Early Morning Back Lane Cat Fight Blues: Tuesday, July 31st!

We've all got both light and dark inside us. What matters is the part we choose to act on. That's who we really are. -J.K. Rowling, author (b. 31 Jul 1965) 

Yup we are here! no umbrella cocktails for us. We can have a quick chat with your visitor. On Sat? Senka Hi Non-Umbrella Woman! Sorry to learn that you are drinking straight out of the bottle but thanks very much for agreeing to have a chat with Jane. Certainly much appreciated. What time, on Saturday, would be convenient? Cheers, Patrizzio!

Bollard, Photo: MichaelMaggs/Wikimedia

Hi Pat, thanks for the pix and update. (please destroy them immediately!) Forwarding to Penny. It was great seeing you and Corinne. Next year I'm joining you. It'll be calmer! Thought Ry was a bust, but that's a personal opinion. Lynn

Hello Your Un-Calmness! Terrific to see you as well. Sorry we didn't have a chance to visit more but since you will be staying with us in Penticton, sometime this Fall, we can catch-up then. [You can ever wait for Paul's Trip Advisor report before you decide to book!] Last of cork flooring is going in as I scribe so Lady Dar is delighted with progress.

Bollard, Photo: KVDP/Wikimedia

[Hi Stanchion Man! Thought you might appreciate a couple of shots of your distinct trademark! Cheers, Patrizzio!]

Have already shredded enegatives, bar one set, now resting quietly in my Swiss bank's vault, [Just in case I need future leverage!], so rest calmly until you receive my first blackmail missive! Then you can really start to hyperventilate and begin panic attacks in earnest!! Until then, stay well. Fondestos from Lady Dar, busy recovering patio chairs! Cheers, All the Money in the World, Patrizzio! PS: I couldn't agree more with your comment about Ry, unfortunately. I have felt, for some time now, at least with respect to FF, that many of these "big name" draws are often past their prime and can never really live up to the hype of pre-Festival billing, or indeed, to our musical memories of earlier times. [Last time I looked, I wasn't aging, but that was fifty years ago!] I liken it to The River Rock Casino Syndrome, usually found in Baby Boomers, or later generations, [I spit on Heavy Metal, Disco, and now Rap, Hip Hop but that is just my grumpiness speaking!], yearning, desperately, for a lost, golden past, that never, ironically, ever existed. What is it with our species and aging? Pics: New covering for patio chairs. Duke demonstrating pure calmness, inner and outer stillness, even amidst chaos of construction!

A Happy Miner...Can anyone guess why Petey has the big smile? And, extra points if you can guess where he is! Hello Quiz Mistress! Hardhat Man, (Isn't it supposed to be white?], just managed to start all the pumps and thereby prevented another tailings pond spill and slurry disaster at Mount Polley! Super-Miner! Faster at evacuation than an industrial sump pump! Stronger than an open-pit excavator! Brighter than the Brightest Mining Engineer! A Hero for all Times, a Miner for All Seasons! Cheers, Patrizzio! Petey was is in Brasil and has either struck gold or was invited by the indígenas brasileiros for a drink.

Hi everyone, Yesterday's beach bridge extravaganza was a blast! I had great fun with everyone and yes, the eats were delicious. Thanks Jos for putting it together. It was fantastic seeing all of you!!! I missed you guys. A special welcome back Patrizzio and thanks for the pics. Tuesday at 5 at any of the location is fine with me.

Jos, remember that we have our first golf lesson on Tuesday. We can organize the golf to be followed by our bridge evening thus spending the afternoon and eve in Penticton. You can get back to me on that later and me know what your thoughts are. I'll start looking for the orzo....and finding it will mean I will bring an orzo salad (pasta)....or I could make another fruit/dessert platter,
just let me know what you prefer. Hugs for now, Olly Hi Orzo Olga! Wonderful indeed, to see you after quite a few months. Glad you enjoyed snaps. Thanks again for incredible dessert. Where are your golf lessons? If close to Skaha, then perhaps we should have bridge picnic there. Anyway, will wait until we hear from more people. I'm just about to have the "overleft" berries with yogurt! Thanks and Cheers, Patrizzio!
 

[Colleen Teahan Waldron Pulled pork Benny...yes or no??? — at Sunshine Valley, British Columbia. Yes, indeed but ...]

Hi Stanchion Man, et al! Thought you might appreciate a couple of snapolas of your distinct trademark! My new trademark is a pair of tin-snips! Following Mr Fixit's template for rain barrel on back patio, I managed to set up one of our small rain barrels on ledge near front door. Nothing for such accomplished handypeople like the rest of you! Stay well, far-flung friends. Fondestos from Mme Coriandre to one and all Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Cyclisti Beware! Stanchion-free ride! Famiglia Carter and Pickleball Patient, taken on Folk Fest weekend.

Looks like a fun time was had by all. Tuesday does not work for me, more than unfortunately. I am doing yoga on my beach blanket at Wharf Park on Tuesday night at 6. I’ll catch up with you soon😎 Pam Hi Beach Blanket Yoga Practictioner! Too, too bad but trust our paths will cross in the not too, too distant future! Cheers, Patrizzio! 👍😎 Great evening everybody. Praque sounds exotic for next Tuesday evening 5pm. Jos Hi Josinta! "Praque" is truly exotic, if it exists. Lady Dar and I vote for beach in front of Prague Café. On the bridge, as opposed to the beach front, you played so well last night that I wonder if you might consider giving me lessons! Cheers, Patrizzio!

[...Lady Dar's salmon steaks...]
 
Really impressed with chore resolutions - come down anytime for similar at OO. Love the front shade tents - ancient M*skhga°`ugh altar? Hi Stefano, et al!

