Day 46, Post-Op 45th Champs Motor Inn Halloween Anniversary Blues: Monday, October 31st!

Time engraves our faces with all the tears we have not shed. -Natalie Clifford Barney, poet, playwright, and novelist (31 Oct 1876-1972)

Duke, The Halloween Cat, on the prowl!

Hi Gayle and Derek! Thanks for the wonderful Halloween card! Have been meaning to send along greetings for ages. Trust you are both well. Busy here with all sorts of activities and social engagements.

[Great pic Happy Halloween!!]

We are going to hear Matt Andersen at The Dream Café this evening. It is a fund-raiser for the restaurant/live music venue which has been struggling for years, [Hope it can keep going as it is a wonderfully intimate space and an amazing array of musicians/singers have appeared over the years of operation.], as well as being the anniversary of when we first met in a pub, Champs Motor Inn, on Osborne, in Winnipeg, 45 years ago! Will be dispensing treats at our front door until it is time for us to leave.  Happy Halloween to one and all. Cheers, Patrizzio!

All Hallows' Eve Greetings from Etta and Duke, Burns St Scaredy Cats, and their overwhelmed owners, Lady Dar and Patrizzio!  

Thanks for thinking of me.
I have just finished my fitness class in which we exercised to Ghostbusters, Monster Mash, Batman, Rocky Horror Mountain Picture Show music. For cool down the lights were dimmed and the leader told a ghost story. Hi Bev! Great costume! Lady Dar was at her yoga class this morning. She'll be quite amused to hear about your "scary" fitness session. Happy Halloween to you, Bev. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Happy Halloween to you too as well - are you saying that Duke is stuck on a tree again? ;) 

Hi Henryk! No, in fact, not a tree this time but up on the patio louvres! Lady Dar re-arranged the patio furniture yesterday afternoon, getting ready for winter. We moved the table beside the end of the garage and against the fence. Duke quickly figured out that he could now hop onto the top of the fence and proceeded to tight-rope walk its entire length. He is so agile that this is a piece of cake!

Earlier this morning, sitting at my desk, I noticed him, walking along the fence again so decided to snap a few shots of the "cat burglar". He continued past the rain barrel and then turned around, perching on one of the post caps, for a moment before leaping, effortlessly onto the louvres! When I saw him perched there I knew what was going through his curious mind but also knew that he probably wouldn't be able to figure out how to get down again!

Matthew...

[Hi Agneta! I guess there won't be any trick or treaters at their place tonight! Happy Halloween to you, Agneta! Cheers, Patrizzio!]


Lady Dar was at yoga so I knew I might have difficulty with aluminum ladder. I waited for five minutes or so to see what might happen. He would pop his head over edge when I called and looked fairly unhappy with his situation. Etta was fussed, looking at her brother from below, both of they crying pitilessly! Anyway, decided I'd try the step-ladder so took it outside, placing it next to the rain barrel and fence. Standing on top rung, I was able to be in a comfortable, "safe" position to be able to grab him. However, when I was in place he decided he wanted to stay and went under the part of the eave that protrudes over the start of the louvres!
 

[Glad you are enjoying Penticton and what it has to offer. Let me know about The Accountant" as we were given show vouchers and I want to use them on a good movie! Kian helped us out by giving out Halloween candy at the door. He went next door for his one and trick or treating. The Mom gave him a big handful of candies which he promptly put in her son's bag. Next year he will get the message I'm sure but this year he thought it was a celebration to give away candy. It was so much fun watching as he was just thrilled by the costumes and would have left in a second to tag along with any group of them! Always something comes up to make us second guess our budgeting. We had to buy a new computer as my iMac will no longer upload photos from our newer devices. Drat! Hope everything checks out with the surgeon. Hello Unintended New Computer Owner! Sorry to hear about your computer replacement blues! Nothing in life is certain except taxes and new technology!!! Hard to believe Kian is so big already! Does he have a paper route yet? Cute kid indeed! Thanks for best wishes on my rehab. Cheers, Patrizzio!]

[From Maya!! Their cat Naam guarding candy!!]


What a dope! What to do? Thought I'd try to lure him back to the edge so I stepped down one rung and started to scratch the ledge. Of course, he couldn't resist and when he was close enough I grabbed him by the scruff of his neck and tried to pull him off louvres. Instinctively, he tried to wedge himself against the ridges, [Just like he sunk his claws into the tree trunk when you were trying to bring him down.], but I finally managed to pry him loose, his claws scrabbling on the metal. Put him on the top of the ladder as soon as I was sure of my own balance and he jumped down onto the patio. Hope he has learned Lesson Number 2! Happy Halloween to you and Louise. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Fence-walker Duke!

Hi Mr Grizzle! Have been meaning to send along greetings for ages. Trust you and Janice are both well. Heard a brief clip of you on CBC this morning. Gather you played some part of recycling project that had to do with the material collected on the west coast of Vancouver Island. I knew your voice immediately! I'm off to Vancouver on Wednesday. I'd like to try to arrange a visit but am, unfortunately, too pressed for time on this run. Happy Halloween to you both. Cheers, Patrizzio!
 

