Back on the Shuttle Wailin' The Juan Santamaría Alajuela Airport Blues: Saturday, February 3rd!

It is a glorious thing to be indifferent to suffering, but only to one's own suffering. -Robert Lynd, writer (1879-1949)

Howlers were much more active last night, not that I minded, as I've actually come to enjoy their deep, guttural growls/howls. We've noticed, since being here, at least during the day that their outbursts often concur with the passing of large trucks or loud motorcycles. Whether this is true or not, can't really be sure but the passage of these vehicles is often followed by such calls.

At breakfast I took along my lap top and a horde of Titis arrived shortly after I sat down. Believe they were eyeing the banana I had beside my coffee cup and three of them hopped up on chairs nearby, one cheeky thing tipping over my screen in his dash to grab the banana. Stayed on the chair right beside me, not fussed by the staff member trying to shoo it away, his gaze locked on the banana, now in my shirt pocket. I'm quite sure he would have tried to take it if I'd made no move to prevent him. They are so deft and nimble and move like greased lightening. Quite a show! After we've finished bit of last minute packing we'll probably take one last stroll to the beach. Have an hour to wait, once we checkout of our room, at noon, so we'll sit around pool, until shuttle arrives, guarding our sandwiches from the Titi or Capuchin thieves. 

Hi Patrick Sorry that we cannot put you up in Palm Springs but we really do have a house full. The peace and quiet ends today when I pick up Nikki and the three girls at noon and then Rosie and Al arrive from Philadelphia. We had a two day stopover in Lodi to recover from two days of long driving and had an enjoyable bike ride and discovered Jessie’s grove winery. I thought that this was the quintessential Patrick winery. Old established small winery with lovely people and fabulous wines. Oldest vines in Lodi. Cinsault, carrignan, petite Syrah and Chardonnay ( not sure of my spelling) all fabulous, my only problem was that I only had room for three bottles in my pannier!! Hope you can drop in when you are passing Palm Springs, not quite sure where you are heading , LA , penticton, parts unknown. I have included some pics in Patrick tradition, ...... statue of Polly and mick lookalike in Lodi, warning about drinking wine, etc. Cheers mick

Hi Lodi Lookalikes! No need to apologize. We are the ones feeling sorry for you, hostel-keepers! Great that the hordes will de-camp leaving you to do the mountains of laundry! As I mentioned, we'll see what things look like when we leave either Sedona or Carefree and perhaps we'll stop by to do a load of laundry ourselves! 

Thanks for the wonderful snaps of Lodi. One region we've not tasted in, although we've been through it a number of times, en route to Amador, etc. Will have to keep it in mind for future trips, especially given your recommendation. From what little I know, wines from Lodi were considered not to have the tannic structure of those from vineyards further east and west, the vineyards not having the benefits of the cooler mountain nights or ocean mists/fogs to raise the acid levels. At some point, and perhaps still, much of the production from the area went/goes into bulk production. Still, this being said, I'm sure there are plenty of wonderful wines to be found, as you have discovered in Jessie's Grove Winery. Reds you mention, (other than Carignan, your spelling is spot on!), are some of my favourites. Plan to see if the Naramata Bench Winery Association would consider posting sign by Woodbridge Vineyard Association! Gather this was due to Prohibition. 

Have asked Chloë to lock both the wine cellar and malt cabinet when Beckster and Kid Chelene come to stay, for a night on the 10th , looking at houses as they have been transferred to Penticton. Flamin' and Sarge have already put in an "interest-to-buy" on a new condo development in Penticton as their two other children, and families, are in Kamloops. How they thought we were crazy to move to The Okanagan and now look! I reminded Chloë to remind the house-hunters of the nightly rate, $250 USD, payable before check-in! I trust you are recouping the cost of your Palm Springs rental, and more, (More full-blown sarcastic irony, Polly, in case you hadn't noticed!), so that you can pay for all next summer's wines when you visit us! Fondestos from Lady Dar, to one and all. Hope the neighbours don't call the police! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi O Susannah and Marnie! Trust you are both well. Enjoyed the latest newsletter. Not sure if Kirsty, daughter of close friends, will contact you or not, but I passed along your email address to her. She lives in Adelaide. She and Chris, her partner, will be skiing in Sun Peaks in 2019 and want to fly to Switzerland afterwards. I told them you had always been extremely helpful when we, ourselves, had somewhat complicated flights, between Hong Kong, Australia and Japan, in 2012, for example. Anyway, she asked me what to do and I said I was no expert, hence the referral! Fondestos from Lady Dar, to you and Marnie. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hello Leah and Masen and The Squamish Waldorfians! Trust everyone is well. Cannot believe that I did not reply to your lovely message, of September 10th, Leah! I believe your Mom knew we were off to Costa Rica on January 7th. In fact the Central American leg of our trip is coming to a close.

Fondestos from Lady Dar, to one and all, and we sincerely hope our paths will cross in the not too, too distant future. Stay well and take care of each other. Cheers, Patrizzio!

