Anarchist and Aeolus Blues: Saturday, March 31st

Truth does not change according to our ability to stomach it. -Flannery O’Connor, writer (25 Mar 1925-1964) 

Without our feline alarm clocks we all slept in until just before 9:00 am. Chloë, in particular, loves being on holiday, as she is often up at 4:00 am, assaulted by El Diablo, pestering her to be let out! Gang went walking into town and after I didgitated and enjoyed a hearty breakfast of overlefts from last night's fabulous dinner, I will suit up, ready to "attack" Anarchist Mountain, just on or doorstep!

Hello Fellow Riders!

Ski, meet Liisa, Liisa meet Ski! Trust you are both well. I'm sending this to you both as you are my favourite riding companions, both plucky and always up for a cycling adventure, never whining, [like so many others!], even if Ski is not as comfortable on roads as is Big City Girl! Missed you at Dram Come True, Liisa, so true you will visit us this summer/fall. I gather you are returning to Cape Breton, Ski, today or tomorrow. Travel safely and regards to the Great Ronaldo. Did enjoy a number of rides after you left and before making for Spirit Ridge yesterday. Have included account of ride for everyone's reading pleasure! Fondestos from Lady Dar and Chloë to you both, and rest of gang.  Chloë and I are off to the hot tub/steam room to cleanse our pores before more wine-tasting this afternoon. Happy Easter to one and all. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Pics: Arrivederci Duke and Etta; poolside at Spirit Ridge; wine tasting at Adega and Nk'Mip.

Hello Sheep Lovin' Man and Alarmed Donna Florida!

Trust you are both well and enjoying the Easter Weekend. Glad you enjoyed the last card but must say I'm a tad worried about Vinnie's apparent predilection for the dancin' lambkins! Almost a good thing that California is experiencing a drought as I cannot even begin to contemplate what might develop if you owned a pair of Wellingtons! Weather has been improving, warming up, albeit slowly, and have enjoyed a number of rides, of late. Fortunately, for me, yesterday dawned one of the most glorious since Spring officially arrived, just in time for my trek on my Trek, to Osoyoos and Life of the Rich and Famous, (not us, unfortunately), at Spirit Ridge!Spirit Ridge or Bust!

Didn't go to bed until 1:00 am, this morning, by the time I'd sent as many messages as my drooping eyelids would allow. Duke cooperated by not insisting he and Etta be let out until 5:00 am. I opened the cat door at this time and wasn't bothered again, until 7:05 am, when Duke bounded onto the bed, announcing it was time for breakfast. Happy to have had as much uninterrupted sleep as I had enjoyed, I was happy to comply and fed him his ration of pumpkin and he licked his plate clean. Etta did the same when she came inside. Left their crunchies in their bowls and they seemed quite pleased with this arrangement, stopping for a bite whenever they came in over the course of the morning. 

I digitated until about 8:45 am and then zapped tasty overlefts for breakfast. While I munched, I filled my camel pack with the few things I wanted to take down with me and then went next door to chat with Amanda about the care and feeding of our the felines while we were at Spirit Ridge. She and her daughter, Kayla, have often looked after Duke and Etta while we and/or Chloë have been away for  a few days. Was ready to roll by 10:11 and after wishing both Duke and Etta a Happy Easter weekend, I made for Government. AccuWeather forecast suggested that the wind was out of the SSW at 15 kph. Yesterday's prognostication was for the wind to be out of the North but I knew, in my heart of hearts that this prediction would not come true since I was going to be riding South. 

Now, of course, according to Whirlygig's Law, [The cyclist's equivalent of Murphy's Law, "You will always be riding into a head wind whichever direction you choose!",I would be bucking it all, or most of the way, to Osoyoos. Still, I couldn't really complain as last time I rode this route, with Lovely Liisa, last August, it was an ever fiercer head-wind, steady at between 30-40 kph, gusting to over 60 kph! On one stretch, along Skaha Lake, a very exposed section at water level, I had to stand up and could only barely move, on my carbon-fibre Trek! Poor Liisa was riding my twice as heavy Brodie so her struggle was far, far more difficult. Fortunately she was only going as far as Tinhorn Creek, [to stay in Luxury! Sheer Luxury, with Joan and Paul], just outside of Oliver but it took me over six hours to reach Osoyoos, for what should, ordinarily, have been but a 3-3.5 hour ride.

Sun was shining and it was pleasantly warm, at 9º C, so I set off with high hopes. As I made my way along South Main I was pleasantly surprised to find that the wind was more of a cross-wind and I only really felt significant resistance whenever Eastside Road snaked in a westerly direction. Made it to OK Falls and past Tickleberry's by about 11:15 am, almost exactly 20 km, so I knew I was riding at just under 20 kph, something I had certainly not expected at the outset. More surprises awaited as I made my way towards Gallagher Lake and I whizzed along, for much of the time between 25 kph to 33 kph! This filled me with a great deal of hope for the rest of the ride as I knew, from past experience, that if the wind direction remained the same I would most certainly have a true tail-wind on the run from Oliver to Osoyoos.

Was on Main Street in Oliver by about five minutes past noon so I knew I was above my basic 20 kph AVG and climbing! Few moments of doubt as I rode the rolling stretch out of town as the wind was fierce as fierce could be. Even though it was mostly a cross-wind my progress was considerably slowed while roadside hanging signs were flying sideways and I rode through clouds of dust, swirling from the vineyards and orchards along the way. However, once past turnoff for Tinhorn Creek I was swinging the world by the tail and literally raced along at above 30 kph, more or less, all the way to Osoyoos, only dropping below 20 kph on the slight hill before the outskirts to the town. 

I had told Lady Dar that I expected to arrive at Spirit Ridge between 2:00 pm- 3:00 pm but as the resort came into view, on my left, as I traversed the bench leading to Osoyoos it was around 12:40pm so I felt I would be there shortly after 1:00 pm given remaining distance. Only concern I had was how difficult it would be to maintain any speed once I turned of highway to make my way up the slight climb to Spirit Ridge. More importantly, I would then be heading right into the wind and what had been hurtling me along would than be slamming me backwards. Turned out not to be quite as bad as I had feared. Although run to hill was a bit of a battle the grade itself actually shielded me from the worst of the gusts and I reached the outside parking area at 1:10 pm! Hip Hip Hooray!