Dear Patrick and Corinne, Thank you for the Halloween card! I hope your young cats have settled in and are enjoying naps in front of the wood-burning fire! How are you? How is Chloe? How is Penticton life? Have you had any snow yet? Hope you are keeping cozy and enjoying a balance of quiet time and wild entertainment. Have you been on any hikes recently? Read any juicy novels?

Matthew and I are well. We recently received some very happy news - we are expecting twins, due early April. I have been in pretty good health, all things considered. And Matthew is very excited of course.

Do you have any Halloween plans? We heard a lot of fireworks around us but didn't see any (it is pouring rain today). I am planning to distribute some candy today at work, but have not made any effort to dress up for the occasion. It's really the last festive moment between now and Christmas, and tomorrow shops and media will be filled with Christmas things...Hope you are both well, and if you are ever in Vancouver we would love to see you. Take care. Love, Zoe and Matthew Hi Zoe and Matthew! What wonderful news indeed! Congratulations to both of you!! Hip Hip Hooray! Once more, congratulations on your pregnancy! Happy Halloween to you and Matthew. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Photo: Caitriana Nicholson

[Xerophilic: Adapted to a very dry or desert environment]

Dear Corinne, Patrick and cats! Thank you for another fun e-card! Hope you are doing well. I am doing better, nursing my back and neck, excercising appropriately, hope to start working in near future. much love, Margareta Hi Margareta!What wonderful news that you are on the mend! Congratulations and Hip Hip Hooray!Once more, congratulations on your recovery, Margareta! Happy Halloween to you and the lads. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Margareta,, so glad that your neck and back are improving. I didn't realize that you were off work completely. How are the boys doing/? Can't believe that they are 16 already. We celebrated our 45 anniversary of when we met. Went to a concert with great singer, guitar player. Patrick is off to Vancouver on Wednesday for 6 week check up of his hip. I will keep the cats company as I just spent 8 days in Vancouver at the Writers Festival and seeing lots of friends. Take it easy, sending healing thoughts, Love Corinne Hello Steel Magnolia!
Trust your complete recovery continues! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Thanks so much for the card, Patrick! I'll be back. Kjell Hello Salish Sea Woman and Gävle Man! Trust all goes well with both of you! When will you return? Cheer, Patrizzio!

Thanks. Happy Hanukkah to you and yours as well.  PS Have U heard from Erika about next summer? Hello Great Ronaldo Hi Andrea and The Great Ronaldo! Trust you are both well. No, I haven't heard a peep from Erika so not sure about anything that is or might be planned for next summer. I think I remember that something was bruited about regarding having a reunion at Grogg's summer place in Muskoka? I'm keen to know what might be in the offing as I'd love to see gang again, all other things being equal, travel schedules, timing, etc. Desperately seeking Erika! Cheers, Patrizzio!
 

Thanks Pat, very cute! Hi Sylvia! Glad you enjoyed the card. Happy Halloween to you and Raymond. Cheers, Patrizzio! Hey Patrizio! Thanks for the card. Hi Carlos! Great Jack-O'-Lantern! Happy Halloween to you and O Susannah! Cheers, Patrizzio! Our cat is waiting for the pumpkins to get carved. She will have a long snooze...Thank you for thinking of us on this sweet holiday!! Donna Florida and Cactus and Squeak Hi Mean Spirited Pumpkin Carver! I guess there won't be any/many trick or treaters at your place tonight! Happy Halloween to Squeak! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Happy Halloween... nice to hear from you... hope you are getting better... I guess we will see you on a hike in the spring... or perhaps a drink of wine or two before Christmas... cheers for now Joyce and Ken...Hi Bad Boy! Trust you and Joyce are doing well. Do hope we'll see you before spring, indeed! Pre-Christmas for sure! Fondestos from Lady Dar. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Thx again for your wishes - this time a happy Halloween - that goes from us to you and Colleen too. We miss the bridge nights and i miss the cycles with you Patrick. I have now met a few more bikers so not so bad. Went backpacking in Grand Canyon last week and got helicoptered out as my friend was very sick down there and it was 2 days hike out. See you in Feb luv to you both Gill

Hi Jack Rabbit Slims! Lovely to hear from you but sorry to learn about your friend's illness, serious by the sound of it! I certainly miss riding with you, Gilliana, but glad to hear you have met some fellow cyclists. I'm up to 40 minutes, per stationary bike session, so pleased about that and how I feel.
Fondestos from Lady Dar, to you and Phillipo. Cheers, Patrizzio!
 
Happy anniversary of your first meeting with Lady Dar! I have decided to try to tweet out info I think is important for Alzheimer's. If you are not on Twitter you can still see what I am up to by googling Jane doe@Mycrankpots If you feel like spreading the Twitter address I would appreciate it. Hi Crackpot Woman! I'm on Twitter, although I don't use it that often, preferring email to few characters available on former! Thanks for congratulations. Fondestos from Lady Dar, to you Bev. Cheers, Patrizzio! Glad you are so upbeat.

