"Once More Unto the Beach"

caption: Theo shows his winning form at the "Go fish" game on the boardwalk.

At Jenkinson's Boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach, N.J., little five-year-old Theodore won a large, green, inflatable crayon at the fishing booth. Dad was extremely proud. "That's my boy." "Chip off the old block." So what if everyone's a winner at this entry-level carney game? One still has to land a fish. Well done, Theo.

He carried that crayon with him everywhere he went. You should have seen him. Proud as a peacock. He even dragged it into the diner on the way home, displaying it in all of its plastic glory to the waitress, who gamely played the role of amazed adult. Now if he'd only stop hitting his sister with it, we'd have all-around contentment.

How was the water? The sea was angry, my friend. So much so that the lifeguards called everyone out of the water, even Dad, who was hunting for mermaids between the waves. ("He could see them riding seaward in the waves, combing the white hair of the waves blown back as the wind blew the water white and black.")

Even little Natalie felt the power of the ocean. A wave raced up the beach and tripped her as she tried to escape its cold, frothy fingers. Somewhere, there's a good life lesson in there for Little Nat Nat.

# # # Reader Interaction Feature # # #

Where is your all-time favorite beach?

Our newest relative arrives

Caption: Elena looks a little bit like her father.

It seemed like yesterday when the East Coast Clarks assembled in front of a computer screen in Mimi's basement and learned that little Aaron, youngest member of the Clarks of Colorado, was expecting to become a big brother. Lo and behold, along comes Elena!

To pround parents Danny and Tedra, the Clarks of New Jersey salute you!

Here's some parenting advice from Rousseau:

"If [she] should fall or bump [her] head or make [her] nose bleed or cut [her] fingers, instead of rushing to [her] with an with an expression of alarm I will stay calm, at least at first. The harm is done; it is necessary that [she] endure it. All my fussing could only frighten [her] more and add to [her] sensibility. Basically it is not the blow but the fear of it which torments us when we are hurt. I will spare [her] this anquish at least, for [she] will certainly judge the injury as [she] sees me judge it. If [she] sees me running to [her] with worry to console [her], to pity [her], [she] will think [herself] dead. If [she] sees me keeping my cool [she] will soon recover [her] own and will think the wound is healed when it ceases to hurt. This is the time for [her] first lesson in courage, and by bearing slight ills without fear we gradually learn to bear greater ones."

Summer Vacation 2007

The Clarks of New Jersey study dinosaur history at Yale's Peabody Museum in New Haven, Conn.

The car is loaded with suitcases and sandwiches, a golf bag and a baby crib. We're all gassed up. So come with us on a rather unorthodox vacation: a swing through Southeast Connecticut and Western Massachussetts.

The first stop: the Peabody Museum in New Haven, Conn. Outside the museum, Dad asked Theo if he wanted to take a picture of the 30-foot high Triceratops statue. "No," he said dismissively, "I'll remember it." Dad took the picture anyway. Inside, Theo makes no effort to contain his excitement. In the great hall of dinosaurs, his body unconsciously begins to jump up and down.

Next stop: Pepe's Pizza in New Haven. This place in New Haven's Little Italy is renowned as one of the best pizza parlors in the world. The Clarks of New Jersey officially recommend it, however, Margie complained of burnt crust.

Next stop: Mystic, Conn. After checking into our hotel -- the Inn at Mystic -- we walked to the Sea Swirl for ice cream and shakes. Natalie's red, white and blue crocs were a big hit with the clientele, some of whom asked for purchasing information.

Next stop: The Mystic Acquarium. WIth the exception of the bird cage, the Mystic Acquarium was a bit of a disappointment. From the rinky dink ray pool to the underwhelming penguin display, there wasn't much to write home about. Even the sea lion show was a let down. (Dad's comment: "That was about as entertaining as church.") But the bird cage stood out as an unexpected joy. Colorful little beasts flirting around all over, and kids chasing them with popsicle sticks loaded with bird seed. Let's not talk about the price, but suffice it to say I wish we had visited the historic Seaport instead.

Next stop: Sea View restaurant. Dad recommends the fried clams. Natalie shows more interest and takes more delight in the rocks in the parking lot than any of the fish-related exhibits at Mystic Acquarium.

