Clan Sutherland and Patrizzio Walk The Wall Blues: Thursday, September 19th!

I think everybody who has a brain should get involved in politics. Working within. Not criticizing it from the outside. Become an active participant, no matter how feeble you think the effort is. -Cass Elliot, singer (19 Sep 1941-1974)

Not up until just after 8:00 am when Lady Dar mentioned the time! Sarge was just out of a cold shower, [Switch for heater had been turned off since yesterday as my shower, that evening, before dinner, was a cool one as well!], and Flamin' was watching CNN.

As soon as they were ready, [Lady Dar has suffered stomach upset for last day or so and consequently didn't feel up to joining us.], we headed out towards Pile Gate to walk the wall encircling the city, approximately 2 km, probably about two hours, perhaps closer to one depending on crowds and/or photo ops. First time we've had drizzle since Hvar so anticipated outing, with sea breeze, would be pleasantly cool. Left around 9:00 am and glad we did as once we were on the main concourse we encountered waves of cruise ship day trippers. I paid Sarge cash, [200 Kt], for my ticket as he wanted to use a credit card, wanting to have some cash for the taxi and to use at the airport, later this afternoon. One starts the tour of the outer wall fairly close to the Pile Gate and once we had our tickets we headed up two sets of rather steep steps to begin our trek, in a counter-clockwise direction, just like Stanley Park. 
 

I first walked the wall in October of 2007, at that time with Chloë and Branko, and there was no charge then. However, we understood, from Marco, yesterday's walking tour guide, that the funds go to a society composed of volunteers who renovate and repair the walls so pleased that this is so. Must say that apart from the exertion required to ascend many of the steeper parts  of the wall, the going was relatively easy. Not so twelve years ago as the wall's walkways were in not such good repair and one often had to struggle up or down makeshift sets of stairs, often nothing more than rude steps made from large pieces of masonry or concrete building blocks, in some cases small, rickety wooden steps. 
 

The views afforded, then, were just as magical and breath-taking as today, perhaps more so inasmuch there was not the constant stream of tourists, fueled, in large part, I'm sure, by the two cruise ships moored in the bay, as well as the countless bus-loads of visitors travelling by land. Again, according to Marco, the traffic, in and around Dubrovnik, particularly near the drop-off/pick-up areas near the Pile Gate, has become so congested that the city administration is working to restrict vehicle access to a larger area outside the walls as well as limiting the number of cruise ships which can berth on any given day. He said that a few years ago, it was common for five vessels to be in port, during the high season, I suppose, every day and chaos ensued, as one can well imagine, in the outside streets and on the to main thoroughfares and narrow side passageways within the walls. Over the next few years this number will be reduced to one or perhaps two.

I trust this will come to pass as it really is almost impossible to enjoy the wonder of this Medieval jewel when one has to wade through throng after throng of walking tours. Such is the crush of humanity, albeit at certain times of day and night, that simply walking down any of the streets is not much fun. This being said, while the wall itself was busy, there were not so many other tourists that the outing was spoiled and we quite enjoyed drinking in al the various views, whether towards the sea or across the city's rooftops. 

With the early morning mortar shelling, by the Serbian and Montenegrin forces, on December 6th, [My birthday!], numerous sections of the wall, homes, churches and cicvic buildings were hit, set on fire or completely destroyed. Fortunately, the ensuing damage was not nearly as devastating as it could well have been. At any rate, the original roof tiles were yellow in colour and when re-building commenced, red tiles were used, a gift that could not be refused at the time, Marco mentioned. 

This being the case, one can see, quite readily, which buildings across the inner city suffered from the various bombardments which continued well into 1992. Other than noting some bullet or shrapnel marks on parts of the wall itself, back in 2007, I wasn't aware of the reason behind the two different coloured roof tiles.

The rain/drizzle had stopped shortly before we ascended the wall to begin our two km trek so the footing, most everywhere, was not at all slippery. Since we took our time, marveling at the various aspects of the fortifications themselves, [built, changed and enlarged over a 500 year period], and exploring most of the watch-towers and other parts of the battlements where access is allowed, we spent close to two hours on the walk. 

Once down, I left Flamin' and Sarge who wanted to pick up a few souvenirs, to inquire about the Dali exhibition which was on in a museum near the Pile Gate. Was curious to find out about cost, [60 Kt], as well as number of items included, [82], in case Lady Dar wanted to take it in after F/S left for the airport.

