Windsor Terrors

Halloween in Brooklyn. Photos by Al Pereira.

Books and Cooks

Dropped by Babbo's yesterday on its opening day. It's been quite a while since there was a book store in the neighborhood--has it been 10 years since that lady on Windsor Place, where the florist (and turtle emporium) is now--closed her shop? Anyway, Babbo's seems cozy if a bit sparse on inventory. There are new and used books for sale, two comfy chairs and art on the walls. Having read the letter the (very young) owner's mom wrote to The New York Times on Sunday, I wish her luck in fulfilling her "long-held" dream.

We also recently ate at Fez (finally). Owned by the lady from 16th Street Gourmet (which she may already have closed), it's a nice addition to the block. The owner is friendly and the food is pretty good. We were smart to get there before this cold snap and enjoyed our meal in the backyard, serenaded in turn by sparrows and a little baby in the upstairs apartment.

Blessing of the Animals

Saint Francis' Feast Day.

Anyone Else Celebrating?

Today on the Avenue...

This war is not far away.

Although we didn't know him personally, my children and I went to Immaculate Heart of Mary this morning for the funeral of Captain John McKenna. I suppose this is what "Support the Troops" means: whatever I think of the war in Iraq, I can only respect and appreciate the sacrifice of this young man, who led a most honorable life. It was a privilege to be in his presence, even in death. I also very much wanted to show my children that this war is not far away; it is here, in Windsor Terrace, in the very church in which they were baptized and made their first communions.