Return to Lender Blues: Saturday, March 18th!

It is curious that physical courage should be so common in the world and moral courage so rare. -Mark Twain, author and humorist (1835-1910)

Old school friends

Are we still friends!!!Just checking... lol Been up and about, Nigeria and London was fun. Guess I've been out of the radar. How is Lady Dar, and the rest of the wonderful home? Will catch up soon and till then, share some picture memories! Wole 

Self on Emirates

Have you purchased your tickets for the tasting tomorrow? Judi Good Morning, Dame Judith!Pleased to hear that you obviously made it home safely on Thursday night! I thought you might be back, (Yet another time! Albariña returned with Von Bingen's phone when she found hers on the dash of her car and Von Bingen returned to collect hers. Don't know why everyone simply didn't stay overnight. Would have been simpler!), to collect your salad dressing container! We'll bring it tomorrow to malt whisky tasting although we have yet to purchase our tickets. 

Lady Dar, (still abed as is her usual royal wont), did not receive a message or at least cannot find it! Please send it to me. Cheers, Patrizzio! Just sent it Hi again, Dame Judith! Just printed out our tickets. Thanks. See you tomorrow. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hello Book Clubettes! Thanks to one and all for the wonderful, wonderful contributions to the pot-luck, both extremely tasty dishes, (Special thanks to delivery boy, Kevin, for last minute salad dressing!), and vino! It was a terrific evening, all around, so thanks to everyone for the more than spirited discussion. The Sisterhood is certainly a force to be reckoned with, especially after a snort or two of single malt!

Self with Prof.Falase my cardiologist

It has been decided that the next book, suggested by Luigi, is to be  The Girl with Seven Names: A North Korean Defector's Story, by Hyeonseo Lee, "an activist who lives in South Korea, where she is a student. She escaped from North Korea and later guided her family to freedom from the country through China and Laos."

Dame Judith has very kindly offered to host the next gathering, Monday, May 1st, at 6:30 pm. It will be a wine and cheese affair so I, (as Secretary pro tem), need to know who will attend. Dame Judith, with her keen sense of noblesse oblige and extensive aristocratic connections, has also offered to pair the cheese she will select with a number of wines from Noble Ridge. Once I am able to tell her how many will participate, we can decide whether to bring more hootch or contribute money to defray the cost of the outlay. More when I know more or am chastised by Her Judithness!

I have taken the liberty of adding a number of people to the group, based on their expressed interest in joining. We welcome your open minds with open arms!  

Remains of a blasted rock in my home city

Furthermore, Von Bingen has suggested a title for future consideration, The Mistress of Nothing, by Kate Pullinger. ["Lady Duff Gordon is the toast of Victorian London society. But when her debilitating tuberculosis means exile, she and her devoted lady's maid, Sally, set sail for Egypt. It is Sally who describes, with a mixture of wonder and trepidation, the odd menage (marshalled by the resourceful Omar) that travels down the Nile to a new life in Luxor. When Lady Duff Gordon undoes her stays and takes to native dress, throwing herself into weekly salons, language lessons and excursions to the tombs, Sally too adapts to a new world, which affords her heady and heartfelt freedoms never known before."]

For the other members, please come with other books you wish to put forward. [Jake, (He Who Did Not Show), has already put forward Captain Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernières], so that we can begin to build up a reading list. Must away as I have to make a quick run to Summerland to return the three copies of February I borrowed on behalf of the club. [Saw Sue Cline, the librarian I'd met when I first borrowed the books, at Book Return Counter but she didn't know if Marian would be attending the Book Club that morning. The group's meeting was to start shortly. Bumped into Olga Polga on the sidewalk outside the library as I was leaving as she was going to the Book Club.] Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Inaugurale!

With friends

Thank you for the card...was so busy yesterday that I was just able to open it now Was very pleased that Kenny gave Trump a lesson in St. Patrick and his connection to immigrants and compassion while they were together!

Hello Extremely Busy Tinsel Towner and Falcon Babe! Glad you enjoyed the card but it was meant for Winston! I spent most of the day playing bridge at a GFA fund-raiser. Lady Dar contributed a fabulous butternut squash soup but was volunteering at PGH and then playing mah jong afterwards so didn't attend event. Had four other members of our bridge group play and they really enjoyed themselves.

Dame Judith, [We are off to a malt dinner/tasting tomorrow, (Her husband, Kevin, is the President of the South Okanagan Whisky Tasting Society.), along with Jugos Dom Pedro.], has very kindly offered to host the next book club gathering. Fondestos, Love and Cheers, Dad/Patrizzio! Pics: Bridge: first table with Josinta; Olga Polga and Naramata Goil; Gang with Michaelo holding slow cooker. 

Okada are public transport bikes

After I returned from Summerland, taking back the books I'd borrowed for the book club, I popped into the Penticton Art Gallery to see Paul, the Curator, about the frame for Bear, the work I'd purchased from the artist, Clayton Gautier, after seeing his work an exhibition ago. The PAG had framed the work so I needed to find out how much I would be charged if I took it framed. Unfortunately, Paul was not in so after a pleasant chat with Jacinta who was on the Reception Desk. Back home I made myself a couple of sandwiches and then suited up for the coming ride. I'd taken a quick look at the weather forecast and it suggested that there were to be showers around 2:00 pm so I figured I'd be finished cycling by then.

