Two Tables Have Dummy, Will Travel Blues: Wednesday, February 28th!

Man is certainly stark mad: he cannot make a flea, yet he makes gods by the dozens. -Michel de Montaigne, essayist (28 Feb 1533-1592)
 

Good morning Patrick, Sounds like you have been busy since your return 😊
Yes I have seen lion and I do know jim. One of my first forays into snow shoeing was with him ! I have yoga this am And a dentist appt this afternoon so will probably be over after 3 pm. Looking forward to seeing you both. PS thanks for photos I bet both cats are delighted to have you home!! Judy Xo Buongiorno, Downward Facing Bridge Player! Etta and Duke are certainly pleased to have us home but Chloë is even happier as the "early birds" now come into our bedroom at 5:30 am to agitate for being let out! See you later this afternoon. Must away as I am called upon to prepare the grate for Lady Darjeeling's morning fire! Fondestos from her and Chloë, readying herself for work. Thanks and Cheers, Patrizzio!

As I had an appointment with Mark the Barber at 1:30 pm I wanted to go for my ride beforehand. We were hosting bridge that evening and I knew I'd probably not have enough time if I waited until after my haircut. Waited for the day to warm up a tad and then set out at a few minutes before 10:00 am. Initially, streets were even drier than yesterday and wind, still out of the South, was only blowing at 14 kph. Replicated, almost exactly, yesterday's route but the one difference was the fact that about a third of the way through I began to be peppered by bb sized snow pellets. They didn't stick to the road surface so I was pleased about that. As sky darkened, it started to snow more heavily, although the flakes didn't stay. Still, I don't believe I've ever ridden in a snow-storm before. Quite an experience and it helped pass the time as I gerbilized myself, clocking up the distance I wanted. With about 10 km to go, the sun started to peak through the lightening cloud cover and by the time I was back at Burns one wouldn't have known it had been snowing, and quite fiercely at times. Cheers! Map and Stats for ride: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2527074380#.WpcZ94fimQU.email

Thanks so much..it was a wonderful day..will send some pics Luv Louise and Henryk Hi Newlyweds! Congratulations again! Pleased to hear everything went off well. Busy here, trying to reintegrate ourselves into reality. The Japanese knife I picked up at estate sale is a lethal weapon so more than lived up to what I imagined it would be. Have not set up monitor, here, but did so in Vancouver as friend Branko had necessary connections which he was happy to be rid of. Still have to tinker with moving screens and sizing them but have too much to do before setting up in my "office"! First project will be using new clamps, smaller ones. A piece, (circular edge below top), of the round table, we use as a coffee table, needs to be re-glued. Had to move it yesterday, to make room for two tables of bridge, so it is already sitting atop Chloë's similar one, in Rumpus Room, patiently waiting for me! Have already penciled in Sun City for a month next year!!!

Have been riding last three days, ever since we arrived home on Sunday. Here, roads are almost completely free of ice and snow, except for some curbs on shaded streets, but still a fair bit of sand and grit. Chilly winds but I dress warmly. I dream of Sun City! Rain, (already started), and sleet forecast for today so I will head to the fabulous community pool to workout with deep water walking, exercise I used during my hip-replacement rehab. Really enjoy this activity and then the hot tub/sauna/steam-room afterwards! Must away as I have to vacuum, (You'll be pleased to know that Chloë never vacuumed once while we were away! As well, felines are out and hose and noise quite upset Etta, Duke not so much.), and re-arrange furniture moved around to accommodate second bridge table. Fondestos from Lady Dar, in absentia, out to dentist for a regular cleaning, to you both. Cheers, Patrizzio!

PS: Really, really enjoyed the Limoncello, (Thanks again!), in LA and realized, to my horror, that I had left half of the bottle there! I'm sure Ayn and Los Horridos will enjoy it, given their requests for refills, but I had wanted to share your fabulous elixir with friends, Nancy and David, in Berkeley!

Pics: Costco Blanco preferred by David Coffaro, winemaker friend in Sonoma; with Patrizzia, his wife, when we stopped by, after leaving Berkeley, en route north; Bridge with Johnny the Snozz, Ragin' Bull, (folded arms), and The Penguin, in Vancouver. Ragin' is chap who has helped build more shelves in garage and Rumpus Room. He is also one who complained about my lack of clamps! Flamin' and Sarge, our hosts, in Vancouver, at Harbour Terrace, where we once lived! Bridge last night with Olga Polga, Filipo and Jack Rabbit Slims, latter our hosts in Sedona. They drove back, at times on a skating rink, last Friday! Lady Dar watching The Young and The Useless, with Duke and Etta; Chloë watching TV with Duke as we played bridge.

Thanks for the note Patrizzio. Good to catch up about Ted and all else. We did see Lion a while back - regrettfully I can't remember the storyline but do remember really liking it. In preparation for the Academy Awards show coming up this weekend, we've seen a number of movies of late - Ladybird, 3 Billboards Outside Ebbings, Mudbound, Darkest Hour, and Roman J Israel Esq. All good. I'm sure you've seen some, if not all, and I would recommend them all. I'm going to put your novel recommendation on my "goodreads" list. Let me know how you liked it after finishing up and if you think it's a good read. 

