjust.

At Sea

XXIX

Today at sea, tomorrow Trieste.

This Med cruise has been the very best.

To Venice, we take private transport,

Because we couldn’t dock at their port.

We had plenty of food, drink, and rest.

XXX

The task now is to pack,

The suitcase and the sack.

But will everything fit;

Upon it, I will sit.

Now upstairs to snack.

XXXI

Dinner and a show then went to Casino.

Big win, order brandy, server Filipino.

For me, it’s the best it’s ever been.

Up 300, cashed out with a grin.

Maybe next time I’ll try my luck in Reno.

XXXII

Now just because the cruise is over,

Doesn’t mean I’m a rhyming loafer.

I’ll keep going as long as I can.

This is creative and that’s the plan.

At day’s end, it gives me some closure.

Venice

XXXIII

Venice is a mess, it’s full of water.

The place is flooded in every quarter.

Deliveries are tough.

How do they get their stuff?

Presently by aqua transporter.

XXXIV

Saint Mark’s Square ain’t.

The scene is quaint.

Lots of shops,

And crop tops.

Respect the Saint.

XXXV

When in Venice do the gondola.

We took the plunge so, mea culpa.

It was like a dream,

On a cloud marine.

A romantic boat ride ultra.

XXXVI

When you come to Venice pack lite.

Otherwise, your luggage you’ll fight.

You’ll drag your stuff all over town,

In the end, you will be run down.

Heed my words. I’m bound to be right.

XXXVII

Here they invented the Bellini.

Eventually, we drank three.

Here at Harry’s Bar,

Can’t get there by car.

Great pink drinks and the olives were free.

XXXVIII

The views from the top are amazing.

This city we cannot stop praising.

It all looks great.

Leaving we’ll hate.

It’s beauty there’s no problem phrasing.

XXXIV

The tour of the glory hole, the start.

Anne saw a radiant red heart.

It had streaks of blue and gold.

One more look, she said sold.

Murano glass has beautiful art.

Lahti, Finland

XXXV

Not everyone in Finland is blonde.

Like the person of whom I am fond.

They come in colors,

Like all the others.

It’s not hard to find a common bond.

XXXVI

I was warned about the mämmi.

But bought one on a shopping spree.

It’s an acquired taste,

But so I would not waste,

I finished one but won’t have three.

Turku

XXXVII

We toured one of Finland’s archipelagos.

The shores are dotted with summer bungalows.

Heikki and Anne showed us all around.

Two ferries than a restaurant we found.

There were many chances for some great photos.

XXXVIII

Ronja and Tatu showed us the Turku way,

We walked near the river where the walls were grey

We took a short break,

To pick up some cake.

Then stopped for a drink near where the people pray.

XXXIX

We brought our cakes to the beautiful Karhu home.

Sampsa and Karoliina don’t live there alone.

Iiro, their boy, is so darn cute.

He made us all laugh. What a hoot!

He showed us some of his toys he has not outgrown.

Just before two, we meet Mika at the train.

He was relaxed, he’d no reason to complain.

Later we set out for a dinner cruise.

Good food, good company to boot, great views.

Then a nice stroll on the Turku River lane.

Lohja

XLI

In June Finland has a big feast to start summer.

A vacation for all, butcher, baker, plumber.

There are all kinds of food.

And sauna, you do nude.

But in June, strangely they all call it mid-summer.

XLII

The heat wave in Finland is not ova.

Sometimes we stay inside on the sofa.

But to really stay cool,

We all sit in the pool,

To avoid slipping into a coma.

XLIII

In southern Finland don’t wait for the sunset.

It’s similar to an Anchorage mindset.

At 60 degrees North latitude.

Here, there is quiet and solitude.

At Midnight I’m snacking on cheese ‘n rye bread.

Helsinki

XLIV

We met the family Uusnakki.

Mom ‘n Dad brought the boys of three.

Two girlfriends too were there.

Lots of fun in the air,

The food and laughs were great. No niin!

XLV

We walked to the beach in Helsinki.

Topless men and all shapes bikini.

It’s hard not to stare,

At the things they wear.

But we went to watch ultimate frisbee.

Savonlinna

XLVI

So today we are off to the opera.

It’s a four-hour drive for the drama.

Savonlinna the place.

A castle is the space.

The scenery is close to nirvana.

XLVII

We’re at a cabin by a lake.

A dip in the lake they did take

Prior, we visited the market

Money could not stay in our pocket.

Adventures in food I did make.

Kerimäki

XLVIII

In Kerimäki, we visited an old church.

It’s the world’s largest made of wood, certainly birch.

3000 seated is its capacity,

5000 total in its sanctuary.

In the nearby lake, I’m sure there’s perch.

Punkaharju

XLIV

After the church, we drove through lake and forest.

A great view for this American tourist.

Check Punkaharju on your Google map,

Between the islands the road fills the gap.

And Russia is the country which is nearest.

Vaalimaa

XLV

On our way back, we stopped at the outlet, Zsar.

We walked around. Tapani stayed with the car

The stores were all closing so we did not linger.

Turning to the East, we gave Russia the finger.

Racing to Helsinki which was not far.

Helsinki

XLVI

I’ve not been lazy. I’ve been busy,

Enjoying this wonderful city.

These pix number five,

To prove I’m alive.

You must agree this metro is pretty.

XLVII

We left the apartment as a threesome,

To visit the National Museum.

It was hungry we got,

To a small joint named “kot”,

For the best chicken sandwich, we’d eaten.

XLVIII

Finns are not much for peanut butter,

Find a spread of another nutter.

I searched the whole store,

From ceiling to floor.

Of course, I landed on Nutella.

Porvoo

XLIX

Porvoo is a cute little town.

Great food and drink we did put down.

After the great lunch,

Mika had a hunch,

To go to chocolatier renown.

Helsinki

We toured the Helsinki harbor by boat.

Where stories Swedish and Russian were wrote.

The gulf is full of islands,

Like a necklace of diamonds.

It was a history lesson afloat

It’s an attractive office for mail.

Many boxes, stamps, and cards for sale.

It’s a clean place to post,

But its service, won’t boast.

Posti has the same mascot, a snail.

Turku

LII

Busses, trains and automobiles.

We’ll ride anything with round wheels

Metro was yesterday.

Busses and train today.

Turku castle, history reveals.

LIII

Ronja, the bear, was our local guide.

To the castle, another bus ride.

The linna was medeival and grand.

Once surrounded by water, now land.

To dinner, a bus, cause walking I tried.

Lohja

LIV

As I travel, I am humble,

For the languages, I fumble.

It’s only English I speak,

Neither Italian nor Greek.

But for Finnish, I’m proud to stumble.

Mökki is a cabin, best by the lake,

For vacations, weekends Finns take a break.

Accommodations may be spartan,

Regardless, there is often a garden.

After sauna, it’s grilled something they make.

LVI

Lohja brings joy, houseboat, and sauna.

Find it with the flora and fauna.

On the lake, a cabin on floats,

Room for six, better than most boats.

Relaxation, fun, and no drama.

Helsinki

LVII

Heather led us with Fork in Hand.

The whole route and stops were well planned.

4 miles at a leisurely pace,

Food and drink brought smiles to my face.

We all agreed the day was grand.

LVIII

The Rock Church was made from old granite.

The only one on the whole planet.

Above the rock wall, beams are concrete.

The copper ceiling makes it complete.

We toured with the pastor sans habit.

Sammamish

VIX

We are home and I’m closing this out.

We had a great time there is no doubt.

It’s nice to be in our comfortable home;

It won’t be long before we’re ready to roam.

We’re making plans to go north than south.