Pulled up at reception to obtain a key to our unit and then stopped at the pool to say hello to the gang, swimming or sitting on deck chairs, enjoying the sunshine, although the wind made it a tad coolish. Once in the suite I changed into my swimming togs and then plugged in my odometre to see what my AVG had been. Was more than chuffed to see it was 23.1 kph! Had dreamed, hoped it would be above 22 kph so was elated with result, especially after last year's ordeal. Think it might well be the best AVG for any of my rides here and certainly brings home the degree to which wind plays in determining the outcome of a given ride. I've always maintained that climbs, steep or gradual, often pale in comparison to the challenges Aeolus is wont to throw in the faces of his opponents. Cheers! Map and Stats for ride: 

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2589916211#.Wr6oUL0_A_c.email

Ready to share my ride with the others I skipped over to the pool, high as a kite, to join the gang. After we visited for a bit I plopped into the hot tub to soothe my hard-working leg muscles and then spent more time in the steam room, cleansing my pores for the coming wine-tasting excursion. Decided to drive to Adega, just outside the resort gates as it was past 4:00 pm by the time everyone was ready and winery closes at 5:00 pm. I had never been there before, nor had Chloë. Lady Dar and Clan Sutherland had been there last August when I was battling the hurricane forces. A few weeks ago, now, Sarge had opened their Syrah and I had been msot impressed with it so was anxious to taste more of their offerings. Unfortunately, I really did not like any of their whites, at all, and the Syrah was certainly not the knock-out I'd tasted at Harbour Terrace. The 2015 Cab Franc, 17.2%, (!), was the best for my palette and I ended up buying it and the aforementioned 2013 Syrah, 15.5%, to give it a chance. Back to Spirit Ridge to go into Nk'Mip Cellars, the winery belonging to the resort. I have always liked their product and was not disappointed this time either. The 2016 Riesling, 12.5%, was wonderful, (clean and crisp with just the right amount of acidity), as well as the lower end 2015, Syrah, Talon, 14.5%, with far more fruit and structure than the 2013 Adega Syrah. 

Without our feline alarm clocks we all slept in until just before 9:00 am this morning. Chloë, in particular, loves being on holiday, as she is often up at 4:00 am, assaulted by El Diablo, pestering her to be let out! Gang went walking into town around 9:45 am and after I didgitated for a bit, I enjoyed a hearty breakfast of overlefts from last night's fabulous dinner, ribs and stuffed chicken breasts done on the bbq, with cauliflower/broccoli mash and roasted spudolinos, along with Flamin's tasty mixed salad.

After gang returned from their walk, Chloë and I went to hot tub/steam room to cleanse our pores before more wine-tasting this afternoon. First stop was at Bartier Brothers, off Black Sage Road, a relatively new winery which opened but three years ago. Could not have been more delighted. All of their wines are extremely well-crafted and their reds elegant indeed. Ended up joining their wine club, so impressed were we. Lady Dar bought their 2106 Semillon, (I certainly approved with its appealing forward hint of lemon and bright acidity!), and 2015 Merlot but I opted for the 2015 Obrigado, a flinty Chardonnay with hints of grapefruit and lime, along with the 2015 Cab Franc, sensational fruit and velvety tannins, and 2016 Syrah, wonderful blackberry up-front and and white pepper on the finish.

Next stop at CC Jentsch as Clan Sutherland had never been before. Another "must" as their wines are superb, but higher end ones are pricey. Second wine club of the day for Clan Sutherland so impressed were they. Chloë even bought two bottles, the 2016 Quest and the 2014 Chase, their lower-end, white and red, repsectively, but unbelievable value at under $20. I did the same but added the 2015 Syrah as it is a divine gang-buster! Their Small Lots series are quite remarkable but weigh in at just under $50 so I will drink the Sutherland's as I introduced them to winery!

On to Bordertown, just on the outskirts of Osoyoos, a place none of us had ever visited before. For my taste wines were uninspired, just below mediocre, if that, although they have a surprising, rare varietal, Grüner Veltliner, being one of its few producers in the Okanagan. I took two botttles, being taken with its aromas of pineapple, peach and honey, finished off with a tinge of minerality. Back to our home away from home to unload day's haul. Lady Dar and Chloë are already over at Clan Sutherland's suite as we will have dinner there tonight, busy decorating Easter eggs with the grandchildren. Fondestos from Lady Dar and Chloë to you both. Happy Easter and Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Poolside at Spirit Ridge; wine tasting at Adega and Nk'Mip yesterday. Today's outing at Bartier, [Most recent "find"!], and then CC Jentsch!

Happy Easter to all our friends and loved ones! May the marvellous awakening
of Spring bless everyone. Fondestos and Cheers from Lady Dar, Chloë and Patrizzio! Happy Easter, Zircon Grinch! Love and Fondestos, Lady Dar, Chloë and Patrizzio!

Spirit Ridge Long Haul Blues: Good Friday, March 30th!

We call them dumb animals, and so they are, for they cannot tell us how they feel, but they do not suffer less because they have no words. -Anna Sewell, writer (30 Mar 1820-1878)




Hi Patrick. Thought I would get this email off since for the next three days we are at Trelissick organising Easter Egg hunts for all the visiting kiddies! Wether I can resist eating one or two myself is unlikely! We then have to drive to Hampshire on Monday to pick up the grandson for half term and bring him back here.

You can purchase a return train ticket from Dover (Dover Priory station) to Truro. No direct trains so on the way down you will most likely have to change a couple of times. I think it will be Dover to St Pancras then tube to Paddington for onward travel to Truro. Probably take about 6 or so hours.

If you are leaving Truro on Sunday 22nd your return journey will be the same in reverse. The only difference is they are presently doing some upgrading works on the Truro to London part of the track so at St Austell they will transfer you to a coach to Plymouth where you will join a different train to Paddington. This will increase your travel time by about an hour so you will need to take this into account if you have a ferry booking that day. I would suggest you go to the UK Trainline website for tickets: <www.the trainline.com> You can normally pick up discounted fares if you book in advance.

Please let us know your travel itinerary when you have it. Sorry to have to push you out by the 22nd but Gayle will need to get bedding done etc before our cat sitter arrives in the evening. Must dash Gayle is on the warpath! Best wishes
Derek Forgot to say you are welcome to use my bike while you are here. I have still maintained it so it’s in good condition. Will try to do a few coastal hikes while you are here as well to keep your fitness levels up for the cycle section if your trip! 

Hi Easter Egg Hunt Organizers! Thanks for very helpful, quick reply. Appreciate knowing what I'm likely to face. However, when I leave Truro, on Sunday, April 22nd, I'm making for London, not Dover. I realize, from what you have outlined, there are no direct trains but when I leave for France will most certainly take Eurostar so won't have to worry about ferry connections. Thanks for the website address as well. Please don't worry about pushing me out as leaving then works exceedingly well for me, in terms of friends in London. They will be in Dublin until Saturday, April 21st, so I'm on the revolving door plan! Appreciate your offer of your bike and I might take you up on it but I'd also be keen on some coastal hikes, given, if nothing else, how stunning the landscape is.

