Saturday, 26 November 2016

Day 70, Post-Op Bellevue Blues: Saturday, November 26th!

Daring ideas are like chessmen moved forward. They may be beaten, but they may start a winning game. -Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, poet, dramatist, novelist, and philosophe(1749-1832)


Patrick James Dunn Aren't you and Ayn pleased that you can understand the grammar underpinning these jokes? Took awhile but persistence pays off! A bit like having Duke put his paw on one's lip when he decides it's time for a sleepy human to get out of bed!

dec 3rd is fine for dinner with bill and Nancy. W means water. Eddie Redmayne was great in fantastic beasts. It was very entertaining. Glad that Gary can stay with the kittens. Must shower and get ready for day with Robyn Hugs Corinne

Hi again, Duhlink! Not sure how this message will go as Duke is helping me compose. He's purring loudly and riveting his attention on screen, putting his paw on the cursor when he doesn't like what I've written!

Had a lovely time with Patti and Wendy at the Bellevue. [Not a bad place. I enjoyed a very tasty Brie omelette and Espresso was as good as one at Saint Germaine!] We had a great time catching up and she reminded me that she was Maid of Honour at Bill's wedding in Calgary. [She didn't like Marilyn, Billy's bride. Will provide details later!] Her first husband worked for RBC and they lived in Rivers at one point! Reason she didn't want to come to our place is that she has a cat/dog phobia! She said she would be fine if we kept them in Rumpus Room. Another former Flin Flon couple came by to say hello so I said goodbye to let them visit and walked home.

Stopped in to let Nancy know that December 3rd was fine. Guillermo was at the gym but I met him, driving home, on the corner of White/Burns so we had a quick chat before he kept going. Must away as I want to ride now and Duke is literally clambering all over me, then knocking things off my desk, Just threw a catalogue card onto the rug to stop his depredations! Believe Miss Etta is napping as I let them out as soon as I was back. Enjoy your time with Robyn. Fondestos to one and all. Love, My East Indian Princess! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Bellevue with Patti/Wendy; Patti/Nick; Wendy/Carol; Patio Kittens!


You might like this. Engineers pretending to be musicians. Please say hi to the cats: https://youtu.be/qybUFnY7Y8w Hi Ragin'! Please find plans for shelving at link! Cheers, Patrizzio!
 
Hi again, you rube/prairie bumpkin! Truly terrific video, opening credits to Elementary on steroids! Fondestos to you both. Take care of each other. Stay well and warm! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Patio cats were delighted with your greetings. Asked me to say, "mutual, we're sure!" Forgot to attach snapola! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi again, Flin Flon Babes! Lovely time with you both, great time catching up and being reminded of things I'd completely forgotten! [Sorry you were not invited, Jackson, BUT I wanted The Babes all to myself!] Must away as I am going to to ride the stationary bike before I make myself dinner. Again, wonderful to see you both. Stay well and hope we see each other soon. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Bellevue with The Babes! Patio Kittens send their greeting to you, Patti!

Patriçio, That shouldn’t take too long to set up. Let’s do it next time Lady Dar is at a book club meeting … we’ll surprise her! And here’s one for you … (Juno does *not* “shake” a paw) Hi again, Ragin'! Looks like you and Snozzola are being "macho" dudes with Juno, just high 5's, not a dainty shake! You guys are right out of Narcos! Just started Season 2. Great to watch when I'm on the stationary bike. Have my water bottle filled with malt, now that Lady Dar isn't here to rein me in! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Patio felines!

Dear friends, Today we enjoyed The end of the world Can you guess who made it to the top first? Greetings from Ushaia, and Tierra del Fuego HILDEGARD VON BINGEN!!!! Hi Tierra del Fuego Folk! Great to hear from you although still waiting to know who was first to the top! Must away as planning to spend 80 minutes on the Summerland Steed! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Friday, 25 November 2016

Day 69, Post-Op Me, Myself, The Cats and I Blues: Friday, November 25th!