I tend to like slow moving character studies but also like the occasional crime drama! I hope you enjoy your e-book experience. I used to say I'd really prefer reading a book I could hold and turn the pages back and forth, but I've come around to the electronic books. So much easier to carry around and I can get loads of free stuff from the library without ever leaving home! Gotta run before the grumpy winemaker comes looking for me - time for dinner! Pat Hi again, Patrizzia! Lion is based on the true story of five year old Saroo, (his mispronunciation of his actual name, Sheru, "lion", who becomes separated from his older brother when he falls asleep in a train carriage. After a harrowing time on the streets of Calcutta and then in an orphanage, he is adopted by a couple living in Tasmania. He finally finds his birth mother and sister after 25 years!
 

We haven't seen the film Mudbound and plan to watch it tonight. Chloë and Lady Dar saw Darkest Hour and enjoyed it muchly. I'd like to see it, as well as Call Me by Your Name but not sure it we'll have time before Sunday. Home Show is on at Trade & Convention Centre, here in Penticton, this weekend so we plan to go on Saturday. Also having an Oscar Party on Sunday so have to get ready for that! Fondestos from Lady Dar. All the best to the hungry, ever-grumpy winemaker! Cheers, Patrizzio!                                            Hello Patrick wherever you are. I certainly remember the inane Pastor - late Sunday night as I recall - for his unintentional humour. 

And your mention of Van Nuys brings to mind a series we just finished watching which was based in Van Nuys. Goliath starring Billy Bob Thornton as a down and out/formerly high end lawyer taking on a major weapons manufacturer and monster law firm (which he helped found). It's streaming on Amazon Prime and I recommend it. Van Nuys seemed a bit seedy for the most part with some high-end canal based properties.

It sounds like you have found peace with your cycling - can I assume that you will be soon journaling with a GoPro? And perhaps a companion drone overhead to insure safe passage and return. 

All is well here except the weather has been unseasonably miserable - another wind warning for today extending past midnight. We took the dogs down to Gyro Beach earlier this afternoon and I was forced off the beach with high winds blasting sand and whatnot into my face - the dogs didn't seem bothered for some reason only they can comprehend (or maybe for no reason at all). Happy trails, John                                                         Hi John! Terrific to hear from you. I could only listen to Ask the Pastor on long-weekends as it was too, too late if school was next day. As junior high kids it was really the only slightly titillating exposure to things sexual we had access to. I think we even tried to call in once but our giggles got the best of us once we were on air! Valley Glen, where Ayn lives, is a more upscale part of Van Nuys, not at all seedy. 
 

Some of the homes and lots are magnificent. I often cycled through such neighbourhoods as streets are wide and quiet. I wonder if you are conflating Van Nuys and Venice Beach as there are no canals in former. Nevertheless, thanks for the tip on Goliath as I like Billy Bob! Love the idea of both a GoPro and drone, particularly if latter can tow me up some of the steeper hills hereabouts. Will put them both on my birthday and Christmas "want" lists! Currently, we are trying to work our way through films nominated for Oscars. Saw The Shape of Water, The Post, I, Tonya and The Greatest Showman in LA as Ayn had copies of DVDs from friends in industry! Fondestos from Lady Dar and Chloë, just back from work. Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Dear Secret Admirer--Aw-w-w shucks!! Ain't you and the pups just the sweetest. Hope you had a Happy Valentine's Day with all your special girls at hand. It was a bit of a non-event here as it was the day Ann and Gary departed for home. We really enjoyed their visit and are currently enjoying time with Leighton McCarthy. He and Petey are playing golf right now and I am getting caught up on "me" things. Tonight we're going out to dinner with some other friends of Leighton's who also have a place here after appies and cocktails at Shadow Lake Drive. Cheers for now to you and Lady Dar. Lynnie XOXO

Hello Palm Desert, Golfers and Me Person! Terrific to hear from you and glad you enjoyed card and pups, Lynne, even if you didn't receive a cheap watch this year!! Say hello to Leighton for us. What are you currently watching? Fondestos from Lady Dar,.just away to an eco-meeting. All the best to you both from Chloë, playing with Etta and Duke in her bedroom. Enjoy your last few weeks in the sun and with any luck, snow will be completely gone when you return to Northern Naramatia. Remind us of your flight # and projected arrival time as we'll collect you. You can shop on way home or we'd be happy to pick up anything you might need to survive, once back up, depending on hour you land. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Patrick Polly has a play on Thursday evening , and Saturday the boys are treating me to the rugby sevens and afters, so the only free evening is Friday. Sunday we are going to Surrey to Anne Hobbs 75 th birthday celebrations.
We head back on Saturday after a truly wonderful holiday here, even with all the babysitting! I’ll take three days so should be home Monday pm Terrible and sad news about Ted, he was such a great guy. We will touch base with Elaine when we get back to Vancouver. Just realized that we have been tardy in our reply to you so will be brief. Do hope that we can see you you when in town . Are you going to rugby on Saturday and Sunday? Mick

Hello Palm Springs, Golfers and Laundry Maid! Terrific to hear from you, Mick. Will be a very busy weekend for both of us, it seems. Friday is out for me as I'm attending the VWF Dram Come True, on Granville Island, that evening, with Sarge. I knew bridge with you folk would probably be a long shot. However, Sarge, Flamin' and I have weekend tickets for '7's so look forward to connecting then. I'm sure Elaine would appreciate a call or a visit. We await notice of date of Celebration of Ted's life as we plan to attend, if at all possible. Enjoy your last few days in the sun and with any luck, temperature will follow you when you return to The North Pole! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Corinne and Patrick, Welcome back to the Okanagan. The pictures and stories were amazing, look like you had a very good time! I wanted to send this to you, because I think you would both have some fun. The event will be in a few weeks, so lots of time to bone up on your trivia. Doug and I belong to the Kiwanis club and this is the first year we have run this event in Penticton. We have had lots of success with the same type of thing in other places we have lived, and the funds raised will go to a very worthy cause. 
 