Must away as I just took a look at the forecast. Yesterday wind was predicated to be out of the North but now from the South West at 15 kph so I'll be bucking it all, or most of the way, to Osoyoos. Still, I can't complain as last time I rode this route, last August, it was an ever fiercer head-wind, steady at between 30-40 kph, gusting to over 60 kph! On one stretch, along Skaha Lake, a very exposed section at water level, I had to stand up and could only barely move! Took over six hours for what should, ordinarily, have been 3.5 hours. Will certainly let you know my itinerary as soon as it is concretized. Thanks again. Happy Easter to you and Gayle. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hello Lady Patrizzia and Sir James! Trust you are both well. Will you be singing over the Easter weekend, Sir James? I have arranged to stay with Penny, upon arrival in London, April 22nd, but I hope to see you both, if you are around. Let me know your plans for time I'll be in London and I'll plan accordingly. Happy Easter Egg Hunting to The Amersham Royalty! Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Didn't go to bed until 1:00 am, this morning, by the time I'd sent as many messages as my drooping eyelids would allow. Duke cooperated by not insisting he and Etta be let out until 5:00 am. I opened the cat door at this time and wasn't bothered again, until 7:05 am, when Duke bounded onto the bed, announcing it was time for breakfast. Happy to have had as much uninterrupted sleep as I had enjoyed, I was happy to comply and fed him his ration of pumpkin and he licked his plate clean. Etta did the same when she came inside. Left their crunchies in their bowls and they seemed quite pleased with this arrangement, stopping for a bite whenever they came in over the course of the morning. 

I digitated until about 8:45 am and then zapped tasty overlefts for breakfast. While I munched, I filled my camel pack with the few things I wanted to take down with me and then went next door to chat with Amanda about the care and feeding of our the felines while we were at Spirit Ridge. She and her daughter, Kayla, have often looked after Duke and Etta while we and/or Chloë have been away for  a few days. Was ready to roll by 10:11 and after wishing both Duke and Etta a Happy Easter weekend, I made for Government. AccuWeather forecast suggested that the wind was out of the SSW at 15 kph. Yesterday's prognostication was for the wind to be out of the North but I knew, in my heart of hearts that this prediction would not come true since I was going to be riding South. 

Now, of course, according to Whirlygig's Law, [The cyclist's equivalent of Murphy's Law, "You will always be riding into a head wind whichever direction you choose!", I would be bucking it all, or most of the way, to Osoyoos. Still, I couldn't really complain as last time I rode this route, with Lovely Liisa, last August, it was an ever fiercer head-wind, steady at between 30-40 kph, gusting to over 60 kph! On one stretch, along Skaha Lake, a very exposed section at water level, I had to stand up and could only barely move, on my carbon-fibre Trek! Poor Liisa was riding my twice as heavy Brodie so her struggle was far, far more difficult. Fortunately she was only going as far as Tinhorn Creek, [to stay in Luxury! Sheer Luxury, with Joan and Paul], just outside of Oliver but it took me over six hours to reach Osoyoos, for what should, ordinarily, have been but a 3-3.5 hour ride.

Sun was shining and it was pleasantly warm, at 9º C, so I set off with high hopes. As I made my way along South Main I was pleasantly surprised to find that the wind was more of a cross-wind and I only really felt significant resistance whenever Eastside Road snaked in a westerly direction. Made it to OK Falls and past Tickleberry's by about 11:15 am, almost exactly 20 km, so I knew I was riding at just under 20 kph, something I had certainly not expected at the outset. More surprises awaited as I made my way towards Gallagher Lake and I whizzed along, for much of the time between 25 kph to 33 kph! This filled me with a great deal of hope for the rest of the ride as I knew, from past experience, that if the wind direction remained the same I would most certainly have a true tail-wind on the run from Oliver to Osoyoos.

Was on Main Street in Oliver by about five minutes past noon so I knew I was above my basic 20 kph AVG and climbing! Few moments of doubt as I rode the rolling stretch out of town as the wind was fierce as fierce could be. Even though it was mostly a cross-wind my progress was considerably slowed while roadside hanging signs were flying sideways and I rode through clouds of dust, swirling from the vineyards and orchards along the way. However, once past turnoff for Tinhorn Creek I was swinging the world by the tail and literally raced along at above 30 kph, more or less, all the way to Osoyoos, only dropping below 20 kph on the slight hill before the outskirts to the town. 

I had told Lady Dar that I expected to arrive at Spirit Ridge between 2:00 pm- 3:00 pm but as the resort came into view, on my left, as I traversed the bench leading to Osoyoos it was around 12:40 pm so I felt I would be there shortly after 1:00 pm given remaining distance. Only concern I had was how difficult it would be to maintain any speed once I turned of highway to make my way up the slight climb to Spirit Ridge. More importantly, I would then be heading right into the wind and what had been hurtling me along would than be slamming me backwards. Turned out not to be quite as bad as I had feared. Although run to hill was a bit of a battle the grade itself actually shielded me from the worst of the gusts and I reached the outside parking area at 1:10 pm! Hip Hip Hooray!

Pulled up at reception to obtain a key to our unit and then stopped at the pool to say hello to the gang, swimming or sitting on deck chairs, enjoying the sunshine, although the wind made it a tad coolish. Once in the suite I changed into my swimming togs and then plugged in my odometre to see what my AVG had been. Was more than chuffed to see it was 23.1 kph! Had dreamed, hoped it would be above 22 kph so was elated with result, especially after last year's ordeal. Think it might well be the best AVG for any of my rides here and certainly brings home the degree to which wind plays in determining the outcome of a given ride. I've always maintained that climbs, steep or gradual, often pale in comparison to the challenges Aeolus is wont to throw in the faces of his opponents. Cheers! Map and Stats for ride: 

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2589916211#.Wr6oUL0_A_c.email

Excellent news and pictures! Congratulation.....you made great time to Oso........in such a wind....amazing endurance.....Your description and details of the ride are very special. So perfect that you are able to experience such an ordeal....We are fine here, but do miss the wine tasting.....you guys are so lucky to live there.

We had to leave two weeks early due to some health problems with close friends here, who had an exam....turned out to be a growth in his cranium....so awaiting a surgeon to possibly investigate if cancer....or what. Guess these things never do end....although he suffers from almost blindness and is a diabetic....so it goes.We loved hearing from you folks; and hope you all stay well......lots of love, a Happy Easter and the best to you both.....and your feline friends which we enjoy hearing about too......xxxxxx

Patrick, How exciting to be off to Europe for 3 months. If you do emails keep us in the loop. My word you are going to be the bionic man with another replacement part. You certainly do well despite your failing joints. Sounds like you are keeping very busy as usual. It was nice to see a couple of pictures of you for a change. I trust you are enjoying your luxurious weekend at Spirit Ridge - it is a beautiful spot.

We are off to Vancouver tomorrow am. and back on the 11th of April. We will have the kids for Easter dinner and then Cliff and Ashley are coming to stay for a week. We have lots planned including a golf game for everyone except me but I do get to join them for dinner. We were given tickets to see Rod Stewart so that should be a good show. We asked friends from Kitimat to join us as he had a heart transplant and is in Vancouver for his check up. He is amazing as Gerry played pickle ball with him last week. It is astounding what medicine can do. Got lots to do to get ready for the plane tomorrow. Hugs to you and your good wife and daughter. Cheers, Dawn PS We had another snow storm yesterday but fortunately today it melted as it was sunny - when will winter end? 