 
As much as it all sounds lovely, I’m definitely not much of a sun worshipper. I have to sit in the shade for sure as I burn very easily. And I’m not one for over 80-85 max with maybe an hour or two at most to lie out. I can’t swim at all. Years ago, I nearly got pulled in by the tide at ‘Dreams’ Resort, half way between San Jose Del Cabo & Cabo San Lucas. I was dressed up in a very floaty 2 piece skirt & top for a lovely dinner in one of their fancy dining areas but had taken my sandals off to play at the edge of the water. Most waves would break at my feet & then subside. It was a beautiful evening, the sun just setting. This particular wave quite caught me off guard, swirling around my feet & coming in from behind me. It then pulled me down to where I felt completely helpless.. I had been chatting with a young woman we met on the beach behind our private resort. She was with her boyfriend who was standing a ways back with Frank. They were also engrossed in conversation & not mindful of what the tides were doing. I suppose I too wasn’t paying enough attention to the waves. Frank came running; well, both men did as it seemed I might actually be carried out. It’s a good thing too. That was enough of a frightening experience to make me extra cautious now.
 

As for food, I love shell fish but not all fish, especially not tuna as I don’t care for it rare which is how it should be served. I love salmon but you don’t often find that there. The band looked like fun. I do enjoy music during dinner. It must have been quite warm still since all were in tees, shorts & flip flops. We are definitely missing the warmer temps of Yuma. It’s been perfect there of latest days been told, in the low to mid 80s. It’s a dry heat too. Humid heat seems so much hotter to me, although it does feel lovely on the skin. When we were in Costa Rica, we only had a few days of super hot, humid weather. The walk to the tent village was brutal with the sand burning our bare feet. Hiking boots would have been a far better choice for footwear to sandals.

I assume you will stay with family when in LA. Our good friend there lives in Thousand Oaks. We try to visit him for 2-3 nights every fall en route to Yuma. This past Oct, we did stay with him again, but en route home from emptying out the rental we had thought we’d be staying in again. When I didn’t know my hip op date, we decided to cancel our winter holiday south.

The owners were friends of friends & very kindly gave back our deposit as we did cancel by July 1st in time for them to find other tenants. As it turned out, they moved in themselves & did a lot of renovations. Their lovely home in the foothills was just on the market & their plan was to move to Country Roads full time. When they bought their park model in CR, they weren’t old enough to live there as it’s a 55+ Park.

One of the couple must be 55. At the time, they were about 40 & 50. Kristi is now 53. It’s a second marriage. Kristi’s Dad, Marty, now lives full time in CR, since he recently sold his long time home in Branson, MO. His late wife, Arlene, was a dear friend of ours from the CR Pickleball & Tennis .clubs. It was Arlene who connected us up with Kristi to rent the winter before. Sadly, she got cancer & passed, aged 80, a year ago Jan when we were there.

Well, do enjoy your continued vacation. You will no doubt miss the tropical Costa Rica though!��😎☀️. Maggie😀 Hi again, Maggster! Trust everyone is well. What an experience in Cabo! Lucky you weren't devoured by sharks after being washed away! Fondestos from Lady Dar, to you and Francesco. Cheers, Patrizzio!Ha! Ha!! Love the monkeys!! Carefree?? Where? Arizona, not all that far from Phoenix, about an hour north. Think our Park, Country Roads, were at an invitational Pickleball event very recently.👍��👏��

It all sounds so amazing and I love the colour of the water and hearing about the playfulness of the monkeys. You've chosen a great time to be away as we've almost broken records for the amount of rain we've endured this past month. If it's not too much to ask, could you please send some sunshine our way! We'll be requesting your advice about where and what to do when travelling in Costa Rica as it is on our Bucket List, too. Enjoy your next jaunt! Ruth P.S. We are off to see the Dunkley's this evening for a nice meal, wine, a game of scrabble, as well as a hockey game or two.

Hello Squamish! Trust everyone is well. Fondestos from Lady Dar, to one and all. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pic: Israeli couple practising their bidding in the pool at Otro Lado Lodge, our hotel in Santa Teresa!

[Robbie Romu: BMW Q3 door:1 Robbie’s eye: 0
 

Patrick James Dunn Balderdash! Probably a cheap plastic cork from a magnum of Baby Duck that had been over agitated before you opened it! Drink cheap wine and suffer the consequences, Robertito! You obviously need to a change of venue, Costa Rica or Penticton, take your choice!]

  Hi Theodorakis and Elaine, et al! Wonderful news to hear about Laura delivering a girl, Sloane, I gather. Please pass along our congratulations to Laura and James and Riley! Congratulations, of course, to you two as well as the proud Aunts! As you know from the phone call, we will be leaving for LA tomorrow morning. Monday we drive to Palm Desert for two nights, then to Sun City for three, followed by same in Sedona, with friends, from Penticton, who own a house there. We might stay with Corinne's second cousin, in Carefree, but that arrangement has yet to be finalized. If not, we'll spend more time in LA with Ayn. 

Had a pleasant enough, but uneventful drive back to San Jose. By now we are fairly familiar with the countryside so nothing really new on that front. Still lovely terrain. Were dropped off at the Adventure Inn, about 5:00 pm. It is only ten minutes from the airport, in Alajuela, 20 km west of San José. Our shuttle leaves at 6:30 am for the flight to LA at 9:00 am tomorrow. Take off next morning, Monday, to spend a couple of weeks visiting friends in Palm Desert, Sun City, Sedona, and perhaps in Carefree, staying with Lady Dar's second cousin, but those details have not yet been finalized, and then a week, or so, back in LA before heading north towards the end of February.

Will have dinner downstairs in a bit but of as now are busy drinking up all the booze we have left. I've just polished of two Bavaria, local beer I like the best. Then I'll start on what is left of my bottle of Cacique, local white rum, rather anaemic, unfortunately, at only 30%! Still,, mixed with fruit juice it is a most refreshing drink. Fondestos from Lady Dar, to one and all, to Sloane, in particular. Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Pics: Howler Monkeys sleeping in trees above pool; Titis coming for a drink of water; Same ones unhappy that there is no food to steal! Lady Dar waiting for shuttle this afternoon.

