Rattle-Trap Shuttle Corduroy Road & Speedboat Blues: Wednesday, January 31st!

To blame the poor for subsisting on welfare has no justice unless we are also willing to judge every rich member of society by how productive he or she is. Taken individual by individual, it is likely that there's more idleness and abuse of government favors among the economically privileged than among the ranks of the disadvantaged. -Norman Mailer, author (31 Jan 1923-2007)

Wow what a vacation ! As I sit here listening to the howling wind meditating! The bug bites don’t interest me but all the rest of your vacation sounds great!
We had a great time in the Baha attending Gordon’s daughter, Holley, wedding.
Now we are looking at this: The black dots are seals. Winter is gorgeous, but it is definitely a test! Enjoy your vacation -I’m going to get out a map and figure out where the hell you are vacationing-lol. I hope to see you in around March 17 ish! Love Ski

Hi again, Ski! Trust you are well, in spite of finding Winter a test! Lovely shot of wedding party. Were seals near White Rock? in tree canopy above hotel. Once they had headed off into deeper jungle we were delighted to have Titi Monkeys visit. Smallest species of monkey here in Cost Rica. Fondestos to you and The Great Ronaldo, from Lady Dar. Cheers, Patrizzio! 
 
Frank said tent village was Corcovado. Aranal was volcano place. Green Valley was where we arrived in night & left from. Other place you mentioned we were at. Can’t recall name now. Didn’t do much suntanning nor dipping in a pool. I don’t swim & definitely not a sun worshipper, burn actually!! For me, perfect temp-75 or betwn 70-80! We ate & drank well!! Thx for the pix. It does help. Nice enjoying fellow tourists! Hi again, Maggie! Trust you are well, other than your hip. How proceeds recovery? Fondestos to you and Frank and rest of family, from Lady Dar. Cheers, Patrizzio!
 

Hello Old Farts, Yes, it’s me again after a long absence. I am back but still unable to do much physical with my knee. So, Jack Zloty has volunteered to lead a snowshoe on Thursday. Sorry for the short notice. Jack says: “! I would suggest taking quad to the top of Beaconsfield and play on the west side or if the group is strong we can do West side of Apex Proper or even farther to the base of Olalla Ridge.” Does that appeal to you? If so, let Jack know. I assume that the usual arrangements will apply: 0840 at IGA in Summerland, 0900 at Home Hardware in Penticton. Cheers, Jim 

Hi James! Trust you are well, other than your knee!. Arrived today, in Manuel Antonio, our last stop in Costa Rica before flying back to Tinsel Town this coming Sunday. Since being here we have been treated to monkeys galore. After checking in, we strolled down to the beach, to scope it out and nearby clutch of stores, as we needed supplies, aka hootch, cold Sauvignon Blanc for Lady Dar and local white rum, Cacique, and fruit juice mixer, for me. Back to hotel to the a dip in pool to cool off, entertained by the family of Howler Monkeys, about ten, in tree canopy above hotel. Once they had headed off into deeper jungle we were delighted to have Titi Monkeys visit. Smallest species of monkey here in Cost Rica. Fondestos to you and Carol and rest of hiking gang, from Lady Dar. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Two Capuchins on way to beach today; Horse-back rides, anyone? Lady Dar dips her toes; I'm sending her aloft tomorrow! Titi monkeys who live in trees around our hotel, this afternoon.

Hi Patrick, Great to hear from you. Man, have you been busy! Life here is a little less hectic. We went to Miami for Christmas. It was quite wonderful, warm and balmy and very friendly. It was not what I was expecting in some ways; it was less glitzy and more neighbourhood based. Altogether a great experience. We went from there to San Francisco to meet up with Penny's brother and his family for New Year. A great time was had by all. Enjoy the rest of your trip; say Hi to Peter and Lynn for me. Cheers, Robert. Hi again, Robert! From the sound of your Christmas travels, you and family have been very, very busy as well, especially since you are "cloistering" yourself, working away on your Magnum Opus! Buona Fortuna!!! Will certainly pass along your regards to Lynne and Peter as we will be staying with them for two nights, day after we return to Tinsel Town. Cheers, Patrizzio! 
 

Hi I’ve met someone today that wants to say hello! Jenny! (She is in a shop up on tenth avenue now by the Safeway.) Small word. Stop by and say hi if you are through town. Hope you are having a fabulous trip! Certainly looks like it. I’m just in van on my way to La Manzanilla Mexico. Michelle D Hi Cousin! Lovely to hear from you. Terrific that you bumped into Jenny. If we return to Penticton, via Vancouver, we'll certainly stop by to see  her as we will both need pedicures, although we each had one in Tinsel Town before we left for Costa Rica. Where did you fly to in Mexico? Lady Dar just left, out to explore more shopping possibilities. Must away, myself. Cheers, Patrizzio! Wow small world indeed!!! I wonder how it even came up!!!

Bridge at My House -1056 Littlejohn Rd, February 7th! Hi Bridge Convenor, et al! I'm most impressed with calendar! Pleased to know you'll be handling bookings from now on so I can concentrate on cycling/hiking. Maybe you should take over Book Club as well! Anyway, lovely to hear from you even though we'll be headed to Sun City when you will be playing. A couple of night there and then on to Sedona to stay with Spiller Road Folk. Looking forward to seeing them and playing bridge, of course! Cheers, Patrizzio! Thanks Pam! Ollie, can I get a ride with you? Judy Hi Michelle thanks for passing Jenny’s greetings along. I will try and see her when I’m next in Vancouver.
How long are you in Mexico? Corinne

Wow! What a day indeed! Up at just before 6:00 am to put on a pot of java. Had everything ready to go, before I went to bed so all I had to do was flip a switch. While I waited for drip to finish I packed up the laundry I had left outside overnight and had most everything ready by the time I hopped into the shower. Lady Dar used upstairs shower and we we both stepped out the door to leave our bags at Reception at about 6:50 am. Nico, the owner, bade us goodbye and said shuttle would come up graveled driveway to collect us. When van had not arrived by 7:15 am I asked his wife, Vagge, (short for Selvaggia, she informed us!), to call local tour operator. Turned out earlier pickups were not ready, hence delay. Thanking her, we trundled our bags to road to be ready when shuttle arrived. First time it has ever been late as it has always been earlier, sometimes by as much as half an hour. 