Dear LD and P--Pretty cute alright. Thanks for the greeting ... and the reminder that I should lock the doors against ghosties and goblins and such tonight.
Cheers, L and (in absentia) DP Dearest Corinne and Patrick—Many, many happy wishes for a wonderful anniversary day. Pretty impressive number there! Good on youse. Enjoy your evening out at the Dream Cafe. (I thought it had closed down permanently. Is this a special “opening”?) Cheers. Lynnie XOXO Hi Lynne and In Absentia Man! Trust you were not invaded by too, too many ghosties and goblins! As well, thanks for congratulations. Fondestos from Lady Dar, to you both. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Patrick, It's very sad to see that you have your cat out soliciting tricks at such a young age. Thank you for informing me of your perfidy. Yours truly, Peter
Morality Squad Dear Morality Polizei! Interesting that you are so concerned about cat burglars, when you turn a blind eye to Demon Rum! Thanks, nevertheless, for obtaining guest spot to malt tasting. Let me know what the damage is and we can settle up. Cheers, Contrite, But Not Overly So, Patrizzio!
Patrick, I think you will be contacted directly if there is a guest spot available, one week prior to the event. Cheers from Denver Peter Hi Denver Bronco! I have already been contacted so that is how I know about attending tasting. Thanks! Travel safely. Cheers, Patrizzio!
 

Patriçio, Thank you for the Revers Bucket List warning. Fortunately, I have already done most of those adventures and have just last week booked my flight to Norway. Also, further investigation into my inability to read your eCards resulted in discovering that the Flash settings in my Safari extensions needed a tweek. I can explain the technical details over dinner. As for your visit, kindly inform me of the following: Are you coming by Bus or Private jet? Do you need a pick-up? What’s a good dinner time - 6-ish Ok? Also, please select a dining option from the choices below: Menu for Wednesday

Option 1) Peripherals: Parthenon specialty humus & pita w/ selection of olives
Greek salad with (probably sheep, maybe goat) feta
Main course: Baked or BBQ’d fillet of Wild Sockeye, in a special Trader Joe’s marinade server with Trader Joe’s Basmati rice medley,& lightly steamed vegetables
Desert: Ice cream or Sherbet covered with a mixed berry medley
Trader Joe’s Organic French Dark Roast coffee
Option 2) MacDonald’s take out See you Wednesday! cheers//bjp

Hello Chef at Il Palazzo di Perić! Not to cast any aspersions on your culinary skills but I opt for Option 2! More time for knocking back hootch if you are not slaving over a hot stove, in bare feet with an erection! 6-ish sounds fabuloso! Thanks as well for offer to collect me somewhere but I will be driving the new Marriagemobile so will have my own set of official Officiant wheels. Any weddings you might wish to have performed now that you have solved all your Flash settings? A fjord wedding in Norway might work although I don't think Lady Dar is comfortable with heights! Trust you were not invaded by too, too many ghosties and goblins, other than the demons rolling around in your more than fevered brain!  Fondestos from Lady Dar, to you Chef, busy preparing parsnip soup as I scribe. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Thank you: http://www.trendingly.com/ray-villafane-pumpkins

May you have many treats! Hi Brenda "Pumpkin Woman" Louise! Fabulous sculptures indeed! All the best to you and Wally and Picasso. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Presume you have found suitable accommodation for your visit -Complete with required bathroom tables ect. If you would like a bridge game organized we could try to oblige!  Hope all goes well with your new body part.  Mick and Polly Hi Polly and Mick! Yes, I did find other, far more suitable accommodation, given the fact that we did not receive confirmation regarding deficiencies that needed attention, noted on last stay evaluation form! However, an evening of bridge would be de-loverly. However, not sure what you have in mind as I'm in town, solo, sans Lady Dar, staying at home to cat sit! I'm having dinner with Branko on Wednesday evening, 6:00ish, so perhaps you two could stroll over to his place later, and we could have a couple of rubbers there. If you imagined a larger gathering it would probably need to be at your place. Anyway, thanks for the offer. Let me know what you think and we'll take it from there. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Patrick, Such a newsy email. You are living a very busy life. I hope we can get together but we have some challenges. First on Wednesday we meet with our lawyer at 2:00 re our wills and hopefully that will be less than an hour but not sure when we will be done. Thursday am we are okay to meet but you have an appointment. Thursday afternoon we meet with the oncologist and so we aren't available. Friday am would work if you can fit us in prior to leaving. Life is too complicated. Let us know if any of the times will work for you. Hope we can get a visit in. We just returned from a nice dinner and visit at Stacee and Sean's. They had 60 trick or treaters, mostly very young children with parents who often were dressed up too. Look forward to hearing from you Cheers, Dawn�� Always a treat to receive a card from the Burns St. crew. Trust you were good to all the Trick or Treaters calling on you. Dawn

Hi Donna Maria and Heraldo! Talk about busy schedules! In the first instance, I would like to meet with you and your lawyer in order to protect my own particular interests. I still feel I have a significant claim on your considerable assets ever since those days when I flew up to Terrace. I still have PTSD as a result of the inordinately boozy Friday evenings forced upon me! My shrink says that this cruel and unusual punishment is certainly the root cause of my dipsomania!