Hello Cabdoro Bay People! Lovely to hear your voices and know you are both well. Just back from having a tasty dinner and free cocktail, Cost Rica's version of a Bloody Mary. Very tasty indeed. I'm still working away on the rum and Lady Dar is polishing goff the last of the red, Fondestos from her. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi ho, Old Farts, Yes, a Thursday outing, and even a bit of warning. Rick will lead a snowshoeing expedition to Okanagan Mountain. -meet at 0900 at Home Hardware parking lot in Penticton (0840 at IGA in Summerland -carpool and drive to the Okanagan Mountain parking lot (or as close as you can get) -snowshoe -return to Penticton for debriefing and coffee.Are you interested? If so, pleas let Rick know at rmckel@shaw.ca. Cheers, Jim 

Last Day on Beautiful Beach Blues: Friday, February 2nd!

The absence of flaw in beauty is itself a flaw. -Havelock Ellis, physician, writer, and social reformer (2 Feb 1859-1939)

Photo: Quinn Dombrowski

Tautologous

MEANING:

adjective: Involving unnecessary repetition of an idea, especially in different words, for example, a good-looking beautiful woman.

Hi Patrick, Great to hear from you and about your journeys to all places south.Once again I hope this email gets thru as we have had ongoing issues with people not receiving our small notes so let me know if this gets through. We have not being up to much of late just trying to renovate our little shack down at the Gold Coast. A little one bed room ground floor unit 50 metres from the beach. We have completely stripped it to the bare walls and are now in the process of refitting it.. Claire bear has been making cushions and helping to redesign the interior. So far we have made the kitchen cabinetry (to her specification and with my sweat) the bathroom vanity and have had the bathroom room completely refurbished (re tiled and new plumbing) so a bit of work all round really. So we will shortly have a nice little get away place by the beach and far enough away from Surfers Paradise not to be worried by the idiots.

So if you guys want a little place to stay in Aus. we will have just the place with bicycles though only Specialised hybrids though quite light on hand, a car if needed, a surf club and restaurants within a couple of hundred metres a pool and not much to do. This weekend we are off to great-Dane day at the beach with our dog so she can play with other giants (she has a real problem with dogs that are not 3 feet tall) there are generally 20 or 30 great-danes to play with so should be fun. Our trip in June is rapidly approaching so we are looking forward to that and perhaps a little camping in March Cheers from down below Greg and Claire

Hello Little Shack on the Gold Coast/Great Dane People! Reading you, loud and clear! Your protestations to the contrary, sounds as if you have been very busy indeed, your elbow grease and The Bear's growled instructions! Thank you for the most generous invitation to visit/stay. Sounds like a grand slice of Paradise, indeed. I'm also looking forward to my trip to Europe, in April. Most recent development is that Glasgow, mate from Vancouver, will join me on two week bike tour in Poland. Lady Dar's calendar seems to be filling up, quite nicely, with weddings, this summer. However, she and Chloë are annoyed that I won't be around to help move most of Chloë's earthly possessions from our place to her new town-house, unless it is finished before I fly out on April 16th.

Sound sleep, last night, only vaguely aware of Howler calls, around 4:30 am. Up at 7:00 am to have my first mug of java on breakfast patio. Diana arrived a short time afterwards and we chatted until Patrizzio II and Lady Dar joined us. No monkeys this morning. Apparently a few Howlers had been around much earlier. Shortly before 8:00 am Diana and Patrick returned to their room to collect their bags and we followed them to the parking lot to say goodbye. They invited us to visit when we are in Tinsel Town so we might just take a day trip to San Pedro, next to Long Beach, I understand.

Back on breakfast patio to have another mug of java and two pieces of "dulce" a tasty, light cake. Plan to stroll down to the beach later this morning as I want to play in the "grandes" again. Fondestos from Lady Dar to you both! All the best. Cheers, Patrizzio!

 
Patrizzio, Thank you for rubbing it in w.r.t. the wonderful weather and great time you are having in la-la land. However, when you do return to reality, you will be deeply envious of my “rain” tan. I look more like a prune every day. 

Speaking of which, it is difficult to to decipher from your (no doubt) white rum influenced correspondence, where and when you will be where. I presume “rain city” refers to sunny Vancouver, but “sun city”, “tinsel town” etc, seem to vary in location depending on … hmmmm.

In order to nail down a date for a bridge game, that you have kindly offered my culinary expertise for, would be useful to have a narrow-as-possible window, so I can make a quick Costco run and buy a case o macaroni & cheese. Your’s, in envy//bjp Branko

Hello again, Ragin', et al! I would never, ever try to make you feel badly, suffering as your are from prune skin, while we laze around the pool, being entertained by the latest Attack of the Killer Titis! Furthermore, I think you have been drowning your sorrows in too, too much Bourbon as La-La Land and Tinsel Town are far removed from Costa Rica, so your hootch soaked interpretive cortex is muddled, not mine! As I mentioned, if we do pass through Vancouver, it will likely be on the weekend of the 24th/25th, staying in Portland on the night of the 23rd. Buy to cases of macaroni & cheese as we'll take one back to Chloë who has eaten everything in our freezer!