We have a few teams from our walking group already entered and I will be reaching out to the hikers as well. Please feel free to ask anyone else who may be interested. thanks, Hanneke Hi Quiz Masters! I believe Lady Dar has already replied that we will team up with Josinta and Aarturo but will ask anyone we know if they might be interested as well. Again, not sure if she invited you and Doug to our Oscar Party this Sunday? Training for Quiz Night! Anyway, hope to see you both soon, one way or another. Cheers, Patrizzio! Hi Patrick! We are so pleased that you and Corinne and Aart and Jos will be a team in our Quiz Night. It will be a ton of fun! The more the merrier, so if you spread the word, we would be happy to have more teams. thanks for the photos, nice to see the familiar faces, Hanneke

Lens on Lent Blues: Tuesday, February 27th!

Men of genius are often dull and inert in society, as a blazing meteor when it descends to earth, is only a stone. -Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, poet (27 Feb 1807-1882) 

Corey William Well it’s official. After 7 years in the LMD, Rebecca Sutherland and I are transferring inland to Penticton, BC!! House went on the market today! Time for a new adventure. Wine country, here we come!!! Roger Darrow Someone has to keep Patrick in Order. Patrick James Dunn Order of Good Cheer!Chloe Alexis Dunn I think it’s an excuse for Corey to drink more!!! And pull Patrick in with him!!! Patrick James Dunn As long as it is on the halves!

Lady Dar opened the front door for El Diablo around 5:30 am which allowed us to go back to sleep until 7:00 am. I clambered out of bed then and Miss Etta came to rub up against me to say she was pleased we were back. She is now in one of her favourite spots, on the living room window ledge, observing life on Burns Street as it passes by! 

Have a few more chores to do. Putting away luggage, doing heaps of laundry, etc., and then I'm off for another ride. Will have to clean my Trek again as parts of it are caked with sand and grit, picked up by wet tires and thrown against brakes, wheel frame, chain and gears, etc. Too, too complicated to wash it so I'll brush off what I can and then use garage vac to finish, wiping rest down with a damp rag. Have to be back in time to be ready to go to Lens on Lent, a wonderful film series Lady Dar's Oasis Church sponsors. Start with pizza before showing and always interesting, as past series have attested. Fondest from Lady Dar, in the Rumpus Room, watching The Young and the Useless, with Etta on her lap and the electric fireplace going at full blast!

This just in from Elaine and family! Dear Family and friends, We are sad to say that Ted passed away at St John Hospice early this morning. He was surrounded by family and love in his last hours and he will be dearly missed. We would like to thank all of you for being so supportive of our family and of Ted through these last difficult months, and we could not imagine a more amazing community. We will send out details regarding a celebration of life in the coming days. Lots of love, Elaine, Kristina, Stephanie, and Laura  

Hello Everyone! I took the liberty of sending condolences for all of us. I trust this was fine. Love Dad/Patrizzio! Dearest Elaine, Kristina, Stephanie, Laura and family! Please know that all of you are in our hearts and minds, having received the news of Ted's death. Know that we grieve with you and for you as you struggle to come to terms with the loss of such a wonderful, wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend, to all who knew him. Words simply fail, as always, in the face of this unbearable pain and anguish but we send abiding affection, and comfort, such as it may be, to you all. Again, with deepest, heartfelt sympathy and love, Clara, Corinne, Ayn, Chloë and Patrick.

Thank you for sharing this sad news with us. We know you have lost a friend and we have all lost a good man. We're glad you got to see him before the end.

Thanks again for sharing some of your time below the line with us. Your presence always makes our lives richer! David & Nancy Hi Cactus and Donna Florida! Thank you for the thoughtful words about Ted. Yes, indeed, he was a very good man. Thanks as well, for your kind words about us. Of course, we feel exactly the same about you.

It was a blessing, for us, that our return to Canada allowed us to visit with him and family, especially as it was shortly before he died, as it turned out. Over the course of our time at the hospice, last Friday, we were able to have a number of intermittent snatches of conversation whenever his drug-induced drowsiness allowed him to drift in and out of consciousness. Next day, he was never awake while I was there but did wake up when Corinne visited later that afternoon. Even though we really didn't know the gruesome medical prognosis, we both felt that it was highly unlikely that he would live much longer. We await the notice of a celebration of Ted's life as we plan to attend. In spite of everything, life goes on, as it must, as it should. Thanks again for your warm love and friendship, beyond compare. Cheers, Patrizzio!

How very sad. I'm glad that you were here and were able to tell us all about Ted and his health issues. I hope that you were able to have a good last visit with him. Pat Hi Patrizzia! Thank you for the concern about Ted. Yes, he will be sorely missed. Cheers, Patrizzio! Thanks Pat for letting me know. Very sad!