Also wanted to return to the The Old Pharmacy, located near Pile Gate, in a Franciscan Monastery, one among the oldest pharmacies in Europe. It was founded in 1317 as in-house pharmacy for Franciscan friars, later serving the whole town’s population. I had stopped by yesterday to pick up two small jars,  of the skin cream products made from local wild herbs and flowers. Wanted a present for The Sisterhood and Flamin' choose one one made from orange while Lady Dar took the rose. 

Wanted to buy one made with rosemary for myself but there was a line-up right out onto the street in front so I made for the outdoor market instead. I wanted to pick up a red onion, a cuke and some more tomatoes. Lady Dar was going to do an omelette for our departing companions. Already had eggs and a couple of red peppers. Wanted the tomatoes for salad this evening as was Lady Dar's tummy was feeling I didn't think she would wan to go out for dinner.

Anyway, I was home before F/S so I started chopping the onion and peppers while Lady Dar whisked the eggs. As soon as the souvenir hunters were back she set about preparing the eggs. Another divine dish although she didn't feel up to tasting her own wonderful concoction. After the scrumptious meal I loaded the dishwasher and they finished-up their last minute packing. Had started to rain heavily by the time we were ready to leave. 

They had arranged for a taxi to collect them in the spot we'd been dropped off at when we arrived and I helped carry some of their luggage back down the 99 stairs. Once on the main thoroughfare we literally had to fight our way through the constant stream of large walking tours, made even more difficult by the steady rain and sea of umbrellas.

We finally made it through the bottle-neck of the Pile Gate and Flamin' was able to text taxi driver to confirm he was en route. Turned out traffic was so clogged, elsewhere in city that he couldn't pick them up but had arranged for a friend to do so. Flamin' was then in contact with him and he texted her with his slow progress, given snarled traffic, rain, and general traffic chaos, mentioned above. 

The place was a nightmare with hordes of people waiting to be collected by tour buses, countless others waiting for local buses or taxis themselves. We were early by about 20 minutes for the 2:00 pm rendezvous so we had to wait about half an hour until the friend arrived. Rain had all but stopped by then so we chatted quite amicably, about the scene playing out in front of us. Once the car arrived I helped load the bags, then kissed and hugged, thanking them for everything over last three weeks, and then waved goodbye wishing them safe travels.

Headed back to the Old Pharmacy and line-up, outside, had disappeared adn only had to wait for a few minute inside to be served. Picked up my potion and then returned to the Canadian Patient, around 3:00 pm by then. Put in a last load of laundry before heading upstairs to start on my shouldares. Took my computer with me so that I could listen to BBC Three's classical programming. Quite enjoyed hearing The Maid of Pskov an opera in three acts and six scenes by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, especially since I'm reading A Gentleman in Moscow! 

Once I'd finished my shouldares I took a quick shower and then unloaded the washer, hanging up the clothes in the bedroom just vacated by F/S, on a drying rack I found beside our wardrobe. Then headed back down the 99 stairs in search of dinner at the local market. Lady Dar still didn't feel like going out so I found two frozen chicken breasts and two potatoes for our meal. Back home I ran hot water over the breasts so that I could pry them apart and then was able to chop them into medallion-sized chunks so that the chef could fry them, more easily. Diced up more oniones and peppers and then made a tomatoe and red onion salad for myself, garnishing it with the last of the Naschmarkt olives and the reaminder of cheese from yesterday's "green" market! Did the kartofellage in the microwave and when everything was ready we ate what turned out to be quite a tasty meal, watching an episode of Murdock Mysteries.

After the truly delicious meal I spent the next little while digitating. Will send a few more messages and then do the dishes before heading upstairs to organise and  pack up the few things that are ready to be tucked away. Will have to wait until tomorrow morning for the clothes which are drying but we have plenty of time as taxi will collect us at 11:00 am, in same spot where I waited with F/S. I usually wake at 6:00 am, without any alarm, so am not worried in the least.

Must away as I want to brush and floss and then read for a bit before turning out the bedside lamp. Lady Dar is already abed. I covered her up with a blanket from your top bunk as she is still feeling chilly. Thanks again, for everyhting, Flamin' and Sarge. Enjoy Roma and Travel safely. Fondestos and Love, Patrizzio! Pics: I Fought the Wall and The Wall Won! Arrivederci and last of the olivettis and Šljivovica, Badel!

