Feline Snow Removal Supervisor Blues: Tuesday, February 28th!

The true measure of a man is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good. -Samuel Johnson, lexicographer (1709-1784)

Hi Rosita and Lady Dar! Yes, I'll pass along condolences to Janet. I sent her a brief message last night but have not heard back yet. I assume she simply doesn't have time, given that she must go to Cranbrook. She was going to host two tables of bridge next week so will now have to see where we can play.

Up, as I had intended, when Duke's persistent attention could no longer be tolerated or ignored. Let the wild horses out to romp in the newly fallen snow and went back to the kitchen to make my java. Laid the fire before I headed out to sweep the front walks and was immediately joined by the felines, chasing each other through the lightly blanketed garden. Had to chortle when they both perched on Amanda's fence, the better to supervise me! She was brushing the snow off her car and I thanked her for shoveling the sidewalk last night. I gather it didn't snow all that much afterwards as I didn't need my shovel, the broom sufficed.
 

Once I'd swept the front walks I headed to the back to clear a bit of the snow from around the much diminished woodpile. Once I'd done that I decided I'd do the entire driveway as the morning was so gorgeous, the crisp air delicious. So light was the covering that I could almost use one hand.

Back inside to make my breakfast and while that, (fried onions, rice and frozen peas), was simmering I cut up and peeled three butternut squash to use for soup. Put the chunks into the steamer and while they were softening, I started on the large turnip I'd bought yesterday, for a variation on Rosita's fabulous turnip puff! Wanted to have most everything ready for Lady Dar's return, at 6:00 pm domani. In addition to hosting two table of bridge, at 7:00 pm, Olga Polga is coming for dinner beforehand, at 5:00 pm, so I need to be organized.

Once all the vegetables were pureed and mashed, seasoned and tasted, to satisfaction, I took out some fresh Rosemary and stripped the soft needles onto the chicken thighs I have marinating, for tomorrow's main course. Saved the flexible stalks as I knew the cats would love to worry them, at some point. In fact, gave one to Duke a few minutes ago and he chased it all around the kitchen  and living room, behaving as if it was a snake or some such other living creature, leaping into the air and pouncing on it, finishing it off with a good chew!

Sun is really beaming down and al the cars I can see through the front window are clear of snow, as is road. Who knows, I might venture out on my bike a bit later. Have to plan my afternoon carefully, however,as I'm off to Oasis, at 7:00 pm to the kick off of the church's Lens on Lent film series, "Vicar of Dibley" Night. Lady Dar introduced me to this British sitcom, starring Dawn French, and I enjoy the silliness. Also looking forward to bumping into a number of hiking friends, most of whom I've not seen since my hip replacement.

Must away to taste the soup. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Neigbour's dog, Speedy, left these tracks when Amanada was clearing sidewalk. He always comes to visit. Lovely pooch. Snow removal supervisors; Upside Down Girl; Patrizzio's creations; Note the Rosemary stalks!

Hi! Mr. Bridge Man ....... Thanks for your pics & newsy email. I have to take a power nap after I read your detailed stories. Bill & Rita's 40th was fabulous. Delicious meal at Brodo's along with lots of fun, laughter, games & dancing. A wonderful celebration party. Did you get a card table from Miss Judy Pratt? If not, I can ask Elvia to give you mine for tomorrow. Enjoyed a nice hike up Peachcliffe Ridge in OK Falls yesterday with Aart & Tony leading. Today, I'm heading up to NP for my last day of snowshoeing. Then I have Euchre tonight at Eagles. Home to finish packing my bags. Will be heading to Kelowna airport by 9:00 am tomorrow. Since I will have NO email access while I am in ON, pls remove me off your mailing list & send no emails till I return back home in mid April. Thanks!!

Take care & will see you on the biking trails when I'm back in BC. Give Lady Dar a big hug from me when she returns home. Hope all went well with her Mom's eye surgery & visit with her parents. PP (Power Peanut)

Hi Mighty Mite! Pleased to learn that you had such a grand time at Brodo. Sounded like loads of fun. Yes, Judy will be bringing her table so thanks for that. Glad your hike went so well yesterday and trust today's snowshoeing outing was glorious with sun shining, at least here. I haven't played Euchre since 1971 when I played with two chaps I met when travelling in Europe. They were from Smiths Falls and we met on the boat going to England and they met up, by chance, in Malaga. In my limited experience, Euchre seems to be played more in eastern Canada than on the Prairies. Nevertheless, I always enjoyed the Left and Right Bowers!

Her Mom's surgery went well and she had a good visit with her Dad. He has started to gain weight so that is a very good sign. Must away to have a quick shower after riding the stationary bike for 93 minutes. Travel safely and look forward to seeing you when you return. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Patrick, Here you were so witty and numerous and we never even replied - how rude! We had a good chuckle over your comments. We are in Vancouver for a bit and today had snow. Poor Vancouver is really suffering this year. We are trying to find railings, lights and a picture for our renovated space. After no selection in Terrace Vancouver is overwhelming with so many places to look.
 