Next stop: Alford, Mass. and the home of the Casarsa Family. Gary, Christine, Livia and Will again showed us the joys of living well, eating well and understanding the important things in life. The Clarks of New Jersey salute you!

Throughout the entire grand circle, Margie encouraged Natalie to become potty trained, with limited results. We're happy to report today that Natalie has shown tremendous progress.

Below are some pictures captured during the vacation.


Theodore becomes acquainted with brass skulls and the ideas of Charles Darwin.


Nat-Nat and Margie feed the birds at the Mystic Acquarium.


More bird feeding.

Nat-Nat Turns Two

From left: Joyce, Margie, Natalie, Theo and Michael III.

Little Nat-Nat enjoyed a big celebration Saturday afternoon. Her second birthday was attended by Mimi, Poppy, Diana, Madeline, Michael, Holly from Milford, and, of course, Nat's immediate family.

As a matter of actual fact, Natalie's birthday falls on June 11. We celebrated two days early because of several interconnected dates and activities, including Luke Rivera's birthday party (June 10), Margie's birthday (June 10) and little Madeline's dance recital (June 9). It just worked out.

Except for the smoke from the fire pit, Natalie's party was a triumph! To all those who contributed: CNJ salutes you!

Light Dispelling Darkness

Caption: The Clark family gathers near the world-famous fountain of Roosevelt Park in Edison, N.J.

On Saturday, the Clarks of New Jersey drove 45 miles to Point Pleasant Beach for a day of sun, sand and fried funnel cake. (Remember the CNJ advice: you'll enjoy it more if you don't watch as it is prepared.) Credit to Aunt Debbie and Aunt Helen for the free parking, ride tickets and walking-around money. As this blog has noted before, there is nothing like getting the star treatment at Point Pleasant Beach. Debbie and Helen, the Clarks of N.J. salute you!

What's that? Yes, dear reader. Sunday was in fact the seventh wedding anniversary of Casey and Margie. The weather on June 3, 2000 was spectacular (as was documented on this Web site in a previous post). It was just as spectacular on Sunday, June 3, 2007.

To celebrate our love for each other, we did what most normal New Jersey couples do. We spent quality time together at a terra cotta sculpture featuring representations of the four horsemen of the apocolypse and the additional scourges of greed and materialism. Located just a stone's throw from the former home of Sonya Mizerak at 112 Thomas Place, Waylande Gregory's art deco masterpiece "Light Dispelling Darkness" was commissioned by the Works Project Administration during the Depression and masterfully restored a few years ago.

The Clarks of N.J. applaud the reconstruction of this classic work of public art!

As for our wedding anniversary, well, what more is to be said? A wedding anniversary is a very personal celebration. Dear reader, let us turn our eyes away from the Clarks of New Jersey just this once, and give them the consideration and the privacy that such a loving couple deserves on such a romantic occassion.

# # # Interactive Bonus Question # # #

What's your best wedding anniversary story?

Theo Turns five

Caption: With his sister Natalie, 1, Theodore celebrates “the Big Oh-Five” in his new T-Rex outfit.

Early in the morning on May 29, 2002, Dad and Mom hailed a cab on First Avenue and took a ride across the 59th Street Bridge to a hospital in Queens. Next thing you know, we’re celebrating Theodore Warner Clark’s fifth birthday at 56 Voorhees Place in Metuchen, N.J. Somewhere during that half decade, we came into possession of an adorable little girl with the most curious little voice and language.

Gentle reader, the Clarks of New Jersey Web site will not attempt to describe how five years can disappear in an instant; nor are the authors capable of explaining the melancholy feelings aroused by a child’s progression from toddler to little boy to boy. It is our role here simply to chronicle the events of a simple family.

With special help from Valerie Agtarap (Valerie, CNJ salutes you!), Margie led Theo and his classmates downtown to What’s the Scoop, Metuchen’s world-famous ice cream parlor. Gifts were exchanged, candles were extinguished, ice cream and pizza were consumed. Through it all, the children smiled.

When Dad arrived home from work, his freshly bathed son retold the day’s events, arms flailing with excitement and special emphasis given to the size, color and functionality of his birthday gifts.

# # # Special Interactive Feature # # #

Dad turns 42 years old on May 30. What would be an appropriate birthday message for him?