That being said, if you do not wish to have me present, [Selfish folk that you are!], how about meeting after you leave me out of the will? Where will you be? I was planning to visit with Sarge, at Harbour Terrace, when I hit town, around 2:00 pm if all goes well with traffic, etc. I will be staying upstairs from them, at another friend's place, [Lady Dar stayed with Joanne over the course of the VWF and Joanne is away, in Phoenix, now, visiting a daughter and family.] We could go somewhere on Granville Island or meet elsewhere, if more convenient.

For our part we had a wonderful, wonderful evening earlier. We started off here, celebrating the 45th anniversary of our meeting, with Josinta and Aarturo. [Funnily enough, it was also the 45th anniversary of their meeting as well, although they first met in February of that year.] We toasted on one another with a tasty bottle of 8th Generation Integrity, (Frizzante style Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Koerner), 13.1% and visited until it was time to leave for The Dream Café where we were to have dinner and see Matt Andersen perform. Only had one set of costumed treat or treaters before Lady Dar took our bowl of candy next door to have our neighbour, Amanda, dole out treats.
 

Event was a fund raiser and included a buffet dinner as well as tickets for show. We had first seen Matt at the VFF, at least seven years ago now, and had been very impressed with him then. Had heard him, off and on, played on CBC, over the intervening years and when I heard that he would be here, for four appearances, I immediately bought tickets and learned, subsequently that Aarturo had done so as well. He is a terrific performer, humourously engaging the audience, always self-deprecating. Thrilling to observe his stunningly accomplished guitar playing but his voice is an even more incredible instrument. Can only describe him as the Pavarotti of blues! Probably the same bulk as well, as Matt is a big, big boy! 

At any rate, a wonderful way to celebrate both anniversaries. Let me know what you'd like to do about meeting. Fondestos from Lady Dar. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Halloween fare and appetizers; The Babes, 45 years later! Cow Man with Heidi! Matt! The Sisterhood up close! More Matt!

Have booked house below for wedding. Comes to $270 approx. per person. On beach looks large enough for us all. Corinne Looks nice, do you want us to send money now?  Pat 

Because of the low cloud cover we went to White Lake for plan B! We managed to do a short hike, ably lead by Tony. Here are a few photos from Dorothy! Hi Everyone, Thanks to Pam you received the group hike photo with the first eight of us as Spiderman, but after the hike guess who went out "trick or treating!" I knew you would want to see one of our mascots dressed up for Halloween fun last night, (sent by Tony and Heather!) So adorable, Dorothy

Because of the low cloud cover we went to White Lake for plan B! We managed to do a short hike, ably lead by Tony. Here are a few photos from Dorothy! Dear Mr. D, These are amazing!!!!

Happy Halloween to the both of you fine folks  and all the best. Take care and God Bless, Olly Hi everyone, these are simply amazing! so I'm sending them on,  hugs, Olly Hi Olga Pumpkin Polga! Thanks for the stunning pumpkin faces!
Fondestos from Lady Dar, to you and Craig. See you at Lee's. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hello Members of the 45 year Club!  Thanks for the wonderful evening together last night. Fondestos from Lady Dar. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Burns Street and The Dream. 

Thanks for the greeting. 18 Days till retirement for me and 61 days until Kurt retires. We are in a very happy place these days. Have a great fall. Regards from Liverpool, Anne and Kurt  Hi Anne and Kurt! Lovely to hear from you!  Congratulations on your coming retirement. Hip Hip Hooray!!! Trust all will continue to go well with you two, especially after retiring. Cheers, Patrizzio! A very cute kitty cat card. Hope that you two expatriates will visit us soon in Vancouver. Love to all, Nancy  Hello, Patrizzio! Grazie for the card! A Happy Hallowe'en to all of you there in the Interior! Deborah Hi Deborah! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Keep your kitty cats close tonight as the goblins, I mean children, are already out! Thank you for the card. We will miss you if we ride tomorrow, miss you anyway! Colleen Hi Colonel Klink! Great to be missed! More than miss you and the rest of the troup! Say hello to one and all for me, when opportunity arises.  Cheers, Patrizzio!

I had not seen the Marriagemobile before. Really. Maybe I should convert my old Toyota into one?  I don't think Donna Florida will let me mess with her Honda. Why don't you just let these cats extract themselves from their own messes? I am confident that in the end they would find a way. Not on our time scale perhaps, but in the fullness of time....CactusHi Tough Feline Love from The Mean Streets of Berkeley Man! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Thank you very much, Patrizzio and Lady Dar, I am enjoying that Halloween greeting very much, magic mice and all! I specially like the bats! Happy Halloween to you too! Anthea and Jim  Hi Anthea! Glad you enjoyed card. I was delighted by bats as well! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Aloha from Waikiki- arrived late last night, awoke to a beautiful morning, so a nice walk and swim, just about to return for another swim. Will see a favourite band here tonight on a lanai at the beach for sunset. Should be a festive Halloween here- they are huge for these festivities. Happy Halloween! Hope to see you soon. G&'F

Happy Halloween Hi All, Look how much you would save by not going out to-night, look for the last pic. Thanks for the card and your news.  Very cute and mischievous cats! Hi Agneta! How was Día de Muertos? Cheers, Patrizzio!Patrick, Thank you for your Hallowe'en message. I enjoyed the reference to scaredy cats in your messge. It made me smile. Pam Happy Halloween Hi All, Look how much you would save by not

going out to-night, look for the last pic. Thanks for the card and your news.  Very cute and mischievous cats! Hi Agneta! How was Día de Muertos? Cheers, Patrizzio!Patrick, Thank you for your Hallowe'en medsage. I enjoyed the reference to scaredy cats in your messsge. It made me smile. Pam