We watched the Oscars on Sunday as we had actually seen 3 of the nominated pictures. What a sad mishap at the end. Not much else new in our lives. Gerry got a new laptop and hopefully his impatience with the computer will end. His old one was slow. And seemed to frustrate him constantly. I think he is going to take advantage of a few free lessons from Apple. By the way what ideas does Corinne have for your home? You may have to curb your imbibing to pay for extensive renos! Cheers, Dawn

Hi High End Art Buyers! I know from bitter past experience that you obviously don't bother to read my missives or else, if you stoop to do so, barely scan them for salient details and remarkable, Nobel worthy prose! That being the case, here is an Executive Summary: 

Give Lady Dar a shout on her cell as she is staying with Flamin' and Sarge and doesn't catch the bus until around noon tomorrow. Whether you can connect, or not, I don't know, but at least you can ask her yourself what hellish plans she has in store! Okay, you can now hit "delete", as long as you don't do it with satisfaction!

Lady Dar will bus home tomorrow so I hope the Coquihalla is not closed! Snowing heavily, I gather. Her Mom's surgery went well and she had a good visit with her Dad. He has started to gain weight so that is a very good sign. Speaking of slow computers, I have a MacBook Air, from 2012, I think, or thereabouts, and have been extremely pleased with it until this Fall when I started noticing a delay between striking keys and text appearing. Other delays, as well, so I think I'll try to make an appointment at an Apple Store when I'm in Vancouver next week, or I could trade mine for Heraldo's as he never sends any messages anyway! 

I was at Oasis this evening to kick off of the church's Lens on Lent film series, "Vicar of Dibley" Night. Lady Dar introduced me to this British sitcom, starring Dawn French, and I enjoyed the silliness. I had never seen the first three episodes that were shown and I was in stitches the whole time. I simply adore the absolute goof who plays the verger. She is such an endearing dope that I am starting to laugh, just thinking about her as I write. If you know series, you will know that each episode ends with the vicar telling her a joke about a nun or nuns, one more, so far, with each succeeding episode. Her reactions or non-reactions to the punch lines are side-splittingly funny. My tummy is still sore and my eyes are still watering!

Was also looking forward to bumping into a number of hiking friends, most of whom I've not seen since my hip replacement. Had a great chat with Jim French who organizes the series. He took me under his wing on my very first hike. Addressed his wife, Carol, as "Sherlock" as she was wearing a smashing deer-stalker hat! Must away as I have to be up even earlier to get the house ready for the return of Lady Dar! Buona Fortuna with all your fixture and picture hunting. Hope you have a chance to see Lady Dar, or at least chat. Say hello to her for me as I know she won't be talking to me when she ticks off all the things I didn't do while she was away! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Cat pictures, just for Donna Maria! 

Tummler, Hope this finds you and Corinne well. We are in the Wellington airport headed to Christchurch. Spectacular trip in NZ so far. We had a delightful morning visit with Sneaky Pete over tea, champagne and pastries exchanging yarns about the infamous Conductore. He wonders why you never show up in windy Wellie. We had a very short visit here but hope to return on our way north later in the month and may get to see Pete again then. More shortly. Fond regards to all, W and CJ         Hello Antipodean Freeloaders and Sneaky Pete! Absolutely delighted that you were able to connect! However, sorry to inflict such reprobates on you, Pedrito. I thought they had disappeared when no word in aeons!

[Have had a number of messages from Mr Kalashnikov, aka Misha, over last week or so and he mentioned he'd not heard from the Itineratii either! He is well and managing to read a book a month, or so, by pretending to be in a Virtual NRBC!] I am truly sorry that we were not in Penticton when you visited over Christmas and an even sorrier that we have not been able to visit you in Windy Wellie, as my pretentious, know-it-all, fellow country people say! Funnily enough, Sylvia, just returned from NZ. She had a wonderful time visiting with friends and relatives. 

[Her father was from NZ. Remind me to tell you another incredible story regarding Paul Day, now deceased, Sylvia's uncle, by marriage, I think. I met him in Winnipeg, once, in the 70's, and discovered the connection, by chance, talking to Sylvia, quite a few years ago now. I think he taught English at University of Waikato and the beach cabin that the family still owns and will rent is on the Coromandel Peninsula. I believe the Carters stayed there on their last trip to NZ. At any rate, Robo Man received a cycling magazine and a loaf of bread as presents. Do you two still share recipes?
 
I know from bitter past experience that Calamity and Whirlygig don't really bother to read my missives or else, if they stoop to do so, barely scan them for salient details and remarkable, Nobel worthy prose! That being the case, what follows is a highly abbreviated Executive Summary!
 

Lady Dar will bus home tomorrow so I hope the Coquihalla is not closed! Snowing heavily, I gather. Her Mom's surgery went well and she had a good visit with her Dad. He has started to gain weight so that is a very good sign. For my part, Pedrito, I had my left hip replaced on September 14th, in Vancouver by same surgeon who did my right one, in 2010. Really pleased with results as my new hip is in fine form. Initially, spent time deep-water walking and riding a stationary bike, for rehab, but have finally been able to ride outside, last week, for three days.

 

[BrunocSterckeman‎: Patrick James Dunn, Just so you know, we are keeping a file on you too, Patrick James Dunn Falcon Lake, with a gorgeous Babe on my arm and a bottle of wine to boot, what more could one want, STASI Sterckeman? If you spent more time on the pleasures of life instead of pushing paper and creating files, you would be a far, far happier snoop! Cheers! Just so you know, I'm keeping files on Etta and Duke, so I need to know if you instructed them to spy on me while I was sweeping the walks this morning! Please send an encrypted message in return as Duke has learned how to hack into my computer. He finds the mouse a piece of cake!]