Return to Old Oak would be like a pilgrimage to the Holy Grinder! Didn't have any time for chore resolution yesterday as spent a goodly part of day vacuuming new floor and kitchen area now that most of work there, for time being, is largely completed. Then on to moving books from first bay of shelving in Rumpus Room. Existing finishing edge on top step was not quite high enough to butt against new flooring so had to be removed and when replaced chaps will need room to put new fixture in place.

[...and twice-baked cauliflower are pretty durn appetizing as well!]

That evening we had been invited for dinner by Rebecca and Corey at their rental suite in Sendero. They are "jealous" of Chloë's move-in date, August 8th, as their own has now been moved into December, perhaps January! The two-bedroom suite is actually quite well laid out and comfortably furnished but with two small children didn't take long for cabin fever to set in. Before we knocked on their door we took a spin past Chloë's townhouse as I'd not seen it since April. Walk-through is on Friday so I've been instructed to turn on every light switch and tap, poke my nose into every cupboard, nook and cranny. 

[Not to mention Linda's scrumptious Mediterranean salad...]
 
Chloë joined us after her spin class and told us about her meet with the young woman who will rent the townhouse ground level "suite". She will move in at the end of August. Has its own entrance, bedroom and bathroom so will be self-contained, although kitchen will be shared. Fairly recently, I understand, Shruti arrived from India, [Apparently her father is a wine importer.], and is a well-qualified Sommelier. She works for Culmina, high-end winery out of Oliver, started by Don Triggs, entrepreneur who started Jackson-Triggs, after some conglomerate bought out JT. We happened to taste there when at Spirit Ridge and were impressed with set-up and product. Anyway, Chloë mentioned that Shruti asked if she minded if she cooked Indian dishes so we are already making plans for heavily discounted Culmina wine and lamb curry!

[..and kartofellage saladin!]

After Ashlynn and Avery went to bed, [Thanks, so much, for absolutely mouth-watering Bad Tattoo pizza, [gluten-free!], and salad, Beckerster and Kid Chelene, not to mention all the Corona, with lime, and wine! (Nicolina and Marvinator, bottle of Black Sage red was phenomenal!), we played a round of cribbage enjoying chatting and sipping. [Lady Dar needs more lessons, Rosita!] Sarge arrives tomorrow to take care of the girls while parents are on shift. He will stay with us, on Rumpus Room couch as Murphy beds are boxed in, literally! 

Same day, Jane Gross, colleague of Ayn's at Crown Media, lands in Kelowna to stay at a B&B in Naramata for a few days. She will come for dinner, [Sarge is bbq'ing!], on Friday and I have arranged for her to meet a number of our wine-club wine-makers, (Terravista, Upper Bench and Roche), as she is currently working on her Sommelier credentials. On Saturday, he and Corey, with granddaughters, will drive to Seattle for a Mariners game! Jet-set, (Boeing Dreamliner, of course!), Sutherlands! Cheers, Garden Gnome Patrizzio! Pics: Culmina; Sendero Townhouse and Basement Suite! Cork flooring. Buona Fortuna Sarge!

 
Hello Lady Patrizzia and Sir James! Must apologize, yet again, for being a tardy correspondent. Not sure if you checked your voice-mail but Lady Dar earlier this morning, I believe. At any rate, trust you are both well. Have been meaning to send along a missive for weeks but recent events conspired against my good intentions. Fondestos from Cora Lee to you, Sir James, and Lady Patrizzia. Cheers, Patrizzio!
 

Hi Wild Bill! Must apologize, yet again, for being a tardy correspondent. At any rate, pleased as punch that you are doing so well and in line for a hip replacement. You'll soon be as bionic as I am, with two titanium hips! Very sorry to hear about your sister's cancer diagnosis. Corinne's 38 year old niece, Marlo, back in Manitoba, was diagnosed with terminal bone cancer this past May. How her husband and two children, 7 and 11, will cope, is beyond imagining. I didn't know about Joyce but please pass along condolences to her husband even though I don't believe I ever met him. Stay well, William! Fondestos from Lady Dar and Chloë, to you, Wild Bill. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pic: My Brodie on an Allu-trainer. Want to ride on a stationary bike before I head back out on the roads! [Near the end of my truly wonderful European bike tour, [Matt Garrey was with me for two week tour in Poland.], I came down with pneumonia and spent a week in hospital, near the end of June, in Berlin! Clean bill of health once home but still not back to fighting fitness.

Cork Floor Blues: Monday, July 30th!

I am now quite cured of seeking pleasure in society, be it country or town. A sensible man ought to find sufficient company in himself. -Emily Bronte, novelist (30 Jul 1818-1848) 

Hi again, Trilingual Man! You'll be speaking in tongues next!I know you will have all sorts of demands on your time, particularly as departure looms. However, to reiterate, you are always welcome so please feel free to visit whenever busy schedule might suit, no matter other visitors. The More the Merrier!

Busy day yesterday with all sorts of yard chores to accomplish. Mighty proud of my Tinsnip Self as I managed to set up one of our small rain barrels on ledge near front door. Have had barrels since last summer but never seemed to get around to putting them in place. Lady Dar moved quite of few of the cactii growing in planter as needed as much support for barrel. Even had pieces of drainpipe to use for connection. Not the most elegant solution but at least system will work until I can come up with something more aesthetically pleasing. Have done much the same for barrel in back patio but I need to run to Rona for a number of elbows before I can tap into downspout. Placed barrel on a platform of bricks so that it is easier to put a watering can under taps. As well, will attach a small length of hose to bottom outlet, drill a hole in downspout and thread hose into it to reroute discharge when barrel is full, obviously during heavy rains/rainy season. At front, I'll do the same but will reroute discharge across sidewalk into front garden. Nothing for an accomplished handyman like you but a giant leap forward for a klutz like me. Anyway, i'm chuffed.