Anyway, I left the house around 12:30 pm and it was just starting to spit a few drops. Didn't think much of it as I'd placed my faith in the forecast. Was quickly disabused of this notion as soon as I hit Lakeside since it was raining pretty steadily by then. Undeterred, I kept going to Riverside, dodging large puddles and feeling a trickle of water entering my left boot! My snazzy riding leggings, (Without a word of a lie, a pair of 36 year old Stansfield's Long Johns which belonged to Lady Dar when we used to cross-country ski at Falcon when there for many Christmas holidays!), were pretty well soaked although my legs didn't feel too uncomfortable, which I found rather surprising given the strong wind out of the SSW at 16 kph.

With fiancee and friend

[I see he had a beautiful fiance so I can stop worrying about arranged marriages and dowrys etc!! LolI meant has a beautiful fiance...oh this stupid smartphone. Hi Blame-it-on-the-Smartphone Woman! Play Nana's Young and the Useless card and invite Wole to Alejandro's wedding and tell Wole, "Hi, my name is Phyllis and I understand that your beautiful fiancée is in Nigeria. I guess you must be very lonely!" Cheers, Patrizzio The Yiddish Matchmaker! Oy vey , Already! Talk about a man desperate to marry off his daughters! This is turning into an United Arab Emerites prime time soap! I think it is his friends fiancé. Mom Write a script and make a pitch to Al Jazeera's Family Channel! You write the script I am too busy with my own drama at work. Fine! Duke is busy scribing! Good! Being a Vice President is very tiring and I would rather be Duke's literary agent anyways *clap*!! Life At The Top is Never Easy!]
  
Had entertained a jaunt to Summerland but the thought of all the highway traffic was not overly attractive so I opted for sticking closer to home and decided to gerbalize myself for as long as I could take the inclement weather. After my third Power Street loop, (roughly 37 minutes after I'd started out), I noticed the sky was clearing to the north so I took hope that the rain might actually stop. On my fourth loop it had and the day gradually improved, the sun beginning to shine brightly in a sky that had increasing patches of blue dotting it as the low cloud cover began to dissipate. I even began to dry out an in an effort to raise my AVG I dispelled the chill I had felt beginning to creep towards my core.

Quite amazing how my mood and that of the pedestrians and dog walkers I passed changed once the rain stopped.  Felt even better when on each succeeding loop I was able to raise my AVG a 10th of a kph, or so, until I had pushed it to 21.2 kph as I was finishing the last Power Street loop. Knew I would probably drop back on way up Ellis as wind would be a significant factor on this last leg. To try to mitigate it effect and stay at or above 21 kph I dipsy- doodled off Ellison at Cannery Brewing to take the more sheltered side streets all the way to Pickering Street which intersects with Eckhardt Ave E at the bottom of Haven Hill to put me on Government and I was soon whistling down White to swoop past our back lane as I needed a bit more distance to give me the ride length I wanted when I pulled up outside the garage door. 

Late mother's grave side.

Extremely pleased that I'd not given up as day was simply gorgeous by 4:00 pm. Much of my bike was covered in fine sand so after I'd removed my squishy boots and soggy socks, I filled up a pail and watering can and rinsed it off. Then I gave it a good spray with Eco-friendly detergent and rinsed it thoroughly again. Duke and Etta were rolling around on the warm concrete, enjoying the glorious sunshine. As soon as my bike was relatively dry, I toweled it down and then oiled the chain. After putting it back in the garage I zapped a mug of java and then went out front to sweep up most of the oak leaves that had collected over the winter in front of the patio. Duke and Etta were absolutely delighted to chase any that my broom tossed into the wind and I soon had a large bin filled, ready for the yard waste container. Decent ride, [Except for the rain and detour off Ellis, this was the same ride I'd done on Thursday, although I only managed to log an AVG of 21 kph even though conditions were dry and wind was only 8 kph out of the north!], nagging yard chores completed and frolicking cats, what more could one ask? Map and Stats for ride:

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1627658644#.WM3CwOSCZZs.email
 

GFA Seven No Trump Pot-of-Gold at The End of the Rainbow Blues: Friday, March 17th!

When an individual is protesting society's refusal to acknowledge his dignity as a human being, his very act of protest confers dignity on him. -Bayard Rustin, civil rights activist (17 Mar 1912-1987)

Up shortly after Lady Dar's alarm went off as she had soup to make for the GFA bridge/lunch fund raiser. Shortly thereafter, she noticed that Duke was missing his collar. We were both worried about this as with them both out, he needs his identification. Took a cursory look all around the house, inside and out. Nothing! Lady Dar let for her volunteer shift at PGH at 7:40 am and half an hour later. Puppy Dog Duke came trotting into the kitchen, collar in mouth! 

Carol Riera The luck of the Irish for you! I've been looking for these tidal treasures on Parksville's beach and finally found one on a morning walk on St Paddy's day! 🍀

The luck of the Irish to the both of you and to those two little four-legged leprechauns ! ��������������🙋��🐱🐱 Erika, Amy, Caramel,Shadow, Mama Lady, Marius, Baby and Pikko. Hi to My Favourite Winnipeg Cat Owners!  Had a chatty note for Andrea so it was good to hear from her. Cheers, my Darling, Patrizzio!