Patrick James Dunn Walked the 2 km wall encircling Dubrovnik this morning with Flamin' and Sarge. Tad grumpy due to all the cruise ship tourists flooding the town! After Flamin' and Sarge left for the airport, to fly to Rome, I had to drown my sorrows with the last few drops of Šljivovica, Badel! Cheers!

Thanks for walking with us to the taxi.  We were at the airport and checkedcthuough security by 3 20.  The guy driving is was a Croatian police officer who worked at the airport.  Interesting trip and discussion. Wayne

Just settling into lounge . Our driver ended up to be a police officer who works at the airport . Very nice chap took a bit of time to get through traffic block . Enjoy your olives ! Michele Welcome to Roma This is what was waiting for us in Roma 

Buona Serata, Roma! Nice life, indeed, once you left the Impoverished Freeloaders behind! Nevertheless, pleased you had such an interesting ride to the airport and that all went well, once there. Must away as I want to brush and floss and then read for a bit before turning out the bedside lamp. Lady Dar is already abed. I covered her up with a blanket from "your" top bunk as she is still feeling chilly. Thanks again, for everything, Flamin' and Sarge. Enjoy Roma and travel safely. Fondestos and Love, Patrizzio! Pics: I Fought the Wall and The Wall Won! Arrivederci and last of the olivettis and Šljivovica, Badel!
 

FALL 2019 COLLECTORS CLUB SHIPMENT DETAILS: I will pick mine up or get Pat Dunn to do it when he gets his Wayne Sutherland 

Hello Dubrovnikites, We have had an interesting time exploring Mumbai. Saw the usual tourist sights such as the Gateway to India and the train station. Went to the Taj Mahal Palace hotel for tea. It is a grand old hotel. Truly magnificent. Evokes the era of the British Raj. Still monsoon season here, so there are many rainy days. However, sounds like it has rained steadily in Vancouver as well. 

Anyways, we get back on the 21st. After two lots of house guests, we leave again. Oct. 10th we fly to London, then after a few days, we take a train to Liverpool. Then Manchester, London, Boston, New York (for Halloween), and finally, Vancouver on Nov. 5th. Will lay low nursing scotch after all that. Colin

Hi Patrick Thanks for your email. Will read thoroughly and then respond more appropriately. Safe travels. Cheers Jo-Anne

Hi Patrick Good to receive your 2nd email. And also your 1st communique to which I did not reply. Your epistles are so long -you must start writing a book! Sounds as if you are having a great time and covering a lot of bases. I was surprised to hear from you as I thought you were travelling in October. And thanks for attaching Peter cook’s note about Branco. It sounds as though things may be really improving for him and for the longer term. Not too much to tell you but I’ve made out on to the squash court and still able to beat a few guys nearly my age! May try Van Squash League after Xmas.
 

I think you knew both Barry Gilmore and Ted Blair, well they both have recently passed on. I will miss them. Chatted to Bruce Macfarlane on Labour day and he was about to fly off to Scotland and do a lot of golfing and touring. Afterwards I wondered just how does he swing a golf club.

Not surprised in your interest in Croatian wine. You’ll be near the big leagues of fine wine when in Valence -enjoy it there. Our last cruise (Windjammer) sommelier was from Croatia and boy was he ever keen to promote his country. I’m hoping he will phone me whenever he comes to Vancouver.

You are missing some pretty crappy weather -must be on track for the rainiest September ever in Vancouver -think it’s not much better in Penticton. We’ll be thinking of you in Penticton when we are basking and swirling in the Barossa Valley next month. Hope your travels go well. And best wishes to Chloe! Bill. 

Dear Patrick and Corinne You are definitely having too much fun. The wines look great and the pictures were most interesting. Hope you continue to have a wonderful time in Switzerland and France!! I am sure you will. Also how is Chloe and the cats faring?

We head off tomorrow morning very early. We spent the day reading and relaxing--I love looking at the beach just not all that interested in the humidity and navigating the traffic and crowded streets. Sad to realize your limitations and I think I really have done so this time round.

I enjoyed the conference at Sardar Patel University but this was because I met such interesting people! Our drive yesterday was a most interesting man and he was a very good driver--much better than the fellow we had the day before. I don't know how the drivers manage. It is all very nerve wracking but they seem to give and take and between motorcycles, tuk tuks, buses and trucks everybody gets through some pretty congested intersections. I must admit Mumbai has some incredible ocean scenery and the Sea Link was pretty impressive. I just can't get over the streets and the deplorable garbage almost everywhere.
 