For her par, Lady Dar is working on "tenting" shade fabric over three plants she has put on boulevard. Although she started yesterday, day was so hot in the late afternoon that she decided to wait until this morning to complete task. Pleasnt enough until sun climbs a bit higher. Had "cousin" Michelle Dunn, and her new amore, Antonio, over for dinner last night. [They met on Strata Council for their building and spoke most highly about Chloë as it is in her portfolio.] We spent a lovely time in back patio and evening cooled off nicely once sun was down.

As I scribe, cork flooring is being put down so we are more than delighted, as you can imagine! Must away as Lady Dar wants to head out to Garden Works for more shade material and I want to go to Rona, just down the street, for elbows and some staples. Have a full box but they are too large for staple gun I can find! Another project is to recover two more front patio chairs, to match existing ones, as well as all our dining room chairs, from red to a darker pattern to match kitchen cabinet doors. Another busy day as we have also arranged to play bridge, first time since before I left for Europe. Will have a pot-luck in Summerland. Josinta offered to host and we are both looking forward to seeing many of the gang.

Let us know what you think might work for a visit. Stay well. Fondestos from Xeriscape Woman to you both. Cheers, Damn The Downspouts and Full Speed Ahead, Patrizzio! Pics: Rain barrel on back patio; Allu trainer; chairs waiting for Old Oakians; front rain barrel; shade tenting, high tec, low tec! Antonio and Michelle.

Hi Gavin and Shana! Trust you are both well and have been drinking countless cocktails, with tiny umbrellas, watching the sunsets! Thanks again for the fab, fab party. What a blast, as ever!

Back to work on Thursday, I gather, from popping in to UB this past Saturday. Lad Dar had a wedding at Red Rooster and I was chauffeur. Anyway, we will have a friend visiting from LA, flying into Kelowna on Thursday and staying, for a number of days, in an AirBNB in Naramata. She is currently studying for her Sommerlier's designation and I was wondering if you might be available to have a chat with her, at some point, over the course of her stay. I understand, from staff in Tasting Room, that you will be back on Wednesday so if you are available, and willing, of course, I'll give you a call, [Once you have re-integrated yourself into working life!], and see what might suit, if at all. Please don't worry if you'd can't meet Jane as I know how busy you are. Fondestos from Lady Dar to you and your bikini-clad, Tequila swilling companion! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Lady Dar, before and after, wedding ceremony!

Hi Dylan! Trust you are well and enjoyed this past weekend. I popped into the winery this past Saturday. I understand, from staff in Tasting Room, that you will be pouring this weekend, [While they are at the beach!], so if you can meet with Jane, for a chat, that would be most appreciated. Thanks and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Alabriña and Bobolino! Trust you are both well, wherever you are! I gather, from popping up to Terravista, this past Saturday, that Tasting Room is now closed for rest of season. I have been wondering if you might be available to have a chat with friend, Jane. If I don't hear beack from you I'll assume you are somewhere exotic, un-plugged, thinking about non-winery matters! Fondestos from Lady Dar to you both. Thanks and Cheers, Patrizzio!  

Hi Patrick, Counting down the minutes until part two of my summer holiday extravaganza! Leaving Rhode Island now. Quick turn around then off to BC on Wednesday! I arrive relatively late so my plan is to head straight to my Airbnb. I would absolutely love to join you on Friday - thank you so much for the lovely dinner invitation. What can I bring? Hoping the fires are under control... reals my heart whenever a new one breaks out. So looking forward to meeting you and the gang! And Cousin Bill! See you soon! Cheers, Jane

Hi Rhode Island Red! Since I didn't know when you were flying into Kelowna I left dinner invitations open. At any rate, delighted that you will joining for the BBQ Cook-Off! Both Sarge and Lady Dar feel the grill can not be be handled by anyone other than The King or The Queen. Make sure you are here for the duel with sharpened tongs, a full glass of wine in the non-weapon hand! Just bring your fencing mask as things have turned very nasty in the past!

On wine-tasting front, I took the liberty to pop into both Upper Bench and Roche, almost cheek-by-jowl to each other. [Lad Dar had a wedding at Red Rooster and I was chauffeur.] While neither Gavin nor Dylan were in, Tasting Room staff said they would be around on weekend so I've sent them a message informing them of your coming visit to see if they would be able to chat with you. 

I gather, from driving up to Terravista, after dropping Lady Dar at Red Rooster, that the Tasting Room is now closed for rest of season. This being the case and fact that I had not heard back from voice mail I left for her, I sent Senka a similar message. Give me a call once you are settled at your place in The Naramata and we can chat about Friday, both wine-tasting and dinner. Travel safely, Jetliner Jane! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Lady Dar at Red Rooster, before and after ceremony! Cork flooring being installed this morning!

Hi Deborah, and Ann! I did receive your message of July 15th and have been meaning to reply for weeks but that was last day of Folk Fest at Jericho Beach. We'd driven to Vancouver on the Thursday before that weekend and then headed down to Osoyoos, to Spirit Ridge, day after we were home. [We own a "fractional condo there and friends, Colleen and Al, were up to spend a few days with us there.] At this point even more events conspired against my good intentions. Stay well. Fondestos from Lady Dar, to you, Deborah, and Ann. [Gather from Clara, that your mom seems very well, Ann. Were you back at Falcon?], busy stapling new fabric to the patio chair seats. Cheers, Damn The Downspouts and Full Speed Ahead, Patrizzio! Thanks for the comprehensive update, Patrick. I am glad that you are feeling well enough to do all the gardening, partying and entertaining!!! All the best, Ann

Hi Torontonians and Falcon Lake Five Spaders! Lady Dar is the Gardener Extraordinaire but I'm still the Official Photographer for our bridge group. Stay well. Fondestos and Cheers, Garden Gnome Patrizzio! Change of location. Due to the hot weather we are playi ng at Powell Beach in Troutcreek tonight. Bring your drink plates and cutlery and...your BATHING SUIT. I will bring the cards and tablecloths. See you at 6pm at Powell Beach. Jos, Olly, Gill and Phil Hi Bathing-suit Bidders! Trust the cards are waterproof! Last one in has to shuffle! Cheers, Patrizzio! Great idea!!! Judy Blue!