At the moment I'm digitating on breakfast patio, have another mug of java and to pieces of "dulce" a tasty, light cake. Plan to stroll down to the beach later this morning as I want to play in the "grandes" again. Just a few minutes ago, about five Titis came down out of the tree canopy to look for easy food. Couple beside us had some pineapple in a bowl but placed another empty bowl over it to prevent pilferage. But a moment later they left table to try and catch a shot of a Toucan. While everyone's backs were turned, two of the enterprising Tatis removed the empty bowl and took hunks of pineapple. We think they are in cahoots with the Toucan! Fondestos from Lady Dar to one and all! Cheers, Patrizzio/Il Conduttore!Pic: Titi pineapple thief this morning!

Hi Diana and Patrizzio II, et al! Trust your drive went well. Fondestos from Lady Dar to you both! We'll be in touch once back in Tinsel Town and see if a day trip to your neck of the woods might work for everyone. Until then, stay well. All the best. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: El Largato, (Lady Dar is one who usually has her eyes closed!), and Arrivederci!                                   Unfortunately we are heavily over booked. The children and families and micks sister are coming at various times. In fact out of 30 days we are alone just last night and tonight! Time to get in food for everyone. And the last night of our stay time to clean up! So a lot of sheet washing. Our car was filled with car seats booster, seats and cots! But would love to see you if you have time to come by for dinner and a swim. 

Hi again, Polly and Mick! When we took a virtual tour through Il Palazzo di Francis Alexander I thought that Famiglia Carter would be flocking south! Not to  worry, (not that Mick would, anyhow! Probably no Zins left anyway!), as we will probably head straight on in to Tinsel Town. Thanks for invite for dinner and swim. If we do end up staying with Lady dar's second cousin in Carefree, we might drop by for a coffee. 

It is about four hours from Palm Springs. I presume we'd leave around 9:00 am and come knocking around 1:00 pm. I'd like to be back at Ayn's by late afternoon so a brief hello and goodbye would be fun, if we can negotiate the driveway for car seats, strollers, cribs and the like! At any rate, will be in touch again, closer to dates in question and see how things stand. If we do pass through Vancouver, (No word regarding Ted, as of this writing.), it will likely be on the weekend of the 24th/25th, staying in Portland on the night of the 23rd. However, since you'll still be in Palm Springs, please leave key under your front door mat and wine rack full! Fine state of affairs to think that supposedly close friends from Vancouver cannot even offer a bed for one night in Palm Springs! Cheers, Patrizzio! Enough of your sarcasm!! We already have 9 sleeping that night. Safe home.

Yes Pam, I'm in as well. Jos and Mike, whoever is driving in from Summerland, would you please stop at Patrizzio's and pick up Judy and me. After my physio I'll pick up Judy and meet you there so we could ride to Pam's together. I'm hoping this would be okay with everyone. Hugs, Olly Hi Patrizzio and Corrine,
Ohh, how I wish for a beach right about now!! and I just love those cute faced little monkeys. This morning we woke up to 3 or 4 inches of new snow and it is mild outside so the snow will be heavy. Good luck shoveling Craig! I'll clean off the vehicles as they are buried and we'll look after the rest on the weekend as Craig left for work early this morning. Have fun in L.A and in Sedona and please give Jill and Phil a huge hug from me. Next Wednesday us Bridge folk have been invited to Pam's new mansion for some games. I am so excited to see her new place. I'm so glad that you and Corrine are having such beautiful weather and are enjoying yourselves! Hugs, Olly

Hello Olga Polga and rest of Bridge Fiends! Sorry to hear about latest snowfall but pleased you are playing bridge, Chicago Only at The Naramata Mansion! Think we should make it Bridge Central from now on, so, so terribly comfortable and when weather improves we can play in the hot tub as we own plasticized cards for just such an occasion! In the meantime, please pay $20 parking fee, to Duke, [I don't trust Chloë!], when you leave your cars in front of Burns Street! Fondestos from Lady Dar to one and all! Happy Bidding! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Sounds like you’re having a fabulous time. Do most tourist folks speak English? I can’t recall but I thought most locals don’t. Do you speak any Spanish? I forget, where to next? Hi Steel Magnolia! In fact yesterday was our last full day here in Manuel Antonio. We take another shuttle to the airport in Alajuela, 20 km west of San José, tomorrow, around 1:00 pm, for a four hour, or so, ride. Leave Sunday morning for LA. We haven't ever had any real difficulty communicating. Have encountered some people who don't speak any English but those working in tourism, (hotel reception, restaurants, souvenir stores, shuttle drivers, etc.), seem very fluent and are most helpful. I possess but a smattering of Spanish but can often decipher menu items based on my knowledge of French and Grade 9 Latin! 

Around 2:00 pm we walked down to the beach and found a shady spot under the trees at the of the sand' Lady Dar relaxed on one of our beach towels and I went to play in the surf. Waves were not quite a high as the day before but I've learned never to take their size for granted. Lots of people around me, some body surfing, some using small boards and others just frolicking as was I. 

 

I really enjoy diving under the larger waves just before or as they crest. If one times it right one can also allow your legs to catch the jet surge rushing above so that you can be carried with it, underwater, towards the beach. Have to be careful, however, as if you are not quite deep enough you end up being "blenderized", tossed and turned, around and around, like a rag doll, in the shallow water as the rip recedes. 