Ninong Jerry’s Big Day

Caption: Mr. and Mrs. Jeremiah T. Cunningham, trailed by Michael Cunningham, the groom’s brother.

Anderson, Ind. – Readers of the Clarks of New Jersey often ask: “Whatever happened to Theo’s godfather?” I am happy to announce that Jeremiah Cunningham, a.k.a. “Ninong Jerry,” was married last night to Jennifer Paige Simmons in Indianapolis. I am even happier to say that all of Jerry’s friends are thrilled with the match.

The Clarks of New Jersey send their very best to the newlyweds and extend an open invitation to them – or any Cunningham, for that matter – to visit us in Metuchen and enjoy its many charms.

Let the record also show that Dad performed admirably his duties as an usher.

Days Without Dad

Caption: Pupils of Miss Margie’s Day Care, from left: Maura, Theo, Kara, Luke and Maggie. (Not pictured: Natalie and Paulie).

While dad is engaged in a lengthy business trip and wedding event in Indiana, the rest of the Clarks of New Jersey are soldiering on as best they can. School is in session at 56 Voorhees Place. Shopping and dining continue as usual. Even chores around the house and yard are regularly maintained.

The secret is superhuman effort on the part of Mom, and she is to be commended for this effort. Certainly, Dad also deserves some credit for rallying the children’s spirits through twice-a-day inspirational phone calls from Indiana. But this post sends a special dedication to Mom. Margie Clark, the Clarks of New Jersey salute you!

In other news, dad shot a 90 at Edgewood Golf Club, and also enjoyed a leisurely stroll with friends along the White River and ancient Indian mounds at Mounds State Park in Anderson, Ind. Ah, but all is not sunshine and milkshakes for the 41-year-old trade magazine editor. Late last night, an unoccupied Nissan rolled backwards through a parking lot of Panera Bread and sideswiped dad’s rental car while he sat helpless in the driver’s seat. The accident required the attention of the police and several authorities at Hertz and American Express. Luckily no one was injured. However, on the following morning Dad woke up with amazing spider-like powers.

# # # SPECIAL INTERACTIVE SECTION # # #

Do you have a favorite state park? Please post a comment with a recommendation for our extended family of readers and subscribers.

A Monument to Mother's Day

The Clarks of New Jersey, resting on the Dingmans Falls trail.

Yesterday, the Clarks of New Jersey traveled to Milford, Pa., world headquarters of the Clarks of Pennsylvania. We enjoyed a delightful trek to Dingmans Falls, where Theo and Dad reached the summit, looking down at Mimi, Poppy, Margie, Natatlie and Kate Solecitto, director of marketing for Red Devil, makers of King Kaulk and SandFast.

Other highlights from the Poconos include a visit to the world-famous Dairy Mart, and a gift exchange that brought five mini-dinosaurs into Theo's possession. Poor little Natalie was flu-ridden, but she still managed to greet Mimi and Poppy with a warm hung, a rarity for the shy little princess.

SPECIAL MOTHER'S DAY ANNOUNCEMENT: Happy Mother's Day, Margie.

Scrambled Eggs

EASTER CELEBRANTS: (From left) Michael, Madeline, Natalie and Theodore.

Another Easter has passed. Who among us can look on indifferently as eager children hunt bright plastic Easter eggs stuffed with goodies and treats? Certainly not the Clarks of New Jersey!

Theodore and Natalie kicked off their 2007 Easter celebration on a Metuchen soccer pitch, where community leaders went to great lengths to promote the town’s municipal egg hunt. Later that day, the children joined their cousins Michael and Madeline at a private-sector event: the Clarks of Pennsylvania Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Family Reunion.

Aunt Diana took advantage of the mountainous Moon Valley Falls terrain to provide the children with a hunt that was both challenging for the advanced players, yet enjoyable for the beginners. Notice how the baskets above overflow in a miraculously even distribution of eggs. [Note to Aunt Diana: for this accomplishment, CNJ salutes you!]

Joining the event was the popular and beloved Sister Bernice Marie, whose antics are occasionally chronicled in this forum. Also participating was Bound Brook, N.J.-based Emily Fabiano, a former Rutgers University official who has provided companionship, counsel and comfort to CNJ since the late 1960s.