Hi Powell Beach Babes and Boys! Thanks to everyone for terrific picnic and Bridge on the Beach, (A rival, in Spades, to Vancouver's Bard on the Beach!), bash! All of the food was more than delectable, so a hearty round of applause to all the contributors. Of course, it was truly wonderful to see so many friends again, what with holidays and summer travel. Hip Hip Hooray!

With respect to next week, it was suggested, if I recall correctly, that Tuesday might work for another beach blanket extravaganza. Locations put forward include beach in front of Prague Café, at one of beaches in Naramata or Skaha Lake Park. Let the voting begin for day of the week and locazzione! Wherever we gather perhaps we should try for 5:00 pm, or thereabouts, so that a swim before eating and bridge is possible and then there is still ample time for bidding before light begins to fade and mosquitoes invade! Fondestos from Gazpacho Woman. Cheers, Patrizzio! Viewer Warning:  This album contains scenes of quasi-nudity, barely suppressed bidding violence and wanton frolicking! Content rating: Prohibitive: Exclusively for older audience, for which most qualify! great shots of (acceptable nudity)! Aarturo the fingerpicking mountain bard Hi Finger-Pickin' Man! Sorry we didn't say goodnight as you had flown da coop when we finished playing. At any rate, great to see you and thanks for being "Official Photographer", at times. Hope you'll join us next week. No afternoon wine-tasting beforehand!!! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Patrick, Yes, I can recognize Dunajec boat run in Tatra mountains 😋, good for you - except this bloody flat tire - ouch! Cheers. Mike Hi Kite-surfer Man! Yes, with your eagle eye you win the quiz so this earns you 1,000 points towards the next set of fabulous bridge prizes! We missed you at Powell Beach but trust you might be back for next week's gathering. Cheers, Puncture Patrizzio!  Thanks Patrick, I might be back on time for the next game, unless the Gods of Wind decide to support me, thus my stay on the Island would be longer. Cheers and happy bidding. Mike Enjoy whatever The Fates present, Michaelo! Cheers, Patrizzio! Looks like a fun time was gad by all. Tuesday does not work for me unfortunately. I am doing yoga on my beach blanket at Wharf Park on Tuesday night at 6. I’ll catch up with you soon😎 Pam Hi Beach Blanket Yoga Practictioner! Too, too bad but trust our paths will cross in the not too, too distant future! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Allu-Brodie Bike Trainer and Rain Barrel Blues: Sunday, July 29th!

It takes a certain maturity of mind to accept that nature works as steadily in rust as in rose petals. -Esther Warner Dendel, writer and artist (1910-2002)

Not up until 8:30 am as I'd gone to bed just after 1:00 am, watching the penultimate stage, 20, of the Tour, individual time trials. Quite exciting as Chris Froome managed to knock Primož Roglič out of Third into Fourth, swapping places with him as a result of his blistering time. Nail-biting right to finish as Tom Dumoulin had lost the stage win, to Chris, initially, but course timing was wrong and so reversed after review to give victory to Tom, by one second! Almost beyond belief! Too, too bad for Chris as it would have been a stage win for him, something that had eluded him on this Tour, especially as he had struggled with atypical poor form, for almost entire event. At any rate, he joins Geraint Thomas, his trusted lieutenant, on all six of his earlier major tour victories, on the podium. Has the torch passed? Did this year's Giro victory take too, too much energy out of his legs for him to compete as strongly as the ravaging three week Tour always demands?  Rankings for all the categories should remain the same unless a catastrophic accidento prevents any of the holders from finishing Stage 21 around the Avenue des Champs-Élysées at the Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile! Will be more than curious to see what next year brings as riders declare their intentions or retirements. Bravo! Onward!! Fight!!!

[Chloe Alexis Dunn

Catfish x 2 #besties ❤️ #daydate #swimwithbeers #eveningswimsarethebest — with Katie in Peachland]

Hello Summerlandia and Naramatia! Thanks for the lovely visit on Friday, Josinta and Aarturo! Great to catch up over the best cappuccino in the South Okanagan, if not The Known Universe! Terrific to meet Miles this morning, even if I poured my java inferiore over him. Oops! Does he have extended travel insurance? At any rate, wanted to send along these snaps before my role as cruelly indentured servant begins, yet again, once Lady Dar returns to her domaine. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio, The Heavily Oppressed but Ever Optimistic Peon! Pics: Wild Bill, Rita and Miles. Pat Dunn, you are a good man. Thanks for the photos and good to see Aart and Jos, and Corrine also. Hi again, Wild Bill! Glad you enjoyed snaps. Cheers, Patrizzio!
  
Such great pic's of the beasts.....ha.    Wonderful photography......and great news.....boy, you folks keep busy.   Your still a'bikin too.....good to hear you ride the country-side even when hot or cold.....Your amazing for the miles you put on.  Love to you guys...…..Arv & Sandee xxxx Seniors Got it Figured Out !!