Andrew Hi Sir Andrew! Thank you for the words about Ted. Cheers, Il Conduttore! Very sorry to hear of Ted's passing today. My love and thoughts are with Elaine and the girls. Could you please provide their mailing address, I would like to write them a note. Ayn Thank you for sending...what a difficult time for them. Ted was a great person So sorry to hear of Ted’s passing , I will send a note. Clara So sad Patti Pat, Ted was a very good man and it's so sad that he has passed  on too soon. Thanks for relaying the information. Ray Hi Raymond! Thank you for your words and thoughts about Ted. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Very sad news for everyone. I know Patrick you and Corinne will miss a very dear friend. So happy you were able to spend some time with him this weekend. Thoughts love and prayers to you both Michele Let me know on the celebration. Wayne

Had plenty to do on Tuesday morning, last of unpacking, putting away luggage, doing heaps of laundry, etc., before I was off for another ride. Had to clean my Trek again as parts of it were caked with sand and grit, picked up by wet tires and thrown against brakes, wheel frame, chain and gears, etc., on yesterday's outing. Too, too complicated to wash, given outside temperature, so I brushed it off, using some of the great special bike brushes Chloë gave me for Christmas, then wiped down the chain once I'd cleaned and oiled it. By the time all this was accomplished it was just before 2:00 pm and given that I had to be back in time to be ready to go to Lens on Lent, a wonderful film series Lady Dar's Oasis Church sponsors, I knew I had to be back by 5:30 pm at the latest. 

No time to waste so I decided I'd just do a re-run of yesterday's route, more or less. Streets were far drier today so I was pleased about that. As the wind was blowing quite strongly out of the South at 24 kph I thought that the Riverside to Lakeshore to Power to Westminster was the best way to minimize fighting the gale. Turned out to be a reasonably good strategy and did the hamster cage here until I was close to about 31 km before making for the SOEC where I looped enough times to clock 47 km before I made for Ellis and then home, fighting the wind all the way up Ellis. Still, in spite of this, I was back in plenty of time to shower and change for the film. More importantly, I would be there for the pizza which is served before showing! Cheers, Patrizzio! Map and Stats for ride: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2525543324#.WpYANQ7ueN0.email

Hello Patrice I am ever so apologetic that I have not corresponded back to your lovely and action filled emails. I am taking a memoir writing course which I will let serve as my excuse as I have been spending several hours each day writing excerpts for it. I did want to share some of our Mexico pics.with you..especially pleased to see what an effort is being made to begin recycling plastic down there. We saw several examples of this. Also a huge highlight were the 5 different denotes we visited in our travels..each one unique and amazing. We didn't get pictures at the first onevwhichbwas fairly small and located underground. The others were magnificent and we both remarked how we wished you were there to enjoy them with us. Next time or maybe they have some in Asia. I feel like we need to get together to discuss our trip to the fat east...already anticipating it with great relish. Give my love to Corinne and the previous felines. Hope to see you soon 😚

Hello Famiglia! Just back from seeing Lion at Lens on Lent, a film series at Oasis. Based on a true story and what a story, let me tell you, in case you've not seen it. Must away as I've to start reading First Snow, Last Light, by Wayne Johnston, our next Book Club selection, for March 8th. Lady Dar has it on her iPad, Kobo app, but couldn't bring it up, for some reason, over last few days. Need to steel myself for the optical experience as I've never read a novel in this format before! Turned out I was actually quite taken with the technology and enjoyed the various features, (Back-lit screen, page turn at the tap of finger and more that I have yet to discover, I presume!), not to mention how much I am taken with the writing itself! Fondestos from Lady Dar, already curled up in bed with a cat! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Lady Dar this afternoon watching The Young and The Useless, along with the royal felines! Jim French, lovely chap in hiking group as well, introducing Lion.

 

Back on Burns with The Fabulous Feline Blues: Monday, February 26th!

The first symptom of love in a young man is timidity; in a girl boldness. -Victor Hugo, poet, novelist and dramatist (26 Feb 1802-1885) 

 Louise and Henryk Tie the Knot! For They Are Jolly Good Fellows! Hip Hip Hooray! Love & Affection, Lady Dar and Patrizzio!

 
Hello Snow-clad Bidders! Trust everyone is well! Lady Dar and I returned to Penticton, yesterday, via the Hope-Princeton. Except for compact snow through Manning, roads were in exceptional condition, often almost dry. Sunshine was brilliant as we came into Princeton but as we descended towards town, quite heavy, blowing snow, out of the east started. Continued until highway crosses to the north side of the Similkameen, shortly before the Packard Creek Campgrounds, and by the time we were at the West Hedley Mall, [I am always delighted by this sign!], snow was gone and we zoomed along. [Just listening to an account of the multi-vehicle crash on the Coquihalla last night so thanking our lucky stars that we decided on #3!]
 

Hi Patrick,Thank you for your prompt response. I was surprised to find the reply so soon. Your reply reminded me of many events such as the party held every night, lawn darts, and the people I met in hotel Kits!! On my end, I got married 5 years ago and have a four-year old daughter. Besides, we’re having a baby this coming summer. I’m working for Aflac (https://www.aflac.com/individuals/default.aspx) whose branch in Japan has one of the biggest market share of life insurance. I’ve been dispatched from Aflac Japan to the US headquarters till the end of this year.