CNJ Blast from the Past

LUCKY DUCKS: The Clarks in transition.

Many readers have written the Clarks of New Jersey (CNJ) seeking highlights and stories from the early days. “This family of laughter and tranquility,” reads a typical letter, “how and under what circumstances did it develop?”

CNJ responds to reader feedback with “Blast from the Past,” a new feature that offers readers historical analysis plus full-color digital photography – all for the same incredibly low price!

Let us go back to the year 2005. We find the Clarks of New Jersey living with the Clarks of Pennsylvania (a.k.a. Mimi and Poppy). Mom carries Natalie in her belly, and Dad commutes to his job in New York City by bus, a two-and-a-half-hour ordeal – each way!

Despite the hardships, CNJ reflects fondly upon this three-week Pennsylvania episode, a transition chapter in the family’s relocation from 57 Main Street to 56 Voorhees Place. Highlights from this period include dinner dates at country inns, delicious desserts at Pocono ice cream parlors, and multiple visits to the Milford Fair (see photo).

Best of all, we lived under the loving eye of Theo’s grandparents, and with joyful anticipation of baby Natalie’s birth.

Those were the days!

Note to readers: Comment on this Blast from the Past for a chance to win a free ticket aboard the Friends of Milford Public Library Bus Trip to beautiful Passaic Falls in Paterson, N.J. (Lunch not included.)

Metuchen Restaurants, etc.

Caption: Theo, left, has a lot of Uncle Danny in him.

The Clarks of New Jersey bolted out the door of Romano’s Macaroni Grill when the host described a 35-minute wait. “Isn’t it great to have Megumi’s as a resource in times like the present,” said Dad, a 41-year-old trade magazine editor.

Mom, a self-employed day care entrepreneur, agreed.

Off they drove to Megumi’s, Metuchen’s most user-friendly Japanese-Chinese fusion restaurant. (Note to reader: Objectively speaking, the finest Japanese restaurant in Metuchen is Mr. Pi’s. I suspect it’s the finest in all of New Jersey. In fact, I will argue right here that Mr. Pi’s is probably the best restaurant in the country, all things considered, and certainly the most pleasant dining establishment within driving distance of 56 Voorhees Place.)

Anyway, at Megumi’s, Dad wanted something that Theo was eating, and Theo declined to share. He kept his motives to himself, but his position was based clearly on the belief that there was very little incentive to share whatever it was that Dad wanted and a significant degree of amusement to be gained by withholding it.

The incident reminded Dad of a story that centered on his own dad – a.k.a. The Goose – and Dad’s brother, Dan. The story is reproduced here:

Once while driving between Indiana and New Jersey, little Danny Clark was eating gumdrops (or some similar candy) in the back seat, and the Goose wanted in on the action. Danny, a spirited youth of about seven, let it be known to everyone in the car that in the case of his gum drops, property rights must be maintained at all costs. The gumdrops belonged to him and he would have all of them as a matter of principal.

A few miles down the road, the Goose issued a statement. “I do not want a gum drop, and if given one, I will not eat it”

Outwardly, this had little effect on Danny. But the wheels were turning inside his head.

Then the Goose held out his hand palm up, and added to his previous statement. “In fact, if you put a gum drop in my palm, I STILL would not eat it.”

Now he had Dan’s attention! Like any curious, red-blooded seven-year-old, Danny couldn’t resist the temptation to put Goose’s statement to the test. Slowly, cautiously, Danny held a gumdrop over the open hand. He dangled it like Edwards’ angry God might dangle a sinner over the pit of hell. For miles the cat-and-mouse game continued until, lulled into a false sense of security, Dan placed the gumdrop in Goose’s hand, and let go.

Almost immediately, the cunning Goose thrust the treasure into his mouth, with immense satisfaction. The car erupted in howls – howls of laughter from third-party passengers (including Aunt Diana) and howls of protest from Dan, the gumdrop kid.

That’s the end of the story. Theo loved it. He asked for more stories about Goose (he calls him “Poppy,” of course). And he couldn’t get enough of them.

Incident in Theo's Bedroom

Caption: Natalie, at 21 months.

