The Penguin Sings The Grand Slam Blues: Saturday, February 24th!

The most tyrannical of governments are those which make crimes of opinions, for everyone has an inalienable right to his thoughts. -Baruch Spinoza, philosopher (1632-1677)

Fresh Snow and cats! Etta investigating and Duke hiding behind the shovel clearly not going to help me!!! Hi Chloë and Snow Kittens! Great snaps of snow, paw-prints and non-shoveler! Bit of zoo here this morning what with Ashlynn shrieking. She had been up for much of the night so was understandably tired and kranky. Anyway, we had a great time talking to Beckster and Kid Chelene about Tamarindo, where they have this fabulous house, (Casa Lomas Del Mar: 

https://www.luxuryretreats.com/vacation-rentals/central-america/costa-rica/tamarindo/casa-lomas-del-mar-118331/?src=paid_ggms_centralamerica-costarica-villanames_casa-lomas-del-mar&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIk9bC-YC_2QIVg2Z-Ch38HwVJEAAYASAAEgL8s_D_BwE

Look it up if you have not already seen it. Place is about a thirty minute walk from where we stayed so we suggested Patagonia, The Green Papaya, Shrimp Hole and La Pachanga, four of the restaurants we had wonderful meals at, along with The Night Market on Thursday evenings. Even gave them the last of our Colones, about $45 worth, so On-the-Halves Corey was more than pleased! Unfortunately, Kye/Ki, (?), has been suffering from something as he is not eating and has diarrhea so Corey has to take him to vet. He is worried that it is related to the operation he had a number of weeks ago. 
 

Lady Dar and Flamin' are off to the Home and Garden Show today. I'm going to head out to UBC to see Ted again, sadly, probably for the last time. I will be back in Vancouver on March 9th for the VWF malt tasting and Rugby 7's but I doubt that he will still be alive by then, given the progress of this terrible disease. This evening I have dinner and bridge with The Penguin, Johnny The Snooz and Ragin' Bull. Plan to return to gym to use elliptizer this afternoon after I'm back from UBC. Also, will pop into Reckless as I've discovered that I might be able to order a pannier rack for my Montague bike, stored in France, from them as they handle this brand. I'll need to use panniers as I will have to carry all I need for each of the two week-long cycle trips. Didn't need them back in 2013 as I was always riding from where we were staying or else the canal boat. Seems simpler to take part with me and attach it there rather than having to worry about finding it in France, or elsewhere, before first trip in May.
 

With drive back to Penticton tomorrow morning we are hoping snow will have let up, both in Fraser Valley and on Hope-Princeton. Lovely day here, today, sunny and melting, but rain is forecast for tomorrow. As long as it isn't freezing, should be fine. I gather it will be cold and cloudy/clear in Penticton so we'll just have to wait and see about Hope-Princeton. Sure glad we have snow tires! Love to you and Etta and Duke, Chloë. Cheers, Dad! Pics: Ashlynn and Avery; Andrew, fellow RCMP officer, in town on a course; Jambalaya Woman! Corey's pooch; Sendero Canyon Lovebirds! Poor hummingbirds outside window in Ted's room at St John's Hospice. Elaine with Sloane, Laura's daughter, with Ted, in background.

Hello Bridge Fiends! Sorry I haven't replied sooner, Janet, but we are on for tonight. Perhaps Ragin' passed along the fact that Johnny The Snooz will be the fourth. I plan to ring your buzzer around 5:00 pm, with wine and dessert in hand. Ragin' will handle hors d'oeuvres. Thanks again. Look forward to the evening. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Ragin's approach to fixing any computer problems! 

Contact Hi Hoping to hear about your Polish etc bike trips and a conversation in the future about Costa Rico Best to both Liz Hi Liz and Doug! As you can tell, I have attached the two brochures for bike trips as well as some of the snaps I took over last couple of days at the hospice. After Lady Dar dropped me off near Broadway and Arbutus late yesterday afternoon, she continued on to UBC to have another visit with Elaine and Ted. Such a terribly sad, sad, overwhelmingly difficult situation that it is almost impossible to understand and confront. Of course the love and support of such close, dear, dear friends such as you both offer has to bring incredible comfort and strength to Elaine, Stephanie, Laura and Christina, and the rest of the family. Over the course of your next visits please send our love and abiding affection to Elaine and squeeze Ted's hands for us. I trust, at some point in the not too, too distant future, we might have an opportunity to share our experiences in Costa Rica with you. As well, if you have any questions about the cycling trips don't hesitate to ask. Fondestos from Lady Dar, still abed. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Bike brochures; brave hummingbird; Elaine with Sloane; you both with Ted and then Elaine and Steph.