Since I have not used my English for almost 20 years, my English wouldn’t be improved so much compared to me 20 years ago. Thanks to my days staying with you for a month, I totally come to love alcohol, especially the drunkening red wine!! However unfortunately, as it turned out, it is unlikely to see you this time because I can’t find the schedule but May or June. As I mentioned, my wife’s due date is in the beginning of August. In addition, I’m working on a slightly big project now and it seems hard to have vacation before April. I’m really sorry, but I hope you would select Georgia or Japan as a destination for your trip. Anyway, I’ll keep in touch with you. Best! Nobiwan

This is my family. I’ve got 45 pound compared to me 20 years ago...Nobuhito Nakamura のメール Hi Nobiwan! Thank you for the pictures of your lovely wife and delightful daughter. [Names?] You are a very fortunate man indeed! Congratulations on the coming birth of your second child. I understand completely about the pregnancy and your work commitments. While we would dearly love to visit you in Georgia, this year's travel plans are already set with my aforementioned three months in Europe. As well, Corinne became a Marriage Officiant about two years ago and since then she has been doing an increasing number of weddings in the Okanagan. Spring and Summer are her busiest times, as you might imagine, so we tend to travel in the late Fall and Winter. That being said, one of our next major trips will be to Viet Nam and Laos, next Spring or Fall so perhaps we can visit you in Japan at that time. We first experienced your marvellous country in May, 2012, for three weeks, staying, at times, with a former boarder, Toshi, and her mother, in Osaka. Had such an exceptional time we certainly wish to return to see more of the spectacular country, learn a bit more about your incredibly rich, truly remarkable culture and drink Saké! Where do you live in Japan? While the proposed trip is still a bit away, it never hurts to do some long term planning.

When we were in Japan I bought three knives, one in Osaka and two in Tokyo and they are still my favourites. Consequently, when I came across another, still in the original packaging, for a mere $12 US, at an estate sale in Sun City, Arizona, I couldn't believe my eyes and bought it immediately! It is a lethal weapon and has more than lived up to what I imagined it would do. Chloë loves it and I'm afraid she will want to take it with her when she moves into her new townhouse, not yet ready until April/May. She has been living with us since last September when she moved to Penticton to start a new job. All the best to you, Nobiwan, and to your wife and daughter as well, of course. Stay well. Take care of each other. Do keep in touch as I trust our paths will cross, again, in the not too, too distant future. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Pics: Leaving snow-bound Portland where we stayed with close friends, Michaelo and Marilyn, a week ago this past Thursday; Bridge with friends, Johnny the Snozz and Ragin' Bull, in Vancouver; Lady Dar with Sarge and Flamin', our hosts in Vancouver; Lady Dar with Josinta before we started playing bridge on Wednesday evening; with Olga Polga and Jack Rabbit Slims; Chloë watching TV with Duke on her lap while we played bridge; bridge gang says goodbye; When I came home after pool yesterday afternoon, both Duke and Etta were sleeping on the shower mat. It's nice and cosy as floor is heated. Etta left before I could take a snap of them curled up together! Duke having a pedicure, mango lotion rubbed on the pads of his feet. It helps to keep them from becoming sore as they are outside on the snow and ice during the day.

 

Colleen Teahan Waldron Glad we all we unaffected by the horrible crash and glad you two are home safe and sound and blanketed in fresh snow. Let's get you up to the valley for a visit. 😍  Hi Sunshine Valley Mountain Folk! Would love to visit but Life always seems to intervene! In addition to everything else, have been meaning to send along these snaps as I thought they might proved Big Al with another project for his unlimited spare time!!! If you, Welder Man, are interested in trying your deft hands on such a work, I'm sure you can find any parts you might wish to use in an auto-wreckers yard, if not your own backyard! Anyway, first one is destined for Burns Street, to sit next to firewood frame, yet undelivered. as I scribe! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: ArtWalk pieces; 1947 Ford; Lady Dar in her natural habitat! Hydraulic pool covers!

At any rate, Lady Dar and I would love to host this week, (unless other plans have already been made), if anyone is interested and available. However, given her busy schedule of meetings, Wednesday and Friday evenings are only times she can play. I cannot play on Tuesday but otherwise am open. Let me know what you think and we'll plan accordingly. Looking forward to seeing one and all in the next little while and catching up since we left almost two months ago. Fondestos from Lady Dar, agitating for a fire as she isn't used to life in Antarctica! Cheers, Patrizzio, Hewer of Wood and Chimney Sweep!

Phil and I can do Wed, not Friday hope to see you all soon Gill Hello Spiller Road Folk! Pleased to hear you are safely back. How was your drive? I thought you might have been hiking or snow-shoeing today but perhaps have too much to do, like us, now home. Chat soon. Cheers, Patrizzio! Hi Patrick and Corinne, Drive back okay but wasn't the greatest in parts. Of the bad parts I only had to drive 30 minutes on a skating rink!! Phil did the rest of the bad bits. We're snowshoeing this pm but yes have lots to sort out. Is Friday evening okay for bridge??  see you soon Gill Welcome home dear bridge friends. We came home driving back from Canmore in snow blizzards, and slippery roads all the way.
Glad we are back in Summerland where temperatures feel balmy compared to the minus 20 in Canmore. Hope the brain has defrosted by WEDNESDAY, to play bridge and reunite before everybody takes off again in different directions. Cheers, Jos

Hello Frosty Fingers! Jack Rabbit, Phillipo and Josinta can play on Wednesday so I'm making an executive decision to have bridge on Burns that evening, anytime after 6:30 pm. If three or more others are available we can have two tables to kick off the return of the Snow Birds! Let me know and we'll plan accordingly. Interestingly enough, Lady Dar and I seemed to have had the easiest return drive, given icy highway conditions to both the east and south of us. Very happy to know everyone is back safely. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: A couple of snaps of some darling hummingbirds, in Vancouver, this past weekend. Poor, poor things were freezing, I'm sure, and I have never seen them sit still for so long, either on the feeders or nearbye tree branches. Quite a contrast to what we experienced in Costa Rica, with respect to these incredible creatures.