 Surplus wealth is a sacred trust which its possessor is bound to administer in his lifetime for the good of the community. -Andrew Carnegie, industrialist (25 Nov 1835-1919)

Etta, a crepuscular animal

Photo: Daniele Paccaloni
Earlier this afternoon I swept up three large tubs of oak leaves from front year. Cats were beside themselves, leaping and dashing through the piles! Later on, I acted as a doorman, while at my computer, opening the patio door for them as they bounded onto the stairs to race around the patio then back into the garage, (through the new cat door we put in a couple of weeks ago, to play follow the leader through the house, over furniture, stopping to play a few hands of Solitaire on dining table, and then across our bed to charge back to my office to start the merry-go-round again!

Will put a fire on this evening, while making supper. Gorgeous day today, sunny and warm when I was picking up leaves and then splitting a bit of kindling, but as soon as early sun goes down it starts to cool off quickly, as I'm sure you know. Plenty of things to watch on Netflix so will curl up with a cat or two, and possibly a bottle of malt!  


Hi how are you? Spent day with Chloe had a good time went to Emily Carr school student art show. Then to see Fantastic beasts and downtown. Bought Chloe her Christmas present a coat on sale at bay-65% off. Then went to new brad Pitt film grade b movie. Tomorrow spending day with Robyn , Sunday 9:30 breakfast with Matt and catherine at their new place, 1 pm lu ch with Phil and then meeting Nancy and David for Jewish book festival event. Will probably see Joanne on Monday. Hope the cats are loving you up, Love Lady Dar 

Hello Lady Darjeeling, et al! How de-loverly to receive your newsy missive! How was the Coquihalla? Sounds like it will be pretty wintery until sometime tomorrow! Apparently a veritable social whirlwind of non-stop activity. I heard Katherine Monk just before 6:00 pm and she reviewed Allied. She said she was very disappointed in the film, given the talent in it. Apparently Brad has a terrible French-Canadian accent. She really liked Moana however, so who can tell! How was Eddie Redmayne in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them? 

Found out that when Pamela came down with a nasty flu bug Pam took the opportunity to go to the community meeting regarding latest Skaha Lake Park proposed development. Must scour the local paper to see what has been decided.

With respect to my hip, had a great afternoon at my React physio/rehab session yesterday afternoon. Did about an hour, or so, of deep-water walking, with a flotation belt, plus stretching exercises on the edge of the pool. Also took along my Creature from the Black Lagoon webbed water gloves for more resistance. They worked well so am pleased about that. Enjoyed stints in the sauna, steam room and hot tub afterwards so massaged my muscles. [Did 75 minutes on stationary bike, [watching a couple of episodes of Narcos], so that exercise is still proceeding well.

Stopped in next door to speak to Amanda when I returned home. Gary was there and when I mentioned asking Amanda/Kayla to take care of the felines between the 22nd-27th, he said he would stay at our place, if it was fine with you,  since he was going to be next door over Christmas anyway
. Earlier this afternoon I swept up three large tubs of oak leaves from front yard. Cats were beside themselves, leaping and dashing through the piles of leaves, racing hither and yon like devishes! Amanda came home for lunch just before I was finished and I mentioned that I had spoken to Gary and wondered if this arrangement was fine with her. She said it was. I didn't want her to feel uncomfortable if such was the case. I said I knew Etta and Duke would probably be happy to have the company and she said Kayla would be delighted to spend time with them as well. 

I was still outside when Amanda was about to leave for work and I heard her calling Roman to come inside. Duke scored some cat treats, perched atop the fence, the ones she was trying to lure Roman inside with! I asked her if she left the front door open as I'd let him in if he was around when I'd finished outside. She said she'd leave the side door open and when I went over about half an hour later he was on side step. He ran under the caravan when I approached but as soon as I went inside he dashed after me! Jasper was very friendly but I didn't let him in as I wasn't sure what the protocol was as far as he was concerned.