 

Awesome. Dinner is in the slow cooker. Branko I hear u are driving. See u around 5. Cards will be ready. J

Hello to my Favourite Vancouver Bridge Partners, et al! Foist and foremost, thanks to The Penguin for hosting such a wonderful, wonderful evening of dinner, [Saladin and chili were more than divine!], and bridge. Terrific to see Johnny the Snooz after so many years and trust he might well become a regular with the group, with or without me. Thanks, as well, of course, to Ragin' and The Snooz for the delicious appetizers and hootch. Only criticism, [other than normal bidding complaints!], I have is the shocking lack of bridge prizes, a situation which MUST be rectified next time! 
 

Finally, thank you Janet, for driving me home. All the best to everyone and I'll be in touch before I'm back for the March 9th weekend. If it works for people, perhaps we can arrange another get-together for one of the nights I'll be in town. I think I'll drive down on Thursday, March 8th so that evening or Saturday, March 10th, would be best for me, if anyone is interested. Fondestos from Lady Dar who would like to be included next time! All the best. Cheers, Patrizzio/Il Conduttore! PS: Please forward to Snoozola as I don't have this email address. Thanks! Pics: Ragin' is aghast at Patrizzio's bid. The Penguin holds all the cards! Johnny the Snooz is just glad to be back in the fold!

Hi! Patrizzio ............. Many thanks for updating me on your travels & pics. Thanks for the CNY greetings too!! Happy Year of the Dog! Love the Titi monkey. I don't recall seeing this small one when I was in Costa Rica. Saw & heard lots of Howler Monkeys.

I've been busy all week organizing, planning & hosting a birthday party for hubby's 75th birthday. WOW!! He's 3/4 of a century old. He's been pampered & spoiled all week with birthday lunches & dinners. I'm taking him to Panama for a week in the sun & beach and have included his daughter Wendy & her family of 4 to join us at the resort. We leave on Feb. 28 for a week in Panama, then 3 days in Toronto. Paul flys home on Mar. 12 & I will head to Hamilton to see my parents till Apr. 5th.
 

Lots of cold & snow here. Hubby is sooooooooooooooo ready to get away from the wintry conditions. Hopefully the sunny destination will make him happy :-) Pls note that I will have no access to my emails when I'm away from Feb. 27 till Apr. 6, so pls hold off sending me anything until I return back home. Continue on having a GREAT TIME in Costa Rica ................... give Corinne a BIG HUG from me. Keep on enjoying the sunshine, Mary Lee :-) Hello Panama Bound Folk! Trust you are both well! Thank you for the Chinese New Year of the Dog wishes!! Your trip to Panama sounds wonderful indeed. Happy Belated 75th to Paolo! For He's a Jolly Good Fellow! Hip Hip Hooray!

In fact, when I received your message we were already back in Vancouver, having left LA on Monday, February 19th, staying overnight with friends in Berkeley and Portland on way north. At any rate, just wanted to say hello and wish you and Birthday Boy Bon Voyage. Travel safely and enjoy yourselves. Will look forward to catching up in April. Take care of each other. Fondestos from Lady Dar to you both. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Bridge this evening with friends Johnny The Snooz, The Penguin and Ragin' Bull!

 
Woke up to a Vancouver winter wonderland. Before this big dump, trees were already budding and snow drops sprouting!

 

Avery and Ashlynn SIng The Hrbour Terrace Blues: Friday, February 23rd!

The theory of democratic government is not that the will of the people is always right, but rather that normal human beings of average intelligence will, if given a chance, learn the right and best course by bitter experience. -W.E.B. Du Bois, educator, civil rights activist, and writer (23 Feb 1868-1963) 

Boreas Abducting Oreithyia

Art: Giovanni Francesco Romanelli (1610-1662)

Hi Eyob and Janet! As Janet knows, we hit town around 3:00 pm yesterday afternoon. Janet and I chatted a few minutes ago and, unfortunately, with respect to meeting, she is working today and tomorrow. Given our commitments, while here in Vancouver, it now seems it will really not be possible to arrange even a brief get-together, unfortunately. Again, as I mentioned to Janet, I will be back for the weekend of March 8th through 12th so perhaps we can arrange for a "reunion" at some point. Take a look at your schedules and let me know when you might be free for a coffee or a lunch, or something else, and we'll plan accordingly. Fondestos to you both from Lady Dar. All the best. Cheers, Patrizzio!Thanks, Patrick, for letting us know, you are a busy family, good on you. There is always next time, and it is not far to drive to Penticton. Safe drive, till next time. Egn

Hello Snow Bound Cornelius Pass People!Thank you again, for the lovely, lovely stay and marvellous visit and all the more than considerable care and feeding of the Canadian Freeloaders! Friday morning we went to the bank to transfer money to Ayn's account, did a bit of grocery/hootch shopping and then a quick visit with Jo-Anne and Colin Naslund. Jo-Anne was a colleague at UBC. Then on to St John's hospice to see our friend Ted Keating, and family. 