Patrick, Welcome back😎 I am able to play Weds night. See you then. Pam Hi dear Bridge friends, Great to have you all back home safe and sound! It will be super great to see everyone again...so I will see you on Wednesday at 6:30. Hugs to all, Olly Hello Again, Card Snow-Shoers, as opposed to Card Sharks! 

Thanks for welcome back wishes. With Naramata Goil and Olga Polga able to play on Wednesday, we now have seven eager bidders. Have not heard from Michaelo or Judy Blue. If one, or both of you can make it, de-lovelerly. Otherwise, Have Dummy, Will Travel! [Barbarella, can you hop a cheap flight? Trust all goes well with you.] If you plan to attend, JB, could you bring along your card table? I could also pick it up if more convenient. Thanks and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Patrick welcome home to you and Corinne. I am disappointed I will not be able to attend the first bridge game of the year at burns st. you are welcome to the table tho. Let me know😊and I will drop it off tomorrow Judy Xo Hi Judy Blue! Thanks for the welcome back! Great time away but terrific to be home! On the bridge front, so terribly sorry you won't be able to join us. However, very, very kind of you to lend the bridge table and even kinder to drop it off. We will be home all morning so anytime before 1:30 pm, [I have an appointment then.], or after 2:30 pm should see us both at Burns. Again, I'm more than happy to collect it if timing doesn't work. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Did ask ladies re last Saturday but no luck. Have you visited ted ? Hope your journey home was good. We leave on Saturday. Pauline Hi Polly and Mick! Trust you are both well in spite of the fact that you are coming to the end of your Palm Springs vacation. I did appreciate your effort, Polly. As it turned out, Johnny the Snooz was the fourth. Although he hasn't played in years, he is a very good player so it was loads of fun. I'm back for the March 9th weekend, VWF Dram Come True and then Rugby '7's. Are you going, Mick? If it works for people, perhaps we can arrange a get-together for one of the nights I'll be in town. I think I'll drive down on Thursday, March 8th so that evening or Saturday, March 10th, would be best for me, if anyone is interested. Must away as scads to do, just being back, as I'm sure you will experience shortly! Fondestos from Lady Dar. Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Hi Pauline, thanks for trying re bridge players. We got home late yesterday afternoon. We saw Ted twice. He is in hospice and being very well cared for. Elaine is able to stay with him. He is asleep most of the time. Has a semi alert time usually late afternoon. Not really eating drinking half a smoothie at a time. He is being given medicine for his muscle spasms and his breathing. If he lasts another week I would be very surprised. Really shocking how fast this disease progresses. Hope to see you two this summer if not earlier. Hugs Corinne  
 
By the time I had done more unpacking and laid a fire for Lady Dar, feeling poorly with a tummy upset, it was close to 1:00 pm. I wanted to take the car to the self-wash. Not only did it need it, after Sunday's drive on the Hope-Princeton, but my Trek needed a good cleaning as well. Popped bike on the rack and made for Main. Had to wait for a few minutes as many other Pentictonites had the same idea, now that snow finally seems to be on the wane. Only took two cycles, one on wash, one on rinse and I was soon back home. 

Turned my bike upside down, the better to oil chain, in front of garage door. Sun was streaming down and it dried nicely as I did a bit of shoveling to clear snow from driveway where it had not already melted. By the time I'd oiled and wiped the chain and then suited up it was about 2:20 pm. Had decided this would be a "scope" run as I wanted to see how clear of gravel and grit roads were, as well as which ones were free of ice and snow. For the most part, city streets were relatively clean of sand and such. However, in many places, there was a a foot or so of snow and ice protruding out from the curb, where the shadows had kept the accumulations from melting. Not a big deal but I had to ride further into the street so needed to pay careful attention whenever there was any traffic.

Road to Tennis Club was still covered in snow as it is quite shaded, even in hot weather so I was only able to go as far as the roundabout before I made for Lakeshore. There was more ice here than I had expected but nothing to really worry about. Riverside was almost completely free of snow but road was wet so I knew I'd have a skunk streak on my jacket by the time the ride was over. Looped around bare parking lot in the mini-mall at the bottom of Riverside and then returned to Power to describe enough loops to tick off first 11 km. Then began a series of larger loops around Riverside, Power and Westminster until I'd clocked about 28 km. On the last loop I caught the light to take me across Westminster towards the South Okanagan Events Centre.