Hi Sandee! Funnily enough, the more malt I consume, the better I ride! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hello, Corinne! Hope all is well with you! Ann (Hughes) mentioned Patrick had had a spill off his bike in Europe. I sent an email to him the other day but haven't heard back. Just wondering how he is? Deborah Hi Deborah, Patrick actually had 2 falls while walking in Poland after his month long bike trips had finished. He was unsteady due to pneumonia. After 2 stays in hospital in Poland he ended up staying for a week in hospital in Berlin. I flew over to escort him home. He is recovering nicely but still not bike riding.

To make things more hectic we have gutted our kitchen and putting in new everything. So have been cooking on the BBQ and washing dishes in bathroom sink for over a month. Lower cabinets are now in, floor to be installed tomorrow and by end of the week upper cabinets should be in. However we are waiting on the sink before counter tops can be put in place. So it could be several more weeks of chaos. Chloe has been living here since beginning of Oct, working as a Strata Manager and moves into her new townhouse on Aug. 8th. Once her things go we can start to reorganize our life again. Hope you are well, Hugs Corinne

Hi Pat and Corinne - It was good to see you both at the Folk Fest and thanks again for sharing your blanket. Trust you are safely established at home and that the air quality isn't too bad from the fires. It is bloody hot in Vancouver and no sign of rain in the next week plus. We are getting interesting sun sets from the Burns Bog fire. Strange times.

As we discussed briefly, we will be in the Okanagan the third week of September with my cousin Henry and his wife Una. We have a condo booked in Kelowna from Sat 22 through Mon Sept 24th. The usual hotels we stay in near my sister (the Eldorado ...) were fully booked for this period. We could either stop over in Penticton for one (Tues the 25th) or two nights with you or head home directly depending. If you are still open to a visit and if circumstances would permit you to have four of us stay with you, this would be great. If not, no worries at all. If we can't stay we would try and arrange to connect with you for a lunch or coffee on our way through on the way home. I'll keep in touch closer to the time and the final decision on whether a stay over is feasible can be very last minute. Enjoy the rest of the summer and keep cool. Cheers....Paul

Hi Paulo, and Lynn! More than pleased you could join us on Folk Fest blanket. Sorry that Joan wasn't up to it. Hope her knee is recovering. Looking forward to your visit, avec cousins. You can arm-wrestle to see who gets guest bedroom and who the Murphy bed. I suspect The Irish Connection will want latter! At any rate, we should be back to normal, by then, what with Chloë's move into Il Palazzo di Sendoro, on August 8th, and installation of kitchen sink a week later, fingers crossed. In fact, cork flooring is being laid as I scribe and we hope to have all of the upper cabinets installed by week's end! [Cheque's in the mail!] Please plan to stay for at least two nights, or more, as it will make visit a tad more relaxed.

Had been meaning to send along snapolas of Folk Fest for weeks but we headed to Spirit Ridge day after we were home and then events conspired against my good intentions. Let us know what you think about visit. Stay well. Fondestos from Xeriscape Woman to you both. Cheers,Patrizzio! PS: Lynn, please forward to Penny The Scorned, and to Dave, if you have his address. I thought that I had both but seems not so! Pics: Sunday at Folk Fest.

 

Hi Old Farts, Problem……..This Thursday, I will be unavailable for the hike. Would anyone out there be interested in leading (including choosing the destination)? If you let me know today, I can put out information, but it will have to be sooner rather than later. I can put out the info to my mailing list if you let me know soon. Cheers, Jim Hi folks, Pete P. is going to lead a hike on Thursday to Brent Mountain. -Meet at Home Hardware north parking lot in P’ton at 0800 (0740 at IGA in Summerland) -Head for the Brent Mountain trailhead (high clearance might be an idea) -Enjoy! Thanks, Pete! Cheers, Jim

Lady Dar and the Daily Watering Can Blues: Saturday, July 28th!

Good prose is like a windowpane. -George Orwell, writer (1903-1950)
 

Hi Steinbachians! Trust you are both well. Just had a Friend request from you, Sandee, on Facebook. Since we are already friends I am wondering if you have been hacked. Has happened to numerous other friend so thought I'd sent along this "alert"!

 

Just back from the Farmers' Market, buying beets and corn for tomorrow night's dinner. Chloë and Her Fashion/Furnishings Advisor are out looking for a bed for Sendero, as well as fabric to recover the four dining table chairs she received from a friend. So far Chloë has had two people who are interested in the ad she put up for her downstairs room. Must away as I am taking The MarriageMobile in to have a chip in windshield repaired. Noticed booth in parking lot at Canadian Tire earlier this morning when we picked up a couple of storage units for patio cushions and such. Lad there said it was just on cusp of being able to be filled so hope he is right! Stay well. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Cactus Cats this morning!

On Saturday afternoon, while Lady Dar was performing a wedding at Red Rooster, [Before and After!], I picked up a number of wine releases.  At Popular Grove I was taken with parachutes, in spite of smoke haze. At Township 7 there were four "Babes" well into tasting. I gave each one of them Lady Dar's card so who knows what future marriage business might be drummed up. Their new patio set-up is very attractive and we should organize a game of bocci as there has been a pitch, amidst the vines, for a year or so now. 

Hi everyone from my secret kite-surfing spot! Michaelo! Hello Michaelo et al: Somewhere in South America? Somewhere in Poland! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Bidders all, please Identify locazziones for fabulous bridge prizes!Bridge and Pot Luck on Monday nite at Jos's: Hi Everyone, short notice but thought we should have a game and a pot luck on Monday if enough people are around. Jos has offered to host. Reply if you can come for 6 pm. Happy Hot Weekend, Best Corinne Count me in...... I'm excited to see everyone! Thanks Corrine and Jos..... see you Monday at 6. Hugs, Olly Sounds great. I will be there!