Guillermo phoned and he and Nancy would like us to come for dinner, tentatively on Saturday, December 3rd. There is a "W" on the calendar for that date so since I didn't know what it meant I said I would clear it with you first. He also mentioned that they would be attending the Open House.

Put a fire on this evening, while making supper. Plenty of things to watch on Netflix so curled up with Duke, perched on my arm, while I finished Season 4 of Rectify. Must away as Duke is tearing my desk apart! [I suspect he is under orders from Lady Dar so that I'll have to work on office!] He and Etta are also worrying a ticket he managed to find in one of my trays. Fondestos to one and all. Etta and Duke miss you terribly, Lady Dar, even though they they smother me with love all night! Take care of each other. Stay well and warm! Love and  Cheers, Patrizzio/Dad!
Pics: Penticton Creek; Octopus Cat!

Hi Patrick, glad to hear you are enjoying the pool! The water gloves are very cool. I take an aquafit class sometimes and one of the people in the class wears those gloves. I find the deep water class enough of a workout with out more resistance! keep up the physio, see you on the hiking, skiing, snowshoeing trails soon, Hanneke Hi Hanneke! In fact, the water gloves don't make exercise as difficult as I supposed they would but I agree, deep water workouts can be demanding. Will really need to spend time in pool after today's breakfast. I met two friends at The Bellevue this morning and polished off a Brie omelette! Delicious! I'll have to chase the cats around the block, 100 times! See you soon. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Sandee! Try this after a bottle or two of wine! Cheers, Patrizzio!

https://youtu.be/qybUFnY7Y8w
Hi Pat, I live in an almost permanent sauna since Em, my 21 year old cat, wants it warm. Don't forget to google: <Jane doe@Mycrankpots> I am spending a lot of enjoyable time keeping up on developments related to Alzheimer's. Sounds like your Christmas Season is nicely sorted out. Mine is too. Cheers, Bev Hi Sauna Woman! Glad your Christmas calendar is in order. For my part, really enjoy spending time in the sauna at the community pool after my weekly React sessions. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hello Perpetual Motion People! Trust you are well, wherever you happen to be in space and time! Fondestos to you both. Take care of each other. Stay well and warm, or cool, as the case might be! Cheers, Patrizzio!
Hi Kevin! So far I have four friends, (including myself), who are interested in Grant's cask purchase program. Will you be sharing this offer with your members and those on the wait list? If not, I'm hoping to drum up 7 more investors so if you know of anyone who would be interested I'd appreciate you passing along my email address. Please let me know what you think. Thanks and Cheers, Patrizzio!We currently have several Caledonian 30 L Cask offer circulating among SOWTS members gathering investors so I think it best not to promote the Dubh Glas offer for the time being. Good luck. Kevin Hi again, Kevin! Fair enough! Thanks and Cheers, Patrizzio!
 
Dear Patrick Hope you are enjoying a pleasant Friday evening. Seems sad not to be able to come to your open house. But alas things are pretty chaotic around here and we don't even have our winter tires on the car yet. John and Yulin were here --John stayed longer almost 10 days and it was great to have him home. He is really happy and will get his PhD in June. The long road is over. He will continue as a post-doc at Dartmouth working with some other faculty members. Yulin has a couple of years left with her studies at Harvard so he would like to stay close by. However, he will be looking for academic positions continuously.

Eric will be coming home on Dec. 12 for a long stay as Princeton shuts down over the holidays so he is homeless. Any chance of you dropping by for a quick quick visit when you are in town?? Understand if it is not possible--maybe on your return?? Anyways please please keep in touch. Keep those hips a movin' and enjoy the California sunshine. Take care for now LOL Jo-Anne 


Hi again, Jo-Anne! Terrific that you had such a good visit with John and Yulin and that Homeless Boy Eric will be able to stay in a tent in your back yard over hols! Thanks for invitation for a quick visit. Would love to do so if time permits. As of this writing, we don't yet know precise dates we will leave Penticton or return from Tinsel Town. Of course, will let you know once we know and we can plan accordingly. Fondestos to you both. Take care of each other. Stay well and warm! Cheers, Patrizzio!