Hi, Patrick: Thanks for this and I am replying quickly and briefly . . . just to let you know that I will be sending Easter greetings to my Polish contacts (Easter being a very HUGE thing in Poland) and  will mention that I will be sharing their email addresses with you.  They will be fine with that, I'm sure. I'll send you a proper message next week, which may include much rambling about Poland.  I've been twice, most recently last fall, as I think you know. Happy Easter and love to everyone at Burns Street / Spirit Ridge. Janet
 
 

Lady Dar and Chloë Decamp to Spirit Ridge Blues: Thursday, March 29th!

Kindness is always fashionable. -Amelia Barr, novelist (29 Mar 1831-1919)


Bit of a rough night with Night Owl Duke, agitating to go out, first pestering Chloë at 1:30 am, then moving to our bedroom at 2:00 am. Managed to dissuade him with a sharp rebuke but I gather he caused so much fuss, two hours later, that Chloë let him out, in sheer frustration. When she was finally up, readying herself for work, she let both of them back in, around 7:30 am, feeding their their breakfast then. With a full tummy, Duke then returned to our bathroom where he agitated for a drink from the sink faucet, flipping some of Lady Dar's jewelry, watches and glasses onto the floor. When she clambered out of bed, to halt the carnage and turn the water tap on, he drank his fill and then proceeded to wash his front paws, quite fastidiously, under the stream of water issuing from the faucet. Some people's felines!

Wow. It was so good to see all three of you. You are such good and special people. You know so much about how to be good to others. It was great to have time with you. Of course it is never long enough, so I left wanted more and longer time together. Love you all. I hope your trip to Europe goes great. Stay well. Ride safe. and remember there are people all over caring about well being.

I am attaching another note I composed for a mailing today--of very special interest to Hatters: Medicine Hat author Mark Sakamoto has become the 2018 winner of CBC Canada Reads for his book Forgiveness. Most of you will know the book and have met the author who now lives in Toronto. But for those of you who missed it, I suggest you read it this week. If you read from a screen you can get it on your device immediately. But if you shop at Coles you will need to move quickly before it sells out. Don"t miss it! Sorry to be such a promoter (no I am not!). Have a great day everyone. Jim Hillson

Hi Zircon! Thanks for your kind words and best wishes. Glad you are safely back in The Hat and shamelessly promoting its citizenry! Congratulations, indeed, to Mark Sakamoto. However, you are in Lady Dar's bad books, so to speak, as when she returned from yoga class I told her the exciting news, not realizing you were in a different time zone! She was not amused! At least you will now have a tad more sympathy for much maligned Patrizzio. Trust you will enjoy the Easter weekend.  Happy Easter Egg Hunting with your granddaughters! Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Let me see if I got this right. I broke the news to you about the Canada Reads winner before the Canada Reads broadcast came to the Pacific Time Zone so I blew the suspense for Corinne. Now I must confess...Actually my crime is even worse than simply living in the Mountain Time Zone. My CBC radio listening is nearly always via cbc.ca streaming. In this case I caught the Eastern Time Zone live stream of Canada Reads so I was two hours ahead for my Mountain Time Zone and three hours ahead of your Pacific Time broadcast. Hence I definitely owe you an apology for getting you in the bad books of your good spouse. I take full responsibility for my sins of commission and omission.

However--I also am impudent enough to ask Why are you still listening to over-the-air broadcasts? Even CBC broadcasters themselves do all their listening via .ca. Anna Marie Tremonte says she doesn't own a radio! That's what your phone is for! Happy Easter. 

Hi Mad Hatter! LET ME SEE IF I GOT THIS THIS RIGHT: YOU BROKE THE NEWS OF THE  CANADA READS WINNER AND SOMEHOW IT IS MY FAULT! Furthermore, and perhaps far worse, you go on to castigate me for being a Luddite, berating me for not owning a mobile phone, You selfie junkies, You! I adore Anna Maria Tremonte but I spit on the fact that she doesn't own a radio. I often live in surround sound, having a radio on in up to three rooms at a time, driving Lady Dar nuts! I only do it as revenge for the fact that she watches The Young and the Useless! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Maria and Gary! Trust your drive/ferry crossing went well and you are already enjoying watching the waves roll in on Long Beach! Enjoy the weekend. Here, The Bench may be very busy as I see all the Tasting Rooms will be open. Plan to do some wine-tasting, in and around Osoyoos and up towards Oliver, ourselves. With bike rack on our car, myself and anyone who wants to do so, will ride to a selected winery to meet support vehicle! Lady Dar and Chloë are driving down later today but I won't go until Friday morning, when I'll ride. Will send what I need, (clothes, toiletries, etc.), with them so I'll be able to achieve warp speed! Trust our paths will cross again, in the not too, too distant future. Fondest from Lady Dar, busy packing up foodstuffs for meals this weekend. Cheers to you both, Patrizzio! Pics: 51st Steinbach Reunion!

Hi Patrick—Thanks for the additional input. I can’t believe how close you are to your departure either. It’s odd (and I think I’ve mentioned this before) but when we are away for any length of time, e.g., in Palm Desert, it’s as though that time doesn’t really pass. I’m still thinking it is the beginning of February instead of the beginning of April! Have a Happy Easter and a good time “down south” for the weekend. We’ll see you soon. Cheers, Lynnie XO How about Tuesday, April 10th? This gives us all time to recover from Easter indulgences and is (hopefully) not going to coincide with last-minute preparations for Patrick’s big adventure. Do you think Chloe would like to join us oldsters? She’s surely more than welcome. Shall we say a 6:00 p.m. start time? Looking forward to a “last supper” … for awhile. Cheers, Lynnie

Hi again, Rip Van Winkle Lynne! I wish I could wake up the day before I leave and have all my jobs complete! Anyway, Tuesday, April 10th is just fine for me. I've looked on our "joint" calendar on the kitchen wall and nothing is penciled in for that date. However, I cannot speak for The Sisterhood, (Very kind and generous of you to include Chloë, so thanks for that.), as I'm sure you can appreciate and would most certainly approve of! They both left after 3:00 pm this afternoon and I won't see them until tomorrow when I ride to Spirit Ridge. [Just checked tomorrow's forecast and looks like there might be a few showers late in the afternoon, here, but Osoyoos is supposed to be dry.] However, they may well reply before then if they read their messages. If not, I'll mention your suggested date and we'll be in touch. [Tuesday at 6 pm is great. Will see if Chloe is available she often has strata meetings in the evening. I'll let you know. Happy Easter, Corinne]

Just Etta and Duke for company this evening but they both like the same Netflix series, [We are currently watching Babylon Berlin and enjoying it immensely.], so who could ask for more! I've already sent a message to the Easter Bunny, informing him where we will be this weekend, so I trust he will read his messages! Enjoy the weekend. As you are probably aware, The Bench may well be very busy as I see all the Tasting Rooms will be open. Plan to do some wine-tasting, in and around Osoyoos and up towards Oliver, ourselves. With bike rack on our car, myself and anyone who wants to do so, will ride to a selected winery to meet support vehicle! Thanks again. Cheers, Patrizzio! 