Hi Smiling Pamela! Pleased card mad you grin even if it was a nervous response!  Cheers, Patrizzio! Thanks for the lovely scaro-gram!. Happy Halloween as well to all of you scaredy cats! owoooo! Thank you Patrick. Hope you had lots of little gobblins at your door. Cheers from Hildi Hi Von Bingen! We only had a few goblins before we asked our neighbours to dole out candies as we were off to The Dream Café to see Matt Andersen with Josinta and Aarturo! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Thank you Young Patrick for the lovely card. I had a nice Halloween with a few little trick or treaters at the door... some so cute! I looked on Brads Facebook. Have you seen what he is building??? Little hobbit huts with grass roofs.. I know he went to St Michael's, but didn't know his background... It looks like a recipe for disaster to me... I have been meaning to ask, if you remember Roger Young, a librarian who was at the club with me many years ago. I think he went to school with you. I lost touch with him many years ago and think of him often. I will write more later... Cheers.. Bill

Hi Wild Bill! We only had a few goblins before we asked our neighbours to dole out candies as we were off to The Dream Café to see Matt Andersen, [Do you know his music? He's from New Brunswick.], with friends, Josinta and Aarturo. Brad had mentioned his Hobbit Huts when we were in hospital. I didn't say anything as I think Lord of the Rings frenzy is over! I do remember Roger Young but I didn't know him all that well. If I recall, correctly, he was only at UBC for a couple of years.

Many thanks Patrick- I was working but the girls went trick or treating with Ma, Flynn and Archie xx Hello Working Girl! I thought that you had retired! [Who is "Ma"?] Fondestos, Patrizzio! Happy Halloween to you as well. Thanks for the card. Roma & Leonard Hi Roma and Leonard! Trust all is well with you two. Cheers, Patrizzio!

St. George’s, a hypogeal church in Ethiopia

Photo: Babak Fakhamzadeh

SOWTS Malt Whisky Tasting: Member's Name

	Peter Lighthall
Guest Taster #1	Patrick Dunn

 

Day 45, Post-Op Cat Door to Freedom Blues: Sunday, October 30th!

He who wants to persuade should put his trust not in the right argument, but in the right word. The power of sound has always been greater than the power of sense. -Joseph Conrad, novelist (1857-1924)

Hello Survivors of Last Night's Scary Bash! Thanks so much to Vittoria and Jake for hosting such a spine-tingling Halloween party. Terrific to see so many friends and make new acquaintances. Fabulous warm-up for All Hallows' Eve! Cheers, Patrizzio!Hello Clan Durston! Jake Snyder is chap I went to United College with from 65-68. we reconnected in July 2015 after never having seen each other since then! He introduced me to the hiking group! Vittoria is from Mexico and is the one with "Alice"! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Patrice,  I will be leaving there around three so we should be able to have  chance to have a nice visit. The new place which I may be at is four doors to the south on the same side. Take care and ttys. Al Hello Big Al! Delighted we'll be able to have a visit! Thanks for address. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Otto has found a hoop earring Hi; I guess someone has lost a large earring at Otto's place when we were having birthday cake! Please contact him if it's yours. Pam

Wow! We had no idea that Corinne was or recently became a wedding officiant. Good for her! Best of luck with your trip to Vancouver and your visit to the specialist. Marian and Tim Hello Summerland Cousins! Thanks for good wishes.

If I don't see you before you leave, success with your visit! You have healed so swiftly, little can go wrong now and besides, we have to bike together next year! Hug for you and darling C. Aarturo Hi Aarturo! Thanks for best wishes, Pearly Whites! Up to 40 minutes a stationary bike session this morning! Afterwards, I asked my neighbour, Stormin' Norman, across back lane, if he would take off the garage door to patio. 

Didn't want to risk doing it myself, given awkward angles, etc. He did so and placed it on the outdoor table so that I could drill/jig-saw out a piece for another cat-door. This way we don't have to let them in and out as there is one from Rumpus Room into garage. We can always lock it shut when we don't want them out, terrorizing the neighbourhood!

Lady Dar was home from Oasis before I had installed new flap so she helped me with that and when it was affixed Norm returned to put door back in place. Lady Dar is still outside, tidying uppatio and placing furniture for winter. With louvres we plan to use the space underneath whenever weather allows. Simply gorgeous this afternoon with sunshine streaming in! Cats are racing around, stopping from time to time, to examine their new door!
 

We are going to hear Matt Andersen at The Dream Café on Monday. It is a fund-raiser for Dream as well as being the anniversary of when we first met in a pub in Winnipeg 45 years ago! Lady Dar is talking to her Mom, as I scribe, [

Hi Rosita!], but sends you both Fondestos. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: New cat door; patio winter arrangement!