Nothing truly serious or dangerous, given relatively small waves, but you often end up with lots of sand in your suit, hair and ears. Water isn't overly salty so my eyes were never burning. Again, have learned to open them quickly after resurfacing as sometimes another "grande" will be coming along, hidden by the one just negotiated and if you don't see it before it crashes on top of you, that is when you are really pulverized! Didn't happen on this trip and I'm very glad it didn't as my aging frame cannot really take such punishment. Back to rejoin Lady Dar to be entertained by about ten Capuchin monkeys. Had never seen them playing on the sand and it was an absolute delight to watch their antics. 

Quite  reminded us of our two cats, Etta and Duke, when they race around the house and ambush each other. Here, of course, the Capuchins were leaping from tree trunks to branches, back onto the sand of the clearings between the trees, leapfrogging over each other in an endless display of unbridled energy. After this entertainment, Lady Dar waded into the surf but didn't brave any "grandes".  After this we read for another hour or so and then made our way back to our hotel. I rinsed off under the outdoor shower and then had a cooling dip in the pool.

Lazy time after that, reading and digitating, until it was time to shower and change for dinner. Around 7:00 pm we walked down the road which parallels the beach, to scope out a couple of restaurants that are located in the small market area located there. Decided upon The Marlin, primarily because there was a nine piece band performing out front. Members of Cuchá Cuchá are from Argentina and Uruguay and have been on a nine month road trip of Colombia, Peru, Panama. I gather they will head to Nicaragua after Costa Rica. Quite an impressive array of instruments, among them a trombone, sax, clarinet, fairly large hand-held harp and some sort of steel percussion tube which produced the most wonderful sounds. Lead singer played guitar and had a very strong voice but everyone contributed back-up vocals so it was a true wall of sound. We picked up tow of their CD's and that is how we learned a bit about where they were from, etc.

 

After their last number they picked up their instruments and moved across the street to start all over again, while we enjoyed our dinner. Both of us had decided upon fresh tuna steak and will certainly miss all the wonderful meals we've had of this fish while being here. A Swiss couple sat next to us as we were finishing our meal so we enjoyed chatting with them for a few minutes before we paid our bill. Toddled back to our room and I was ready for bed as I guess the sun and surf had taken their tool. Pics: Map shows where we came from, Santa Teresa, and where we will head today. Beach vendor and "Grandes"; Capuchins cavorting; Cuchá Cuchá

[Early morning like this...]
 
Hi Patrizzio, It is obvious that you and Lady Dar are having a great laid back time, thank you for sharing. But do not be mistaken, the snow here is super and certainly helps us keep our minds sane in all the Bristow Valley trauma. Skiing some 2x a week plus hiking/snowshoe'ing at least once a week is fantastic. Think of what rigerous training & excersize you need to go through to get back in shape upon your return 😀! Photos are beautiful, also showing us the blue skies. Smootch for Dar & Patrique Kiss the turtles for me ...Aarturo

Hi Pearly Whites! Please don't remind me about lack of "real" exercise. Can hardly wait to start cycling in Palm Desert! When we go for a stroll to the beach, I'll look for a turtle to kiss! Fondestos from Lady Dar, to you and Josinta. Buona Fortuna with Bristol Valley. We met a woman, on a tour out of Tamarindo, from Summerland, who was also very concerned about proposed development. Cheers, Patrizzio
 

[But later around noon like this...]
 
Hi Patrick, Nothing to be sorry about. The bidding is fearless, the game have lighting speed (at a time) and the weather....

Hi Faster then the Speed of a Lightening Bolt Bidder! Pleased to hear that this is so, regarding bridge! Heard from Chloë that the snow, at least in Penticton, seems to melt fairly quickly after falling so she is pleased not to have to shovel!  Fondestos from Lady Dar. Cheers, Patrizzio!                                  Hello all! Writing from Sunny but cold, Montreal! We arrived back from Cuba late Wednesday afternoon, borrowed a car and visited the house. I think we have lucked out this time! So far so good! Bell has been here for 3 hours so far....hopefully, we’ll be up and running for super bowl on Sunday. Cuba was ok. Amazing people, food not so great, weather worse than food! However, we did get some down time which was the entire point of it! Hope this finds you all well and that I have not missed anyone. Miss you guys already!!!! Much love and big hugs Barbie. 😘🤗♥️🦋��������❤️

Sounds like you guys are having too much fun and there is no end in sight..keep up the good work. Ed Hi Barbarella! Lovely to hear from you and know you are settling in, back from Cuba. Fondestos from Lady Dar, to you and Barbara. We both miss you too but understand why you felt you had to move back to Montreal. Cheers, Patrizzio             Did you book all your different hotels and transportation yourself or use a travel agent? pat Hi Patrizzia, et al! Lady Dar used a company called Anywhere Costa Rica and we decided where we wanted to visit and for how long. Company arranged shuttle service and hotels, based on price range we provided. I'd recommend them as we've haven't had any glitches at all. Food has been truly remarkable, everywhere we've stayed, so most impressed with various cuisines.

Fondestos from Lady Dar, to one and all. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi, Sorry I’ve been MIA, work is busy and I’ve been doing lots of studying. Weather is a little crazy, snow, which then melts quickly so thankfully no shoveling required!!!! Cats are glued to me, they really miss you both.....Dukes actually meows/cry’s lately outside your closet mom at night when I think he misses you. Etta is really biting/loving me up.... but they are alone 10-11 hours a day so I really try to give them lots of attention. I’m always so tired can’t wait to pass this exam and not feel guilty about no alwsys studying. Corey and Rebecca are coming on the 10th for a night to look at houses at Sendaro. Love you both!!!  