We are here and unloaded. Chloe is off shopping with Nichol. I have a key for you. What time do you think you will be here?? Enjoy your Netflix! Hugs Corinne

Hello Convertible Woman! Pleased to hear you both arrived without incident. I plan to leave by 10:00 am, at the latest, perhaps earlier if The Boy has anything to do with it! Don't want to jinx things but forecast shows that the wind should be at my back, at least as far south as Oliver, so happy about that. If this is the case I should be at Spirit Ridge between 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm, perhaps sooner if forecast holds. Will you leave the key at the Front Desk? Probably easiest if you want to go out, wine-tasting and/or shopping. Please don't worry about staying in if there are things you'd and others would like to do. [Did you take cards?]

Just finished vacuuming and laying the fire. I won't have time for Netflix as I want to send messages to Jamie, everyone in Switzerland, Maggie and Patrick. Janet may well have some connections in Poland so I'd like to ask her for more Freeloading possibilities! Heard back from both Derek and Penny and I will now go to Cornwall, from Paris and then to London. My arrival date and their travel dates just, and only just, dovetail so I now need to figure out train/bus connections or see if a rail-pass makes financial sense. Also have some questions for Rosemary/Andre. Must away as I want to have a shower and then have dinner before more scribing. Hello to Clan Sutherland. Love to you and Chloë from Etta, Duke and their servant! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Thanks for the update and definitely up for some bridge the next time you are in town…. have played a little with some neighbours so I can remain in top spot!!!. Away April 10 - 26th….off to Toronto for conference & lots of visits and then a road trip with good friend Serena …. driving from Toronto to Sussex, NB and then off to Nova Scotia for visit and explorations with # 1 son. Look forward to seeing you all soon. Hugs and Cheers, S Hi O'Susana! Lovely to hear from you and know you are up for bridge! Your travel plans sound fabulous! Bravo!! Onward!!! With respect to cards, more than delighted to have you in the loop. Unfortunately, it probably won't be until July as I'm flying to Paris on Monday, April 16th, returning July 10th! [Lady Dar will stay home to marry people!] However, I will probably go into Vancouver for the weekend before as Chloë is driving in to spend time with friends there but you will be away.

This being the case I wonder if I could ask your travel advice regarding trains/buses/ferries, [I don't really want to fly but if it is a cost-effective alternative, perhaps a better way to travel.], from Paris, (CDG), to Calais/Dover to Truro. I'd appreciate any suggestions and then bookings if you do them. I've been looking at the Brit Rail website and I'm wondering if a pass might be a good idea, given the number of stops, 4 or 5, I plan/might make. My itinerary is reasonably flexible, other than I want to leave for France at the end of April.  

Once back in France and have had my bike serviced I will continue on to Berne, Vienna and Prague before my first bike trip begins in the Czech Republic, in Brno, Moravia, wine-country, on May 16th. May 28th second guided bike trips begins in Krakow, ending on June 10th. After that I'd like to take train to Aarhus, in Denmark. Would probably fly, (return), from there to Oslo, without my bike as I plan, at least as of this writing, to leave it back in Chabeuil. If it's Tuesday it must be Belgium! Anyway, any help or advice you can provide would be certainly appreciated. Much affection and Cheers to you, my Darling O'Susana, Patrizzio! 

Dear Patrick, Have a great trip! Regarding regional travel in Paris… suggest you contact a FLIGHT CENTRE office they will be able to give you best suggestions and book what woks best for you. Love to all S. Hi again, O'Susana! Thanks for the tremendous advice. I did contact Flight Centre here in Penticton and am very happy with the suggestions and subsequent bookings. Much appreciate you pointing me in their direction. Cheers, Patrizzio!
Hey Patritzio, Have good Easter break tho not really required as you are on a permanent break any way. We liked the look of your bike tours however you can’t have too many Easter eggs lest you get over weight. Cheers From here
Hello Pot Calling the Kettle Black! Look who's talking about being on a permanent break! From what Antonio mentioned, you never even worked when you were reputed to work! Lovely to hear from you and know you are well and remain in caustic fine form! Trust you will enjoy the Easter weekend, wherever you are, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Fiji! Happy Easter Egg Hunting! [I picked up an egg colouring kit yesterday as Lady Dar will be helping with Flamin's four grandchildren!] Cheers, Patrizzio! 
 

Hi Patrizio Just checked dates and your plan looks good. We are back from Ireland on 21st April so will be home from 22nd to 2nd May - going to see a play with Beryl on 25th but Madcap will be around. We go to Grantham on 3rd May then to Derby on 4th and back on 5th May. Too early in day for chatting! See you soon xx Hello Dubliners! Thanks for quick reply even though it was too, too early for you. All that burning the candle at both ends is starting to catch up with you, obviously! Appreciate knowing what I'm likely to face, alone with Madcap and a bottle of Irish Whiskey! Sounds like a recipe for unmitigated disaster, a terrible hangover at the best!  Happy Easter Egg Hunting! Cheers, Patrizzio! 

  

Hello Cadboro Bay Folk! Thanks for the terrific card! Lovely to hear from you.

Happy Easter Egg Hunting! Cheers, Patrizzio! 

 

Putting All My Dental and Financial Ducks In a Row Blues: Wednesday, March 28th!

The man who is denied the opportunity of taking decisions of importance begins to regard as important the decisions he is allowed to take. -C. Northcote Parkinson, author and historian (1909-1993)




Hi, Patrick and Corinne: Thank you both for your replies to my email concerning Canada Day. Yes, I had anticipated that Patrick would not be around. I am STILL waiting though to hear further details of the prospective European trip, as it is such a wonderful length of time -- you must have some great adventures planned. Where will you be going? If Poland is involved, let me know, as I have really great contacts there. For my part, I am contemplating various travel options for the fall and really enjoying the fact of not having to parse out limited vacation time (though I never had any complaints about my vacation quota, at VPL or in previous employment).

And Corinne . . . I know that the wedding gig and other endeavours keep you very busy (a model for active living in retirement!). There are others who similarly can't say quite yet. . . mid -June should be fine for a clear indication one way or another. I've had enough affirmative answers that I've been able to make the booking and pay the deposit. But fingers crossed, as it would be lovely if you could manage it. I mentioned a few VPLers who will be there, almost all now retired, but I forgot about Susan Pendakur (and Sri) though I don't know if you knew Susan very well during your VPL days. Easter is this weekend, and since it's on April 1st, I'll then be able to say that I am retiring next month -- May -- or at least, ending my VPL working days (no going onto the auxiliary list for me!)