Must away as I have to be up even earlier to get the house ready for the return of Lady Dar! Buona Fortuna with all your travels, both in NZ and elsewhere. Keep in touch Sneaky Pete. Love to cycle in NZ so watch out! Everyone, stay well. Take care of each other. Travel safely, travelers. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio/Il Conduttore. Pics: Note hommage to Vivian Maier; The weekend before Grogg and Lurch visited, I saw Ariane at Sun Peaks, Pedrito.                                         Morning. No problems getting home. Ended up staying at the Vancouver airport while I waited for the connecting flight bc I had a conference call (more work!). Really enjoying being home! Yes the snow is annoying! Not much in our yard, but definitely still at the edges of all the roads. BUT I just noticed that daffodils are blooming next to the house! YA!! Sorry you couldn’t get your ride outside, but it’s great you keep in shape. I’m sure you’ll be out riding soon enough.

 

I wonder what caused that fight? It is strange but younger brothers CAN be annoying! Maybe it is a territorial thing or something else? Have they been neutered? Poor Bobbie, his tumour has really grown. He still purrs but it sounds funny bc the tumour is pressing his throat so much. So sad. But he seems in good spirits. Just hates me for giving him pills. Have to indulge him with some crab meat!

Lots of work to do this week – we found out that one of our research Letters of Intent was given the go ahead for the full proposal, and the want it by mid-March! So I know what I’m doing for the next few weeks! I have a friend from Ontario coming to visit towards the end of March – really looking. Hoping the snow GOES soon. Luise

Hi Luise! Glad you are back home but sorry to hear about Bobbie. Maybe both tuna and crab! I just hung up the phone to Vancouver. Gave Lady Dar a call as she is to bus home tomorrow. I'm a tad concerned about Coquihalla! Told her to dress warmly and take food, just in case! I trust all goes well BUT I suspect that, at the very least, her bus might well be delayed, at the very least,due to road conditions. Asked her to send updates en route. Donna Maria and Heraldo, very close friends, from Terrace, happen to be are in town and I suggested that Dawn give her a call. Must away as I have to get the house ready for the return of Lady Dar! Terrific news about your Letter of Intent. Buona Fortuna with your full proposal. Coming visit should help you keep from procrastinating! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Old Farts, This coming Monday (6 March) we are going to do a little bit of geology, then go for a wander. We will head to the south side of Giants Head above the James Lake area and check out the basalt hexagonal columns there. Then mooch over to the Little Giant’s Head park and checkout the views from various hilltops. So.... meet at Summerland IGA at 0900 or HH Penticton at 0840. Hope you can join us. Cheers Tony & Aart

Frosty Feline Blues: Monday, February 27th!

The universe is like a safe to which there is a combination. But the combination is locked up in the safe. -Peter De Vries, editor, novelist (27 Feb 1910-1993)

Ships in the offing

Photo: Richard Holland

Thanks for the ideas! Will see what the day brings! Hate early flights. And it's late!! Luise Hi Luise! I trust you made it home safely. Did you wander around Olympic Village/Seawall? Cheers, Patrizzio!
 
Hi all, I don't think I will join you for the walk this morning, but since you will be so close by, please come to my house afterwards for coffee and or tea and cookies! I would love to see you and I will be home. there is room in the driveway for a few cars, but Doug will need to beable to get in to the garage. He has a noon hour appointment. Hope to see you today, Hanneke

Chloe and I watched all the presentations. What a mix up at the end. Chloe picked me up. Waiting for Michele to bring keys. Glad snow is not staying. Talk later. C

Hello Harbour Terrace et al! Lovely to chat, this morning, Duhlink. Did Flamin' eventually bring key over? You might wish to reconsider coming home as it has started snowing again. I went to Superstore around 2:30 pm as I needed milk and a few other things. The hills to the west, towards Apex, were shrouded in what I thought, at first, was mist or low cloud but realized it was actually snowing! When I came out of the store there were light flakes falling but nothing stayed.

Back home I  put the groceries away and then went to change into gear for stationary bike. I had decided that it was rather too cold to ride outside and anyway when I next looked out the front window there was a thin blanket of snow over everything and it was definitely sticking!

Rode for 90 minutes and then was doing my leg stretches when Duke dashed through the Rumpus Room. Noticed he was carrying something in his mouth and I was worried it might be an elastic band or a piece of string. I really didn't want him to swallow anything that might cause complications so I followed him and found him in the hallway by the telephone stand. When I managed to get it away from his needle sharp claws I discovered, to my dismay, that it was Etta's collar! [He really is a "fetch" boy, although I was unnerved by what he had retrieved this time!]

Dreaded what might have happened, of course, that she had been injured, or worse, and lost her collar, as a result. Checked the front yard first and when she didn't appear I shut the Rumpus Room cat door so Duke couldn't follow me and went outside to look for her. No sign of her in the driveway or back lane or the south side of the house so I headed back to look in same places. Was a bit concerned when she didn't appear, anywhere, this time either, so called out her name, as I had been doing, all along, and just as I was about to go back into the garage, from patio side, she came trotting along, from direction of back fence. Of course, she didn't want to come in so I made to close the door and then she darted through the open door!