Anyway, we eventually collected everyone leaving Santa Teresa, (Mainly Canadians from Montreal and Calgary so we had fun chatting with them, in particular, giving the Calgarians a hard time! Funnily enough, we had seen them the night before, on the beach, waiting for the sunset.), going to Montezuma, a small town in the southern part of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula where we were to collect a speedboat taxi from there to Jaco, (Bruno and Carol were there a few weeks ago as it is fairly close to San José.), on mainland, the fastest way to get from this southern peninsula to the mainland. Once we were checked off speedboat list we made our way to the beach where we waited while our lugagge was loaded aboard the fifty passenger craft. Wading into the surf,, shoes in hand, we clambered aboard, as crew held boat as steady as possible.

I happened to sit next to a woman from Chatsworth, in LA, a neighbourhood I know fairly well as it is on my route to Santa Susana Pass and Simi Valley. She told me about a wonderful dedicated bike path from Ventura to Ojai so I hope to explore it at some point. Spent a little more than an hour on the boat, stopping the first time to free a large green turtle from plastic fishing line tangled around its poor neck. Was very impressed at how Eco-conscious the crew were although it is terrible to know how many of these gorgeous creatures are drowned as a direct result of this activity. Captain jumped into water and brought turtle to the back of the boat where other crew members hauled it aboard, on its back, onto the small, low loading platform, so it was easier to handle untangling. Still, took three attempts before the line was cut and then removed. Everyone cheered their effort and we watched it slip away, along with another, smaller one, which had been near-bye but not entangled in line, when we first crossed paths, beneath the surface.

Shortly thereafter, we were treated to a pod of dolphins who put on quite a show, leaping out of the water, on each side of the boat, crossing in front and continuing to delight us with their speed and sleekness. Probably about six or seven. Reminded me of when I was a young lad and we traveled by a small Italian liner, between Cyprus and Genoa. I would often stand in the bow and watch dolphins do the same, as well as numerous flying fish, keeping up alongside. What magic!

Once at the beach near Jaco, we disembarked in the same manner as we'd boarded and when our luggage was delivered we took it to the appropriate waiting shuttle for the next leg of the journey. Not quite sure why but we were put aboard one for Jaco and once everyone else had been dropped off at their hotel or hostel we met another driver who collected us for drive to Manuel Antonio. Took about an hour and a half but it was quite interesting to drive through the various beach communities along the way. About forty-five minutes into this last leg, near the town of Quepos, we drove past endless, and I do mean endless, groves of African palm, introduced to this area by "The United Fruit Company, (Chiquita), as an experimental response to the Panama banana plight which was decimating crops during the 1940’s." Further along, our driver pointed out quite a substantial oil processing facility. I assume this and maintaining/harvesting the palms provides most of the employment, other than tourism, in this region.

Was quite surprised at how hilly Manuel Antonio was when we first hit outskirts. Felt a bit like going into Napa from Williams, as the road was steep and just as narrow. Once we arrived at our hotel, The Jungle Beach, we discovered it is very close to the beach so not too, too much of a taxing walk to and fro. We arrived close to noon but couldn't check in until 3:00 pm. Young man at reception was very helpful and we left our bags behind counter to go and explore. He told us about a short-cut to the beach and we followed it to encounter two Capuchins in a tree at the bottom of the path leading down from the road. We could see the beach from there and after crossing a small stream we were on the beach itself. Perhaps one of the smaller beaches we've been at but simply lovely, nonetheless. Reminded us a tad of beach in Guayabitos, particularly large island off shore, although sand is much whiter here. 

Dipped our toes and then had lemonade, sharing a plate of shrimp and rice, with fries, at spot with a lovely view of surf, before walking to small shopping area close by. Since our reusable bags were back at the hotel I asked for a cardboard box to carry home a bottle of white wine, a large bottle of water, a large bottle of Cacique and even larger bottle of fruit juice, for mixer. I set off for the hotel while Lady Dar looked at a few souvenir shops. Back at Jungle Beach, our room was ready so once we moved in we changed into our swimming suits and took a most welcome dip in the pool. Water was much, much cooler than in Santa Teresa but deliciously refreshing.

Enjoyed watching the Howler monkeys cavorting in the trees above the pool before going back to our room to pour each of us a tall drink of Cacique and fruit juice and by the time I was back with cocktails they had been replaced by Titi monkeys, the smallest species here in Costs Rica. Most of the people there were snapping shots of these amazing creatures and I happened to bump into a couple, from Argentina, Emilio and Sophia. Offered them a drink so went back for another glass. We chatted amicably until they had to leave to catch a bus as they were off to San José to catch their flight back to Argentina that evening. Exchanged email addresses as they hope to visit Canada at some point. She is a lawyer and he is a Managing Partner in a company called Universal Group S.R.L., offering business services, of some kind, I gather. They live in Chaco, about an eleven hour car ride, north of Buenos Aires, I believe.

Waved goodbye and after another couple of snorts, we showered and changed and walked down the road to Wave, closest restaurant to our hotel. Enjoyed a lovely meal and chatted, towards the end, with a young Danish couple, from Copenhagen, and their three sleepy children, tired from sun and sand. Toddled home and I was so sleepy, myself, that after brushing and flossing I feel into bed, leaving Lady Dar to watch a bit of CNN coverage. Had absolutely no idea how day would unfold when we left Santa Teresa this morning and certainly wasn't disappointed, Dear Reader!
Patrizzio, Thanx for the offer of the "7’s” tix, but I will pass on that. I used to be a very good rugby player in High School, but am not much of a fan. Nice of you to think of me. I have not heard anything about Ted, but you would be more likely to hear before me [ I am not really in that “contact group” ]

Sorry to hear about your near “Alien” experience! I bet it was a spider bite, because he little suckers are poisonous! I had a spider bit once on my ankle and it took forever to heal It didn’t swell up, but was just a patch of angry, red, dead skin with a hole in the middle that just would not heal over. In your case, I would have popped it, kill anything that moved, then pour some hi-test on it and light it on fire. Not worth taking any chances! Sorry about the weather down there. Here it as been lovely and depressing gray, only a bit less gray in the middle f the day. Lots of rain, and the Sun God is truly a myth.