Want to carpool Corinne? JudyI will bring a BBQ chicken Judy Sounds yummy and fun everybody. I will have chipotle blackbean burgers. Looking forward to see everybody on Monday. Jos. I’ll bring an orzo salad. Olly See everyone tomorrow. I'll bring orzo salad. Hugs, Olly Hi again, Orzo has left town.....both Nesters and the IGA are out of it. So I will be bringing a dessert platter... blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and some goodies instead of the orzo salad. Hugs, Olly Thanks Jos and Corinne Phil and i will be there. We'll bring a salad and fresh baked bread. bye Gill Hi Spiller Road Folk! If you'd like to carpool with us, be at Burns Street Construction Zone, with hard hats, at 5:40 pm. Cheers, Patrizzio!Corinne, Thanks for organizing a Bridge night and Jos thank you for hosting. Unfortunately I am working tomorrow so I am unable to attend. Have fun! Pamela

 

Josinta and Aarturo & The Summertime Summerlandia Blues: Friday, July 27th!

Euphemism is a euphemism for lying. -Bobbie Gentry, singer and songwriter (b. 27 Jul 1944) 

Hi Patrice and Coriandre, Thank you for the update and great pics! Sorry to hear about Duke and the trip having to be cut short but very glad that he is doing well relatively speaking. Hopefully he asserted himself sufficiently as the alpha male to stave off any further confrontations with this neighbourhood bully. Glad to hear the wine gala’s were fun and I definitely recognize the Upper bench locale, was that cute Collie there wanting you to throw the ball?.
 

It is I who must apologize for not getting in touch sooner after the wonderful time we had and you warm and generous hospitality which we greatly enjoyed. It was so nice to get a chance to spend some time with you both again and catch up on the last several months. I must say I really enjoyed watching some of the Tour de France with you as well and getting to learn the ins and outs which of course never had any idea was so complex..have they actually finished yet or does it continue?.
 

We had a great drive up to Salmon arm and the Sunbeam was a real treat to drive with the top down all the way although at times it was quite cool and we needed to put the heat on and add a layer. Quite interesting to see the various small towns such as Enderby, etc., along the way and the changing landscapes. I must say that if we never had to drive through Kelowna again we would be quite happy. With it’s non synchronized abundance of traffic lights coupled with the heat of the day it was slightly irritating. Before that we drove through the fires of Peachland many of which were still burning and we could see the flames. Interestingly I noticed that the trees themselves were still intact and it was really only the sage and grass that had seemed to have burned off. I am sure there were worse areas but glad to see that a lot of the trees had survived.

Pulling into Salmon Arm around 5 we received a warm welcome from Ivan and Sherrie, Jacob’s long time soccer coach and his wife. We were pretty impressed as They had a huge 5th wheel / toy hauler right on top of a slope overlooking the lake. Their friends Jim and Elana ( jim and Ivan have known each other since kindergarten) also have a 5th wheel of similar size and they have them perpendicular to each other forming a large area probably 35’ x 35’ facing the lake where they have built outdoor kitchen’s , fire pit, and room for lounge chairs, dining tables etc. quite impressive really and much more than expected. 

 They have both been very successful in their various professions with Ivan being a mortgage broker/ property developer and Jim a partner in a large architectural roofing company with 130 employees. That being said they both have the latest high tech ski boats, Ivan a Malibu Wakesetter and Jim a brand new Supra with a super charger!. We are talking $100.000 + price tags. Needless to say they are impressive with room for up to 18 people, computerized interactive displays that manipulate, speed, ballast and trim paddles to form a specific wave shape customized and memory programmed to individual users. They Also have the ability to switch the wave from one side to the other alter the height etc with the touch of a button on the touch screen panel!. On top of that a ridiculous stereo system, all blue tooth from your phone if you want as well as an array of led lights so you can be out in the dark. We actually did go out at dusk for a couple hours and it was full darkness by the time we got back, quite an amazing experience I have to say.

I went for a ½ hour paddle board Sunday morning which was great and actually managed to not fall in although had to get down on my knees when a kid on a jet ski was buzzing around churning up waves. When back, we had a couple of home made Mcmuffins and then out on Jim’s boat with Jim, Ivan and Jim’s two kids plus two of their friends kids to go tubing.

Between the two families they have these SkiDoo ride on tubes with handles to try and hang on and had the two of them each on a separate rope so they could bounce against each other. This made it very fun as the kids would take turns trying to knock each other off and spray each other by dragging their feet in the water. Eventually Colleen and I got on one tube with Colleen on the outside me in the middle and the smallest kid on the inside. Then three kids, around 13 - 15, on the other. We were having a great time as we got towed around progressively faster and going from side to side over the wake. 

Eventually this increased to the point where both tubes bounced way up in the air and dumped all of us which turned into a jumbled mass of bodies flying around. Unfortunately as I came down I connected with my nose on Colleen shin full on and smashed my nose so hard it just started gushing blood! Not quite broken I guess as I didn’t get black eyes but felt like it. When the boat came around and they saw me they were very apologetic but I knew and actually had a premonition of something like that happening. Unfortunately I didn’t take heed but am, glad it was me and not one of the kids!. I treaded water for about 10 minutes, chumming the water so to speak until it stopped and then climbed back aboard. Although this was unfortunate all in all it was a lot of fun but obviously a very risky activity. 