Hi Chloe, yes the weather certainly sounds crazy, we get picked up around 1:30 tomorrow for 4 hour drive to near SAN Jose to be close to airport for 9 am flight to L A. on Sunday. We should be back by the 24th or earlier. While I want to visit friends I’m ready for home. Hope to look at some condos with Ayn. I miss Etta and Duke as well. Have a good study weekend are you managing to get some exercise? Love you, Mom Hi Chloë, et al! Glad to learn that the snow, at least in Penticton, now seems to melt fairly quickly after falling so am quite sure you are very pleased not to have to shovel, not that  you did anyway! I also see that you have Etta doing the dishes so that you have more time to study! Please lock both the wine cellar and malt cabinet when Beckster and Kid Chelene come to stay, and remind them of the nightly rate, $250 USD, payable before check-in! Pics: "Grandes", for habitués of Guyabitos! 

Howler Monkeys SIng the Very Early Morning Blues: Thursday, February 1st!

As societies grow decadent, the language grows decadent, too. Words are used to disguise, not to illuminate, action: you liberate a city by destroying it. Words are to confuse, so that at election time people will solemnly vote against their own interests. -Gore Vidal, writer (3 Oct 1925-2012)

Howler monkeys were making quite a fuss all night. Was awakened by their very loud howls at 2:30 am, 4:30 am and finally at 6:30 am! Love our room as it is just around the corner from the breakfast service so I popped by to have my first cup of coffee while Lady Dar readied herself. Were treated to more entertainment from the Titis, this morning at breakfast. Cheeky little things were stealing fruit, (in the last two shots, pineapple), off people's plates this morning if you turned your back! There must have been about fifteen of them. 

Absolutely delightful, leapfrogging over each other, literally shooting/scampering up tree trunks and launching themselves, quite a distance, into thin air, a la Flying Squirrels, (also known as Monkey Squirrels, for this very reason), to reach neighbouring branches or large shrubs to plunge into. From their exquisitely delicate, clown-like faces, mini-Marcel Marceaux! However, never sad looking, except when food is denied, then beseeching, imploring expressions and pathetic, high-pitched, quite shrill squeaks. Apparently, the people who started the hotel were instrumental in saving this species from extinction. At any rate, a marvellous, marvellous treat and privilege to see and observe them so closely. Must away, myself, as the beach and surf call. I'm not a surfer but I love diving under the "grandes" before they come crashing down.

Hi Stranger!! Hope that you are well. I am hoping to pick your brain......we are tentatively planning to spend a week ski ing with Dad in jan/Feb 2019 and then flying to Zurich/Switzerland. In your experience/opinion what are the best flight options? ie fly out of vancouver direct or via LA/Dallas or another hub? I've just got myself a bit confused with all of the different flight options and am not sure what is the best/fastest option. 

Hi Kirsty! Trust you are well. Greetings from Manuel Antonio, our last stop in Costa Rica before flying back to Tinsel Town this coming Sunday. Not sure if I'm the best person to give advice about flights but I am flying direct, from Vancouver to Paris, in April. For my part, I wouldn't fly through the US unless absolutely necessary, just in terms of more security etc. You could send Susan Pitchford a message and ask her what she thinks. She and her husband Charlie, [We were devastated when he died this past November.], started a very successful travel agency, based out of their home in Vancouver, when they moved from Toronto. Susan, along with their daughter Marnie, is still running company. In the past, whenever we couldn't figure out flights ourselves, much like you describe, we'd ask them and have always been more than satisfied. No cost as airlines pay them. Anyway, if you do decide to contact her you can reach her at this address. Mention you are friends of ours, just to place request in context. 

Depending on what your schedule is like you might consider visiting us in Penticton for a day or so, or longer, should you have time. There are also very good flights from there, or Kelowna, back east, for overseas connections so that might be an option as well. Must way as beach calls! Fondest to you and Chris and rest of Famiglia Tassel, from Lady Dar. Cheers, Patrizzio! Titi monkeys who live in trees around our hotel. Cheeky little things were stealing fruit off people's plates this morning if you turned your back! There must have been about fifteen of them. 

Hi James! Trust you are well, other than your knee!. Fondestos to you and Carol and rest of hiking gang, from Lady Dar. Must away as the beach and surf call. I'm not a surfer but I love diving under the "grandes" before they come crashing down. Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Pics: Two Capuchins on way to beach yesterday; Horse-back rides, anyone? Lady Dar dips her toes; I'm sending her aloft today! Titi monkeys who live in trees around our hotel, yesterday afternoon and this morning at breakfast. Cheeky little things were stealing fruit, (in the last two shots, pineapple), off people's plates this morning if you turned your back! There must have been about fifteen of them.

Absolutely delightful, leapfrogging over each other, literally shooting/scampering up tree trunks and launching themselves, quite a distance, into thin air, a la Flying Squirrels, (also known as Monkey Squirrels, for this very reason), to reach neighbouring branches or large shrubs to plunge into. From their exquisitely delicate, clown-like faces, mini-Marcel Marceaux! However, never sad looking, except when food is denied, then beseeching, imploring expressions and pathetic, high-pitched, quite shrill squeaks. Apparently, the people who started the hotel were instrumental in saving this species from extinction. At any rate, a marvellous, marvellous treat, and privilege, to see and observe them so closely.