Allow me to set the stage for an incident that sentimental readers might describe as “adorable,” and one that little Natalie’s proud parents would describe as just another in a long line of similar incidents that often go unrecorded in our family’s humble history. The time is 7:15 p.m. on Wednesday, and the freshly bathed children are preparing for bed. On one side of Theo’s bedroom, Margie is reading to Theo from a book about salamanders. On the other side of the room, Casey is playing “Itsy-Bitsy Spider” with Natalie.

Suddenly Natalie makes a suggestion in a language only she and her mother can understand.

“Wahh,” she says.

Casey continues leading her through the various stages of Itsy-Bitsy Spider.

“Wahh,” Natalie repeats, becoming agitated.

Casey is at the part where the rain water begins to vaporize.

“Wahh,” Natalie repeats.

From across the room, Margie interprets for Casey: “She wants you to play Open Shut Them.” She says this as if there isn’t the slightest possibility that “Wahh” could mean anything else.

As soon as Casey begins chanting the phrase “Open shut them,” little Natalie’s face glows in appreciation and pleasure.

Spring Forward

Caption: Theodore Clark, left, and baby Paul Ferrigno enjoy their first outdoor recess since 2006.

Metuchen, N.J. — Because of the 23.4-degree tilt of the earth’s axis, human beings enjoy a regular and refreshing variety of seasons – at least we do in the Raritan Valley, where the Clarks of New Jersey live.

On March 20, the Northern Hemisphere (that’s us) will celebrate the vernal equinox, nature’s way of telling us that spring is here!

Warmth and sunshine arrived a little early last week, and Miss Margie’s Metuchen Day Care took advantage of the spring-like weather with outdoor activities that included, but were not limited to, driveway chalk drawing, worm hunting, bird watching and tricycle riding. Miss Margie believes outdoor recreation is crucial to childhood development, while television impedes the growth of the child’s imagination. For your forward-thinking views, Miss Margie, we salute you!

Mighty Borough of Queens

In Elmhurst Queens: Celestine, Jocelyn, Natalie and Margie.

Across Manhattan and over the 59th Street Bridge to Queens Boulevard. That's how we arrived in Queens, the most ethnically diverse borough in all of New York. First, we stopped to say hello to Eli Spaulding, a youth minister at a Queens church that occupies the famous Elks lodge on Queens Boulevard. (Faithful readers might remember Eli from a previous entry: “Giants of the Midwest.”) He showed Theo and me all the interesting architectural details of the historic building, including a room that had some 200 young people standing, swaying and swinging to gospel music. (No thank you, Mr. Usher, we're just observing. Margie and Natalie are in the car waiting.)

A word here about the walk to the Elks building from the car in the parking lot. When Theo and I turned the corner, we were hit in the face with the most powerful arctic blast ever to knock me with a ton of bricks. The hood of Theo's IU jacket instantly ripped off his head, and his hair looked like it was being pulled from his scalp. I was shaken by the force and rattled by the noise. I also felt a momentary rush of pride in Theo – I expected him to wail in pain and fear, but my brave child was merely squinting. Collecting my wits, I picked up my son and held his stomach tight to my face, and advanced through the bitter gust to our sacred destination.

After Eli and the Elks Lodge, we visited the Queens museum and then drove ever so slowly across traffic-choked Roosevelt Avenue for lunch with Jocelyn De Los Santos and her baby Celestine (see picture). Jocelyn was a generous, cheerful and loving host.

Oh, mighty borough of Queens, birthplace of Theo, we love your grit, your social fabric, your urban charms!

Bernice's Party Revisited

Three generations meet in Lodi, N.J. -- Casey, Joyce and Bernice

Another word about Sister Bernice’s 90th birthday party in Lodi, N.J.

A few days after the party, I came home from a late night of editing the February edition of Home Channel News magazine. I turned on the dining room light (see posting: Home Improvement) and found a note on the table. Immediately I recognized the clear cursive handwriting of Sister Bernice Marie.

Imagine, the loving swirls of her pen, the gentle crossings of her t’s, and the charming migration of her story from the right side of the card to the left side of the card, and you will then have a better understanding of the remarkable sweetness of the letter, and why it affected me dearly.

I reproduce the note here.