We relaxed for a while and took our time packing stuff up before hitting the road around 1:30. Smooth sailing all the way through and didn’t stop other than a quick bite in Kamloops. We got lucky as their was a terrible crash northbound on the Coquihalla between Merritt and Hope with an overturned, smashed up SUV and miscellaneous other trucks and cars askew. Not a pretty sight and many vehicles stopped on our side of the highway I suppose to assist. Clearly there much help already so we putted through, once we were past Hope we got a message the the highway had been closed due to two major crashes in each direction and wasn’t expected to be open till midnight!. We sent a message to Ivan and Sherrie as they were a couple hours behind us and had already been stopped and wondering what was going on. Turns out Ivan pulled in behind some emergency vehicles proceeding to the site past all the stopped traffic and just carried on through after! Back in town and been working on my cloud project for Germaine the artist I told you about and some work on my garage extension. I don’t even know where the time has gone this week and that it is Friday already. Colleen came home yesterday from the cabin with Clover and we are both going to head back up tomorrow to do some work before a renter comes in on Sunday. The reservations have been pouring in as of late and we have 7 rentals between then and Labour Day so couldn’t be happier. Must get ready to head out on some errands and then back to try and make some major progress on the garage project. Take care for now and we will catch up again soon. 

Here is a link to all the pictures and video taken by me on our O.K. trip. Colleen has some great ones that I will add as well. There is a lot of the time at Shuswap as well including the tubing vids. Sorry I did not have time to go through and edit and was just easier to send the link to the folder. Cheers, Al
 
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/1vin255fgjf53uu/AABbCmGciZCIrCjPxS4zKGPFa?dl=0

Hi High Flying Tube Man! Thanks for the 1,000+ page update on Salmon Arm Adventure, neo-Leo Tolstoy of War and Peace fame!! I can see that you are really taking revenge on me for my lengthy epistles! Actually, (aside from of the gory episodes, [nose, car accident], I thoroughly enjoyed every word! Pleased all went so well and will take comfort in the fact that since your friends holiday in such Luxury, Sheer Luxury, we won't have to worry about you being Freeloaders at Burns Street in the future, preferring the sheer affluence of Wakesetters and more! That being said, their place and setting sound wonderful indeed.

Funnily enough, (although it wasn't funny, given outcome, for you), as soon as I started the "endless" paragraph, [Did! Dig! Dig!], on the tubing escapade I had premonitions of a likely accidento. About 20 years ago, now, we were back in Falcon Lake for a couple of weeks holiday. George, Lady Dar's brother, has a very nice boat, (although not as expensive/fancy as Ivan's/Jim's), and he would take gang out tubing as well. I was reluctant to go as I was worried that if I had a spill I might throw out my back. Anyway, after much cajoling I hopped onto tube and we took off. George, of course, did his very best to create waves that would toss me up into air, off tube, to the thorough enjoyment of all aboard. Well, finally, in spite of my best efforts to hang on and wedge myself into tube I was air-born. When I came down I smacked into surface of water on my right side and knocked the wind out of me. The fact that I was wearing a "barrel" life-saver helped soften the blow and, like you, I treaded water, gasping most of the while to regain my breath, until plucked out of the water. [Your great video captured the essence of what happened to me! Enjoyed rest of stills as well, so thanks for link.]

I was to fly back to Vancouver next day and I felt fine, going to work day after I was back. As was my usual routine, I went for a swim on my lunch hour and, at the time, I had mastered bi-lateral breathing, so I started off on my left but when it came time for a breath on the right side searing pain shot through me and I almost swallowed the entire Empire Pool! I guess I had badly bruised a few ribs and injury took a few days to manifest itself. At any rate, I certainly sympathize with your ordeal and can only say that I'm very glad that things didn't turn out to be far more serious, broken bones or nasty knock on the noggin, for any involved!

[Coffee station!] Glad Sunbeam performed well. Surprising about cool temperature, however. Could not agree with you more about drive through Kelowna! I liken it to drive from Abbotsford to Vancouver! We try to time it, if we have to go through, when traffic is least likely to be bumper to bumper but I think that is most of the time! Around the year of my own "tube" accident I was teaching a UBC School Libraries course in Salmon Arm, every other weekend, during university terms, and Faculty of Ed would fly me to Kelowna and there I'd rent a car to drive to Salmon Arm on Friday, teach all day Saturday, and then return on late afternoon flight. Consequently, I also "discovered" Vernon and small towns of Winfield, Enderby and Armstrong, driving north to Salmon Arm. 

Not sure if you met Lynn and Barb, couple across street in Guayabitos, when you were holidaying with us. They have a lovely home, just outside Enderby itself, and we stayed overnight for a couple of days, with them on our way back from Winnipeg, a number of years ago. They also visited us when we were house-sitting for The Millionaires, same period you stayed, I believe, but at different times, as I recall. I saw them about two years ago when they were in Penticton to watch one of their grandson's play hockey. Had them over for breakfast before they returned to Enderby. Lady Dar was in Vancouver, I believe. Anyway, lovely, lovely couple and they both play bridge!

Have you done any paddle-boarding before? Too, too hard on my shoulder even if I could master staying upright! Amanda, our next door neighbour does a fair bit. When I thanked her for taking care of felines when we were in Spirit Ridge, I asked her if she had been out lately. She said she hadn't as it had been too windy, of late. Last time she was at Skaha and there was little if any wind but shortly after she left shore a terrific gale started, blowing her board onto some concrete blocks and doing enough damage that she had to have it repaired. She said she had to wait for an hour before she could put board back on her car roof rack as wind was so fierce she couldn't put it there without if flying off before she could strap it down!