Top of the morning to you! What a delightful card. Thanks heaps! Jo-Anne Played this again for Colin to watch--it is a wonderful card thanks again. Hope you had a Guinness -- we had Irish stew and Guinness. Irish blessings all around. Jo-Anne and Colin You may be part Irish Pat, but you ain't no saint. Happy Saint Patrick's Day! Hi My Favourite Winnipeg Cynic!  Great line! I used it with all my friends and they bought me pints and pints of Guinness so joke's on you, Filmer!!! Fondestos from Lady Dar to you and Sally Cheers, Non-Saint Patrizzio! Happy St. Patrick's Day to you and Corinne! Thanx, we really liked that one! Happy St. Patrick's Day to you too! Love you Jean & John

little bastard. but anyway thank you and tap of the morning to you. very funny Hi Patrick, that you very much for yet another delightful ecard. I am in Calgary at the moment and will show this to Jasper, our 4 yr old grandson! Happy St. Patrick's day to you both.Top of the mornin' to you and the Mrs! Marian had eye surgery on Wednesday and she is making good progress. Hiking and anything strenuous is on hold for two weeks. That makes me chief cook and bottle washer and I am am trying to sneak in a little painting during the downtime from hiking, tennis etc. But we are keeping pretty busy. See you on the tails before too long. Happy St. Patrick's Day to you both! Cheers, Tim and Marian

Hi Cousins! Glad to hear that Marian's eye surgery went well and that you have time for painting, Tim. I wondered if I might bump into Marian last Saturday as I returned a number of books, (Three copies of February I borrowed for our book club), to your library and asked Sue Cline if she was there. Probably too soon but I did meet Olga Polga outside library as she was attending discussion group. Fondestos from Lady Dar to you, Timber, and my Darling Marian! Cheers, Patrizzio!

 
Hi Pat and Corinne, Wishing you all the best on this St. Patricks' Day. We had a lovely time at your place. My sister really enjoyed the break from her routine. I think she is finally ready to move on and start living her life again after everything that has happened. It was so nice for her to socialize with you to help her get her mojo back again. We really appreciate the time we had together. Thanks so much! Ruth Thanks for the St. Patrick's day wishes. It was great to have you and Deb visit. Really enjoyed getting to know Deb better. See you soon, Hugs Corinne

Hi Little White! Let me echo what Lady Dar said about your visit with Deb. Simply lovely to see you both and especially pleased that Dancin' seems to be returning to a happier life after the wrenching, almost unimaginable trauma she has had to endure. Of course, she is always welcome. Furthermore, at the rate she is learning to play, she'll have to time her next visit to coincide with one of our bridge nights!

Must apologize for not responding sooner but seems to have been a whirlwind ever since you left on Tuesday. Wednesday we hosted two tables of bridge. Only had seven players but Dummy rotated as needed. Regards to The Grumpoid.  Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Happy St Paddy's day to you. Thank you, Patrick, yes, all Irish is funny, including the dogs who get drank on Guinness. Get ready to enjoy spring, if it decides to come, and hopefully we will see you this year. Give my regards to every one, and keep enjoying life in the valley. egn

Very endearing and darling, poor pooch!! What would you do without Jacquie Lawson :>). Her cards are beautiful though. I too have a subscription to her cards, but rarely use them. No need to now, you keep me current, ha-ha! Thanks for the Patty wishes, you will likely celebrate and find some place to drink green beer or green wine, while I totally forgot to even wear green (other than my unmistakenly green eyes!!). 

Glad to hear the lavender farm project was not realized, whilst most romantic sounding and beautiful scenery, "work" was what came to my mind first thing as well. As to when we come and visit: I have no clue. I am still recovering from my Alaska cruise and 5 trips to mom's last year. My next FL trip is at Easter, and we have a trip to Kootenays planned July 1, which does take us past Penticton, but my girl-friend Jean is flying out from Toronto the following weekend and staying with us for 2 weeks, and then it will almost be ti me for another FL trip ...... But from the sounds of it, you are pretty booked most of the year anyway, ha-ha! Love to come but free time is at a premium at this stage in my life, thanks to mom :>) 

Did you have your cats already when we came to visit with Bogart in July 2015? I can't remember any dog or cat parts flying about your house ....... I hope both hips are doing well? Love to you and Corinne and cats and whoever is currently guest-residing .....Yda  Hi Little Evita and The Imperiales! Enjoyed your newsy note. Glad to hear that life is busy and goes well. Etta and Duke came into our lives on the August long-weekend so Bogart would not have met them! Please stay overnight on way to or back from Kootenays so they can become acquainted! Fondestos to you and your men! Cheers, Patrizzio!


Did you get my reply? I think something was sent prematurely..M. Thank you! Often think of you all, hoping you are well. Spring is coming. New job is coming.
Aunt Kicki's 70th birthday party in Sweden is coming. Easter holidays in Amsterdam are coming. My dad's invitation for 80th birthday party on May just arrived. My neck problems are under control and I went swimming in masters competition and got a prize for best swimming ( time 200 freestyle and age group 55-59 combined) Life is treating ud well 

Hi Steel Magnolia!  Glad to hear that everyone is well and life goes so swimmingly, so to speak! Congratulations on your latest Masters medal! Bravo! Onward!! Fight!!! Pleased you enjoyed the card. Fondestos from Lady Dar to you and The Lads, Maggie. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Top o the mornin to u my friend!! Thx for the Irish wishes!! Maggie����👍��  Very cute! Anything that takes our minds off...well, never mind. Happy St. Patrick's Day! Hello, Patrick! Thanks for thinking of me - and Top o'the Morning to you too! Sadly, my system won't let me play the card due to some Flash issue. As I am pressed for time - leave for a holiday - finally! - on Tuesday, dealing with the techno-demons will have to wait for my return. Hope all goes well with you and everyone in the Interior! Best, Deborah  Hi Flashless Holiday Goer! Trust your holiday is going/went well. Sorry you couldn't open card before you left. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Patrick, I love it, to be sure, to be sure! Did you know we are visiting Ireland in September? Love Teens Hi Teens and Trev! Glad you enjoyed the card. I don't think I knew you were off to Ireland in September. We were in Dublin, in October, in 2010, for a week and had a simply wonderful time. Would certainly love to return to explore much more of the country. How are you two faring in the aftermath of the deaths of a parent each? Fondestos from Lady Dar to you both. Take care of each other. Cheers, Patrizzio!