Very, very sad situation, as you can well imagine. Nevertheless, he is surrounded by their three daughters and five grandchildren. Elaine, his wife, has been with him ever since he was moved, from their home, two weeks ago. Hospice is an extremely comfortable and well appointed facility, staff are very sensitive and caring so Elaine has been as comfortable as possible, (not to mention Ted's competent, unremitting clinical monitoring), under such unbelievably difficult and trying emotional, psychological circumstances.

We spent about an hour visiting with Ted, as he surfaced, on and off, out of drug-related pain-relief, into consciousness. Disease has affected his ability to speak so conversations were difficult but we held hands and tried to connect, as best we could. One of the bright spots of the afternoon was to see two or three hummingbirds outside his window. Poor, poor things were freezing, I'm sure, and I have never seen them sit still for so long, either on the feeders or nearbye tree branches. Quite a contrast to what we experienced in Costa Rica, with respect to these incredible creatures. 
 Anyway, we made our sad goodbyes and then I dropped Lady Dar off on Main Street and 27th, to have lunch with a close friend, Robyn, who lives nearbye. I returned to Harbour Terrace and suited up to go to the gym to use elliptizer. Back home to shower and change and then a lovely dinner of Flamin's fabulous jambalya! Greetings from Flamin' and Sarge to you both and Fondestos from Lady Dar. Thanks again, dear, dear friends for your enduring friendship and unstinting hospitality! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Michaelo changing appointment; Arrivederci! Ragin's computer help! Jo-Anne and Colin; hummingbird; Elaine with her new granddaughter, Sloane, and Ted; Ashlynn & Avery, grand-daughters, then with Flamin' at dinner table.

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow, The Cornerlius Pass Blues: Thursday, February 22nd!

What wisdom can you find that is greater than kindness? -Jean Jacques Rousseau, philosopher and author (1712-1778) 

Cat under your bed Come home!!! Etta and I discovered a big black cat under your bed at 6:30 this morning me being still Half asleep was calling for Duke to come here then duke walked up beside me and that’s when it got crazy!!! I grabbed them and locked them in the rumpus room but shouldn’t have as when I scared the cat out with all rooms closed off except the front door he ran to the glass rumpus room door as he came in that way. He and Duke had a major fight between the glass and this cat was going crazy. I finally got it our wearing huge boots with the broom. He was doing a dead man I’m not moving body so I had to push him with the broom out from the hallway and he thankfully noticed the patio doors wide open and ran out.

[After a hard day, poor pup is zonked. It’s hard defending your home! Mom] 

Then when I left Duke and Etta back in Duke started peeing ........ what do I do lock them in all day? Or out all day? It’s cold here minus 13 I think. But this is twice now that cats have gotten in and it could be a lot worse then it has been.
Arggg it’s better to have retirees home to tend to high maintenance fur sibs.
Poor Etta was hiding in the garage tail triple the size she wouldn’t even eat!!!
Who needs coffee when you have adrenaline!!! ❤️ Oh my God. That is crazy. Well you can’t lock the doors when it is so cold which is probably what is bringing other cats in.Lock the door into the house at night. If Duke wants out he can unlock it. Home Sunday glad someone will be happy to see us. Mom

Hi all, So Saturday is coming soon and I am planning dinner. I will take care of dinner if you want to bring appies and dessert. I can add one appy as well. What time works for all of you? I’m good from 5 on. Cheers. Janet Hi Penguin and Ragin'! We hit town around 3:00 pm this afternoon. Janet, terrific that you are hosting this Saturday, anytime after 5:00 pm. Thanks. Ragin' and I will work out who will bring an appetizer and dessert. As I understand it, we only have three players, as of this writing. I asked Polly Carter, [She and Mick are in Palm Desert until early March.], to poll her bridge ladies but everyone is otherwise engaged. I have a call in to another friend but have not heard back. Also, will contact another friend, by email, as I don't have her phone number. Johnny The Snooz is another possibility, according to Ragin' so we are probably fine. Lady Dar sends regrets but The Sisterhood has laid claim to her time! Looking forward to seeing everyone. Cheers, Patrizzio/Il Conduttore!

