So, Family Is Good

Cindy, Brooke, Caren, Diane, John

Not long after Diane lost her father in the mid 60's her older and chronologically closest brother, Howard, left Long Island for the University of Hawaii where he did his undergraduate work.  He literally never returned home.  He met and married a lovely and charming young lady, Caren, and together they  raised a beautiful family.  Howard and Caren had two children, Cindy and Troy and they both live nearby their mom on beautiful Oahu.  Sadly, we lost Howard a few years back but we are so aware of his presence and legacy when we get to see his family. They are remarkable people.

And now with Eric added

We had the great pleasure of spending a Sunday with the family.  There was a special celebration at their church as the bishop of Hawaii was visiting their parish for the day.  Cindy is now married to a wonderful guy, Eric, and together they have two children of their own.  Brooke is in seventh grade and Joe is in fourth.  They both play in the school band and we were honored to hear them both play that day.  In the best possible world Brooke and Joe together make up a swinging rhythm section with Brooke on bass (she doubles on guitar) and Joe playing - wait for it - drums!  Oh, yeah baby!

Joe working on his
paradiddles

Brooke dropping it in the groove

All great percussionists know how to count rests

Needless to say, the day was very special and we had a great time.  We finished things off with a hike with Caren on the Makapuu point trail (we spotted whales!) and a dinner in Waikiki's finest restaurant, Hy's where Troy is a waiter.  And good news, he's engaged!  All the best Troy and thanks DeMeo family for making us feel so welcome.

But that's not all!  Diane has another brother, Bill who also lives here.  Bill's wife, Bonita, was off to Indonesia on business so we missed her but met up with Bill for lunch one day before he left to meet Benita in Bali, which is still a 2 day flight from here!  In a moment of incredible dopiness, I neglect to take a photo with Bill on this trip.