Anyways must get some sleep tonight as we have a horrendous day of flights tomorrow. I am the one who booked our flights and I now know that I should have never done it through Air Canada Star Alliance would have been way better to book direct flights with Air Canada and then for travel in India booked with local carriers. Alas live and learn. Next time we chat we will be back in Vancouver. Always a mixed set of feelings one has at returning home--back to our hell hole. Anyways do take care and safe travels one and all. Lots of love Jo-Anne and Colin

Hi Patrick, Funny, my recollections of Mumbai and Delhi are almost the opposite. We had a great tour of the spice market in Mumbai and experienced nice clean air. In Delhi, the air quality was worse than even Beijing. Whoops, my reply was sent before I finished it. I’m staying this week in a luxury hotel in Monterrey, Mexico. We couldn’t get to the mine site due to a labour blockade so had to forego the mine camp. Really a shame. Hope your travels are going well. Cheers, Peter

Hi Ayn We are in Dubrovnik for our last day. Wayne and Michele left for Rome and we will leave for Prague tomorrow. Looking forward to seeing some new places like Salzburg and visiting friends in Switzerland and France.
Unfortunately my gluten allergy is causing me to have cramps. Couldn’t sleep last night. This has happened before just need to take it easy for a day. Send more pics of Olivia when you see her next. Will have to arrange a FaceTime when we get home. Marlo is having a tough time. Feel badly for them all.
Love you lots Mom

Hi mom! Sorry to hear about your cramps and hope you are feeling better xo Busy ar work getting out holiday plans locked in place for the coming season Had a visit with Liv on Sunday afternoon to give her some cute wooden Halloween decorations...she was talking and singing away with Shannon while they were at our place She is lovely little girl and I just melt when she lays her head against me We are pulling for Marlo in her continued fight. She has been so strong and brave through it all Love Ayn  

Meaning of the name Rowan. Interesting as this baby could very well have some red hair! That’s what I was thinking also. Mom I’ve been texting with Ryan, trying to distract them both a bit. Love you all, Grandma send some pickle please 😉  Take it easy mom!! Love you all!! You're a good cousin Chloe 

Hello, We hope that your summer had been Wonderful.

At the vineyard, things are growing very well and we're talking about picking some Chardonnay in the next 1.5 - 2 weeks. Michael has his new press and is excited to get going.

It is wine package time and your package is ready for pickup at the wine shop. Stop in any day between 11AM - 5PM. Best regards, Jodi Bartier, Bartier Bros. Vineyard & Winery
Patrick, Just a friendly reminder from the Vancouver Writers Fest to register for this year's festival...We'd love to have you back!

If you want to receive scheduling priority ahead of first-time volunteers, please register no later than midnight Monday 2 September. Kathryn Fowler, Volunteer Manager Vancouver Writers Fest

 Looks like someone is about to be 7 months and starting to take steps!! Princess Thighs is on the move! Sending love to all Ayn Unbelievable she is so sturdy. G-nana

This is an early reminder to all Members that as per Article 3.4 of our Bylaws, your 2020 annual renewal of dues ($ 35.00) will be payable before December 1, 2019. After that vacancies will be filled from the Membership Wait List.

As in previous years the Board will be providing several opportunities for Members to renew their dues early. Your four payment options will be as follows: a) Tasting Event September 15, 2019 payment by Cash or Cheque only b) Tasting Event November 17,2019 payment by Cash or Cheque only c) Effective August 15, 2019 Judi set up a payment method for collecting your 2020 membership dues via Eventbrite. A small administrative fee will be charged for this service. d) Regarding electronic transfer, the Treasurer would prefer that Members NOT USE this method of payment for their renewals as it requires additional paper documentation to be created to keep track of such bank transfers. Exceptions could be made in an emergency situation as the December 1st deadline approaches.

 

We encourage Members to renew early and avoid the risk of missing the renewal deadline. Sincerely Kevin Ritcey, President Hello to all: I am attaching the tasting notes from Sunday and the minutes from Sunday's meeting. I do not appear to have a copy of the minutes of the AGM meeting in May, so I will have to get it from Kevin or Corinne when she gets back. Once I get a copy I will send them out for your review at the November meeting. Judi 
 
Received from Dave Matthew's wife Louise this morning. John has been a long time member of SOWTS and he will be missed. John Abernethy passed away last night due to complications following a surgery.   

Maybe they can have a wee dram in his memory. Judi Ritcey, Acting Secretary