Pics: Shasta, by Lady Dar, on the move, en route to Portland; spring flowers at a Rest Stop; what awaited at our "hotel" on Cornelius Pass Road, outside Portland; Marilyn and Michaelo saying goodbye this morning. It snowed about two inches overnight and was snowing quite heavily when we left Portland, not stopping until we were about 50 km north of city! Jack's, in Redding, on Tuesday night, our favourite steak joint!

Well, maybe crib and dinner then! If you can’t get a bite, then let me know and I’ll see if I can find anyone. I am not all that confident I can find someone but you never know! Janet No luck I a afraid.  Busy with ski trips birthday dinners .....

 
Waved goodbye to Marilyn and Mike at around 9:30 am and had no difficulty on CPR but decided to head north on 30 as we'd never been that way before. Had fairly heavy snow, from the moment we waved goodbye, [Michaelo was right, as always, (though never, ever acknowledged), as it was not wind in the trees!], until we reached Longview but after that it was clear all the way to Vancouver.

We hit town around 3:00 pm that afternoon and are staying with Flamin' and Sarge. They were curling that evening so after I went to the gym across the way, I visited with friend, Ragin' Bull, who helped me set up a second monitor for my laptop. By the time I was back, our hosts were home and we watched more Olympic coverage until it was bedtime.

Mount Shasta and Mount Ashland Sing the Snowcapped Blues: Wednesday, February 21st!

I and the public know. / What all schoolchildren learn. / Those to whom evil is done. / Do evil in return -W.H. Auden, poet (21 Feb 1907-1973)

Hello Cornelius Pass People! Up at 7:00 am to have a quick shower before starting to load up The Marriagemobile. Not quite sure what the weather will be like over Mount Ashland so I took out my gloves and toque, just in case! Portland here we come! I assume you are expecting us. If not text Lady Dar, and we'll adjust accordingly. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Oh my heavens, where did January and February go. We are only a couple of weeks away from our March 8th get together. I have finished reading "First Snow, Last Light" and I have to say I did enjoy it. Being a Maritimer probably helped. I am wanting to find out what people want to do that evening in regards to food and how many will be coming. It just helps me decide whether or not to have it in my condo or to reserve the little room that we used the last time.

I believe the time chosen was 7:00, so perhaps finger food and water (just kidding) would be appropriate. Let "reply to all" to see what the majority would like to do. Also, as in the past come with a suggestion for the next book if you wish. Looking forward to hearing from all of you and to seeing everyone on the 8th. Kindest regards Dame Judith Yes indeed! nevertheless the winter is a force this year Unfortunately, I am in YVR that evening flying in much too late to join you..😣

Hi Judi, we will be there. Happy to bring an appetizer and wine. I’ve finished book as well. Look forward to the evening. Best Corinne Judi, Thank you for hosting the next meeting of the book club. I will bring wine and a nibbly
Pam Thanks Judi 😆 I started with The network of New York, so will have to get busy on this one. I’ll bring wine and savoury appy. Michelle D Hi Judy. Looking forward to seeing you all again!! Looks like we bring an appie and bottle🧀
Yes Lou, that seems to be the consensus and that's great. Looking forward to seeing you as well. Judi

Late breaking news…. Tony is interested in snowshoeing tomorrow (Thursday) at Roddy Meadows. He suggests: -meet at IGA in Summerland at 0930 (to give the temperature a chance to warm a bit) -southerners meet at 0910 at Home Hardware parking lot in Penticton -no need to let him know if you are coming…just appear! Cheers, Jim

Richmond San Rafael Bridge Blues: Tuesday, February 20th!

It is horrifying that we have to fight our own government to save the environment. -Ansel Adams, photographer (20 Feb 1902-1984) 

Hi Patrick Thanks so much for this note and for the photos -- really interesting to see Ayn and Pierre and Alex. Take care Enjoy the warm weather -- it is really cold here. Off to Edmonton on Saturday--not sure why I am going to Edmonton in February?? Anyways cheap airfare with Flair Air and chance to see my Dad.
Watched the Canadian Ice Dancers -- Scott Moir and Tessa Virtue win gold--it was spectacular. Cheers Jo-Anne