As for me, I live in envy of my friends, who are free of the bongs of responsibility. Dennis is just back from a ski holiday and doesn’t even have time for a beer before taking off to New Zealand! I would kill tp go on the bike trip, but my big summer break will be to visit a friend in Portland for a few days and take in a soccer game. Hmmm … the Whitecaps will probably lose! O, and I haven’t heard anything about my Nexus pass renewal, so I am hoping it won’t be a full cavity search at the border. I’ll leave my “Long Live Free Trade” t-shirt at home! Be sure to book some time for a chat on your way through Rain City. I’ll make you dinner. //bjp Branko 

 
Hello Weasel Bridge Convenor, et al! Have you Costa Rican sloths managed to arrange a game yet? Our Bridge Club is next playing on February 7th but we'll be headed to Sun City then. A couple of night there and then on to Sedona to stay with Spiller Road Folk whom Ragin' Bull knows. Sorry to hear that the Sun God is truly a myth in Rain City. Not so here, tee tee! If it turns out that Ted Keating is still alive when we are making our way back home we'll certainly drive to Penticton, via Vancouver, to see him and Elaine. If this transpires, I'll be in touch, beforehand, and perhaps we can organize an evening of bridge. Ragin' Bull has already volunteered to make dinner! Cheers, Patrizzio/Il Conduttore!  

Hello Emilio and Sophia! Lovely to meet you two, if only briefly. Glad you enjoyed the Cacique. Trust you made all your connections and are now back home! We enjoyed a lovely dinner at Wave, just down the road last evening.  Keep in touch. Stay well and take care of each other. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics:  Boarding speed-boat in Montezuma; fishing line removed from turtle; Lady Dar safely ashore; unloading baggage; African palm plantations; beach; Titis on roof of breakfast patio and swimming pool sign; Arrivederci Chaco!

Back to the Beach Blues: Tuesday, January 30th!

Alas, after a certain age every man is responsible for his face. -Albert Camus, writer and philosopher (1913-1960)



Had another refreshing sleep last night. Put the air-conditioning on while I read a few chapters before turning unit off. This cooled the bedroom off so that the temperature in the room itself was fine until the night air became a little less humid. Woke up, towards morning, with a pesky mosquitoe buzzing in my ear. Only one, I must say, I've encountered in the house. Plenty elsewhere, at times. Poor Lady Dar, overly sensitive soul that she is, had her legs bitten, almost to shreds, in Monteverde, and had to buy some anti-itch ointment, so irritating were the numerous bites.

For my part, I really only had three noticeable bites. Largest, on my left calf, was the result of a larger insect, I believe, perhaps a spider, as I remember swatting something on our Night Walk from El Bosque, hotel in Monteverde. Took a few days for anything to develop but when it did I was a bit worried as it was an angry looking, raised bump, about half an inch off the surface of the skin, tight as a drum. I imagined it was filled with nasty eggs of some kind, the hatchlings waiting to spread throughout my system, causing untold damage. Even thought about lancing it but was afraid it might become even more infected. Put Polysporin on it each day but nothing changed until a few days ago. Took a little more than a week but almost no trace of it now, I'm more than pleased to report.

Two other smaller bites. One on the fleshy webbing between the thumb and index finger of my left hand, the other on the inside of the index finger of my right hand. Both were small, blood red bumps, almost like one receives when one pinches oneself with a tool that slips or a finger is caught between something. Not overly itchy unless I rubbed them so I had to try not to do so. Can barley see the on eon my left hand but the one on the right hand is still visible, a shiny black ink-spot the size of a grain of sea salt. Need to buy more Cacique, local white rum, to use as a cleanse!

Plan for today is to walk the beach as we only managed to flop in and out of the pool yesterday. Will try to plan it so that we can go for a swim before watching the sunset and then go for dinner on the way back to our hotel. Leave at 7:00 am tomorrow morning so will have to be ready to roll, with most of packing, such as it is, finished tonight. Must away as I've been delegated to stroll to local mercado to buy some cheese and a cuke, to put atop our lunch salad, tasty, large field tomatoes and perfectly ripe avocados. If one was here for a couple of weeks, or longer, it would be very easy to make many of one's meals, given our kitchen and availability of pretty much anything one might wish to eat, from wonderful seafood to fresh vegetables, to lovely breads, etc. Bit like Guaybitos in that regard.

Hello Palm Springs!! Trust you  are both well. I gather from Robo Man's last message that you will be in Palm Springs for February. We return to Tinsel Town on February 4th we'll spend a couple of weeks visiting friends in Palm Desert, Sun City and Sedona, and then a week or so back in LA before heading north towards the end of February. If you are up for a visit perhaps we can pop in, (Probably somewhere around the weekend of the 17th if we visit with Lady Dar's second-cousin in Carefree, after Sedona.] Anyway, let us know what you think and we'll plan accordingly. As you probably know, we drive right past Palm Springs en route to Tinsel Town. Fondestos from Hammock Woman to you both. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Wole, et al! When we return to Tinsel Town in February hope we can arrange a ride or two. Fondestos from Lady Dar to you, Wole. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pic: Do you know Sandrone Dazieri, Rosita? 

Enjoyed reading your account of Costa Rica. We were there for about 3 weeks 10 years ago to attend the wedding of the son of one of Frank’s cousins who married a local whom he met at Uni in England. Loved it!! Frank’s sister organized the trip for us & the cousin’s husband’s sister & her hubby too, so 6 of us. We also rented a van & did a lot of traveling around, staying anywhere from 2-4 nights each stop. Wish I could recall names of places.