Duke was waiting in the Rumpus Room and then I got another surprise. I may be misreading things, but Etta seemed really annoyed and extremely aggressive towards Duke as once they were face to face, between the two armchairs, she really hissed at him, back arched, and chased him all over the house. I continued to do my stretches while they tore around, finally ending up beside me again. Another Mexican standoff until Duke slunk around the base of the stationary bike and disappeared! I can only assume that they had been tussling/wrestling earlier, somewhere outside although I don't even know that for a fact, and that her collar had disengaged.

Anyway, I thought I'd better try to calm them down so I opened a tin of crab meat and gave them the juice. I was planning to use it on my salad anyway, so hoped treat might distract them long enough to forget about the feud. I must say I have never seen them behave this way towards each other. Talk about a cat fight. Perhaps it is a function of their becoming older. Duke better be careful as Etta certainly wasn't pulling any punches and, as you well know, she outweighs him by probably half again! At the moment, I'm bracketed by both, Etta on a cushion on the chair beside me, Duke curled up on the armchair!

Guess I'll have to leap out of bed tomorrow morning, when Duke starts to pester me, to do walks. Thought I could put the snow shovels away but not to be. Forecast suggests it is supposed to keep snowing into the early hours of the morning and then clear but will remain chilly so don't know if it will melt or not. Long range forecast indicates there will be periods of snow, from time to time, for next week or so. With my nose almost completely healed I'll be heading back to the pool if I can't ride outside. Fondestos, Love and Cheers, Patrizzio, aka Dad!

Pics:Light dusting, initially, but more by the time lanterns came on; You can just make out my footprints, almost covered when I took snap, that I made when I took out some recycling earlier. Etta and Duke, in repose, for now, alone and together!

Hi again Misha! I'm rather sorry to admit that I have not read any of Haruki Murakami's works. Had a recent message from friend, Ray, who is a voracious reader. He mentioned that he was going to have to return Six Four to VPL because it is 650, or so, pages long, (War and Peace!), and he has too many other library books to finish first!

In case you don't know, by Hideo Yokoyama, apparently a potential successor to Stieg Larsson or Jo Nesbø: "For five days in January 1989, the parents of a seven-year-old Tokyo schoolgirl sat and listened to the demands of their daughter's kidnapper. They would never learn his identity. They would never see their daughter again.

For the fourteen years that followed, the Japanese public listened to the police's apologies. They would never forget the botched investigation that became known as 'Six Four'. They would never forgive the authorities their failure.

For one week in late 2002, the press officer attached to the police department in question confronted an anomaly in the case. He could never imagine what he would uncover. He would never have looked if he'd known what he would find."Since I enjoy this genre, I had Six Four jotted down for future reading. Not sure what your weather is like in Vancouver but has started snowing here again! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi again, Glasgow! Had to laugh at your take on La La Land. Think you had it confused with the film adapted from the nursery nursery rhyme, Land of Nod! Cheers, Patrizzio! my god ,have they stopped growing? also very pretty
 
Hello Patrizzio and thanks for the update of all that's recently been going on with you and Corinne, etc. You're busy as always! We just returned from a bit of a vacation - just spent 3 days down in Cayucos, a little beach town just south of Hearst Castle and north of Morro Bay, not far from San Luis Obispo. The seemingly nonending California rains stopped just in time for our trip and it remained dry the entire trip. 

Today marks the 6th day of dry weather - we're not sure what to think. We'd gotten so used to the rain. We feel like we have had enough for this season, but I'm sure there will be more to come. Hoping it stays away for the Barrel Tasting weekends coming up, this weekend and the following. We'll be hosting some family and friends for these two weekend affairs and it would be great if the weather cooperated too! You can always tune in to see what's happening during the event by checking out our live cam on our website - it will make you feel like you're almost here celebrating with us! Take care and have a great week! Best,
Pat

What a lovely card! You made me blush :) I hope you had a beautiful Valentines Day with Corinne! Love and hugs to you both, Ariane 

Hi Ariane! Pleased to learn that you enjoyed the card, even if it made you blush! In fact, we celebrated a day earlier as Lady Dar flew to Winnipeg on the 14th, to see her parents. Trip went well and she returned to Vancouver on Sunday so that she could attend her book club on Monday. She will bus home, mid-day on Wednesday, so I hope the Coquihalla is not closed! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Pat, I’m sorry to do this, but I will have to cancel our bridge party. I just found out that my mom has past away and so I don’t think I will be here next week. I’m really sorry and promise that the next time you have a free night in Vancouver, I will be happy to host another bridge night. Janet Just received this a few minutes ago! 

Dearest Janet! Both Corinne and I send our heartfelt condolences on the death of your Mother. Gladys was a wonderful, wonderful person and we were always delighted to be in her company. Know that we grieve with you and for you and your family I can hardly begin to imagine what you must be going through, having to deal with this at all, let alone at a distance, at least initially. Again, our thoughts and love are with you, Corinne and Patrick.

Tell Janet how sorry I am about Gladys passing. CTell Janet how sorry we are to hear of her mother's passing Remember playing bridge with her at champagne Charlie's Clara  


 

Light Dusting of White Stuff Blues: Sunday, February 26th!