Hi Jo-Anne! Thank you for the Olympic Update. I didn't know you were a figure skating groupie! As you might remember, Flamin' and Sarge were very involved with Skate Canada over the years as both their boys were figure skaters and Corey, the younger brother, still judges. Wayne was in charge of overall security for the figure skating event in 2010, [We met scads of of the Newfoundlanders who were out to volunteer for the same event.], and Michelle went to Torino in 2006 as an observer for 2010.  As you might expect, the Sutherlands know/knew most, if not all, of the Canadian competitors, etc, due to the sons' participation and their own. This has changed over the years as the family is not as involved, of course. Ryan was inducted into the Newfoundland Sports Hall of Fame for his achievements, a number of years ago. His coach, [his name slips my mind, but I think it was Bruno, and his partner, Natalia, both lovely, lovely people], stayed overnight with us, in Penticton, last summer, when Flamin' and Sarge were taking them on a bit of a tour of the Okanagan. Hence, we feel we are minor royalty in the Canadian Golden Figure Skating Pantheon! Bravo Tessa and Scott!

We were off to Healdsburg at just after 9:00 am this morning. Thought of you and Colin as we travelled through southern Sonoma and Santa Rosa, devastated by the most recent round of wildfires, as you know all too well. The Airbnb where our friends/hosts, Nancy and David, stayed about 18 months ago, was reduced to ashes. Not lost on them as their own home was similarly burned to the ground in the Berkeley/Oakland fires of October 1991. I and squash friend, Gregg Dawe, had stayed with them, in late September and was sitting at my desk in ILL, now the Dodson Room, when David called to tell me! They lost everything although they had building insurance so were able to rebuild once everything was sorted out. Ironically, I had left seven cases of wine, to be collected on the next trip, and our household insurance covered the loss. We were in Australia, north of Melbourne, just outside Castlemaine, Harcourt North, to be precise, staying with Lady Dar's Library School classmate, Kathleen Gray, when we talked to my Mom, for Christmas, and she told me the insurance cheque had arrived!

If you had never visited the hills up above Berkeley, where they still live you would never know that the landscape looked like it had been fire-bombed, since it has, over the years, completely regenerated itself. When their new home was finished, about three years later, they had a spectacular view of the Golden Gate. This disappeared about ten years ago, blocked again by the trees in front. To add an interesting detail to this story, David found one bottle from the seven cases I had left and kept it as a memento mori of sorts. It was from Caparone Winery, just outside Paso Robles, and a region we visited quite regularly in the early 90's.

As mentioned, we stopped off at Coffaro to collect a case of wine that had been bottled since we were by last December. Had a lovely, if brief visit with Pat and David, and he insisted I take a 2103 Lagrein, (one of my favourites of his offerings), for the Caparone Aglianico. Thanking them we waved goodbye, [We hope they might visit again this summer.], and made our way through the Alexander Valley to Napa and then Lake Country to Williams to catch I-5. Easy drive from there to Redding. Arrived at The Starlight Motel around 3:30 pm and Lady Dar has been watching more figure skating ever since. I just opened a 2016 Coffaro ZP2C, 15.4%, [A blend of every barrel of red produced each year.] Not overly complex but a wonderful, wonderful steal at $11/btl, futures price. I buy all of my Coffaro on this program and Patrizzia always gives me a 20%

discount although I'm technically only entitled to 10%, based on club I belong to. In fact I left $400 with her for 2019 futures. List comes out next month but I don't want to pay credit card charges, exchange + service with Visa! It will probably cost me around $300 for two cases but I always like to have a little change coming in case I want more of one varietal or another. They are so flexible that you can change your order if you decide you like the Zinfandel more than the Lagrein, per esempio, should you be there after barrel tasting whatever you wish or when you come to collect order as we often do! Have done this a number of times as wines change, as you well know.

Must away as I'd like to have a quick shower before we walk to Jack's, our favourite steak joint! Unfortunately they don't allow corkage and their wine list is uninspired, to say the least. Nevertheless, we'll polish of the ZP2C before we head out. Fondestos from Lady Dar, calling for a refill. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Arrivederci Winston and Ms Tinsel Town! Mark Caparone and vintage cars, current project, earlier one and Green Hornet prop; Villa Vicente; Coffaro!

 
Hello Kids! Thank you, Boris and Natasha, for the wonderful, wonderful stay! Meals and lunches and java were superb, as ever, even if we were given the bum's rush this morning! Said good morning to your cleaning lady as we made our hurried exit! Lovely to meet you, Ms Little Rock, and we wish you all the best with your move and relocation. See you next year for a Bourbon tasting tour! Onward!! Fight!!! Fondestos from Lady Dar. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Villa Vicente; Coffaro! Caparone now and then!