Did a small plane trip (4 passenger) to a tiny air strip along a beach & then a 30 min walk on very hot sand to a tent village!! A mtn lion had been in the bar with an iguana in its mouth just the day before. There had even been a few tourists sitting in there, including one grandmother with her young grandson. At our welcome, in the bar/come library, shortly after our arrival, we were all given an 8x10 handout of how to defend oneself in the event of a cougar attack, lol!!! We ate a lot of rice, beans & local veggies there.
 

We slept on two cots in tents on wooden platforms. Portopotties, most with lizards or bugs/ spiders inside, were up a set of about 30 steps behind the tents. There were signs which said to watch for mtn lions & not to run!! Lol!! I tell you in the middle of the night when one has to pee and it’s dark, well I ran. Funny, Frank’s bro in law David, now sadly deceased from cancer, had measured his average pee before leaving home & had a collapsible container so didn't leave his tent.

While there, hiked up a 1000 ft hill to the base of a 100 ft tree where 3 local guides awaited us. We were then strapped in diaper-like harnesses & hitched up the 100 feet to a 3 meter platform to observe local birds, flora & fauna. Could hear the howler monkeys. I am terrified of heights so was very proud of myself. We were attached to the railing by what they call monkey tails. It took 3 mins to go up but only a min to come down.

Another high light was the suspension bridges where we could see through the bottom. That was scary for me too since we were up fairly high. I recognized some of the gigantic plants as some my mom had in her home, much smaller of course. Frank would walk behind me & shake the rope railings. We went to a spider museum which was interesting but I was happy they were contained. Don’t like spiders!! One place we did what they call a night crawl. It was guided & we could see so many night animals & insects in the special purple light of our headlamps.

The wedding, which was fabulous, was in a luxurious hotel subsidized by the groom’s parents. Few of the bride’s family spoke English. The family’s Catholic church was tiny and the service was in both languages. It was extremely hot but if surprised me that the Costa Rican women wore pantihose & coat dresses in the almost unbearable humidity. Frank was wearing a light coloured suit but he was dying & finally reluctantly had to remove his jacket. There were fans placed on the seats when we arrived, thank heavens!! The dancing at the reception was highly entertaining, lots of salsa!!

I loved seeing the view of the volcano at a different locale, popular tourist spot. You were likely there. The van ride around & around up & down was rough for me. I have a very sensitive tummy & was nearly sick after one stop. Well do enjoy the rest of your time there!! Travel safely. Hi to Corinne. Maggie

Hi again, Steel Magnolia! From the sound of your description you really had a wonderful time in Costa Rica, spiders notwithstanding! For our part, our last full day was most, most enjoyable. We lazed around the pool until about 1:00 pm.Lady Dar, sunning and reading, I digitating and dipping and then I walked to the nearest mercado for a cure, a package of cheese and a large bottle of water. Made a large tomato, avocado and cuke salad, topped with diced Emmenthal, the cheese I had picked up earlier. Enjoyed it on the patio and then returned to book/computer until our tummy's had had a chance to digest tasty lunch when we then cooled off from the heat of the day. Around 5:00 pm we had showers and changed into our dinner outfits and then strolled tot he beach to watch the sunset. Plenty of surfers and many others, like us, just wanting to enjoy the setting sun. 

I would have been happy had I been a surfer as waves looked terrific to my untutored eye. Huge orange globe started to sink below the horizon at 5:45 pm and we watched it slip beneath the waves before we made for Restaurante Al Chile Viola, spot the thad been recommended to us by the chef at La Pachanga in Tamarindo, a fellow Italian. Funnily enough, when we walked onto The Strip, from the beach acres road, who should we bump into but Micah, the guitarist we'd seen perform at El Facon two evening ago. He was on his way to another gig. Wished him well and continued walking until we found Al Chile. Nobody there but we two when we arrived as it was only a few minutes after 6:00 pm. Nevertheless we ordered a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc and Tuna Tartare for an appetizer. Latter was delish, (so was wine), bold but not overpowering spices, and was served with puréed avocado, divine! Lady Dar decided upon BBQ'd Baby Back Ribs while I went for the Breast of Chicken, on a bed of Cannellini beans in a light tomato sauce. Both dishes were extraordinarily tasty and I was even allowed to gnaw on Lady Dar's pork ribs once she'd finished with them! In fact, our witness and the chef's wife encouraged us to eat with our hands! My kind of place!!!

Were having such grand time that we ordered another bottle of SB and shared it with a couple from Kentucky, at the next table. Chatted until we polished of the bottle, asked for our bill, waved goodbye to our wonderful waitress and toddled down the dusty byway home. Only 9:00 pm when we walked in the door so we set about gathering up what little needed to be packed. Lady Dar is already sound asleep and i plan to follow her shortly. Had set our alarms for 5:59 pm so we had plenty of time to have shower and mugs of coffee/tea. Unfortunately, for us, breakfast isn't served until 7:30 am so we will miss the delicious offerings we've come to relish over the last four mornings. Must away otherwise I'll need toothpicks for my eyelids! Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Pics: Many of the ATV's and motorbikes here have holders for surf boards; Lady Dar working on her Summer Skin! Just on the beach; Four Swedes from our hotel, couple on left are on their honeymoon; Sunset begins; Patrizzio, Golden Boy! Pure Gold! Arrivederci Sol; Micah; Chomp Chomp!

This is where we will be love to see you. Instructions included. Where are you driving from? The Francis Alexander Address: 377 E. Francis Palm Springs, CA 92262 Hi Patrick We are en route to ps and stopping in Lodi for two nights to sample some zins. Tomorrow plan to cycle to some wineries and stock up with some wine for ps. Hopefully all will be consumed before your visit. We would love for you and Corine to visit when you are in the area. Call us on Polly’s Cell.
Looking forward to seeing you both and catching up on your news. Hopefully you already received house address from Polly. Mick Hi again, Lodi People, or is it Williams People? I see you stopped at Granzella's! Thank you for your coordinates, Polly. We will be driving from either Carefree or Sedona. Former if Lady Dar's second cousin will not be away on a possible motorcycle trip. Either way, we are about six or seven hours from Palm Springs. Without being too, too pushy, do you have room for us for a night or so? Not to worry if you don't as we can stop in to say hello, have a brief visit and then push on to LA. Anyway, let us know and we'll plan accordingly. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Gracias Patrizzio You real always choose the most beautiful places on earth, a bit away from the maddening crowd. Spent time with locals, listen to their stories and learn their way of life. it is so educational. Thank for charing it. Life at the moment has been a busy one, as the opera season is just coming to an end. It was busy, the weather has been just absolutely horrible, but not much we can do. I am good life marches on with all its ups and downs with the young folks. Take care and all the best save trip home. Adios Gisela Hi again,Gisela!