So nice to be one of your friends that is remembered on St. Patrick's Day. Cheers of the day to you! Dawn and Gerry Hi Donna Maria and Heraldo! You two are Top of the List, Top of the List, Babycakes! Cheers, Patrizzio!
 
Thank you very much.....I spent St. Patricks day skiing at Apex in a green ski jacket! how you doing these days......going hiking soon? Cheers.....Kilian Hi Leprechaun Skier! Great to learn that you are back on the slopes these days!. I was away, week before last, in Vancouver. As soon as hills dry out a bit more I plan to start hiking again. Trust it won't be too, too long a wait as I miss you and the gang! Until then, take care of yourself, St Kilian. Cheers, Patrizzio!

 

You got it all wrong, Pat! I should be sending YOU a card. Anyway, Happy St Patrick's Day! Prove you're a real Irishman, and drink at least five pints of Guinness (or, even better, Murphy's). / Cheers, Kjell  May the wind be at your back!...and lots of love. Brenda and Wally That was cuuute! Thanks Patrick - have a happy St Patrick's Day as well and hope you get your own mug of Guinness! Cheerio! Pat Muchos gracias de Havana - only just got your card as wifi almost non existent here! Love to all xx Hi to My Favourite, Favourite Havana Hammock People! Nice life indeed! Pleased you were eventually able to enjoy card. Fondestos you and Madcap! Cheers, my Darling, Patrizzio!

[Juno tidying up the back yard] Thanks for the greeting - are you named after St. Patrick???  All is well here - well sort of, I am still suffering balance issues and reduced hearing in one ear since a virus in Dec. Hopefully it will clear eventually. Keep well. Love, Roma & Leonard Thx and to you as well  Hi Roma and Leonard! Glad you enjoyed the card but distressed to learn that you have been dealing with more balance issues again. Trust your condition has improved as of this writing. Best Wishes from Lady Dar, to you both. Cheers, Patrizzio!
 

Patriçio, I have a couple of med appointments w.r.t. my heart condition in the first couple of weeks of April, but a “work visit” after that would be great, if I can get my Dad’s care sorted out.  I am working on a long term plan, wit a couple of options, but should be far enough ahead by then.

Unfortuitously, Juno will be back with Mom Rebecca, so I hope Duke and Etta won’t be too emotionally crushed to miss meeting her. Meanwhile, the odd nice day is happening now, so I am looking forward to biking the Arbutus Railway Corridor (ARC) - a minuscule version of the KVR (without trestles, but paved!).

Hello Back Yard Dog and Ragin' Barrista! Great stick, Juno, and snazzy, snazzy Café Kits' java machina, indeed, Ragin'! Can hardly wait to try a cup!!! Trust you are both well and survived St Patrick's Day! Be terrific if you are able to manage a working holiday! Cheers, Il Conduttore! Is this how you got to have your Guinness? Irish sheep herding:

https://biggeekdad.com/2012/03/irish-sheepdog/#.WMwJp55b7hA.email

[Ragin’ Barista’s latest acquisition. Café Kits is open for business!] Hello Patriccio and Lady Dar. Thank you for the St. Patrick Day email. The book I was trying to remember for a suggested Book Club Read is: THE MISTRESS OF NOTHING……by Kate Pullinger. Easy read… 248 pages……think it would be of interest to the group. I have one copy here……although very worn. Check it out and see what you think. Have a great week-end you two. Hugs from Hildi

Dear Patrick & Corinne, Hope you are both well and it was good to last hear Patrick that you are mending well and busily & faithfully doing your necessary exercises to strengthen your hip.  When I was on the beach a few weeks ago I met a women with her dog that had two knee replacements that is amazing for a canine and I thought of you Patrick, both bionic so incredible indeed.

Hope your Dad is still doing well Corinne along with your Mom.  My Mom is still doing well and has beaten a major bout of pneumonia and back in her apartment.

Hope you both have been fortunate enough to have eluded the dreaded seasonal flu.  When I got back from Wpg. last Dec. I eventually fell into exhaustion and have been sick for the last three months or more with three or four bouts of the flu. I finally went to the doctor and I have what is called walking pneumonia and now placed on antibiotics.  I have to keep my calendar free of all engagements and allow myself to rest.  What a bummer!  John has had two bouts of the flu so I have been contagious to say the least. I faithfully ensure daily that we get our ten cups of fruits and vegetables, exercise, maintain a positive healthy lifestyle and yet succumbed to disease.  I know I have compromised my immune system through stress which has made me vulnerable to disease. 

I have gone back to writing my book. “Searching for love and happiness.” Benson the Dalmatian is the narrator. After having Dalmatians for over forty five years it is amazing how absolutely loving they are. They are sensual, emotionally intuitive, romantic, sexual and erotic, constantly humping each other. They are in need of constant hugs and kisses and Benson, as have all the boys places his paws on my shoulders every day and looks right into the soul of who I am as he kisses me moaning and groaning with pleasure. So with this I found it necessary & with difficulty to write about them sexually which is important to express their nature.