Dear Casey and Margie, Theo and Natalie Rose,

Joy, oh Joy! What a totally joyful, loving Birthday Party was mine this Jan. 21, 2007. To turn 90 is quite a milestone and a good many years to be serving our Lord. I must be doing a good job. Though retirement will be quite an adjustment, I am confident that our Lord will find ways to keep my life fulfilling. I found little Natalie so beautifully dressed, very amusing, a great change in her. She fell in at times with the other children enjoying herself. I was happy that she came close to me – allowing to be touched and not crying. She was adorable. Theo was seen only from a distance – sitting at the table near the sidewall with the other children. That was his spot this time to enjoy whatever he was doing. However, before leaving he did say a few words to me, which gave me great joy. I understand he is quite an artist with all the details involved. I am just wondering what that little mind will produce. May God bless and keep in His loving care and embrace each and every one of you. So gratefully, Cioc, Sister Bernice Marie.

Upon seeing the letter, here was Theo’s comment: “Why are there so many words?”

Bernice's Bountiful Birthday Bash

Assorted relatives gathered to celebrate Bernice's birthday. Does anyone above look 90 years old? We don't think so either.

What happened in 1917? The Russian Revolution shook the world. The Danish West Indies was sold to the United States for $25 million and became the U.S. Virgin Islands. And in Portugal, three peasant children spread the word that they saw the Virgin Mary above an Oak tree in the city of Fatima.

And, also of historical significance—particularly for the Clarks of New Jersey – was the birth on Jan. 6 of Bernice Haduch. a.k.a. Sister Bernice Marie. Let us fast forward 90 years.

Bernice celebrated her 90th birthday at the Felician College in Lodi, N.J., this past weekend. The Clarks of New Jersey were there. So, too, were the Clarks of Pennsylvania, the Davidians of New Jersey, the Mizeraks of Bethleham, and assorted others. (See photo.)

Sandwiches, delicious cake, and charming well-behaved children combined to create an atmosphere conducive to pleasure and laughter. Following the party, Sister Bernice spoke with the author.

“I didn’t know so many relatives would come,” said Bernice. “Thanks for coming. Everybody, thank you!”

Bernice, who doesn't look a day older than 55, was asked to explain her youthful appearance.

“Clean living,” she said.

The Big Game

Theo (left) and Natalie, at Metuchen High School’s gym.

As soon as we found our seats behind the Edison team, the referee called a technical foul on one of the Edison players, who displayed poor sportsmanship. He went to his bench and was threatened with expulsion by his coach if he said “one more word.” He said several more words, but he did not appear to be expelled.

It was one of many problems for the Edison team, and one of the many exciting highlights of our trip to Metuchen High School on Saturday for an enjoyable afternoon of high school basketball. (By the way: It was the warmest Jan. 6 in recorded history, 72 degrees.)

Metuchen trounced Edison. Doubled their score, in fact. I was very impressed when one of the Metuchen players grabbed a long rebound, took a dribble into the lane and dunked the ball in traffic. The Edison basketball program appears to be a complete mess. In the spirit of generosity, I will drop the subject.

Margie, Theo, Natalie and Casey snuck into the game for the very-low-price of $4 – the ticket taker gave us a break because it was almost half-time when we arrived at the gym. Theo and Natalie seemed to have a good time. They both sat in the bleachers in such a way that the seating area became a desktop for their drawing and coloring activities.

# # # BONUS ENTRY: NO EXTRA CHARGE # # #

When Mimi and Poppy, the official Clarks of Pennsylvania, visited us on New Years Day, Poppy saw the “West Side Story” CD on the table and made an offhand comment – “Oh, I like West Side Story.”

This CD has never been a favorite of the Clarks of New Jersey – in fact, we hardly ever listen to it – My Fair Lady and Sound of Music get most of the play. But ever since Poppy’s recommendation, Theo has been listening exclusively to the West Side Story soundtrack.

His favorite song varies – it’s either “The Jet Song,” or “Something’s Coming.” This morning (Sunday), he pulled up a chair to the stereo and was mouthing whatever words he could. He was staring at the CD player like children of yore used to stare at the radio for Green Lantern broadcasts. Then he asked: “Dad, what’s a mother loving street?” – (lyrics from the Jet Song.)

And when Natalie hears the ambulance during the rumble song, she points outside to the street.

"A tongue in every wound of Caesar"

Theo (left) and Natalie, masters of clean fun.