Thank you for your good wishes. All the best, Gisela. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Pics: Lunch at Otro Lado, our hotel, in Santa Teresa; Israeli couple playing cards on pool edge at Otro Lado; lunch on our downstairs patio, last day at Otro Lado; Lady Dar sunning and reading there! At beach, waiting for sunset, that evening. Four Swedes from our hotel, couple on left were on their honeymoon; Golden Patrizzio; last rays; en route to dinner!

Chicken Joes Rotisserie Blues: Monday, January 29th!

It is my belief that the writer, the free-lance author, should be and must be a critic of the society in which he lives. It is easy enough, and always profitable, to rail away at national enemies beyond the sea, at foreign powers beyond our borders who question the prevailing order. But the moral duty of the free writer is to begin his work at home; to be a critic of his own community, his own country, his own culture. If the writer is unwilling to fill this part, then the writer should abandon pretense and find another line of work: become a shoe repairman, a brain surgeon, a janitor, a cowboy, a nuclear physicist, a bus driver. -Edward Abbey, naturalist and author (29 Jan 1927-1989)

Up just after 7:00 am. Already becoming acclimatized to the early morning birdsong as I slept right through the sometimes raucous shrieks and calls. Lady Dar has announced that today is a Tanning Day and she will not even wear her Fitbit as she wants to have all over "summer skin", (one of the phrases used in a song, his own, by Micah, acoustic guitar player who performed at El Facon, last night.), by the end of our stay in Costa Rica. Wonder how the other guests will take to having Wreck Beach come to Otro Lado! For my part, at some point, I think I'll take a stroll down the beach, in the direction we've not yet been, just to catch the lay of the land.

Today, for lunch, I had Homemade Gnocchi while Lady Dar enjoyed Ragu' alla Bolognese, only gluten-free pasta on menu. We had been driven crazy by the smell of the sauce over last few days! 

Happiest of Happy Birthdays Big Al! For He's a Jolly Good Fellow! Hip Hip Hooray! Hip Hip Hooray! Congratulations and all the very best from Costa Rica! Fondestos and Cheers, Lady Dar and Patrizzio! Thanks Patricio!. it looks like you custom made this card just for me lol. Looks like you guys are having a grand time and can't wait to see you and catch up. Love to corriandre and ttys. fondestos!!

Hi Big Al and Marilyn! Glad you enjoyed the card, Big Molly! Trust you  are both well, in spite of birthday party shenanigans, and monsoons. Certainly cannot complain about weather here, that is for sure. Lady Dar spends her time moving between pool and hammock, reading in both places! Another lazy, lazy day in Paradise today. Lady Dar dedicated it to working on her tan. That evening I was commanded, by Her Ladyship, [She refuses to expose her royal self to the dust!], to walk down the road to pick up dinner at Chicken Joe's! Great meal of half a chicken with two saladins, green and cabbage, on our downstairs patio table with two other dinner guests, not quite as pushy as Duke, Ciro, the cat, and Lupina, the pooch, both with the saddest eyes in the world. Don't tell the owners but we fed them tidbits! Fondestos from Hammock Woman to you both. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Beach with mini-grandes and pelicans, just after dive-bombing and then just after take-off!

[Must away as I've been called to spray Lady Dar's back with sunscreen. Fondestos from her, although she's so engrossed in her latest book, Karen Rose's Watch Your Back,  that I hardly think she has even a passing thought for her friends and family back home! Cheers, Dad! Pics: Bug for Reception Desk! Typical scene along The Strip. Choocheranian owns RE/MAX agency in Santa Teresa! Sandals off; Selfie time; Lady Dat at El Facon; Micah; Ciro; Gino; Back in the Hammock Again!] I would like to use you as a reference for my Security clearance update. I need your middle name. W Patrick Jame Dunn 

 

Oh marvelous.  January 5-19 we were in LA and Santa Cruz visiting with son Jake & family. We drove up to Capitola/Santa Cruz to visit with Cherly's aunt and just missed the terrible mudslides by about 4 hours. Highlight of the LA visit was a tour of the Getty Museum. But those freeways, the police helicopters, and the general lack of green space in LA was pretty daunting. Happy to be back in Van. Hi again, Happy to be Home in Vancouver People!

Interestingly enough, we both felt much the same way you described when we first started visiting Ayn in Tinsel Town. However, over the years, our opinion has changed, and radically so. Having local knowledge of city one sees an entirely different side of it. Driving surface streets through various neighbourhoods is much like visiting Kerrisdale, Commercial Street or Lynn Canyon, obviously with different vegetation and architecture. Furthermore, I really enjoy cycling there, Many many dedicated bike paths. One, along ocean, starting near Topanga Canyon where it intersects with Pacific Coast Highway, south past LAX is fabulous. I even ride between the San Fernando Valley, where Ayn lives, near Studio City, for most of the way, along the Orange Bus Line, (as far as Northridge), dedicated bike/pedestrian lane, [much like Seawall in Vancouver], to Simi Valley, over the Santa Susana Pass Road, where you would think you are on some of the hills around Penticton were it not for the huge, sandstone boulders which litter the hillsides.

Speaking of the Getty, we didn't visit the Museum this visit but rather the Getty Villa, near Santa Monica, as we'd never been before. Anyway, with Jake & family in LA you will have the opportunity to dig beneath the skin of this truly exciting city. Another example comes to mind, Burbank. On the morning of the day we left for Costa Rica, January 6th, we drove to Tojunga Village, one of the neighbourhoods there, to meet Alex, our youngest grandson, and his wife, Samantha, for  breakfast at Aroma, a wonderful spot indeed. Anyway, lovely Art Deco and California '50's style buildings line the streets, filled with shops, businesses of all kinds, restaurants and bars, etc., that make strolling a delight. Must away as it's time for breakfast. fondest from Lady Dar to you. Al, and Cheryl. Cheers, Patrizzio, Member of the Greater LA Tourist Board! Pics: LA near Grand Central Market; Getty Villa. Deer on hillside outside grounds!