Here is a sample from Chapter 13 “The Sweet Taste of Love”

With the power of a God & a Goddess, our young infatuated bodies began to run; sprint, bolt and then we threw ourselves at each other with such force, such passionate intensity, embraced into a sexual dance of love. With her provocative gestures, Tess started to hypnotize me with her look of longing for sexual intimacy.  Balanced on our back limbs, our front paws on each other’s shoulders we hugged, we kissed, moaning and groaning with pleasure then we both spin round and round, whipping ourselves upward, a dance that is faster and crisper, delivering each and every step with confidence and with excellent precision. My heart is frantic, I find her so attractive,

“Tess you are so incredibly beautiful, you are the fulfillment of my most lascivious adolescent dreams”, I say

Then out of a crazed exhilaration I can barely contain the hormones that are running through my body, her flirtatious body language clearly indicating she was sexually motivated I thought, I mount her, over and over and over, she does not throw me off. Then down on the ground we wrestle, tumbling, biting, and gnawing a performance that is uniquely ours as we smell and sniff and breathe in each other’s emotions expressing our love.

Well there you go, I am having fun as I play in my imagination.  It is intoxicating to say the least. That is the first draft and no doubt will be edited by John a hundred times, but I was excited that I could finally create a scene expressing their passionate love for each other.

I will spend the day at the computer creating, have a computer guy George  coming once a month to help me keep all my files in order as I can work myself into an absolute muttle, (that word doesn’t look right but I honestly cannot think how it should look) my spelling check doesn’t agree either. Oh well I will leave it at muttle because that is how I seem to be functioning right now.

Tonight is CNN with Anderson Cooper on Trump which we are addicted to and have been for the last year, and then John’s favorite “Brooks & Shields.”  On Netflix we are watching “The Blacklist” with James Spader.  He is absolutely brilliant. We are into the second season and addicted.  John will make one of his fabulous pizzas with me insisting that we have it with a salad. That means kale, spinach, beets, snow peas, beans, and avocado & whatever else there is to add. But I can see John jumping up and down – “no salad” he will say, but he will maybe a mouthful or two.

John is doing well and has been editor for the Retirees Assoc. and has now asked to be Vice Pres. which is good as this will get us out and socialize.  Being both introverts we cocoon ourselves, the four of us in our little world which we love but it will be good attending the many lectures that the assoc. provides and that will keep me happy.  The next one is on the solar system and the possibility of aliens which is good as I have Benson & Tess time travelling through the cosmos from the fourth century to the twenty first century so perhaps I will learn a few things that can be added to my book.

“One must practice the things which produce happiness, since if that is present we have everything and if it is absent we do everything in order to have it.”  Epicurus That’s it folks.  Keep healthy and happy Love you both, Your old friends

Jean & John

Hi Darling Jean! Enjoyed your newsy message. Glad to hear that your Mom has overcome her worrying pneumonia but distressed to learn that you have been so ill. Trust your writing will lead you back to full health. Thank you for sharing such an interesting work in progress. Bravo! Onward!! Great that John is enjoying being retired and involved with Retirees Association. Will be a busy, busy summer but we are hoping/planning a Grand VI Tour after the VWF in October, 17th-22nd, so hope to see you then. Of course, will be in touch as soon as we know more Fondestos from Lady Dar, to you and John, my Duhlink Jean! Cheers, Patrizzio!

 

Book Club Power Pot-Luck Inaugurale: Thursday, March 16th!

The fetters imposed on liberty at home have ever been forged out of the weapons provided for defence against real, pretended, or imaginary dangers from abroad. -James Madison, 4th US president (16 Mar 1751-1836)

Just checking... lol Been up and about, Nigeria and London was fun. Guess I've been out of the radar. How is Lady Dar, and the rest of the wonderful home? Will catch up soon and till then, share some picture memories! Wole

Hi Patrick, Corinne, Thank you guys very much for such a lovely evening. The dinner was delicious, plenty of superb drinks, and the playing.....wow, what a fight it was, thanks again. So, Olly, Jos and I we will meet at 9:30 at GIA in Summerland, and we should be at your doorstep at around 9:45 on Friday.
See you soon. Mike I echo MIke’s sentiments. Thank you for another fun evening of dinner and Bridge. I will meet you all at the church on Friday morning. Pamela

Hello Dinner and Bridge Crashers, et al! Simply wonderful that we were able to have two tables last night! Thanks to all the dummies and thanks to everyone for the wine and nibbles and to Naramata Goil for fabulous dessert cookies! Olga Polga, I trust you are feeling a tad better and thank you for coming even though you weren't feeling the best. I'm sure I speak for everyone when I say we are all pulling for you.

Thanks, Michaelao, for agreeing to chauffeur Summerlandians and to collect me with soup for GFA event. See those playing tomorrow. Has it been decided who will host next week and on which evening? Let the group know and we'll plan accordingly. Thanks again. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Fast Phil is shy about having one of best scores!

Dido, many thanks to Corrine and Patrizzio for another dinner and bridge evening. To Pamela, the cookies were just what we needed to make the evening the best. Congrats to Jos for taking the lovely tea prize as the top scorer.
A job well done and all the best for tomorrow. See you Mike and Jos at IGA @ 9:30 tomorrow. Everyone is welcome for Bridge at my house on Tuesday and/or Wednesday night next week. Hugs, Olly P.S Thanks for the pics, Patrizzio!

Hi Patrick, Attached is the quote for installing the gas, Rinnai Heater, as well as the minor electrical issues Thank you Davis Desjarlais Plumbing Manager GLE Plumbing and Heating Hi Dave! Thanks so much for the quick reply. Much appreciated. Will give GLE a call in next few days to see about scheduling the electrical work as we'd like to proceed with that before gas work, as discussed. As you know we will be contacting Fortis about line, etc. Cheers, Patrizzio!