I think the end-date will be moved slightly back though (only by a couple of days) as I unexpectedly will be taking a bit of vacation time next week. Mum and I are travelling to Lethbridge to attend the memorial service for a long-time family friend who died on Friday night -- Diana Williams. She and her physician husband, Eric, who are closer to Mum in age than to me, were very kind during the two years that I spent in Lethbridge. They made many trips to Vancouver thereafter, always staying with Mum, before Diana's dementia progressed. Eric is still around and as far as I know, is cognitively well. Diana's passing is a "sad/glad" as my mother says, but I do feel quite a sense of loss. It will be good to attend the gathering and celebrate her life, and to spend time with Eric. He phoned Mum this morning and apparently is over the moon that we are coming. We had not planned to stay at his house, thinking that this might not be a good time, but he is absolutely insisting on it.

James (my POUS = Person of Uncertain Status) is likely retiring soon too. Actually, he was forced to retire from Air Canada when he reached the then-mandatory Air Canada retirement age of 60 (six years ago). He has had a number of contract flying jobs since, with small operators, and also done some non-flying work. A few of his gigs have been based in Vancouver, but he has mostly been living in Lethbridge, where he owns a house. As an Air Canada retiree, he gets free passes, though, and can fly as a "con" (contingency passenger). He has been out here many, many times and always at short-notice, with the possibility that it might not work out -- he could be bumped in favour paying passengers (imagine that!) This is good for me, as it stretches my "relax and take things as they come" muscle. But it usually does work out -- occasionally there is a delay of several hours. I don't really mind this arrangement, as he visits so frequently. And in totality, I probably get to spend more time with him, as he stays with me when he visits -- it's different than getting together for several hours once or twice a week. 

His most recent visit has just finished -- in fact, I dropped him off at YVR early this morning . He is off to what he is thinking will be his final flying job (fire detection, flying with a spotter). It's based in La Ronge, Saskatchewan, so its pretty remote, but it seems that the accommodations are at a hunting and fishing lodge with an adjacent golf course. He seems to have a positive view of the whole thing -- he's also pleased that it doesn't involve passengers and loading luggage and cargo, as the pilots do most of that at the small airlines. It's a 4-month contract, so will be quite awhile until I see him again, as there are no passenger flights out of La Ronge. Well, there is Skype and Face Time!

I am working late shift today, so have to wind this up. Best wishes for Europe, Patrick, and look forward to hearing from you about Canada Day in due course, Corinne. Hedgehugs,  Janet Hello Hedgehugs!Thanks for the news filled message, POUS and all! Loved your signoff! Sadly, probably won't have any time to devour Purdy's chocolate hedgehogs as I'm flying to Paris too, too soon, as you know! My second guided bike trip ends in Krakow on June 10th, so if you feel comfortable, I'm happy to have any of your contacts. Much appreciated whatever turns out. Happy Easter Egg Hunting, Janet! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Map and Stats for ride:

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2585817478#.WrwgaL7JJeI.email

Map and Stats for ride, (after Garmin outtage!):

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2585817501#.Wrwgnn7AcYk.email

Hi Corinne and Patricio—I really enjoyed our lunch out yesterday, Corinne. Thanks for coming out with me. When are you leaving for your bike bike adventure, Patricio? We’d like to have you over for a bit of a send-off dinner in Naramata if we can find a mutually-agreeable date. What’s your schedule look like after your back from your Easter celebrations? Let us know. Cheers, Lynnie
P.S. Hope the Easter Bunny finds you in your alternate digs! Hi Lynne We are back Monday and have bridge Wednesday. Next weekend is totally free. Lunch was fun, Thanks so much, Hugs Corinne  

Hello Naramatians! Thank you for the lovely invitation, Lynne. I know Lady Dar has already replied but I wanted to say hello as well. My flight to Paris is on Monday, April 16th, but I will probably go into Vancouver for the weekend as Chloë is driving in to spend time with friends there. Can barely fathom the fact that this is but a little over two weeks away and I shudder to think of all the things I have to accomplish, here on Burns, before then, let alone pack carefully for three months on the road, one of which will entail living out of two bike panniers. A week or so ago I was able to confirm when I will collect my bike in Chabeuil, a tiny village about two hours southeast of Lyon, where friends, Rosemary and Andre have kindly stored it since 2013. 

Am now endeavouring to let other friends in both England and Europe about my travel plans. Since Rosemary and Andre will not be in Chabeuil until the end of April I have decided to travel to Cornwall and then London before returning to France to collect my bike. Then on to Berne, Vienna and Prague before my first bike trip begins in the Czech Republic, in Brno, Moravia, wine-country, on May 16th. If it's Tuesday it must be Belgium! Look forward to seeing you both soon. Thanks again and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Dear friends and family, It has been 1 month and a day since Ted has left us. It is still so difficult to believe that we will not see him walk through our door. We
know that everyone who has ever met Ted feels so blessed that he was part of their lives and will miss him dearly. We know this because of the outpouring of love and support we have received over these difficult months.

We want to thank all of you who have shared memories of Ted, sent flowers, cards and hugs, the many phone calls, and the numerous meals that we are still enjoying. And a special thanks to those who went on the daily walks with Ted to the coffee shop rain or shine, to those who came to just sit with Ted while he slept or watched a game and to all of you who came from afar to visit with Ted or to attend Ted's celebration of life. We would like to share with you the video tribute that was shown at the celebration of Ted's life. You can view the video on the following link: https://youtu.be/kC7OclTigx0 There is also an audio link of Ted's celebration of life on the following link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1D238CdtXQZT6AMsedgHewaMhE9DboEdb/view?usp=drive_web 
With love and great appreciation, Elaine, Kristina, Stephanie, Laura

Hi Fartograms, If you are planning to come tomorrow would you please send Bill Therriault and/or me a reply that you are coming. To make it easy you can press "Reply to all" and say "I'll be there"! Then we know the amount of interest and the count! Thanks! Mt Everest Bill and Grandpa Aarturo 

Zircon Bakes The Medicine Hat Blues: Tuesday, March 27th!

A scholar is just a library's way of making another library. -Daniel Dennett, philosopher, writer, and professor (b. 28 Mar 1942)

Corinne and Patrick, Thank you for the fun last night...and to confirm...I’ll host Bridge next Weds, April 4 😊 Hello Easter Egg People! Thanks to the Summerlandians and the Naramatian for the boisterous bridge last night! Thanks as well for the more than palatable, wonderfully quaffable red wine, Michaelo and Spamela. Lady Dar and I took turns playing and things worked out very well over the course of the evening. Highlight for Olga Polga and I was doubling 5 Clubs bid by the overconfident Cuban Wind Surfer Dude and Uppity Naramata Goil. Cost them dearly. I had two aces and four Clubs to the Jack. Rolly Polly played like a shark that could smell blood and we put them down four tricks for 1,100! At a dollar a point, Michaelo now has to sell his surfboard! In order to discharge her debt, Pamela has granted use of her hot tub to any in the bridge group, any hour of the day or night, for the next year! 