Hello Patrick & Corinne! (and extended family) Thank you so much for sharing these photos and for a delightful time together in Tamarindo. Image 8249 may just be the cutest shot of Ian and me that has ever been taken. It sounds as if your adventures continue (more cats!) and that you are enjoying yourselves. Ian and I arrived home very late Saturday night (11:30) and were tucked in with eyes smashed by midnight (having simply dropped everything at the door upon arrival). Sunday broke clear and cold and we met the day with shovels. Ian's driveway was a foot deep with snow, more where it drifted. It's hard to be home but we've enrolled in Spanish lessons and project "Explore Ex-patting" begins :)!

After seeing you off Saturday, we walked down to the market and met the Thursday night vendors and sampled their wares-- the spice woman was there and so were the chocolate folks (God, that was good chocolate!). It seems if you take the wrong turn Thursday night, you get a make-up market Saturday! Thank you again for all the fun and the photos. Enjoy your remaining days in the sun! Happy Adventures, Amy.

Hello Snow-bound Folk! Trust you are both well in spite of the snow shovel blues! Glad you enjoyed the snapolas and terrific that you stumbled upon the Thursday Night vendors! Thanks for good wishes. as well. Must away as I'm starting to feel sleepy, Lady Dar is already abed. Fondestos from her, to you, Amy and Ian. All the best. Cheers, Patrizzio! Thanks for taking us with you! Sandee
Pat, You and Corinne have the right idea. The beach and water look very enticing. The Carters were to set off driving to Palm Springs at 4am today for the month of February. Sylvia and I had dinner with them on Saturday night. Mike and I watched Canada v Uruguay (rugby World Cup play-off on TV before dinner. Good game but Uruguay prevailed. 100mm of rain recorded in 36 hours on the North Shore and over 200mm in Tofino. Enjoy the good weather. Ray

 

Hi Raymondo! Trust you and Sylvia are both well, in spite of monsoons! Certainly cannot complain about weather here, that is for sure. Lady Dar spends her time moving between pool and hammock, reading in both places! Interesting that you mention rugby as I was just in touch with Sarge and he bought us weekend passes for the '7's. Must send Mick a message as when we return to Tinsel Town on February 4th we'll spend a couple of weeks visiting friends in Palm Desert, Sun City and Sedona, and then a week or so back in LA before heading north towards the end of February. Might see what their situation is like when we drive back to LA and perhaps we can arrange a visit as we drive right past Palm Springs. Fondestos from Hammock Woman to you both. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Pics: Ciro and Hammock Woman! [Do you know Sandrone Dazieri? Italian author new to us.] Some shots of "The Strip": nearest mercado; street signs and good example of dust! Beach with pelicans, just after dive-bombing and then just after take-off! Map of where we are headed next, blue line, to Manuel Antonio and the Jungle Beach Hotel! Apparently take a ferry to cross Gulf of Nicoya.

Santa Teresa-Mal Pais Beach Sand Blues: Sunday, Janaury 28th!

Barricades of ideas are worth more than barricades of stones. -José Martí, revolutionary and poet (28 Jan 1853-1895)

Hi Corinne, We’ll be very happy to do dinner for your first night. Lynne will really appreciate your offer of dinner the second night. XXX Good Morning, Maî·tre d'Hô·tel Shadow Lake! Thank you for confirming our dinner reservations with the owner of your esteemed establishment! We look forward to our time there with great anticipation, although our accommodation, at present, is almost beyond compare.

Up at 6:30 am, after a very good sleep, (No air-conditioning needed as, here, it seems to cool off more, at night, than it did in Tamarindo.), awakened by the sound of birdsong outside our bedroom balcony. Quite a number of different voices in the choir, at least to my untutored ear, so certainly a treat. [When downstairs I looked outside to see if I could find any of the birds and found a darling Baltimore Oriole perched on a wire above the hotel's perimeter fence. I thanked it for the wake-up call and was rewarded with another few notes and chirps!] Negotiated the rather steep spiral staircase, very, very carefully as there isn't a handrail,. Basically we hang on to one of the narrow steps as we descend. All we need is a broken arm or leg, or worse, at this stage of the game.

Once in the kitchen I put on a pot of java as there is a large container of coffee on one of the shelves and while it burbled away did my first dishes since leaving Tinsel Town. Had rinsed the few things that I used to make last night's fabulous salad, [Tomatoe & avocado, topped with Cheddar cheese, (Last of a package we brought from Tamarindo, and remains of a jar of salsa, again muled from Tamarindo. Lady Dar's nose wrinkled so much that she almost resembled one of the bats we'd seen in Monteverde!)], before retiring so didn't take much to polish them off.
  
Dish detergent is a solid compound in a plastic container, much like a medium sized yogurt container, back home, and I simply rubbed the scouring sponge over it to have enough detergent to do the utensils and plates. I'll be vacuuming next!

Lady Dar joined me twenty minutes later and put a small pot of water on the gas stove for her tea. She is now enjoying it, outside at the patio table, immersing herself in Paradise. We'll amble over for for breakfast sometime after 7:30 am when service begins. After that we haven't really decided upon the day's events. 

I'd like to walk the beach towards the town, more an amorphous strip village, really, where many of the businesses, (Banco Nacional de Costa Rica, higher-end restaurants, and the like, are situated), near a roundabout, referred to as The Crossroads, in local parlance. In part, beach is choice simply because it is wonderful to walk along the shore, as I'm sure I need not remind anyone shoveling snow, but also because the unpaved road is extremely dusty.  