 
(See Saturday's ride for description.) Map and Stats for ride:

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1624434174#.WMsLrZ3UYM4.email

Thanks Patrick! I'm glad that you and Corinne can make it - and that Corinne is officiating!! Hi Leah! Sorry I have not replied a tad sooner. Wanted to send along a couple of the snaps I took of your Mom and Deb the morning, [last Tuesday], they left our place. Had a grand visit with loads of wine, fab food and spirited bridge! Both Lady Dar and I really like your wedding invitation! Congrats on that as well. Take care of yourselves. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio! Pic: The Sisterhood! Duke in one of our bathroom sinks! Etta on her favourite chair!

Hi Pat, Nice seeing you the other day. We must get together sometime when the climate eventually begins supporting sunshiny patio visits. I noticed today that Nadine's list still shows you living at Lamey's Mill Road, and I assume your telephone number has changed as well. You should contact her with an update so people will know how to reach you. All the best to Corrinne too. Stompin' 

Rolly Polly Pre-GFA Fund Raiser Bidding Practice Blues: Wednesday, March 15th!

Beware of the stories you read or tell; subtly, at night, beneath the waters of consciousness, they are altering your world. -Ben Okri, poet and novelist (b. 15 Mar 1959)

Hi Patrick, I will give you a call tonight to coordinate Fridays transportation. Off to Apex for the day, looking forward to Fridays event Jos Hello Apex People! Have a grand day on the slopes. As you know, we'll be playing bridge here this evening so you can call anytime and 'dummy" will answer the phone! I'm looking forward to Friday's event as well. Chat later. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Had to sit for an executive photo, came out alright :) Love to all xoxo Hi Tinsel Town High Powered Executive! Grand picture indeed! Very professional but very sultry at same time. Guess you'll be know as Mata Hari from now on!!!

Fondestos to you, Life at the Top Exec! Love and Cheers, Dad/Patrizzio!
 
Hello February Fans! Have not had any nay sayers for tomorrow at 6:30 pm so we will meet then and proceed to enjoy the pot-luck while discussing, amicably, I trust, Lisa Moore's novel. See you then. Cheers, Patrizzio! See you there. Judi

Hi Big Al! Really enjoyed the two clips you sent along. Second message didn't have any attachment and compilation couldn't be viewed when I first received link. Worked today. Too bad you don't have Big Blue anymore as I'd love to have seen it being flipped, over and over again! Sorry we were not able to connect but I must admit, it was a whirlwind tour, jam-packed almost every moment of each day.
 
Lady Dar is out with Her Flatlanders this morning and then luncheon, with group, afterwards. Dave, from GLE Plumbing & Heating, was just by to give us an estimate for installation of hot-water-on demand and some electrical upgrades. (We talked to Aaron, the company owner at the Home & Reno Show a few weeks ago.) We still have to arrange to have Fortis come by to iron out details of bringing gas to house but want to have a better idea of everything involved for our own budgeting purposes. Where is Mr Fixit/Stanchion Man when you really need him?

In that vein, attached are a couple of shots of where I'd like the firewood rack to go. I think about 4' long, 15" deep and 28" high, so that top will be under window. You will know best, but a fairly simple structure only needing two, perhaps three, upright struts on each end as wood will be against brick wall at the back. Of course, depending on Lady Dar's edict, will most likely put frame around the side of house during summer, etc. On the other hand, we could use it for wine storage when not filled with firewood so will need you to fabricate a false front to disguise this fact from passersby! Obviously, not a priority, especially since I know how very busy you are.

Must away as I have to do a whole host of chores to ready house for bridge this evening. Unfortunately, light rain all day so will probably use stationary bike for an hour or so. Fondestos to you, Big Al, and to my Duhlink Marilyn! Cheers, Patrizzio, from Scullion to Elite Soccer Coach in the twinkling of a cat's eye!

Pics: Overpriced, grumpy chauffeur; Deb and Ruth before they left Tuesday morning. Note remaining firewood from load I scrounged in September! Kindling I scrounged from renos hiking/bridge friend, Pamela, and her husband, Bill, were doing on their house in Naramata. Scrap lumber was probably 80 years, or more, old, so fabulous for kindling. You just rub your hands together and it bursts into flame! Used my skill saw to cut it up into usable lengths and stored them in the wheeled bins we bought, for garbage and recycling, when we moved in. Penticton changed waste system this Fall so they now make perfect storage containers! When I need more kindling, I just use a small hatchet to split the pieces I cut earlier. Empty space on front deck and then load I put in front for Lady Dar while away last week. Firewood space, this morning, when I took measurements.

Hi Patrick, Thanks very much for hosting Bridge tonight and for the dinner invitation. I will have dinner at home so I will see you shortly before 7 tonight. As for the Bridge tournament, thank you very much for registering me. Regarding the registration fee...do I reimburse you or do I pay on Friday at the event? See you tonight. Hi Dinner-at-Home Goil! Lady Dar actually forwarded our names to contact person so I'll thank her on your behalf. There is no registration fee, as such, but it is $20 for event itself, as it is a fund-raiser for GFA. We'll all pay when we arrive. Includes lunch so don't eat after tonight! There will be overlefts, I'm sure, this evening, in case you are still hungry. If you were planning to bring a bottle, please don't as I will open the one, red, you brought a couple of weeks ago, not the Black Hills white. I'll save that until both Bill and Lady Dar are busy, elsewhere, and there are just the two of us! See you this evening. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Thank you Patrick, you convinced me. On another topic, is still possible to register a person for the tournament? I am trying to persuade my friend to attend with me. What time does it start and for how long it goes? Cheers. Mike Hi Patrick, well, it turned out my to be partner is quite busy right now because his mom is in a hospital, so it looks like I will attend solo. And I found your info about the tournament, so don't worry. See you tonight. Cheers, Mike Hi Michaelo! Sorry your friend could not team up with you but I'm sure it will be fun to play with someone new as well. Glad I convinced you to join us for dinner and bridge! See yout his evening. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Patrizzio, I'm feeling well enough to come into town today for physiotherapy so I'm going to say yes to both dinner and bridge afterwards. Thanks for the invite to dinner and the lasagna and salad combo sound delicious! I'll be
finished physiotherapy and gassing up the car by 5 pm then plan to head on over. See you soon, Olly I just came home, and was wondering if there is still room for another bridge mania to practice her skills and have some fun tonight? Jos H PatricK, I have changed my mind and will join you for dinner. I will bring cookies for dessert. See you in mere moments:) Pamela