Never cut what you can untie. -Joubert (1754-1824)

Men hate those to whom they have to lie. -Victor Hugo, poet, novelist, and dramatist (26 Feb 1802-1885)

Greetings from Snowy Penticton! Pleased to report that Duke understands the concept of sleeping-in, at least this morning he did! He remained nestled in the covers, atop me, purring whenever I stroked his sleek, warm body. Miss Etta padded into the bedroom once I was up, at 7:30 am, and after I put on a few clothes they led me to the garage. Although I had heard, on the radio, that there was snow, in places, across the province, I didn't realize that it was snowing lightly here until I reached the Rumpus Room and could see the driveway through the blinds! So far, but a light dusting so not sure if I'll have to start shoveling again or if a broom will do. Very glad that I decided to ride 51 km yesterday as, at one point, with fierce, cold, cold wind, I had entertained heading home after 35 km. Looks like stationary bike today! Maybe even have to tackle my office!

Great that Judy will join us. I haven't hear back from Motorized Mary but I assume we can borrow her table. She and Paolo, along with Josinta and Aarturo, were at Brodo last night to celebrate Rita's/Wim's 40th wedding anniversary. Had a note from Josinta this morning: "Good Sunday Morning from Winter Wonderland where the primulas,[flowers i took on Friday], are still showing that Spring is in the air, and life is colourful and good. On our way to Telemark for a good Cross Country ski Warm winter greetings. Jos en Aart"

Kittens are in and out, having a snack after coming to say hello and receive a rub. Had planned to wash the Marriage Mobile over next day or so but guess I'll have to wait until streets dry up again. Snow is melting quite quickly so I don't think I'll even have to sweep walks. Happy curling. Fondestos to Dusty and Clarisse. Love and Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Armchair Cats and Cobweb Alert! Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

Hello Goren Fans! Heard back from Lady Dar and Judy is on, [Welcome, Judy!], for Wednesday's game so that means we will have two tables! Must away to find suitable bridge prizes for such a gathering. Cheers, Patrizzio! See you after phsio Hugs, Olly Hi Olga Polga! Bring your tooth brush in case there is a blizzard! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Judy! Grand that you will be joining us for bridge! I had intended to ask Mary Lee for her bridge table but she informed me that you had one which is often used for Mah Jong. I was wondering if you would mind bringing it this coming Wednesday. If this is not convenient, I can still borrow Mary's table. Please let me know what you think and I'll plan accordingly. Thanks and Cheers, Patrizzio!
Yes I wud be happy to bring mine Hi again, Judy!Thanks so much! Look forward to seeing you on Wednesday. Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Hello Telemarkers! Grand day for cross-country skiing! Glad to know that Spring is in the Air and that primulas are alive and well. I took a look at Google Maps for Fokke's address and I see that he lives on the western shore of Lake Winnipeg, just south of the Iceland community of Gimli. My Mom had a "boyfriend" whose sister was married to a fisherman and we always had wonderful pickerel from them. We always bring back a couple of large, frozen packages of this delicious fish whenever we visit Winnipeg. I imagine Lady Dar will do the same on this visit. 

Your friend lives almost directly across from Grand Beach, a place that was a favourite, due to its wonderful sandy beaches, for summer outings. Slightly further north is Victoria Beach, place where my dear, departed friend, Andrew Sredzki, had his cabin, originally belonging to his parents. Cora Lee spent the May long weekend there, in 1975, after graduating from University of Winnipeg, with fellow classmates, Maret and David, who now live in Ottawa, shortly before taking train to Vancouver with Ayn. They spent most of the trip in the dome car, drinking in the spectacular scenery, especially through The Rockies. Perhaps no stationary bike today since what snow fell has already melted! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hello World Travelers and Lower Mainlanders! Trust everyone is well. Grand day for cross-country skiing here. Friends, Josinta and Aarturo, are up at the Nordic Centre, near Apex, to enjoy the snow. For my part, have been riding outside for last three days.  Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hello Tropical Plant People! Trust you are both well. Guess your winter retreat is beginning to draw to a close. Let me know your flight information. I had asked if you wanted us to pick up some basic foodstuffs to see you through first evening/morning at home. [You could also come for dinner, if not too tired.], or would you rather just want to pop by a store on way home from airport? Let me know and we'll plan accordingly. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Patrick, It sounds like you're keeping up your spirits in spite of the extended winter. You're certainly brave getting out cycling in the cold, probably even in short pants! One good thing, I haven't missed any of the golf season in Penticton as the course hasn't opened yet - unusually late.

I got back from Brazil early Friday morning, having taken an overnight flight directly from Belo Horizonte to Miami. The trip of 9 days was successful, with beautiful warm weather and little rain. I became a cultural commentator on Minas Gerais TV - watch the attached clip to the end to see me starring. Today Lynne and I went to a street fair (actually in a park) here in Cape Coral - a pretty good band entertaining and lots of food booths. Photo attached of Lynne getting into it with a Coors Light. Also photo attached of Lynne with Ann and Gary who were here for a week to celebrate Gary's 70th.

http://g1.globo.com/mg/sul-de-minas/jornal-da-eptv/videos/v/bloco-do-ze-pereira-completa-150-anos-de-carnaval-em-ouro-preto-mg/5673852/
 

Your offer of airport pickup greatly appreciated. Sorry to tell you that we land at 11:50 PM on Monday March 6. We'll have to have a late night malt on arrival in Naramata. No need for any foodstuffs, thanks. We'll head into town first thing for breakfast and shopping. Dreading returning to winter but looking forward to getting home. Cheers, Peter

Hello Cultural Commentator Extraordinaire! Quite enjoyed your coverage of Carnival. Shades of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, without the leprechaun hats! Upsetting to see that Lynne had to take to strong drink in order to console herself while you were away, smoozing on Minas Gerais TV! Can only imagine what the US networks will want you to say about the Oscars. Did you watch them? Still can't figure out if Warren Beatty wanted to make a point about "fake news" or "false facts" or made an honest mistake.