Hi Patrick, How are you? I’m Nob, who did home-stay with your family roughly 20 years ago. I sent you a Facebook friend request the other day, but you’ve not accepted it yet. I found your account on the website of UBC. If this account is active and you read this email, please reply to me. I now live in Georgia, USA and will be here by the end of this year. If you and Corrine are preferable, I’d like to fly to Vancouver with my family! Anyway, I’m looking forward to your reply first. Best, Nobiwan

Hello Nobiwan! What an incredibly delightful surprise to receive your message! I must apologize for not befriending you on Facebook but I must admit I did not recognize the request and assumed it was an attempt to hack into my account. Thank you for being so persistent! Much to tell after twenty years but suffice it to say, we sold our condo in False Creek, where you were our home-stay delinquent, and moved to Penticton, to the heart of The Drunkening Red Water wine region of BC! So, if you'd like to visit with your family we have plenty of room and flight connections into Penticton or Kelowna, an hour north of us, are very good.

Let us know when you are thinking of visiting. You should know that I will be in Europe from April 16th to July 10th so I hope you are able to visit before or after that. I suggest the summer as weather will be more conducive for swimming and, more importantly, wine-tasting! What are you doing in Georgia? Do you have children? We are anxious to know how your life twisted and turned after you returned to Japan. We expect to arrive in Vancouver, probably, Thursday, February 22nd and then back home to Penticton on Sunday. Fondestos from Cora Lee to you and your family, Nobiwan. Let me know what you think and we'll plan accordingly. Cheers, Host Father Patrizzio!

Glad to hear you made it to Redding. Apologies for the last minute rush. Rita struggles to make ends meet and her schedule is more complicated than ours. Plus she currently has health concerns. She works so hard. We are watching skaters tonight. Russians next! Best to Lady Dar. Ciao, Nancy Hi Donna Florida and Vincenzo! Just back from Jack's where we enjoyed a wonderful, wonderful meal. Only mishap was the fact that corkage is now a possibility! Drat! [We'd have taken the 2013 Coffaro Lagrein David gave me for Caparone Aglianico I presented to him.] Would have been a poifect match for steak. Lady Dar ordered the 10 oz filet while I opted for Jack's Stack, basically bits and pieces from filet and NY Strip but half the price of former and just as tasty! Back at The Stardust Lady Dar was delighted to see Men's Czech Republic hockey team beat US in shoot-out! Nevertheless, we still love you particular Yanks! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Jack's! I'm sure Cactus would appreciate they IPA from Eel River, just south of Eureka, 7.2%; ceiling; Satisfied meat eater! What remains of the pool at the Americana Lodge, (now slated for demolition, I presume), first motel I stayed in here in Redding, back in 1984! Luxury, Sheer Luxury of Stardust awaits! Vintage cars at Caparone, yesterday!

Ah, Jack’s. I miss it!! Redding was quite a while ago. Glad you’re well. Thanks for the trip down memory lane! -A.

 

The MarriageMobile is Blown North by The Howling Wind Blues: Monday, February 19th!

Architecture is inhabited sculpture. -Constantin Brancusi, sculptor (19 Feb 1876-1957) 

David Kessler Wishing you, Lady Dar, and Patrick James Dunn a smooth trip north today, and that the thought of pizza and Zinfandel awaiting you on this end spurs Stealth VII to great, but not excessive, speeds! Patrick James Dunn Thanks for the good wishes, everyone. However, won't need excessive speed as the seeming gale force winds of last night will be send us zipping north along the 101. Woke at 2:45 am when I heard a very loud bang and blinds were fluttering like Costa Rican hummingbird wings. Had no idea what caused this noise. A backfire! A gang shooting? No, the large deck chair Ayn has standing upright, to save space when not in use, on her balcony had come crashing down, missing my Trek by mere millimetres, [Thank all the Cycling Gods!], and a potted cactus. Her Bella lilies didn't fare quite as well and were blown over by gusts. As soon as I've posted this I will tie Winston's leash around my waist, [I'm afraid Lady Dar would let go and I'd plunge over the railing!], tie it too the steel banister, up to Ayn's loft, before venturing outside to set things right!
 

Photo: Jason Comely

Hi Patrick Loved the youtube at Jungle Beach Hotel. Monkeys were so cute!
Thanks heaps Jo-Anne Hi Marps! Glad you enjoyed the Titis! What wonderful, delightful creatures. Thank you for your more than newsy message. I apologize for not replying in person but have been very busy over last little while. Will leave for Berkeley this morning. Had loaded most of our possessions yesterday so in pretty good shape as far as packing goes. Alex will come for breakfast after he is off his 24 hour LAFD shift, [In fact, he just walked in!], since he was not able to join us for dinner last night. 
 