For a little guy, Theo is pretty good at remembering song lyrics. He knows verses one and two of the theme song from the Polar Express, and the song ain’t easy. Consider this melodrama: “We were dreamers/ Not so long ago/ One by one, we all have to grow up/ When it seems the magic slipped away/ We find it all again on Christmas Day.” He refuses to recite this poetry to his grandparents and other relatives, but if you catch him at the right time, you can hear a sweet rendition of the song.

Also, and this is tacked on as an afterthought, we were listening to a song in the car on Saturday, and I described it as one of my favorites. When we parked the car, I lingered so we could listen to it. Later that day, Theo is in the basement playing with blocks singing the same song: "Give me the key Lord and free my soul, wanna get lost in rock and roll and drift away..." I was amazed.

But that’s just a lead in to today’s item. The following conversation occurred sometime over the holidays.

Dad: Are you ready to learn Mark Antony’s speech to the Plebians?
Theo: OK.
Dad: Friends, Romans, countrymen.
Theo: Friends, Romans, countrymen.
Dad: Lend me your ear.
Theo: Lend me your ear.
Dad: I’ve come to bury Caesar…
(Here comes the punch line)
Theo: I’ve come to bury Caesar, NOT TO PRAISE HIM (emphasis mine.)

The little noble Roman already knew his line! He just picked it up somewhere. In a few years, perhaps he’ll be able to move the very stones of Rome to rise and mutiny.

Let us turn our attention now to the developing verbal skills of Natalie Rose. As an 18-month-old little girl, she can say, “Dada,” “Mama,” “Mimi,” and “up,” But she’s never so cute as when she’s pointing at the fridge and shouting: “Cheese! Cheese!”

Home Improvement

The rustic Hampton Bay chandelier hangs in the dining room at 56 Voorhees Place.

Remember the Clarks of New Jersey before they were “the Clarks of New Jersey?” They were the Clarks of New York City – 63rd Street between First and York. That’s where Theo, Margie, Casey (and even Inay) enjoyed the great metropolis. Those were the days. We ate meals on a little bistro set from the Bombay Co. I will now take questions from the floor.

Q: How many bedrooms did you have?
A: Bedrooms? We didn’t have bedrooms. We had one small rectangle – 20 feet by 8 feet — in which we conducted all of our lives. Eating, sleeping, working, nurturing a newborn, entertaining relatives.

Q: So, wasn’t that terrible?
A: Terrible? It was glorious! The greatest city in the world surrounded us, comforted us, entertained us. Every day was an opportunity, an adventure, a conquest!

Q: What about your car?
A: Well, that was a difficulty. Although it is true that I became expert at shuttling the car around the boro of Queens and its alternate-side-of-the-street parking rules, I will admit that the car (a 1994 Saturn) posed a serious challenge to convenience and happiness. I don’t miss that part of city life. I love my driveway in Metuchen. It welcomes me always. Now, I believe I have time for one more question.

Q: Where were you on 9-11?
A: Everybody asks me that. I wish I could say I was some kind of a hero, but the truth is very different, and kind of bizarre. Because of a persistent scratchy throat, I had arranged a doctor’s appointment on Sept. 11, 2001. When I left work, I was aware that a plane had crashed into the World Trade Center. When I stepped into my doctor’s office at 34th Street, a small TV showed both towers in ruins.
I asked him: “Should we go through with this?” My doctor, who was younger than me, answered: “Might as well, You’re here. So, what seems to be the problem?”
“I have a scratchy throat.” And on it went. All that blood and destruction, and here I was complaining of a scratchy throat.
Margie’s story is a little more touching. She was a schoolteacher in Chinatown, which is not far from the financial district. She had an emotional day with her frightened children, and then she marched uptown several miles to our little apartment.
I’ll say this about 9-11, too. The weather was beautiful. Sept. 11, 2001 and June 3, 2000 -- our wedding day – are two dates that I’ll always associate with major events and beautiful weather. As long as I live.

No more questions. We have a dining room now at 56 Voorhees Place. That dining room has a brand new Hampton Bay chandelier. Margie and I installed it ourselves, with a little help from Joyce and Goose, the Clarks of Pennsylvania. Thanks mom, thanks dad. It looks great.