We Went to Crestwood Pizza

Mom prepared a Phil Hoffman tour for the 1-year anniversary of your death. We left your ashes at every spot. I was convinced the police would be on to us and think we were spreading anthrax all over town. Remember when anthrax was our biggest problem?

We started at Ebersole Ice Rink, where we spent so many hours in the 80s & 90s at Pat’s hockey practices and games. One night, you were outside talking to a group of parents. You were commanding everyone’s attention with one of your stories. I was inside on the other side of the glass, commanding the attention of a group of youngsters like me. Suddenly, all of the parents looked over and burst out laughing from the realization that we were so similar, holding separate courts with our peers, talking, gesticulating, and leading.

Next, we headed to two of your favorite restaurants, Graziella’s and BLT. Shrimp Parmigiana and a Harvey Wallbanger was your go-to order at Graziella’s. They kept Galliano in stock for you so you would always have your drink. And they made the shrimp parmigiana even when it wasn’t on the menu. At BLT, you were a noted VIP, receiving specials and discounts with every visit.

Our last stops for Day 1 took us to Eastchester, where lived for almost 12 years. We picked up a slice of lasagna pizza from Crestwood Pizza and had the unfortunate task of sharing the news of your passing with the owner. We ate that slice in your honor. I’m sorry we teased you about it for so many years. It was pretty good! We drove by our house, and I pictured us making home movies in the yard for school projects.

We headed home to eat shrimp parmigiana and Peggy’s Harvey Wallbanger cake. We went to bed to gear up for Day 2 of the Phil Hoffman tour. Stay tuned. I am sure you are trying to guess where else we went. Know that we aren’t even close to done, and we might never be close to done. You were everywhere.