HERE ARE TWO POEMS THAT WE EXCHANDED A COUPLE OF YRS BEFORE HE EMBARKED ON HIS FINAL CRUISE, VOYAGE THROUGH ENTERNITY. "TO MY SON ON HIS BIRTHDAY"....."Cinco de MAYO," the fifth of may, Is a very special Echeles Day-The day I finally had a son; Amongst many daughters, the only one. For 35 years, without a break, I always found the time to take, to be with you on your birth day, An annual Echeles holiday. But this year, nineteen ninty six I found myself in an aweful fix- There was no way I could get away.. to be with you on your birthday. And this year, more than ever before, there is so much I am thankful for; A tower of strength without exception, you've aided your pap's resurrection. You're there when I need you -what a delight- Just goes to show we raised you right! But more than that, it proves to me, When push comes to shove, you're there for me. As I was always there for you- And now I say, "merci beau coup!" The ultimate joy will never stop of being your proud and loving pop. TO MY ONLY DAD('tis a wise man who knows his own father," M.Twain) Now that you enter your 76th year, as you do when you turn seventy 75, It's time you too lend me a cognizant ear. For some words of praise from the one who'll keep the name Echeles alive(Oops that my have to be adjusted slightly-2008) It soon will be plain to see, a poet I was not born to be(maybe slight adjustment here also 2008) Although I'm not the most articulate lad, A birthday poem I must make for dad. You've taught me some valuable lessons in life and I recently hinted about taking a wife. You've always been there through the good and the bad, I guess thats the meaning of being a good dad. You've been there when into a Florida jail I did bounce(I swear dad, It was ONLY an ounce!) You've become a frequent flyer, just to see my smiling face, and told me many funny stories, like the Sam DeStefano case. So, look around this table at what you've had to raise.... FOR THIS FEAT ALONE YOU DESERVE A WORLD OF PRAISE! Try not to think of faraway lands and the place you could have frequented, had you not had to spend all that money, on schools, camps and places we've rented. So let me just say I'm greatful for all that you have done. And know I'm the proudest to have been your only son. To have had a dad like you has truely been a joy I must say..... So, I hope you have the happiest of Birthday! Love, Sonny-boy