If you' like to see what a great deal this is you will be able to do so next Wednesday, April 4th, as she will be hosting next gathering, at 1056 Littlejohn Rd, Naramata, anytime after 6:30 pm. Lady Dar and I will drive and we will have room for three hitchhikers if anyone wants to catch a lift. Let me know who will play and we'll plan accordingly. Bring your swimming togs and plasticized cards! Cheers, Patrizzio! PS: Hope you are well on the mend, Josinta! Pics: Bridge at Burns Street! 😄 Very entertaining post. Great photos. Thanks for sharing Pamela You always bring a smile on my face Patrick and laughter is the best medicine they say.
Anywayzzz I still feel awful, but have Wednesday in my calendar. Happy Easter to you and your loved ones Jos Thank you Corrine and Patrizzio for hosting a fun evening!...we even played some Bridge. Patrizzio I’ll be in Penticton for physio and hope to catch a ride with you to Pams’. Please count me in for Wednesday.

I am able to play on Wednesday and would also be happy to be a hitchhiker. Thanks for the invite pattrizzo!! Judy Happy Easter all🐣🐤🐥

Hello Again, Easter Chicks! To date we have five confirmed, (two hitchhikers have reservations!), so if Spiller Road Folk can play we'll have enough for Dummy Moves, and if Josinta is well enough, (which we fervently wish), two full tables! Let me know so Naramata Goil can plan accordingly. [We can bring Judy Blue's table, if needed, Spamela!] On with the hunt for Easter eggs, chocolate or otherwise. Cheers, Patrizzio! Happy bridge/egg hunting everyone. I will pass this time 😥 Cheers Mike Happy Easter to everyone Yes Phil and I are good for Wed April 4 at Pam's house. see you there Gill  

Hello Bathing Beauty Bidders and Hot Tub Tipplers! We now have seven confirmed players for this coming Wednesday. If Aarturo takes exceptional care of Josinta over the Easter weekend, we trust she will be able to join us. If not, we'll manage. Pamela, do you need Judy Blue's bridge table? Michaelo has begged off, still smarting from his catastrophically disastrous Five Clubs misadventure and will spend his holiday weekend reading Bridge for Dummies! [If you Patrick won’t stop harassing me, the best player you have ever met, I might have to show up on Wednesday to teach you a lesson, or two. 😜 Cheers. Mike Dear Best Bridge Player in the World! My strategy seems to be working! Cheers, Patrizzio! Oh you smart, no mercy doubler 😠😏 Mike Michaelo! You of all people should know that all's fair in bridge and hiking! Cheers, Reverse Psychology Patrizzio!] Onward to the egg hunt and chocolate fest! Cheers, Patrizzio! With all the TLC I am receiving, I'm pretty sure I can play bridge on Wednesday. Not sure if I can play hot tub bridge already☺ Happy Easter everybody Jos on the mend! Hi TLC/Jos On The Mend! Fabulous news! We'll have room for you in our car so I'll let you arrange who drives from Summerland to Burns. Enjoy the Easter weekend. Do hope you will be able to join us as if you are able to play we will finally have two full tables! Cheers to you both, Patrizzio!

Patrick, If it is not too much trouble please bring the card table. It will be more comfortable to play around it. The second foursome can sit around the coffee table in the living room. Happy Easter! Pam Hi Naramata Goil! Your every wish is my command! Enjoy the weekend. The Bench may be very busy as I see all the Tasting Rooms will be open. Plan to do some wine-tasting in and around Osoyoos and up towards Oliver, ourselves. With bike rack on our car, myself and anyone who wants to do so, will ride to a selected winery to meet support vehicle! Lady Dar and Chloë are driving down on Thursday but I won't go until Friday morning, when I'll ride. Will send what I need, (clothes, toiletries, etc.), with them so I'll be able to achieve Wild Bill's warp speed! Thanks again for hosting. Cheers to you both, Patrizzio! PS: Just had a note from Josinta and she seems pretty optimistic about being able to play on Wednesday so we may well have two full tables!

I am planning to be out and about visiting a couple of wineries this weekend too. Our son, Duncan, and his fiancé, Amanda, are visiting this weekend. Painted Rock and Noble Ridge are on our radar. I wish you gravel shoulders to ride on👍🚴 Pamela Hi Wine-tasting Woman! I assume/hope you meant gravel-free shoulders! Hard enough to cycle when tipsy let alone through sand and grit! Happy Tasting. Enjoy Duncan's and Amanda's visit. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Medicine Hat Man, Zircon, arrived in town on Monday, staying with close friend, Linda, and phoned this morning to say he would be delighted to come over for a visit. We were to see both of them this evening, at dinner, at Linda's place, but he wanted to connect, if only briefly, before then. He arrived just before 10:00 am and we had a lovely time chatting, catching-up as he'd not been here for a couple of years, although we'd seen him last year, in The Hat, staying overnight, coming and going, en route to Falcon. Around 11:00 am I announced it was time for my ride, (Scott, the contractor Lady Dar has asked to provide a quotation on the planned extension to the front of the house, was to come by at 3:00 pm to discuss the plans she has for project.) Zircon was happy to go as he was taking Linda for a drive anyway. 

I was suited up by the time he was ready to leave so we said goodbye and then I headed out. Had looked at the weather report and knew that the wind was supposed to be out of the south at but 11 kph, according to AccuWeather but when I looked at PenAir it was a completely different story. Yes,, out of the SSE but increasing from 25 kph to 31 kph, and then dropping to 20 kph over the time I was going to be riding. Tough enough to ride against but gusts were horrible, from 45 kph to 40 kph to 31 kph. Had toyed with a jaunt to OK Falls but the thought of having to stand up in my saddle, for most if not all of the way there, was too, too off-putting, so I fell back on my fall-back route, down Ellis to PTC and then Lakeshore to Riverside. Back to PTC and then struggled up Ellis to dipsy-doodle my way off streets below Pickering until I was ready to hit the KVR. Made a number of trips up to Vancouver Ave and back as wind pushed me uphill and slope, on return run, made fight against the blasts more of an equal fight.

Had 34 km on the clock by the time I was ready to head for Middle Bench and heading south on it, just to gauge wind resistance, I found that it wasn't all that bad. This being the case I described two loops of MB/UB and after the last round returned to Vancouver Ave to zip downhill on it and then more or less coasted the rest of the way home on the KVR. Pleased to have cheated Aeolus out of much of his considerable sting, although the 17.9 kph AVG was pretty dismal, fierce winds or not. Still I was back home in plenty of time to be ready for parlay with Scott. Even ahead of Lady Dar who was lunching with Lynne at The Cellar, a cosy spot on Main. Cheers! Map and Stats for ride:
 
https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2583651185#.WrrGF3cnMw8.email 

Hi Linda, Zircon and Northern Niece Kyla! Thanks for the wonderful, wonderful evening of delicious, delicious appetizers, (cheeses and Belgian endive scrumptiosities), succulent bbq'd chicken, roasted spudolas with assorted root vegetables and Peruvian palm-heart salad, not to mention fabulous dessert wine, imported at great expense, from Vancouver Island! You are all to be commended for enduring Lady Dar's experimental torte, (gone terribly wrong, Clarisse, missing a key ingredient, zucchero), but enough wine fixes anything!