Hi Corinne, Pat, sorry for the late reply, hope you guys had a great holidays and new year, and that you had a good time in LA and ARE having a good time in Costa Rica. Not much going on on my end except the never-ending quest to navigate through adult life (but not necessarily figuring it out, I gave up on that fool's errand a while ago haha). I'm still working on contract for the province as a researcher, not a bad gig but hopefully I will find something more permanent soon since I'll be finishing up my degree in May (hard to believe, I know). I just applied to work as a Library Assistant at VPL, it's only as an auxiliary but if I get it I guess it's a small foot in the door to VPL, although, not sure if public libraries is the route I want to take career-wise, any thoughts on work as an academic librarian vs a public librarian?

Besides that, the main thing in my life is my dad's health, he's not doing so well and we have spent the better part of last year (and still) trying to figure out what is wrong with him (years of physical labour and not taking care of his body are probably catching up to him). The hardest thing has been seeing his confidence go down, and he's usually a very boisterous and energetic person (think a Chinese version of Pat but not fueled by single malt), and as someone on the side not being able to really do much to make him feel better, I mean, short of waving a magic wand to make all of his ailments go away, I am not sure what to do besides give him words of encouragement but it's not really doing much for him as I can tell all he wants is to be "normal" again. Anyways, sorry, not to bring down your mood while you are away on holiday, but I guess what I'm asking you guys, especially, with your own recent loss Corinne, how do we prepare ourselves for the negative aspects of our parents aging and getting sick? Maybe there's no road map here, but always good to hear how other people cope.

Things are otherwise good, and can't complain, I think on a personal level I've done a lot of growth and reflecting in the past year, and it's always amazing to me how we have so much room for change, even as we get older and supposedly more set in our ways. Always miss seeing you guys and hopefully we'll see each other soon Take care, VL

Hi Victorious! Lovely to hear from you! Terribly sorry to hear about your Father, Victor Not much advice to give on this matter. This is the way that life unfolds and one simply has to accept one's frailties and inevitable mortality and carry on, as best one can, in spite of such terribly difficult matters. Both Lady Da and I have been very, very  fortunate, inasmuch as my Mom, and Her Dad, lived extremely long and productive lives and did not suffer towards the end of their allotted days. 

Heard from Ragin' Bull, yesterday, and he is dealing with a very, very difficult situation with his own father. He should be in a care facility but is so stubborn, as well as suffering from dementia, that he won't hear about being moved. On an even more devastating front, our very close friend, Ted Keating, (He is but a year older than us.), is dying from an extremely rare neurological condition, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD), for which, currently, there is no cure. Treatment is aimed at alleviating symptoms and making the patient as comfortable as possible. How his wife, Elaine, is coping goes beyond understanding. If it turns out that he is still alive, (Highly unlikely as Elaine mentioned to Corinne, when we took a whirlwind trip into Vancouver, before Christmas, that they had already taken steps towards putting assisted dying in place. Eventual death is a horrible, horrible one, much like Lou Gehrig's Disease, I gather.), when we are making our way back home we'll certainly drive to Penticton, via Vancouver, to see him and Elaine. If this transpires, I'll be in touch, beforehand, and perhaps we can organize to get together. Not trying to make you fell better but sometimes knowing about other circumstances and situations puts things in a sharper perspective. Stay well and take care of yourself, Victorino. Cheers, Patrizzio! 

PS: Lady Dar just left. Fondestos from her. She mentioned, before sashaying out the door, that if you haven't graduated yet, applying at VPL is fine. However, don't put off graduation otherwise you'll be shelving books for the rest of your working life and become an embittered person, whining about what you should have done! More expensive advice. I think I'm up to at least three bottles of cask strength by now!!!

haha great pictures!! great to see you guys are enjoying yourselves, and thank you for not sending any pictures of yourself in a bathing suit Pat--and Corinne must be used to spending time with monkeys being married to you for numerous years.....VLHi Vittorino! Thanks for the compliments. In fact I wouldn't mind being reincarnated as a monkey as they are such nimble, flexible, energetic, cunning and intelligent creatures, unlike an aging Swedish Twin I know! Funnily enough, we've met many Swedes on this trip, as well as Danes, Argentinians, Brits, Israelis and Californians. I'll be laughing at you shortly, when I'm frolicking in the surf! Cheers, Tati Patrizzio!

Hi Victor, it’s great to hear from you. We are having a very interesting time and finding out all about the incredible wildlife of CR. Two things in response to your message. First, if you are graduating in May why apply to working as a Library Assistant? By the time you are processed and trained you will be able to work as a librarian. I think you should look at the community colleges as well as universities. Second, you can’t change your dad’s health but you can try and see him and spend time talking as much as is reasonable. I think back to the conversations and time I spent with my dad all the time. Hope you can make a trip to Penticton sometime soon. Take Care, Hugs Corinne

Hello Palm Desert/Palm Springs! Trust everyone is well. It occurred to me that since both you lads are avid golfers, I'd put you in touch with each other, in case an opportunity arises to play together, to get out form under The Sisterhood's feet! Fondestos from Lady Dar, to one and all. Stay well and take care of each other, dear friends. Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Hi Chloë, et al! How is the weather in Penticton? How are our favourite cats? How is your studying going? How are the sidewalks that you shovel every day?

Finally had time to record yesterday's journey from Santa Teresa to Manuel Antonio. [Thanks for the good time! Sandee]

Lazy, lazy morning after breakfast today. After I digitated until about 2:00 pm, the Howler monkeys seemed really fussed about something and Lady Dar called me to come and take a look. About six or seven of the smaller ones we'd seen yesterday were scampering across the pool fence. A couple of them stole handfuls of sugar sachets that had been left out, after lunch, I suppose. Any way after the Great Sucrose Heist, two of them perched on the trunk of a large tree beside our patio where I'd set up my laptop on the small table there. Cheeky little devils were quite happy to have me photograph them as they tore packages apart. Furthermore, Lady Dar, who was reading beside pool, as all this action was going down, said another enterprising fellow took a small plastic cover off a pool drain and scooped out insects floating there! Obviously more concerned about a healthy diet than his relatives or friends.