Hi Patrick, My last emailed failed again so persistence is the key I will see if this works the new timber kitchen, and floating Black but wooden floor instead of tiles and Claire’s handmade lead light in the updated bath room vs the old kitchen. The whole interior is of course hand made by us. Got your valentines Cheers from down here

Won't need excessive speed as the seeming gale force winds of last night will be send us zipping north along the 101. Plan to stop at Caparone, near Paso Robles, one of our favourite wineries in the area. Woke at 2:45 am when I heard a very loud bang and blinds were fluttering like Costa Rican hummingbird wings. Had no idea what caused this noise. A backfire! A gang shooting? No, the large deck chair Ayn has standing upright, to save space when not in use, on her balcony had come crashing down, missing my Trek by mere millimetres, [Thank all the Cycling Gods!], and a potted cactus. Her Bella lilies didn't fare quite as well and were blown over by gusts. As soon as I've posted this I will tie Winston's leash around my waist, [I'm afraid Lady Dar would let go and I'd plunge over the railing!],  affix it to the steel banister, up to Ayn's loft, before venturing outside to set things right!
 

Must away as breakfast will soon be served and I have some last minute packing to do as well. Fondestos from Lady Dar wide-eyed with love and admiration for her youngest grandson! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Pics: Pierre and Shannon, his girlfriend, over for dinner last night. Samantha, Alex's wife; Lady Dar with The Kids! Sam came over earlier; Ayn with The Sisterhood! Shannon had been out very, very late, on Saturday night, with a visiting girlfriend, so she fell asleep after her first glass of wine! Catastrophe on balcony! LAFD responds to emergency call! Alex and Sam on Saturday night. He feel asleep as he was still recovering from his latest 24 hour shift!

On the way north from LA we took 101 and stopped by Caparone Winery just for fun. David Caprone, the original owner/winemaker has retired, more or less, and his eldest son, Mark, has taken over much of the business, although David still is involved in most aspects, from vineyards to wine making. About ten years ago was the last time we stopped by and Mark's wife was working in the tasting room on that visit. She is quite an accomplished singer and preforms with both Mark, (trumpet), and David, (trombone). She had a number of CDs for sale and I bought both. While we were tasting I asked Mark if she had released any more. He said that she hadn't although he had been trying to "prod" her to do so. I mentioned we both enjoyed her voice and the swing-style of Benny Goodman and had attended the Pentastic Jazz Festival last September, being almost overwhelmed by Dave Bennett who brought two bands to the event, his Quartet which plays aforementioned swing and The Memphis Speed Kings, Rock 'n' Roll music of Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis, Chuck Berry and on and on. Simply superb, extraordinary musicians with an almost unbelievable stage presence. 

Mark replied that he knew Dave very well and had seen him a week ago! Mark plays in The High Sierra Jazz Band and had been on a Jazz Cruise in the Caribbean this past January with his wife, as one of the vocalists, along with Dave and a couple of the bands we'd seen in Penticton. Mark knew about Pentastic although he has never been. I checked the 2018 line-up and Dave will be back with both his groups so we are looking forward to going in September. You should come up!

Knew from past visits that David worked on vintage cars and Mark showed us his latest project, another Lincoln. Car had been fully restored when David purchased it but he didn't like work so he is in the process of fully redoing it! He and his wife live but a short distance from the winery and he spends a couple of hours a day working on the car or in the vineyards. What a Renaissance Man! An earlier project, The 1937 Lincoln Zephyr V-12, was used as a prop in The Green Hornet as a "perfect" restoration was required and David is known, in vintage car circles, as one of the country's most accomplished craftsmen. Bought six bottles of wine, three Merlot, three Cabbage and three Aglianico, a varietal David was the first vinter in California to introduce. [I wanted one bottle for David Coffaro, in Healdsburg, as he also produces an Aglianico.] Thanking Mark and inviting him to bring High Sierra to Penticton we waved goodbye.

By this time it was close to 3:00 pm and we had about three hours left before we reached Berkeley. Ordinarily this would not have been much of a trip but traffic heading north was horrendous as it was President's Day and people were returning from long weekend. Around Gilroy we could have walked more quickly but once into San Jose itself, things eased up and we pulled onto Vicente Road at around 6:45 pm, having hoped to be there by 6:00 pm. Anyway, we were greeted warmly by Nancy and David who introduced us to their good friend, Rachel, over for dinner. Once we had unloaded what we needed we sat down to David's wonderful home-made pizza, dough and all, as he is a very accomplished bread maker, from scratch. Loads of wine and and visiting over dinner and then malt for the Lads, while The Sisterhood stuck to red. Fairly early night so we said goodnight to one and all around 10:00 pm and made for our respective beds.