In fact, we have already noticed that many ATV drivers and passengers, as well as motorcyclists wear face masks. About an hour or so, according to Vanessa, terrific staff person at Otro Lado, so we'll see how we feel once there as to whether we'll walk back or take a taxi. Will probably be baking hot by then and Lady Dar becomes krankier and krankier with each degree rise, whining about the need to immerse herself in the pool and relax in the hammock, in the shade, with a book and an IV drip of white wine with Patrizzio fanning her! Must away as my mug needs refilling with my truly delicious brew. Fondestos from Lady Dar, readying herself for breakfast, to you, Dom Jugos, and Lynne! Cheers, Patrizzio, fan wielder and scullion, sometimes stooping to handsome pool boy!

Pics: Lady Dar still a tad groggy! Pool. I noted that plastic wraps were placed on furniture so I assume there might well be some heavy dew; My office; Huge downstairs shower, almost like being outdoors; Where Lady Dar keeps her Swiss Francs and I hang my designer clothes! Upstairs shower and hommage to Vivian Maier; balcony outside our bedroom, which has a very comfy bed with reading lamps, so Lady Dar approves! Still life with coffee pot, tomato and avocado! 
 

Greetings from Summerland. Thanks again for another very interesting reading. Without checking maps and so on, can you describe where you guys are in Costa Rica? We were there on a diving trip 4 years ago, somewhere at the central west coast area, don’t remember details now. Back to Summerland, and the game; my last hand on the last dealing of the night - I got the cards as below. But we are going to snowshoe today 😜 Cheers. Mike 

Hi Michaelo, et al! What a fabulous, fabulous hand! Did you bid and make a Grand Slam or did your partner let you down? Chloë has been complaining about the snow but she doesn't go snow-shoeing! Have attached a couple of screen shots so you will have a better idea of where we were, Tamarindo, yesterday morning, and are, Santa Teresa-Mal Pais, now. Last place, Manuel Antonio, before one night at airport in San José, won't be an almost 10 hour drive as apparently we take a small ferry across the Gulf of Nicoya to reduce drive by five hours! I hope so, anyway! Must away as my mug needs refilling with the last of my truly delicious brew. Fondestos from Lady Dar, swaying in the hammock like an East Indian Princess, to you, Michaelo and Bridgettes All! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pic: Still life with hammock, cat and book, three most important items in the life of an independently wealthy Canadian heiress, her fortune made in wine club stocks!!! Screen shots. Hi again Kids! Forgot to attach screen shots! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi again, Hard-Studying Goil and Her Wonderfully Disobedient Kittens, et al!

Thanks again, for the terrific shots of Miss Etta! [Etta’s such an adventurous girl. A late bloomer. You will need more organization to handle more buildings Anyway to reduce task time Hope weather improves soon Hugs Mom Note, from Patrizzio: Michaelo, from Summerland, sent me a picture latest snowfall, taken in front of their house, yesterday!] Think I mentioned that there are three felines here at Otro Lado, ( Gino, Pita, and Ciro, {pronounced Chiro}, and first one we met was Ciro. This morning he came inside, [Vanessa said he probably would as he quickly figured out a soft touch!], and jumped up on my "desk" to use the computer, to order dental crunchies from the Penticton SPCA!

Lady Dar went over for breakfast first so before I joined her I gave him a few bits of cheese which didn't last long, let me tell you. He looked very pleased as he was licking his whiskers! Anyway, after our delicious breakfast, [I enjoyed a ham and cheese Crêpe, delicious, but Lady Dar had to have scrambled eggs as no gluten-free Crêpes, poor, poor dear!], Nana went back to our room but I still had my freshly squeezed orange juice and java to finish, so I stayed behind and read a few more chapters on my latest book, John Sandfoord's Dark of the Moon, which I'm quite enjoying, even though it is set in Minnesota, Amy and Ian!

When I'd polished everything off, (took her two slices of toast for a sandwich, later today!), I found her in the hammock, happy as happy could be, and when I opened the door, Ciro came out. I guess I had locked him inside when I left earlier. Anyway, he went straight to the hammock and after kneading and settling, he was in heaven! I went back inside and he followed, after a bit, and when I got up to have a bit more coffee, he wrapped his front legs around my ankle, just like Duke often does, and one of his needle sharp claws puntured my skin! He knew, immediately, as I let out a bit of shout. Was afraid he'd really sink his claws in if I didn't protest right away. Anway, I'd be rather worried if I was a bird or a small iguana! 

A few minutes ago, I popped over to Reception to ask about the cats' names and had a friendly chat with Nico, the owner, along with his wife, both from Milano. They built this place, from scratch, 11 years ago and just as I was about to leave, I managed to get a shot of him with Giro, the oldest of the felines. As soon as I've sent a few more messages, we're off to walk the beach and scope eateries! Love from Nana, reading on one of the sofas beside me, too hot for her now, even in the hammock! Love and Cheers, Dad/Patrizzio!

 

Pics: Have attached a couple of screen shots so you will have a better idea of where we were, Tamarindo, yesterday morning, and are, Santa Teresa-Mal Pais, now. Last place, Manuel Antonio, before one night at airport in San José, won't be an almost 10 hour drive as apparently we take a small ferry across the Gulf of Nicoya to reduce drive by five hours! I hope so, anyway! Computer whiz! Costa Rican "Shake a paw"! Soft touch for lovin'! Nico and Giro; Beach awaits!

Thanks for update Patrick and when you will be here, you said noon on Sat 10th. You didn't say when you are leaving though. Is it morning of 13th? That would be good as I wanted to be here when you are and the plan is to leave for Grande canyon backpack on 13th Look forward to seeing you both and we'll cook supper evening of 10th!! bye Gill Hi again, Jack Rabbit! Yes, we will leave on the morning of the 13th, as early as you'd like so that you can hoof it to the Grand Canyon. Thanks for making dinner on the 10th. We'll be in the kitchen for rest of meals while with you. Must away as beach awaits, if I can pry Lady Dar away from Hammock, Ciro and her book! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Beach. Still life with Lady Dar, hammock, cat and book! Life indeed! Thanks and no need to rush out. You could even stay longer as Phil will here.keep taking care both of you Gill

Leaving Otro Lado at just before 1:00 pm, we walked the strip road to the Banco Nacional de Costa Rica, about fifty minutes from our place, as Lady Dar needed cash, and then returned on the beach. Stopped along the way and I frolicked in the surf like a kid. Wonderful temperature and waves fun to play in although a fairly strong undertow. Back by just about 3:00 pm and straight into the pool again for another hour or so, reading and chatting with other guests.