Dad, great pics you should send them to folk fest people!!! xx Hi Chloë! Glad you enjoyed the albums. Thanks for the compliment but I know the VFF people have pros covering the action. In some of the shots you will see, in fact, a young woman, with a huge Nikon, taking such pictures. Next year I plan to obtain fake ID so that I can get closer! Love, Dad. PS: Your favourite Duke is a very, very bad boy. He used the rug at the front door as his litter box this morning! Lady Dar is not amused! She wants me to take him to Wall Street!

Great news Patrick, I am going to see you before we leave,because.....we will be in The Dreamcafe as well tomorrow night Who ever comes first, has to reserve a table for 4. Very much looking forward to it. Just came back from Playing tennis in the sun, while Aart is polishing our ESCAPE and taking care of our garden and machinery Back to the kitchen to cook a nice steak, with lots of mushrooms and Okanagan veggie,to enjoy with a nice glass of red together. Cheers, JosmWE WILL BE THERE ALSO ON MONDAY! SHOULD SIT TOGETHER IF POSSIBLE! Should we pick you up? Kisses for the misses and of course you
Aarturo & Jossefos

Hi Summerlandians! Simply
wonderful that you'll be at Dream as well. A dream come true! Why not come by our place beforehand to have a drink? Since it is the 45th anniversary of our meeting, we were planning to have some bubbly to toast each other. What better than to celebrate with such newly minted, wonderful, wonderful friends. Say 5:00 pm, if that works. Doors at Dream open at 6:00 pm, I gather. Let us know and we'll plan accordingly.

We are having a spaghetti squash stuffed with ground turkey meat for dinner. Since I like a bit of heat, I have diced one of the wonderful jalapeno peppers Jugos Dom Pedro brought over this past Thursday, before GFA dinner.

Since we each have one half Lady Dar will sprinkle the peppers on my portion. Plan on having a 2014 Black Widow Syrah, 14.5%, to make everything blend in! Lady Dar is delighted to learn you will be at the Dream and sends her fondestos to you both. Cheers, Patrizzio!  We'll be there at 5pm to celebrate and hug. Jos and Aart Hi Kids! Will we recognize you in your Halloween costumes? Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Barbara and Christian! Have been meaning to send along greetings for ages. Trust you are both well. How goes the rehab process, Christian? I'm off to Vancouver on Wednesday to have my six week follow-up with Clive Duncan. When are you seeing him, Christian? Perhaps we can arrange a visit after I'm back on November 5th. All the best to you both. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Patrick, Would you like to attend the November SOWTS tasting if there are guest spots available? Peter Hi Jugos! I'd be delighted to attend if there are any spots available. Thanks muchly. Let me know and we'll plan accordingly. Cheers, Patrizzio!

You're invited to SOWTS November General Meeting and Tasting Event

Event to be held at the following time, date, and location: Sunday, 20 November 2016 from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM (PST) Ramada Penticton Hotel and Suites Ballroom 1050 Eckhardt Avenue West Penticton, BC V2A 2C3 Canada

Day 44, Post-Op Día de Muertos Blues: Saturday, October 29th!

Too many have dispensed with generosity in order to practice charity. -Albert Camus, writer and philosopher (1913-1960)

Hi Patrick' Too bad you and Corinne can't make it for dinner on Thursday. We'll get together another time. Hope your trip to Vancouver goes well. By the way, please tell Corinne that she was the highest bidder for the yoga mat and case as well as the garlic scape salt. I have them with me and will drop them off either Monday or Friday. I'll be in Penticton both days. Also tell Corinne she owes the Grandmothers For Africa $50 in total for the two items. Finally, I also have the skirt, pants and belt that Jos gave her to donate to the silent auction. The dress and shoes went to very satisfied customers.
 

Thank you for the super photos. I agree that it was a wonderful evening with great food and entertainment! Yes, we may need you to emcee next year if James Miller is willing to give up his post. Cheers, Marian

Hi Marian! Thanks for update on Lady Dar's Silent Auction bids. I'm sure she'll be delighted. She's away at an all-day seminar, [I've forgotten the topic but it should be on raising rambunctious kittens!], so I won't see her until later this afternoon.
 

GFA was a delight so congratulations to everyone who participated to make it such a success. On the emcee front, I'm sure James is a far, far better choice although perhaps I could lend my voice for crowd control! Anyway, a wonderful time for such an important initiative. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Lady Dar's Marriagemobile! Hi Patrizzzzioo, Is this real?? ... you may not want to drive this anymore ... it is holy purple! On the other hand .... if you do end up driving it, you may get chased by all these girls for wanting to marry you! Your friend in arms Aarturo Hi Brother-in-Arms Don't worry, Lady Dar also took my road bike in so that The Babes will chase me when I'm cycling! She also did the same for your stationary bike so I hope you don't mind. Cheers, Patrizzio, Riding to the Chapel of Love! Pics: Lady Dar's fur foot-warmers!