Around 3:00 pm I put on my trunks and folded some folding cash into the small pocket inside the shorts. Only put sunscreen on my face as my long-sleeved shirt blocks out UV, and, hat on head, shades on my nose, I walked down to the beach. Tide was much higher than it was yesterday so I suppose it has something to do with the coming full moon. Anyway, surf was washing way up on the beach, almost to the restaurant we'd eaten at yesterday. Found a medium-sized rock and put it in the reusable bag I'd brought long, to keep it from blowing away, along with my sandals, shades and hat, and then went in search of the perfect wave! Had loads of fun diving under many of the "grandes" and even the heavy surf, they created, once they broke. Water was  wonderful temperature and I'm sure I could have stayed in for an hour or more. Need to limit my exposure to the sun so after about thirty minutes of frolicking, I returned to collect my few possessions and walked further down the beach close to where there is a mercado. Picked up more water, juice, a package of corn crackers , beloved by Lady Dar, and some "Baby Swiss" cheese, made in Monteverde, which brand we'd had before, although a Pesto Jack. 

Back at the room I dropped off my purchases and went to have a quick dip, rinsing in pool shower beforehand. No Tikis to be seen or heard but chatted with four Swiss, a couple and a father/daughter, playing a card game, with a board, a bit like a Chinese Checkers board, but smaller, apparently called Dog. The daughter lives in Costa Rica, further up the Nicoya Peninsula, near Samara, south of Tamarindo. Plan to stay with them in May, when in Berne, Dear Reader, before freeloading with the Austrian couple, from Vienna, who we met on speedboat. Then on to Prague to stay with the sister of a vendor we met in Tamarindo! Only need a connection in Poland and I'm set for entire three months in Europe!

Enjoyed some of the snacks I picked up, listening to CBC, on the patio. Once I poured myself a Cacique and juice, (Lady Dar was already tippling Sauvignon Blanc), I showered and changed and went to the bus stop jut outside our hotel. Diana and Patrick, a couple from San Pedro, near Long Beach, were sitting on the bench there and invited us to jin them for dinner. When two fun buses passed us by, Diana and I started out, walking up the fairly steep, extended hill, towards the restaurant, El Lagarto, The Lizard, recommended to them by the hotel owner. Diane and I made it past a couple of the next bus stops before we gave in and waited for the next bus. Patrick and Lady Dar were on it so and a helpful local told us where to disembark, to walk the rest of the way to El Lagarto.

Place was quite busy and it was hard to hear one another until the the twenty or so people seated at the large table near us were finished their meal. We all agreed that the food was stupendous. Lady Dar had shrimp, in memory of Dusty, while I had medallions of pork, wrapped in bacon. Diana and Patrick have traveled quite extensively so it was most interesting to hear about many of the places they've visited. Once we had finished, with absolutely no room to even think about dessert, we called a cab, stopping at a BCR ATM is I could withdraw enough colones to see me through the rest of the stay. Annoyed it was a BCR branch as limit is ₡100, 000 while with Banco Naciaonal, one can withdraw ₡200,000. Cost me an extra $5 which I'd rather spend on anything but making the banks richer!

Back home we bade goodnight to Diana and Patrick, thanking them for the lovely evening. They leave for home tomorrow but we'll see them at breakfast. Mixed myself a Cacique to help me unwind after the trauma of the withdrawal and will soon head to bathroom to brush and floss awn i want to start my new book, Isabel Allende's Ripper! Fondestos from Lady Dar, watching How To Get Away With Murder! Cheers, Dad/Patrizzio! Pic: Howler sugar thieves!

Patrick James Dunn Not as much as these two Howlers likes sugar. They were perched on trunk beside where I'm digitating after they stole a couple of packages off one of the tables behind me, just a few minutes ago. Lady Dar said another took a small plastic cover off pool drain and scooped out insects floating there! Will have to show Duke his cousins! 

Hi Jocelyn and Jim! Trust you are both well. [Cannot believe that I have not replied to your message dated, September 15th! No excuses but plenty of reasons!] Thank you for the kind words and best wishes for Chloë's move. It went extremely well, pleased to report. Fondestos from Lady Dar, to you both, although she's so engrossed in her latest book I hardly think she has even a passing thought for friends and family! All the best. Cheers, Patrizzio!

My hip is improving daily & I don’t even take my cane out on short jaunts. My last physio is mid Feb & the last Surgeon appt is March 13. I hope to fly to Edmonton soon after to help Beth & family. It’s difficult to live so far away. Still, I don’t miss the extreme cold, snow & icy roads!! It’s rainy here on the island but it’s green, with many signs of spring. Beth is having her first chemo on Tues. it’s very scary & I know she’s worried st the unknown!! This date is coming up too fast, which I told her is a good thing. Let’s get this over with & get on with life!!!!!👍��👏�� Maggie😘 Hi Maggster! Glad the weather is improving but even happier to learn that your hip is progressing so well.  Will be thinking of you and Beth on Tuesday. Frightening of course, but has to be done, as you say. All the best. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Corinne Enjoyed meeting you and Patrick. Now you have my contact info also Diana