Hi Patrick, Many thanks for your donation to the Heart & Stroke Foundation! The good news is that donations made later in February have been matched so your donation has double the effect. The Foundation supports a range of programmes, from research to education, and reaches practitioners, patients, and the public. Your donation will enable the Foundation to continue its work on all these fronts. It will make a difference in what Canadians know about, including prevention, and how they are treated for heart conditions and strokes.

I have generous friends so it is quite satisfying campaigning for the Foundation. I generated more in contributions this year than last, even before the matching amount was applied. Sure appreciate the support. You can expect me to be in touch again in the 2018 campaign.

Imagine we will be seeing you at Corrine & Jocelyn’s class reunion. If not, it will be during the annual migration through Naramata & Penticton in the fall – we are becoming quite addicted! Look forward to catching up sometime soon. We attended an old UBC librarians’ lunch yesterday at Athene’s. You would have fit right in. Don Dennis, Pete Edgar, Matt Hartmann, Bill Watson, Ture Eriksen, Leah Gordon, Nadine Baldwin, Tom Shorthouse – all doing not badly at all, although Bill Watson is definitely looking older, but guess he is, not that we aren’t getting on ourselves. If you want a print copy of Tom’s Golden Scrapbook with index done by Jack Macintosh, the Library is printing and sending out 100 copies; request from Jasmine.devonshire@ubc.ca Thanks! Jim

Hi Matt and James! Thanks for the update on Eldo, Matt. I haven't seen Eldo since 2004, I believe. I was at the bottom of the UBC Hill, on Marine Drive, and so was he. We had a good chat and I hoped we'd bump into each other again, on future rides. Was not to be. Please pass along my regards if you have the opportunity.

Funnily enough, I was in Vancouver last week for the VWF Dram Come True, malt whisky tasting on Friday, and Rugby Sevens, Saturday and Sunday. At any rate, I went out to UBC to see Sara McGillvray and Jo-Anne Naslund, and happened to bump into Janice and Jack near the entrance to the Learning Centre. Turned out they were there to meet with Stompin' Tom regarding indexing of The Golden Scrapbook. Also met Jasmine whom I didn't know. Lea Starr and Doug Brigham, (Who was once a famous or infamous Stackette!), happened along with Sheldon Armstrong, so I was introduced. Anyway, lovely if brief visit.

Glad your fund-raising effort went well, James. Look forward to seeing you at LS reunion in May. When are you planning to visit the Okanagan, Matt? Come on up when Jocelyn and Jim are and we'll have a Library reunion! Must away as the sun is shining brightly and I plan to ride to OK Falls. All the best to you both. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Fridge Management Back in the Saddle Blues: Tuesday, March 14th!

The ideals which have lighted my way, and time after time have given me new courage to face life cheerfully, have been Kindness, Beauty, and Truth. -Albert Einstein, physicist, Nobel laureate (14 Mar 1879-1955)

Hi Patrice, I made a compilation of the vehicle abuse we have been doing so far and uploaded the video to youtube for easy viewing. We are actually going to do some more stuff with the same truck so probably won't be much left of it by the time we are done lol. I will keep you posted take care and ttys. Al

<https://youtu.be/nGi8IdQwxjM>

Hi James: Just a quick note to say that I will be attending this evening's film showing. Thanks and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Dear Bridgettes and Bridgeoids! Just back from honing my bidding skills in Vancouver and I am more than happy to host tomorrow's game unless it has already been decided where play will be. Lady Dar is otherwise engaged so I am the only participant from Burns Street. Let me know who is interested and available and we'll plan accordingly. Pre-tournament practice!!! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Pics: Thursday night's game with Fast Eddy, Ragin' Bull and The Penguin, hostess. Played doubles squash with all of them. The Penguin is like Jack Rabbit Slims, no prizes but loads of fun, in spite of this glaring shortcoming!

Love to play, but Wednesdays just don't work for me. Anybody interested to play TONIGHT? I need the practice! Jos Hello All, I can play either or both nights. Pamela I talked to Gill yesterday and she can play tonight. Let's wait until she confirms, and we will have 4. Yippee. Jos Hi all, Will be resting tonight. Enjoy a fun evening. Hugs, Olly 

Hello Tuesday Night Changelings! Nice move, Josinta, as I thought you didn't wish to play on Tuesdays, like Michaelo! Nevertheless, I cannot play tonight as we are off to the Lens on Lent film this evening. If some people still want to play on Wednesday let me know and we'll have a table at our place. Cheers, Patrizzio!Sorry .. but I have always been in favor for Tuesdays. Wednesday is always hard for me, and hope we can go back to Tuesday night definitely, and I don't have to miss my favorite game anymore. Jos Hi Josinta! I know you have always been in favour of Tuesday evenings but I wanted to give Michaelo a little poke! 