My Tuesday night is open for bridge😊 Patrick, I missed the start of this plan... movie...what night? The Accountant appeals to me. Hi Pamela! This all started a while ago when some of bridge folk wanted to change the night we meet to play bridge. Almost every night had "drawbacks" for somebody. Most recently, it was decided to play on Wednesday night thus allowing "Cheap Tuesday" movie nights for those who wished to see a film. Olga Polga kindly offered to host this coming Wednesday. Michaelo then chimed in and suggested those who might wish to do so could meet, before the showing on Tuesday for a bowl of soup, coffee and the like. Hence, Lady Dar's suggestion about Lee's and mine about The Accountant. Then Spumoni said she wasn't interested in any of the films showing and since I was going to miss Wednesday's game by virtue of leaving for Vancouver that morning, Mike replied that he was fine with Tuesday!
 

I then replied saying that Olga Polga should decide since she was going to host. Not heard yet, from anyone else other than you. I'm happy with Wednesday evenings for bridge and know that there will always be times when people can't make that night, or any other. Just the nature of our busy lives and schedules. In my experience, any group always devolves into this kind of backing-and-forthing when a number of choices are presented. Think it's better to make a decision and you show up if interested and able.

Since I do want to get a stable core of regular players I've held back from voicing my opinions. As well, I know that desire and ability to play will vary muchly, primarily depending on season and travel plans for the "retired" crew! Anyway, we'll see what we shall see. Cheers, Patrizzio! Sorry dear bridge players, but as said before, I can't play on Tuesday, and when Olly invited us for Wednesday I saved Wednesday night for Bridge. Hope to see you at Olly's on Wednesday. Jos To Patrizzio, I'm sooo sorry but bridge night will be on Wednesday night. Safe travels and and impress the doc with all your recovery. I for one will miss you, especially if we could have been partners, partner!! but I'll catch you next week.

So far we have Pam, Mike, Jos, Corrine and myself. Sorry Aart, Craig informs me that he needs to to out of town on Wednesday but please join us anyways; as you know you are always most welcome!! To all you movie goers, Craig and I would love to join you on Tuesday night at Lee's and we hope to take in The Accountant. So Patrizzio, my recovery hero, we'll see you then! 

Hello Soup to Nuts Bridge Nuts! Olga Polga has settled the debate so that everybody wins! This being the case, Lady Dar and I will be at Lee's around 5:00 pm, planning to see The Accountant at 6:40 pm! Please bring the bridge prize I would have won, Olly Oligarch, had I been able to play bridge on Wednesday! Happy Halloween to one and all. Cheers, Patrizzio! I will be joining you at Lee's! Just not the movie..... Pam

Patrick, Thank you for the background. If an email isn't related to house construction I probably read them too quickly. So, in summary, soup and a movie on Tuesday and Bridge at Olly's house in Wednesday. May I have Olly's address again? Many thanks, Pam Hello House Construction Overload Overseer! Yes, soup, at Lee's, and a film, Landmark, on Tuesday, bridge at Olga Polga's on Wednesday: 17213 Bentley Road. Happy Halloween! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Arv! Lady Dar doesn't want to be eight again as she's still happy being a teenager who sleeps all day! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Lady Dar's fur foot-warmers!

Thanks Patrick. I likely will not make Tuesday night this week. Drywallers are coming on Wed morning so we will be in full cleaning mode Tuesday night.i plan to make Bridge in Weds. So I won't see you until you return from Van. Safe travels. If Corinne wants a ride to Olly's have her email or text me, Pam 
Patrick, Corinne has emailed me. I'll pick her up on Weds for Bridge. Pam  
Hi Patrice, Trying to find a moment here in between Reno’s, dog sitting, work and surgery! Colleen has just left for her full weekend (8:30 – 5) Saturday and Sunday Osteo-fit course in Coquitlam that she is taking. My recovery has come along very well with Monday post op being the most painful due to the inflation of my abdomen to allow better visual for the laparoscopic surgery technique. 

Even managed to stay out til 1:30 at our neighbour’s last night after walking Colleen home at 11 solving the worlds problems over some scotch ..much to Colleen’s chagrin!. There seems to be a time warp over at their place because that has happened many times and I can’t quite explain where the time does go.

Glad to hear about your many charitable social engagements and that you have settled in there so nicely. Lovely that you have he two new felines to really make your house a home as well. Frankly as much as Clover is adorable I really just wanted another cat..or two as well!. I was not ready for another 2-1/2 year old running round the house causing mayhem..but colleen really wanted a dog so here we are.

This is just between you and I of course as I dare not say anything like that to her but just be supportive as my grumblings would only add angst to an already somewhat stressed situation and we all know very well that our lives have been . I know as time goes by she will settle down and as I said she is adorable and sweet and friendly to everyone she meets and one day will be a well behaved wonderful pet but is a looooot of work for us right now. Of course, now as I write she is very placid and curled up in the corner jus keeping a watchful eye on me so I better get going and get her out for a walk as that energy is just laying dormant ready to ignite again at any second!. 