When we returned to our room I put together a small plate of appetizers, using the half tomato and avocado from last night, as well as some cheese and crackers, enjoying them at our ground floor patio table. I had a couple of Bavaria, local beer, while Lady Dar sipped, ever so daintily, on the finest Chilean Sauvignon Blanc. Then it was time for showers. After I posted a few messages we walked a couple of dusty blocks to an Argentinian restaurant, El Facon, highly recommended by Vanessa. Place is quite laid back, with servers in tank tops and baseball caps, brims facing back. Still food was very tasty, if not quite as well presented as in Tamarindo and elsewhere in CR, in our experience. Bottle of Sauvignon Blanc was perfectly chilled, fresh and crisp, so helped to cool us off as it was a sultry evening.

Added treat was that a local performer, Micah, was live entertainment for an hour. He arrived just before our dinner was served. Our table happened to be quite close to where he was setting up his equipment so he sat down with us and we chatted until our food was served. He is originally from Maine, and came here, primarily to surf, escaping winters and snowboarding. I was delighted to "grill" him and find out a little about the life of a local and surfing culture here. He played an acoustic guitar and used a number of harmonicas as well, together with some recorded, back-up instrumentation. 
 

We both liked his voice and many of his own songs, with insightful and arresting lyrics. Between numbers he would fill in some of the details that gave rise to the lyrics so it was a very pleasant performance. After the hour was up, he sat with us for a bit, before he decided what he would have for dinner. Guess a meal is all or part of his remuneration. He took Lady Dar's advice and ordered the tuna steak. Thanking him and wishing him well, with both surfing and his music, we said goodnight. Don't really think he has any burning aspirations to break into the commercial entertainment scene but rather enjoys playing and composing songs that reflect his experiences of life, primarily as a way of understanding what this journey means to him. 

An unexpected glimpse into the life and times of but one of the "surfer dudes" who populate this community. Toddled back to Otro Lado, enjoying the fact that there was little traffic and hence not as much dust. Had to chuckle when we passed through the eating area as both Ciro and Gino were sleeping on piles of cushions atop a couple of tables! Upstairs to sit on our balcony for a bit to chat about the day and then it was time to ready ourselves for bed as effects of surf and sun were making themselves felt.  

Duke on the bed, Etta on the chair, let’s hope he’ll sleep till at least 5 am but I’m not expecting a miracle!!! Had a nice chat with grandma, zonked from studying, watching a new mystery show on showcase called Absentia about a FBI agent missing for 6 years who shows back up then is framed for murdering a bunch of different bad guys, dark and a bit scary. I’m taping it so you can watch when your home. Night, enjoy the beach!!! ❤️❤️ 

Hi Chloë, et al! Great snap of El Diablo! Almost looks like he's in a snowbank. Glad Miss Etta was on chair as opposed being atop one of the kitchen cabinets. Thanks for taping Absentia, as will be curious to see it, given your description.

Cheers, Dad/Patrizzio! Pics: Bug for Reception Desk! Typical scene along The Strip. Choocheranian owns RE/MAX agency in Santa Teresa! Sandals off; Selfie time; Lady Dat at El Facon; Micah; Ciro; Gino; Hi Patrick, Thanks again for the lovely letter. I guess the fabulous times have to come to an end sometime. Safe travels home!! Marian Thank you, much appreciated! Sandee!

Hello Osoyoos! Are you Snow-bound Folk? Trust you are both well. Glad you enjoyed Rosita's card.Fondestos from her, to you, Sandee and Arv.Cheers, Patrizzio!

Short Hike for Monday Jan 29th: Not sure if I have the correct list which is one from one of Tony’s emails so should be OK…………in any case I will lead a short hike tomorrow on either Conkle or Cartwright at Summerland. Bring your gaiters and snow cleats or whatever works for you. Sorry for such short notice folks, but I was undecided with the snowfall if a hike would be OK….let’s just find out! I promise a shorter hike back to Summerland by noon or so. So…..840 am at Home Hardware Penticton for carpool to Summerland IGA for 900 am start. No need to reply to this email just show up if you can……Also anyone interested in a ski day at Apex this week please let me know and we can do something there too if there is some interest…..I will be going for sure. Cheers…..Kilian Hi Killian I'll see you tomorrow at IGA and yes I'd love to go skiing so count me in. Hugs, Olly

Greetings and hugs to both of you chilin' folks who are enjoying nice warm weather. Again great pics Patrizzio! The pool looks soo inviting...Corinne I wish I could be in a hammock next to you instead in snow country Summerland. Killian has invited us to join him on a snow hike tomorrow so we will give it a go if not too much snow on the trails. Thanks to Judy for hosting Mike, Jos, and myself enjoyed a super evening. Judy playing more often with some ladies she met at the pool is even more of a Bridge shark so look out Patrizzio. Olly of course has played very little this year and has forgotten a lot of what she had learned. darn it!! Oh well, I'll just have to work it get it back.Right??? I'm glad that you both are having a great time....that the only way to fly. Hugs to you both, Olly

Dear Corinne and Patrick, Thanks for all the relaxing updates, while we are working our butts off to make the white blanket of snow disappear in our driveways. Enjoying the powder at the same time, skiing and snowshoeing like crazy. We miss you at bridge, but finally had a chance to play contract bridge for a change. You two, keep enjoying your time in Costa Rica and keep us in the loop. Big hug, Jos and Aart. 
 

Hello Contract Bridge Players! Trust you are both well in spite of the fact that you are not playing Chicago! Glad you have enjoyed the snapolas although life seems busy as ever in winter wonderland. Fondestos from Lady Dar, to you, Olga Polga and Josinta, as well as Craigola and Aarturo, of course! Cheers, Patrizzio!