Speaking as your chauffeur, do you always try to book the earliest flights to leave and the latest flights to arrive? Don't worry, I'll be waiting on March 6th, at 11:50 pm. I assume you are on an AC flight. The promise of a late night malt cannot be ignored!

Had a brief note from Lady Dar, boarding flight in Calgary, for Vancouver, so at least she made it out of Winnipeg. All the snow lthat fell last night and this morning has gone so don't dread overmuch about returning to winter. Rode stationary bike today but do hope to be outside tomorrow. Enjoy your last week in Cape Coral. Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Hello Santiago, Glasgow and The Eggman! Trust you three, and Ellen and Catherine and Leslie, are all well. Sorry that it has taken me so long to say helloe. No excuses but plenty of reasons!  Hope to ride the new Arbutus Line with Ragin' Bull when in Vancouver, week of March 7th. Are either of you, Santiago or Glasgow, free/interested in joining us? Let me know and we'll plan accordingly. Hope to pop by to say hello, Eggman, so have some decent, alcoholic beer on tap, please! Cheers, Patrizzio!  

great to hear from you, patrick. just back from a great trip to patagonia. great to hear the hip is progressing well.we are re settling into china town and of course Kali. beautiful down here with all the snow gone. keep up the recovery; take care, matt Hi China Town Folk! Pleased you are settling in. Delighted to learn that your trip to Patagonia went well. Close friends here, Josinta and Aarturo, were there in November, doing a fair bit of hiking and had a wonderful time as well. Cheers, Patrizzio! i am afraid i fell asleep with the last words heard “La La Land”.snowed here as well.now long gone..take care; matt  Hi again, Glasgow! Had to laugh at your take on La La Land. Think you had it confused with the film adapted from the nursery nursery rhyme, Land of Nod! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Pat, I found it cold cycling to UBC and back yesterday and the temperatures were warmer than you are experiencing. Sylvia got back from NZ at lunch time today. She had a wonderful time with friends and family. I received a loaf of bread and a cycling magazine from one of the couples we have known for many years and whose parents were friends of Sylvia's parents. Great looking trails some of which resembled the Okanagan.
 
Watched the England rugby international live this morning on ITV. What a good presentation compared to what I usually watch. I didn't even mind the ads. The England/ Scotland game coincides with the Sevens on March 11th and I do prefer the XV version. Finished digging the garden over this afternoon. I'm a bit behind this year and I usually have a few things planted by this time. The cold winter has slowed things somewhat.
 
Reading Six Four translated from Japanese. It's very interesting but I may have to pack it in as I have several other holds on the table and this book is 641 pages. Ray 

Hi Raymond! Pleased Sylvia had a grand time. Just heard from Matt that he and Catherine are recently back from Patagonia and reported they had a terrific trip.
I assume you didn't watch the Oscars! Ask Sylvia for context! Sorry you won't be coming to the Sevens. Funnily enough, I had Six Four jotted down. I read a review somewhere and noted it was 614 pages, as you mentioned. Guess I'll need to read it on a slow boat to Japan! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Misha! Trust you are well. Thanks so much for wonderful card and New Year's wishes. Sorry that it has taken me so long to say hello. No excuses but plenty of reasons! Other than Giorgio, you and Moe are only NRBC members I've heard from. [You probably know that he and Calamity are on a world trip for next eight months or so. They started off in Mexico and then were headed to New Zealand. Last I heard, from Jane, was just before they left for NZ.] Really enjoying life here in Penticton.You really must come and visit, anytime, Misha. Take care of yourself Misha. Please do consider visiting. Bring your parents! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Hildegard von Bingen and Luigi, two book club members who dropped by this week to collect copies of February I had borrowed, for book club, from public libraries in region. Duke and Etta keeping me company last evening.

Hi Patrick, Thanks for an email and pictures (love your kittens)!
We had a 'little' snow (and salt:) on the streets too.. even couple of days ago.
Good your life is going all right out there.

have just finished 'Running book..' by Haruki Murakimi. Like it a lot - but maybe not objective as I was his fan for a decade. It is his 'kind of' autobiography. Lot's of running and cycling. I do try to read a book a month imagining myself as a virtual member of NRBC., but life sometimes gets too busy :)

Overall, all is 'little by little' [Russian saying] with me and my folks. Will keep it short, but write more later... and hope to visit, thanks Patrick! A presto!
Misha ps: Did not her from George lately either, good for them RE the travel!!

Hi just landed boarding in a few minutes Van. Flight. Watched Gregg curl a few ends. He unfortunately had very bad flu so did not curl most games. Pam took me to airport had lunch at Stella's. flight crowded, probably same on next leg.
See you soon, Lady Dar Aka mom

Hi Oscar Fans! I quite enjoyed the coverage of Oscars. How much were you able to watch, Lady Dar? Still can't figure out if Warren Beatty wanted to make a point about "fake news" or "false facts" or simply made an honest mistake.