We are registered for Friday's fund-raiser and Michaelo has been put down as a single. He will be assigned a partner before play starts. First game is at 10:00 am so people should be at the Blue Church, (Eckhardt and Main), about 9:50 am. Not sure about parking at the High School or Shatford but everyone, except you, Josinta, can park in front of our place and then walk over, weather permitting. It would be much appreciated if you are able to pick me up, slightly earlier, as I have to take a large tureen of Lady Dar's soup, part of lunch that will be provided. Lady Dar is volunteering at PGH, from 8:00 am until noon so she cannot drop it off earlier. Not sure if you have talked to the other two Summerlanders about carpooling. If doing so, could you arrange with whoever is driving to be here no later than 9:45 am. Anyway, please let me know what you plan so I can make other arrangements, should that be necessary. Thansk and Cheers, Patrizzio!
Hi Pamela! Great that you can play tomorrow. Jim wasn't sure but he thinks it will be Smoke Signals, a documentary on indigenous peoples. Have to run and have a quick shower as I'm just back from biking! Cheers, Patrizzio! Hi Naramata Goil, Olga Polga and Michaelo! The Sisterhood is registered for Friday's fund-raiser and Michaelo has been put down as a single. He will be assigned a partner before play starts. First game is at 10:00 am so people should be at the Blue Church, (Eckhardt and Main), about 9:50 am. Not sure about parking at the High School or Shatford but you can park in front of our place, (611 Burns), and then walk over, weather permitting. I will ask Josinta, my partner, to pick me up, slightly earlier, as I have to take a large tureen of Lady Dar's soup, part of lunch that will be provided. Lady Dar is volunteering at PGH, from 8:00 am until noon so she cannot drop it off earlier.

With respect to tomorrow night's game, I hope you can join us Michaelo. If you are having a massage, Rolly Polly, please come for dinner afterwards. I'll be all alone as Lady Dar is going to her Book Club. Pamela and Michaelo, you are both welcome to join us for dinner. You need more than a handful of nuts to keep body and soul together, Naramata Goil! Lady Dar has a fabulous, huge turkey lasagna just waiting to be devoured and I plan on making a large salad so there will be loads to eat. If dining, come any time after 5:00 pm but if you can't make it until later, don't worry as you can still tuck in while we start playing. At any rate, must away to hunt for bridge prizes! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Patrick, thank you very much for the invitation. It sounds so tasty :-)
However I am afraid it might be too many of us to have a right amount of players at a table? Regards. Mike Hi Michaelo! Don't worry about numbers. I will sit out and help Olga and you can rotate with Pamela, helping her when not playing. Good practice for Friday. Anyway, you are most welcome for both dinner and bridge so think about it. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Gill is out cycling this afternoon till late. We'd earlier decided Wed evening was a better fit for us this week. Is Wed a go then? Phil Hi Phillipo and Gilliana! Naramata Goil has confirmed tomorrow so we are on at our place. See you both anytime after 6:30 pm. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Patriçio, I trust you made it back to the Bridge and Marriage capital of the Okanagan? Rebecca dropped off a dog bed because I complained about dog hair on the furniture. Juno likes her bed, but the furniture is still not safe … Pics: … suggested sleeping positions .. try them yourself!

Hi Ragin'! Very pleased to see that you are a dog-parent again! More wonderful snaps of Juno! I'm really glad I was able to go for a walk with her. Thanks again for all your hospitality and generous chauffeuring. Certainly much appreciated.

Bus ride back went very well. I was able to finish reading my book club selection, February, by Lisa Moore. We will host the discussion on Thursday evening, along with a pot-luck. Senka, from Terravista, is part of the group. Tomorrow we are hosting bridge and then on Friday I'm playing with Josinta in a GFA fund-raiser so that should be fun.

Ruth Toews and her sister, Deb, were at Burns Street when I arrived. They had spent the night, on Sunday, wine-tasting with Lady Dar and Carol/Bruno, friends from Qualicum Beach, during the day. C/B left for Kelowna on Monday so our paths didn't cross. After dinner last night, (a fabulous lamb stew by Lady Dar), we played a rubber of bridge. Deb is just learning but has always played cards so she caught on very quickly and it was loads of fun.

After they left this morning, I set about doing laundry and unpacking, and playing soccer with Duke, of course! Suited up and went for a ride around 2:00 pm. It had been raining slightly all morning but had started to clear when I set out. Fairly briskish wind out of the south at 31 kph so I decided to stick relatively close to home and settled on my standard route when head wind is so ferocious. Did the PTC/Lakeshsore/Riverside Loop, with nine sub-circuits off Power Street before heading up Vancouver Avenue. Dipsy-doodled my way up to Middle Bench and then did two circuits of it and Upper Bench, with a 50 km foray along Middle Bench, to give me the distance I had set for myself at the end of the ride, before making for home. Saw hiking friend, Guillermo, walking his dog, Barney, on White, near our place, just before I zipped into our alley to pull at the garage door. Both Miss Etta and Duke were just waking up from their afternoon naps so I patted them hello before they went outside to terrorize the neighbourhood! Map and Stats for ride:
 
https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1621168308#.WMiKV0diHj4.email

As I mentioned, we'll be back in Vancouver around May 11th-15th, or thereabouts, for Lady Dar's Library School reunion bash. If you are interested and able, a "working" visit, any time in April would be great. However, I know you have plenty on your plate so just let us know when might work if a visit is something you would still like to entertain. Must away to throw a few last soccer balls before I hit the hay. Cheers, Il Conduttore, from Squash Doubles Dictator to Elite Soccer Coach in the twinkling of a cat's eye! Pics: Chauffeur; Deb and Ruth before they left this morning. Note remaining firewood!