Spent the rest of the time describing loops of varying distances, both around the Centre and in the adjoing parking lots, the latter nicely dry and warm as the setting sun blessed this large expanse with its rays before disappearing behind the hills, around 4:45 pm. Didn't mind as by that time I was well on the way to having 47 km on the clock before returning to Riverside and then home, up Ellis. Most of the ride had been quite lovely as it was bright and sunny, on and off, depending on cloud movement, and although wind was only blowing out of the South at 8 kph it was quite coolish, especially after Helios disappeared. Was very glad I had decided to wear my "Lobsters" as they kept my hands toasty and my 2010 Olympic volunteer jacket as it cheated Aeolus quite well. Certainly pleased to be back on the bike in my home town for first ride here of 2018. Cheers! Map and Stats for ride:

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2523891358#.WpUKkAdVx_Y.email

Hello Mother Katarina! Trust you are well! Happy Year of the Dog! Lady Dar and I returned to Penticton, this past Sunday, after being away for almost two months, a month of that in Costa Rica. At any rate, just wanted to say hello and mention I will be attending Dram. Will you be around for the evening? If so, look forward to catching up. Fondestos from Lady Dar to you and VWF gang. Cheers, Patrizzio! Hi Patrick! Lovely to hear from you! Glad you made it home safe and sound to P'tn. I am not attending DRAM as things stand now, just wrangling vols for the time being. BEST to you and Corinne! Kathryn Hi VWF Wrangler! I presumed as much but if you will be in the office on Friday, during the day, perhaps I'll pop by as I plan to drive down on Thursday. Cheers, Trizzio! No, sorry, Patrick, I am working from home at this point. Freed of the office! :)

Kathryn Hello again, Homebody! Too, too bad but you'll just have to visit us in Penticton! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Pat, From Juan … and you now have his email. te veo//bjp Branko Branko, The Whiskies that we tasted at our recent Scotch Club meeting were as follows: Glen Garrioch (Pron: Geery) - 12yr 48% - $62.00 apparently - bourbon and Sherry Cask aging - excellent buy. A bit sharp from the high alcohol content but none-the-less a superb bargain,...

GLENDRONACH - 12 YEAR OLD SHERRY CASK (43%) $85.00 - Deep Amber, Red, And Gold Hue Of This Rich, Creamy, And Silky-Smooth Scotch Whisky Draws One In With Its Warm Appearance And Aromatic Nose. Followed By A Full Mouth Feel And Notes Of Rich Oak, Raisins, And Soft Fruits, The Finish Is Long, Full And Firm, And Slightly Nutty. Description From The LCB Website.

anCnoc - 22yr old about 100 pds sterling - bought in the UK, not available in this country, there is an 18 yr old available at 46% and $190. This one was the prize of the night! It had a superb nose, mature and elegant taste and finish…. Save up for Christmas,...All were characterized by aging in Oloroso Sherry Cask and all were rich on the tongue and especially the anCnoc had a superb nose. Pass these on to Pat,..John Hi Snozzola!Ragin' forwarded the malt tasting info so thanks for that. Not sure if he forwarded my message so just in case, here it is. Look forward to more bidding and malt tippling in the future. Cheers, Il Conduttore/Patrizzio! Hello Again, Lower Mainland Card Sharks! Thanks for sending along Snozzola's malt info and email address, Ragin'! Just to let you all know that you better hone your bidding skills as we are poised to have two tables here tomorrow. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Glad to hear that you made it home safe and sound. I checked to see that highway 3 had no accidents before we went to bed so assumed you were fine. Michele has been in bed all day. Hoping she will be better by Thursday for the Lennie Gallant concert. Hi Sarge and The Newfoundland Patient! Sorry to hear that Flamin' is still poorly. For her part, Lady Dar seems to have come down with same bug as she woke up yesterday morning feeling quite poorly and spent most of the day lying around house, afraid to go to far, for obvious reasons. Do hope you will be able to make Lennie Gallant concert. Perhaps you can ask Grogg to send back the "special wine" he has for us so I can collect it in March! 

Cheers, Patrizzio!

 
Good news…Rick is interested in leading a snowshoe trip at Okanagan Mountain. Meet at 0900 at Home Hardware parking lot in Penticton (0840 at IGA in Summerland. Carpool and head to Chute lake Road and to the turnoff to Okanagan Mountain Park. Snowshoe! Return to Penticton for debriefing. If you are interested, Please let Rick know. He will appreciate it! Cheers, Jim 

 

Hey Guys Hope all is well. Do you have a firm closing date on the purchase? We should probably get rolling on the supporting docs. Thanks, Zamir Hi Zamir, The finish date on my townhouse has been delayed and at this time fo not have an end date. I will email my agent and see if I can get a ballpark date of completion. Thank you for inquiring. Chloë

Heavy Snowfall on the Allison Pass Blues: Sunday, February 25th!

The struggle to see things as they are is perhaps the fundamental driver of Western civilization. There is a long but direct line from Aristotle and Archimedes to Locke, Hume, Mill, and Darwin, and from there through Orwell and Churchill to Martin Luther King writing his “Letter from Birmingham City Jail”. It is the agreement that objective reality exists, that people of goodwill can perceive it, and that other people will change their views when presented with the facts of the matter. -Thomas E. Ricks, journalist and author (b. 1955)

 

Hi from Nanoose!Can’t argue with this! Hope to see you soon...Grog  
Hello Howler Quilt Folk!Trust you are both well! Is that one of Lurch's fabulous creations? Aaoooooo! Werewolves of London! Aaoooooo! In fact, when I received your message we were just about to leave The Cave! Waved goodbye to Tinsel Town on Monday, February 19th, staying overnight with Donna Florida and Cactus in Berkeley and Marilyn and Mike in Portland, on way north, with a stop in Redding to go to Jack's! Stardust rather than BLM however! One of main reasons to return through Vancouver was to visit Ted Keating. Had a grand evening of dinner and bridge with The Penguin, (host), Johnny the Snooz and Ragin' on Saturday.