How did the last leg of your flight go? How did you get to Chloë's?  Sorry to learn that Grog wasn't feeling well. What a drag. Judy is bringing her bridge table so that works well.

All the snow that fell last night and this morning has gone so don't dread overmuch about returning to The Okanagan. Rode stationary bike today but do hope to be outside tomorrow. Enjoy your time in Vancouver. [Forgot to mention, earlier, that I was pleased to hear you had a good chat with Sally.]. Fondestos, Love and Cheers to all, Patrizzio, aka Dad/Favourite Son-in-Law! Pics: City of Stars; Casey Affleck; Oscar confusion!

Hello Casa Vicente! Trust you are both well. Attached link is to allow you to time travel and forget your present day political woes! Fondestos, Patrizzio! and

Lots of memories...a nostalgic video of a simpler time and place. The natural beauty of the area transcends the changes in development and demographics.

The way it once was, the "City by the Bay"...........San Francisco in 1955. A CinemaScope film

http://www.archive.org/details/SanFrancisco1955CinemascopeFil

Hi Old Farts, The snow season is moving along quickly….best we get in a couple more snowshoe days. This Thursday, we will: -meet at 0900 at Home Hardware north parking lot in Penticton (0840 at IGA in Summerland -carpool and travel to Snowflake parking lot -snowshoe in the area of The Three Bears. We hope to get to the top of one or more of them, and perhaps a few other favourite spots in the area. We were supposed to do this a couple of weeks ago, but we couldn’t get into an unploughed Snowflake parking lot. Perhaps this time, we will. -choose a location for coffee and debriefing afterwards. If you are interested in joining us, lease let me know, Cheers, Jim

East Side OK Falls Battery Blues: Saturday, February 25th!

A bit of fragrance always clings to the hand that gives the rose. -Chinese proverb

Douglas Dickerson checked in to The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York Day 3: Reacquainting with Eqypt & Velazquez @ The Met then on to the Neue Gallery.

Hello Falcon Lakers! At least I assume you are back from Friday's extravaganza in Winnipeg! Did the doctor's office manage to reach you, Lady Dar? I gather you don't know your cell phone number either!

Had a wonderful meal with Josinta and Aarturo last night. In addition to a bottle of wine I took along two bedding plants. I picked up some tri-lights at Rona yesterday afternoon and the Garden Centre had shelves and shelves of such flowers. Not quite sure if it is warm enough for them to survive outside, just yet, but for $1.29 each, they certainly make attractive indoor features.

On the question of bridge, I'm trying to put together two tables for this coming Wednesday. I assume you will be leaving Vancouver around noon to arrive in Penticton around 6:00 pm. This is what schedule lists. With Josinta, Olga Polga, Naramata Goil, Famiglia Robson, you and I, we will have seven players. Can you contact Judy, from Flatlanders, to ask her if she is interested? If not, we can manage with dummy. I will ask Mary Lee if I can borrow her card table. Anyway, please let me know what you think.

Soccer Boy played an unbelievably rousing game on the bed this morning. I let them out at 6:00 am and went back to bed. He let me sleep until around 7:00 am and then blew the whistle to start the match. With great difficulty, I held out until 8:30 and then gave up. Plan to ride to OK Falls later today. Bright and sunny so should be a lovely outing. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Good morning... sorry about the late reply, its been quite busy in my world. I'll let the curator know that those two pieces are sold through email. I'll get ahold of you soon. Have a great weekend my friend. Hi Clayton! Don't worry about late reply. Funnily enough, on my ride today, I went through the roundabout near the PAG and I happened to see Paul Crawford on the sidewalk there. He was talking to a number of other people so I didn't want to interrupt. Pretty chilly, very strong wind today so I hope it is not as cold tomorrow when I plan to head out again. All the best. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Sun was shining again today so I was looking forward to my ride. By the time I'd played soccer with Duke, sent messages and eaten brunch it was about 1:45 pm. Managed to divert the felines long enough,  [Don't like to leave them outside when nobody is home.], to wheel my Trek out the door without them charging after me and I was off. Had planned to go to OK Falls but wanted to log a bit of distance beforehand as I wasn't going to take McClean Creek Road nor do the loop around Stag's Hollow so that ride would be shorter.

As well, I wanted to actually see how far I'd ridden yesterday. I think the battery on my Garmin needs to be replaced as it isn't holding a charge even when I leave it plugged in until readout say "Complete". This being the case I decided that I was only going to ride for an hour and a half, same time I usually clock on stationary bike. Today, however even though readout said 35% I thought I'd see if it would last long enough to record ride I had in mind. 

This changed, quite quickly, once I left PTC and was making my way along Lakeshore. The wind, today, was out of the south at 26 kph and although it was 2.2º, according to Garmin widget it was -3.3º! Of course, I wasn't complaining when it was at my back but heading into it was chilly indeed. After one loop along the lake I  headed up Vancovuer and did two loops of Middle and Upper Bench before returning home to see what I had clocked: 25 km, just as I had expected given that I've calibrated most of my routes and know the distances between various links and components. 