Pleased to hear that business is booming for cabin! Hope all your guests work out well. Big news here is that cork floors will be installed on Monday! Had a call this morning and company had an opening sooner than originally scheduled. Delighted, of course, as this means that other work, waiting for flooring, will now proceed once flooring is put down. Will also be able to put fridge where it will sit so starting to free up space. Pleased you enjoyed watching some of The Tour. I'm certainly no expert but do appreciate the sheer athleticism of those involved. I managed to watch snippets of it when using elliptizer at Spirit Ridge and once back at suite. At home I started catching up on recorded stages. Have been up until 1:00 am-2:00 am last two nights trying to get through everything as I would like to watch last few stages as they unfold. 

Lady Dar was playing Mah Jong this afternoon so I took out the Brodie I want to use as my stationary bike and gave it a thorough wash and cleaning. Went over to see if Norm was around as he said he would help me set it up rear wheel roller but he wasn't in. Will give him a call and see when it might be convenient for him as I'd like to start exercising regularly. Will set it up in back patio for time being and once Chloë's possessions are gone from Rumpus Room I'll move it there. Imagine that won't be until later this Fall as weather usually remains pleasant enough until then. 

Anyway, must away as I need to shower and change as we are going to pop in to pre-wedding party before dinner. Fondestos from Lady Dar, back from Maj Jong and a refreshing swim in pool at home where game was held. Quite a bit of smoke today and we couldn't see Naramata from Summerland earlier today. Friends, Josinta and Aarturo, invited us for coffee and a visit this morning so we drove over for a terrific visit, for an hour or so, until we had to return to Penticton as Lady Dar had an nail/pedicure appointment at 12:30 pm. Fondestos from Lady Dar to you both. Stay well. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: The Summerlandians, Joint and Aarturo, this morning!

Grazie Mille, Patrizzio! I so look forward to meeting all of you! I am not staying in Kelowna, but will be heading straight to the Naramata Airbnb on the 1st. I have not made any plans other than the one tasting, so I would absolutely love to join you anytime! Thank you so much!

Thank you so much to reaching out to Senka and Bob...super excited to spend time with them. What a treat. Hope we can make that work out - this is precisely why I booked this trip. I love wine people. And some day hopefully wine will be my “next career” down the line...Glad Duke is on the mend and the renovation is moving along! I am currently in Washington DC, en route to meet some college pals in Rhode Island. Hoping the thunderstorms hold off, as it is a small plane from here to there...😬 See you soon! Ciao, OK Jane

Hi Jet-Setter-OK Jane! Are you quite sure that you actually work? Ayn, is she really employed by Crown Media? You, Helicopter Woman, seem to be bopping, non-stop, around the US countryside. If it's Tuesday it must be Rhode Island! Soon you will be turning your rotors towards BC. In this vein, not to put a damper on your excitement for coming visit, but I just want to prepare you for the fact that the smoke from various wildfires, hereabouts, [Peachland, Summerland and Kelowna, (as of this writing under control), not to mention other 150 elsewhere in province], is currently a fact of everyday life, and has been for last few weeks. Per esempio, there was quite a bit of smoke yesterday and we couldn't see Naramata from Summerland earlier today. Friends, Josinta and Aarturo, invited us for coffee and a visit that morning so we drove over for a terrific visit, for an hour or so, until we had to return to Penticton as Lady Dar had an nail/pedicure appointment at 12:30 pm.

I assume you have heard about the terrible fires in Yosemite and near Redding. We know this city relatively well as it has become a favourite stopover over the many years we have travelled the I-5 corridor to Napa/Sonoma/Berkeley/LA. If ever your whirlybird should land in Redding, make Jack's Bar & Grill a place you eat dinner, if you enjoy steak! Ayn can brief you when you drop by your office to collect your pay stub and then leave shortly thereafter! At any rate, be prepared for diminished vistas. Depends on weather, of course, between now and when you arrive.

At any rate, back your your time in Naramata. I presume you might wish to check-in to your AirBNB after your drive from Kelowna. If you'd like to stop by our place, [We are directly en route to Naramata.], first, please feel free to do so, to have a drink and/or a bite to eat/dinner. If you'd rather just go to your AirBNB and come back, (laden with cases of La Frenz!), or not bother with a visit that evening, that is fine as well. Nevertheless, you are formally invited for dinner on Friday when the BBQ King, Sarge, will be grilling and swilling Poplar Grove product. Again, we are here so come and go as suits your busy schedule. I'm sure you can charter one of the helicopters at Penticton Airport and there is enough room in our back driveway for easy landing and take-off! Let me know, Chopper Woman, what you think about Thursday and beyond. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Pics: Cactus Cats. Bookends, Aarturo and Josinta, this morning.

Hope you not too sweltering. Warmish here. K and Gramma took the float plane to Victoria for niece's birthday dinner, glorious flying day yesterday. Moving down to Sutherlands Monday, they've been marvellous. Hope we can visit you in August. We leave 25th, so better make arrangements eh? Realise the renos are proceeding, so don't worry if its all too much. Hope you're recovering. Zai jiang. 

😎 Hi Harbour Terrace Suite Jumpers! Glad to hear all goes well even if warmish in The Big Smoke. Would love to see you both up here. Not sure what your schedule is like but after Chloë's move on August 8th friend Janet is coming from 14th to 17th so that weekend, or later, would be fine and with any luck we'll have a kitchen! Let us know about possible dates. Stay well. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Cheers! Slainte!🥃✌️Colin Hi Colin! Trust all goes well. Thanks for recipes for malt cocktails but like W.C. Fields used to quip: "Somebody's been putting pineapple juice in my pineapple juice!" Stay well. Fondestos from Xeriscape Woman to you both. Cheers, Patrizzio! Xie xie. K told me she and C had discussed visiting and all but abandoned the idea due to complicazziones (trilingual me). Thanks for outlining plans and commitments, it may be too hard... lets see. Hope Chloe's move goes well, she'll be chuffed. Glad you've shaken down the bike . Take it east. S