Ted update: To family and friends, We are writing to give you an update on Ted's condition. As expected, the disease has progressed. He is no longer able to walk and his cognitive function has significantly declined. He's also spending more time sleeping everyday.

As it had become too difficult to keep Ted at home, last week we had moved to St John Hospice on UBC campus. The hospice is lovely, the staff are warm, Ted really likes the food, and we are very comfortable here. 

Visitors are welcome anytime and Ted has still been enjoying seeing his friends, eating chocolates and cookies, and going for coffees in the morning. If you would like to come by to visit, you can reach out to Elaine on her cell. Again we would like to thank everyone for their love & support. You have all played such an important part in our lives. Lots of love, Elaine, Kristina, Stephanie, and Laura Dear Elaine, Kristina, Stephanie, Laura, Alex, Will & James ~ Thank you so much for sharing this journey with all who care so very much for your family. Lana & Carl

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a rare, degenerative, invariably fatal brain disorder. It affects about one person in every one million people per year worldwide; in the United States there are about 300 cases per year. CJD usually appears in later life and runs a rapid course.

Sweet note Patrick! Swear to god Bruno sleeps just like that! In fact just last night I couldn’t resist giving him a pet under the chin and the poor animal jumped out of his skin he was so deeply asleep. I felt badly about that since it was suppose to show my affection. Looking forward to our book club meeting/wine drinking/intense discussion about all things. Take care, Lou Thank you, Patrick Hope your Costa Rica trip was all that a  vacation should be. Love to the Family—- Nancy Hi Patrick Loved the youtube at Jungle Beach Hotel.  Monkeys were so cute! Thanks heaps Jo-Anne

 

Balboa Park Blues: Sunday, February 18th!

True teachers are those who use themselves as bridges over which they invite their students to cross; then, having facilitated their crossing, joyfully collapse, encouraging them to create their own. -Nikos Kazantzakis, poet and novelist (18 Feb 1883-1957) 


When I was up this morning I discerned no sign of life in my poor laptop, although I had hoped for an overnight miracle. Despondent, I carried the cold corpse back to the dining room table and prepared to administer last rites. Plugging it in for the last time, for the funeral dirge The Sisters of Mercy must have heard my pitiful prayers and Shazaaaam! the magnetic plug beamed its mini-Cyclops, orange eye at me! "Jubilation, Apple loves me again, I fall on the floor and I laughing." [Please identify slightly modified lyrics for a free dinner at a local pub! Jubilation, She (Cecilia) loves me again, I fall on the floor and I'm laughing. Bruno I win dinner at the pub! Cecilia by Simon and Garfunkel!  Too easy. We have tickets to see Paul in Vancouver in May!  Hope you Mac holds in til you are home!! Carol] This being said, I do think the transformer or wiring connections are starting to show their age so I will need to take it in to an Apple Store, probably sooner than later. For now, I am crossing my fingers that I can "limp" home, as is.

Hello Famiglia and Amici! I must apologize for not sending these along sooner but unexplained computer failure! Depart Tinsel town tomorrow morning, stopping at Caprone, in Paso Robles on way to Villa Vicente. We will probably stay overnight, on Tuesday, the 20th, after leaving Berkeley/Sonoma, so that we can eat at Jack's, our favourite steak joint. Next day to Portland with Marilyn and Michaelo, and then with Flamin' and Sarge for weekend. Home to Penticton on Sunday. Fondestos from Lady Dar, watching Olympic coverage, to one and all. Must away as last chance for a ride in Tinsel Town this trip. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Map and Stats for ride:

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/2507239942#.WooOiWAHh_8.email

Hello Patrick, You sent your Valentine's Card while travelling!! Thank you. It's a cute card. Mind you, I have lost track of where you are right now. Quick update on me: I am kind a' falling apart here. Elbow tendinitis early January which forced me to cancel my Florida trip to mom's and delay it by 3 weeks. A very sore left hip (the good one), apparently I have no arthritis but bursitis, got a Cortisone injection which only helped a little, I am in physical discomfort and hobbling along at half speed, my mom can keep up with me now! 

Just returned from FL last Tuesday, I had to pack up my mom's apartment and move her to another seniors' facility with a secured Memory Ward as she has taken up wandering. And ended up in Lions Gate hospital on Thursday night, apparently I had a mini heart attack while at mom's, so am waiting for an angiogram tomorrow. Not to worry, I will live to tell the tale, even if it is a little too much to take it all in, but I will get through this. Enjoy your travels and my love to both you and Corinne. Yda