Pleased with my reckoning, I headed back to Government and the shoulder was almost completely covered with sand and slightly larger grit, as I knew it would be. However, street is wide enough for me to ride just off shoulder and still allow vehicles to pass without difficulty or real danger to me. South Main was marginally better but I was focused on the wind by then as I started to feel its full force there. When I reached the turn-off to the marina at Skaha Lake Park I felt like Scott of the Antarctic as the wind was truly frigid, raging across the still frozen surface of the lake, a real polar blast. Th left side of my face was actually numb while I rode across the boardwalk, although I was, otherwise, quite comfortable.

Knew I needed two loops of the park and adjacent streets so I grit my teeth and proceeded to execute them. Towards the end of the second, I decided not to return down South Main as I simply didn't want to face the raw, chilling wind off the lake any more than I had to. This being the case, I caught the light on Green and started up South Main, roughly 2 km further north than if I had returned to marina. Dipsdy-doodled my way back to Carmi to make up shortfall and was almost spot on when I turned onto White. Only needed to go past Burns for a couple of blocks before turning around to pull up on our back driveway.

Miss Etta was waiting for me, in her cosy, mini-bed on the bench in the garage. She dashed out as soon as I'd stowed my Trek. I followed her as I needed a bit of kindling and shortly thereafter, Duke joined us. Back by just before 4:00 pm. Didn't really need sunglasses as sun had disappeared shortly after I started out, and sky became quite dark and overcast, looking like it wanted to snow. First thing I did after I had shed most of my outer garb was light the fire I'd lais this morning. Cheers! Map and Stats for ride:

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1591776987#.WLIoAQzpy40.email

Hi Filmer! Tazer Gift Is that what happened to Kaitlyn and Scott? Must away as I need to put another log on the fire as well as bring in a bit more woo. Buona Fortuna with grandparenting! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi! Patrizzio ................... Mr. Social Butterfly!! I called you yesterday to see if you wanted to drop by our house for a drink or I could stop by for a visit with you. No answer!! Then after my Mah Jong game, I dropped by @ 7:00 pm & no answer. We are busy tonight going to a 40th anniversary dinner party @Brodo's.

I'm flying back to ON on Mar. 1 till Apr. 12th. Hope to catch up with your for a drink & visit b4 I leave. I'm hiking on Mon. Feb. 27. Take care!!! See U soon!
Power Peanut Mary :-)

Hi Power Goil! Sorry I missed your call and your knock! I was probably out riding when you called and I left for Summerland at around 5:45 pm to have a wonderful meal with Josinta and Aarturo! I gather you will all be at Brodo's for Rita's/Wim's 40th anniversary. I'm sure it will be terrific. I'm trying to put together two tables of bridge for this coming Wednesday and to this end, would it be possible to borrow your card table? If so, I can pop over anytime it is convenient. Thanks, in advance. Let me know and we'll plan accordingly. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio! Pic: Jos is holding a bowlful of walnut shells. One of chaps in hiking group shares them, Jumpin' Jack Flash, I think. I was given a bagful, as a bridge prize, by Spumoni. How is she doing, by the way? 

Sounds like you had a great evening. Were there any other guests? I email Judy and called Sally and had a good chat with her. Going into Winnipeg with George and Barb tomorrow to Pam's and will go to curling rink to watch Gregg in Manitoba senior men's. She will take me to the airport. Give kittens love rubs from me. Lady Dar

Hello Curling Fan! Great that Grog's team is doing so well in the Manitoba Senior Men's event! Give him my best wishes and congratulations! Thanks for sending note to Judy. [Hi Judy, could you join us for bridge on Wednesday? We start playing at 6:30 Thanks Corinne] We will be starting at 7:00 pm, [Once we know if she is coming I can send her time.], as I've invited Olga Polga for dinner, after her massage. She can entertain Duke and Etta when I leave to collect you. No, I was the only guest. Josinta is just too, too busy and frazzled with development business, skiing and Mah Jong! Still, it was a lovely meal with just the three of us.

Yesterday, had a message from Luise. As you know, they don't live all that far from Jane so our VI trip is falling into place! Miss Etta is in the Rumpus Room and Duke alternates between armchair and runner behind my computer. I had to play fetch when back from my ride and he was unbelieveable. So funny to see him racing back, ball in mouth, as I cry "Hurry Duke! Hurry!", his long legs going a mile a minute. He loves to have his tummy rubbed after each "fetch". Miss Etta usually only wraps herself around my legs when I'm on the toilette and has taken to gnawing on my knees, gently, and purring like a runaway outboard. Must away as I need to put another log on the fire as well as bring in a bit more wood. Hello and goodbye to all at Falcon, and Pam/boys. Travel safely and Buona Fortuna with Sky Train/bus. Call me after the Oscars. I'll probably watch them. Fondestos, Love and Cheers, Duhlink!  Patrizzio!

I would like to join you for bridge on Wednesday. Thanks for invite! pls send me your address.JudyHi Judy come at 7pm to 611 Burns. Looking forward to seeing you Cheers Corinne

Hi Turtle Man! No time to miss Lady Dar. She flying back from Winnipeg, to Vancouver,  tomorrow but once in Vancouver, she'll have to take Sky Train and bus to Chloë's as her daughter is hosting an Oscar Party! Cheers, Patrizzio!