Lovely to meet you, Kyla, and trust your bike buying goes well. Travel safely, you two, as you make your respective ways back to Medicine Hat and Prince George. Happy Easter to one and all. Thanks again, from The Burns Street Gang. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Zircon returns to Burns Street. Feast on Phoenix! (Note The "Young" with the two, grumpy "Olds"!)

[Swans in the park near us. You won't see this very often!]
 
Hello world traveller! I'm getting the impression that you don't like staying at home! You make me positively exhausted by just reading about your sojourns! Your timing is not particularly on the money though. Our friends from the Delta are taking a 3 week river cruise through Europe at the beginning of May. We are not joining them on the cruise since we are meeting up with them this summer on the Alaska cruise and there is only so much money I can spend on these exotic holidays! However, prior to their river cruise they are spending time in Holland and we have arranged to take the Eurostar from London for a short break to visit with them. Therefore, we will be away from April 23rd until May 2nd. We will be back a week then heading up to Hampshire the following week. Then we are away from June 8th to Canada. We will be here from April 17th to Sat April 22nd so you are more than welcome if those dates suite. Not sure if this may be cutting it a bit to fine for you but you are more than welcome.
 

[Gayle on one of the few nice winter days.] 
 
We have someone staying in the flat while we are away to look after Spuddy. Poor old boy isn't doing so well and we don't like to leave him on his own since his feeding regime has changed to small amounts of food several times a day. He has lost half his body weight in the last 18 months. We have had various blood tests done and although his vital organs seem OK for his age it appears that he has developed a Thyroid disease. Because he is an old cat the vet didn't recommend any intervention so we are just monitoring him. Will take him back in June before we head out to Canada. We have decided to limit the trip to just two weeks since, although my nephew is staying in the house while we are away, we can't expect him to look after the boy for any length of time with so much intensive care!!
 

[My painting handiwork in the kitchen!]

Our winter has been dreadful this year and if it hadn't been for Spud I think we would have gone to Florida for a month. It has been very cold (well cold for us) and wet and we even had several days of snow. You won't see the white stuff down here very often. The fields were saturated with lots of standing water. The kids liked the snow though since it's a bit of a novelty for them. I have pretty much given up cycling now. To be quite honest I was getting tired of all the Cornish hills and wasn't finding it particularly enjoyable any more. It also meant that we had to limit our coastal and countryside walking because of the time taken up cycling! I prefer now to take longer walks and, when the weather is cooperating, we take our rucksack with coffee and sandwiches and head off to the cliffs. Some of the coastal walks can be quite challenging but the upside is one can stop and enjoy the lovely views!

[Whistler trying to catch snow balls!] 
 
We still have our bikes and will probably take them up to the camel trail in the summer and, obviously, stop in at the vineyard for a glass of Bacchus and some olives! Your Time Share (oops I mean part ownership) sounds delightful and will be a nice place to relax during the summer by the lake. If Spud is no longer with us next year we will make a point of visiting so that you can take us to see it. I'm sure Chloe must be excited about moving in to her new townhouse as well.

 

[Tristan at the Seal Sanctuary.]
 
I am in the middle of painting our kitchen cabinets at the moment. Seemed like a good idea at the time but is taking longer than I had anticipated. As soon as they are done we will replace the countertops and flooring. The cupboards are good quality wood but were looking more than a little tired and we didn't want to go to the expense of putting in new cabinets since we would not get our money back when we move. We are heading up to Hampshire on Sunday to pick up Tristan and bring him back here for half term. Marnie, Ant and the dog are coming the week after for a few days. We had him down a few weeks ago and visited the Seal Sanctuary which he loves. They had dozens of injured seals in the sanctuary this winter because of the ferocious seas which caused a lot of injuries. They are gradually being released back into the ocean as their injuries heal. Well I must be away. Fondest to Corrine and Chloe. Derek


Hello Swan/Snow/Seal People! Thanks for speedy reply. Fab pictures, indeed! Just heard from friend, Penny, in London, and she and her partner, are travelling as much as you two! That being said, they will be home on Saturday, April 21st so it looks like I will be able to fit in with your travel schedule, if that is still fine with you. I'm currently looking at train/bus connections but assume I'd leave Truro on the 22nd. Trust you will enjoy the Easter weekend. Sorry to hear you have given up attacking the Cornish hills, Derek! Fondestos from Lady Dar, busy packing up foodstuffs for meals this weekend. Cheers to you both, Patrizzio! 

Hi Pat, I really do enjoy your emails, and I can say that I read them all right through! So thanks for keeping me on your list, even though you are now on one of my lists, in this case one headed "Overdue Emails", so there are others I owe letters to.

Sounds like you had a good winter as well, away from the cold and dark for the most of it. And now, before you know it, you'll be off again on another adventure! Great! The two bike trips sound interesting. Is Corinne coming with you to Europe or holding the fort at home and having a peaceful time?

Kjell and I had a nice time in Tenerife. I appreciated being away from here for the entire month of January as my location on the beach is great for summer but hopeless in the winter. Sun disappears for about six weeks and then gradually, gradually returns until about now where it is here til late afternoon before disappearing. I do think that like everyone else in the northern hemisphere we'll be so glad to get some warmth and sun for more than a few days.

We're going to Vancouver Thursday morning, coming home Saturday night, staying with Paul and Joan this time. Thursday we're going en masse to some movie about Karl Marx and then en masse (there will be eight of us) for dinner at some place near. Friday night will be a get together of most of the same characters at Liisa's. I really need to get my act together about going to Vancouver. I put it off and off but then in the end enjoy it, except for the traffic, of course. And I also keep forgetting that really it isn't far, and that most of the journey is either on the ferry or waiting for it, so if you can keep the right frame of mine is not tiring at all.

Will send this of and see if I can do a few more before bed! Kjell is here till April 11th. He has been playing a lot of tennis when it isn't raining. Big hi to Corinne! And of course do let me know if you ever come over to the Island. Best, Jane (and Kjell)

Hi Nicky and Paddy! Trust you are both well. Looking forward to the possibility of seeing you both as I fly to Paris on April 16th and am then travelling to Truro. Will be leaving Cornwall on Sunday, April 22nd to stay with friends in London until the end of the month If you are around I thought I might take a day trip to say hello if your busy schedules allow. Anyway, let me know what you think and I'll plan accordingly. Fondestos to you both from Lady Dar. Cheers, Patrizzio!