With that said a couple quick things.. I was planning, loosely, on coming back on Friday afternoon but would love to see you of course other than two blurs passing each other on hwy 1.! What time do you think you’ll be coming by?. Also Colleen will not be there anyway as she has stuff in town so not to worry about having to encroach on her valuable cabin time this time!. I have saved the best and biggest bomb for you Patrick and have ordered those flash goggles like they used at the nuclear test sites in the 50’s. I am going to see if I can cause a second hope slide just for the fun of it and would love you to be there and also of course to mke sure you don’t happen to be driving along highway three when I let ‘er rip!. Take care for now and ttys. xoxo’s to Corriandre. Cheers! a

Hi Big Al! Pleased your recovery has gone so well and that you are able to spend time on renos. My plan for Friday is to leave the city around 9:00 am, or slightly earlier, and make my way to Abbotsford where I'll stop at Costco for some groceries and gas. Then on to Sunshine Valley. I assume I'll be knocking on your door, [Directions please, just in case!], somewhere around noon, depending on traffic, etc. However, I don't want you to change your schedule, given how unbelievably busy you both are. Ideally it would have been great to stay overnight, particularly if Lady Dar was along, but that will have to wait until another opportunity presents itself. I had imagined I wouldn't stay all that long, at any rate. Time for a java and a quick tour. Anyway, let me know what you think and we'll plan accordingly.

Fondestos from Cora Lee, in absentia, as she is at an all day seminar: How to Raise Rambunctious Kittens! Cheers, Patrizzio, soon to be churning away on the stationary bike! Hi Flash Goggle Man! Can hardly wait for the mountain-side to come tumbling down! Always knew that the long ago New Year's Caper would be outdone! With respect to car-wrap, Lady Dar also took my road bike in so that The Babes will chase me with marriage proposals, when I'm cycling! She could care less as now she never wants to get out of bed with the latest foot-warmer app! Cheers, Patrizzio, Riding to the Chapel of Love!

Hello Donna Maria and Heraldo! Trust you are both taking care of each other! Just wondering what your schedule will be next week. I'm driving into Vancouver this coming Wednesday as I have my six week follow-up with hip surgeon next day. Cora Lee will be staying home to take care of Etta and Duke, however. As you might know, she just returned from volunteering for the VWF. She enjoyed festival immensely and had a chance to have many visits with Chloë and other friends, so another reason she feels she doesn't have to return so soon, although she did want to see you both, of course. 

I expect to arrive in Vancouver around 2:00 pm, earlier if possible. I've been invited to have dinner with friend, Branko, that evening but if you are free that afternoon, perhaps we could meet for a java or something stronger. I have an appointment with my dermatologist on Thursday at 9:15 am and then have x-rays/hip appointment at 1:00 pm/1:45 pm. Again, perhaps we could connect afterwards. Chloë is free then and she would dearly love to see you both. 

That evening I'm staying with friends in East Van, having dinner and bridge. Need to leave reasonably early on Friday, around 9:00 am, or slightly earlier, to make my way to Abbotsford where I'll stop at Costco for some groceries and gas.

Then on to Sunshine Valley where I want to pop in to see a friend working on a second cabin he and his wife just bought there. However, if that morning is the only time we could get together, I can certainly, and would want to, adjust my departure. Let me know what you think and we'll plan accordingly.Fondestos from Cora Lee, in absentia, to you both, as she is at an all day seminar. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hello Kenton! Thanks for calling, Dallas. It was terrific to catch-up a bit. Must apologize for having to dash away. Trust everyone remains well! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Slammin' Steve! Trust you are well. Chloë dropped off case of wine. Did your fellow employees turn it over? I'm driving into Vancouver this coming Wednesday as I have my six week follow-up with hip surgeon next day. I expect to arrive in Vancouver around 2:00 pm, earlier if possible, so I could drop in if you will be there. I'm here until Friday morning so that is another possibility. Let me know and we'll plan accordingly. Cheers,
Patrizzio!            Hello Folk Fest Folk! Finally managed to work on these albums. Thanks, especially, to our more than generous B&B hosts. Next year we plan to stay for a week, the food was so good! Thanks and Cheers, Patrizzio!  

Patrizzzzziiiiooo,Fantastic photos, captures the atmosphere totally. Great weekend, carved in memory, again next year? Cheers, Aarturo Yes, indeed, only we need to spend more time in Vancouver and en route, in Sunshine Valley!

Will explain when we have a chance to chat. Cheers, Patrizzio! If I don't see you before you leave, success with your visit! You have healed so swiftly, little can go wrong now and besides, we have to bike together next year! Hug for you and darling C. Aarturo
Dad, great pics you should send them to folk fest people!!! xx

thx Pat! Hi Lynn! When are you coming up? Look what Lady Dar can take you wine tasting in now! Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Thanks Patrick. I likely will not make Tuesday night this week. Drywallers are coming on Wed morning so we will be in full cleaning mode Tuesday night.i plan to make Bridge in Weds. So I won't see you until you return from Van. Safe travels. If Corinne wants a ride to Olly's have her email or text me, Pam Hi Plaster-board Woman! Will miss you at restaurant and movie but I'm sure you'll be eating enough drywall dust not to be hungry! Thanks for offering to collect Lady Dar next Wednesday. She'll be in touch, I'm sure. Thanks for Bon Voyage. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Tony wants to take us to the larches! They are blazing yellow right now so we are going to go up Carmi and park near Lost Moose Lodge. I think we are going to go on that trail that goes along Ellis canyon and might end up in the Carmi ski trails. Three hours in total....So we will be meeting at Home Hardware in Penticton at 9am and Summerlanders can carpool at 8:40 from the IGA parking lot. Pam