 

At any rate, just wanted to say hello. Given coming European schedule, (April 16th to July 10th), for me, and Lady Dar's summer weddings, I don' think we'll be able to visit The Island before next Fall. However, we look forward to catching up when you are here in September, if not before, somewhere, sometime! Fondestos from Lady Dar to you both! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Stopped at Caparone on way to Berkeley. David's son, Mark, is now doing most of wine-making but David still keeps his hand in. Sole Caparone survivor of '91 fire! Lady Dar says goodbye to Cactus and Donna Florida! Jack's! What's left of swimming pool at Americana Lodge! Saying goodbye to snow-bound folk, Michaelo and Marilyn, on Cornelius Pass Road, Portland; Elaine, with Sloane, three-week old granddaughter, and Ted. Flamin' with Ashlynn and Avery; Mom and Dad! Lady Dar says goodbye to Sarge!

  

Up at just before 7:00 am to take a look at the weather forecast. Last night when I returned from bridge Flamin', Sarge and Lady Dar suggested we stay another day as the trough of low pressure traversing the BC Interior was depositing heavy snowfall to the Coquihalla Summit and Allison Pass early this morning. However, the snow was forecast to ease this morning and become more intermittent through the day. I took a look at a number of DriveBc's highway cams for Highway 3 and conditions didn't look horrendous. Most likely very slow going but not impassable. Will wait and see what forecast on TV reveals, when everyone else is up, before we make a decision.

[Lady Dar and I returned to Penticton, today, via the Hope-Princeton, and wondered if you and Big Al were in Sunshine Valley. We waved as we drove past!]  

Good Morning Etta and Duke! Just a little while ago, latest weather report looks reasonable so we will be leaving shortly, stopping at Costco, in Abbotsford, for gas and a few groceries. Fondestos from Lady Dar, still in her night shift! Love and Cheers, Dad/Patrizzio!

Hello to my Favourite Bridge Partners!  Foist and foremost, thanks to The Penguin for hosting such a wonderful, wonderful evening of dinner, [Saladin and chili were more than divine!], and bridge. 

Photo: groucho

It was really terrific to see Johnny the Snooz after so many years and trust he might well become a regular with the group, with or without me. Thanks, as well, of course, to Ragin' and The Snooz for the delicious appetizers and hootch. Only criticism, [other than normal bidding complaints!], I have is the shocking lack of bridge prizes, a situation which MUST be rectified next time! Finally, thank you Janet, for driving me home. All the best to everyone and I'll be in touch before I'm back for the March 9th weekend. If it works for people, perhaps we can arrange another get-together for one of the nights I'll be in town. I think I'll drive down on Thursday, March 8th so that evening or Saturday, March 10th, would be best for me, if anyone is interested. Fondestos from Lady Dar who would like to be included next time! All the best. Cheers, Patrizzio/Il Conduttore!  Hi all, Just to ask all of  you to please update my email address. I’m not sure how u got this other one but I don’t use it. Thx. Cheers. Janet
 

 Hi Old Farts, What a winter it has been!  I have been unable to do much in the way of snowshoeing.  For those who are able, there have been few Thursday outings organized. Luckily, almost all of us are still able to get together for breakfast!  So, I have contacted the Nest and Nectar and they are happy to have us Breakfast will be: - at 0830 on Wednesday, March 7th-at The Nest and Nectar, 301 – 1475 Fairview Road (at the western end of the Cannery, beside the Many Hats Theatre).

In order to serve us in a timely manner, the breakfast menu has been shortened.  Fewer choices will make for faster service.  Here, briefly, is the menu: -Tofu Scramble:  tofu sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro.   ($11) -Homemade Waffle: served with hashbrowns and fruit.  ($10) -French Toast: served with hashbrowns and fruit.  One piece ($10), 2 pieces ($11 -Traditional Country Breakfast:  eggs, bacon or sausage, toast, hashbrowns, fruit.  One egg($10), Two eggs ($11) Three eggs ($12) -Hang Loose Breakfast Sandwich (like a Bennie).  Includes toasted English muffin, egg, avocado, tomato, cheese, arugula, served with hashbrowns and fruit ($13) Because we are a group of some size, there will be an automatic gratuity.

 

Are you interested?  If so, please let me know (with numbers of people) at your early convenience.  I have to give numbers to the N&N a couple of days in advance. Looking forward to seeing many of you after such a long “down” time.

Cheers, Jim Hi James! Thanks for organizing this. Lady Dar and I are delighted to attend so please add the two of us to your list. Look forward to seeing you tomorrow evening at Lens. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hello Harbour Terrace! Sorry for not calling this evening, after we were home but by the time we had unloaded, had dinner and watched The Florida Project, it was time for bed!  After hearing an account of the multi-vehicle crash on the Coquihalla, around 8:00 pm, we were thanking our lucky stars that we decided on #3! Friends Josinta and Arturo, coming from Camrose endured blizzards, and slippery roads all the way. Sedona Folk, Giliana and Filipo, reported their drive back was part skating rink! At any rate, just wanted to let you know we are fine. Thanks again, for your unstinting hospitality and patience with me! Take care of each other. Fondestos from Lady Dar. Cheers, Patrizzio! PS: Just heard you are feeling even more poorly, Flamin! Sorry to hear this, of course. Hope, after a few snorts of malt, you will begin to improve! Pics: Lady Dar with our fabulous hosts!