Thursday, 24 November 2016

Day 68, Post-Op Leavin' On A Greyhounfd Bus Blues: Thursday, November 24th!

Do we need weapons to fight wars? Or do we need wars to create markets for weapons? -Arundhati Roy, author (b. 24 Nov 1961)


Next Monday's hike will be more difficult than the one this past week. Otto will lead us up a gully to the top of Mamma Gerry, or Little N'kwala (the peak north of N'kwala). So there will be bushwhacking and elevation gain. We will park at Pyramid picnic area, just south of Trout Creek on Hwy 97. So we will meet at 9am at both Home Hardware in Penticton and at IGA parking lot in Summerland. We will converge at Pyramid Picnic area hopefully at the same time. We will walk across the Hwy (carefully!) and proceed up the gully through the clay cliffs to the mountain in behind.

[Alastair Bird Vintage phone. My grandmother-in-law used it for decades. It had a ring that would wake the dead. 

Patrick James Dunn
Patrick James Dunn Can you call Jesus on the Mainline? or Penticton?] 

Hello Patrick and Corinne, We trust that you are almost back to your old self again, Patrick! Hope all is well with you also, Corinne. Thank you so much for the invitation to your Open House. We would love to join you to start the holiday season off with a nice drink, good company, etc. However, at this time we cannot commit. We have quite a lot going on in our lives right now. Is it alright to just drop in unannounced if it works out for us? If it doesn't work out, we'll catch up with you in the New Year. Cheers, Marian and Tim 

Hello Summerland Cousins! Trust you are both well. How is your back, Timothy? You are more than welcome to pop by, unannounced, it goes without saying. We know it is a very busy time of year so understand the numerous social commitments most people will have. Took Lady Dar to the bus depot this morning as she is off to Vancouver for the weekend. Her Book Club meets on Monday evening so she won't be back until Tuesday. Just Etta, Duke and I so we are looking forward to crazy times! While the Harsh Task Mistress is away, the cats and malt lover will play! 

Had a great afternoon at my React physio/rehab session. Did about an hour, or so, of deep-water walking, with a flotation belt. Also took along my Creature from the Black Lagoon webbed water gloves for more resistance. They worked well so am pleased about that. Enjoyed stints in the sauna, steam room and hot tub afterwards so massaged my muscles. At any rate, do hope to see you before the New Year! Cheers, Patrizzio! Cheers, Patrizzio!
Pics: Quail in back patio, yesterday afternoon! Etta and Duke waiting for roast Quail! [We don't allow them on the table of counter tops BUT! Creature From the Black Lagoon gloves!

Hi Patrick, We hope to see you before too long. My back is finally much better and I tried a morning of pickleball yesterday and felt pretty good. If the weather cooperates, we will play tennis tomorrow. Marian and I just got home from the Celtic Thunder concert in Penticton and it was excellent. Hopefully you too are well on the road to recovery. Hi to Lady Dar. Cheers, Tim

Hi Timothy! Glad to hear that your back is much better and trust you were able to play tennis yesterday. Later Saturday morning I'm off to meet the cousin of a close friend I grew up with on the island of Cyprus, in the '50's. As these things go, Patti is from Flin Flon and Jake, (aka Dave), Snyder grew up there and knew her. She is now living in Vernon. I met her a number of times when I visited with my friend's family and was reunited, about a month or so ago, when I was invited to a reunion of Flin Flon Folk in Kelowna. Patti is in town for the weekend, helping a friend, also from Flin Flon, who now lives in Penticton, with some event or other, I believe in Summerland, of all places!

Lady Dar is whooping it up in The Big Smoke but I'll send her your greetings so she doesn't forget to come back! Cheers, Patrizzio!
 
Hi Martina! Just a quick note to thank you for helping us contact Patty. You may  know that she has agreed to house/cat-sit for us so we are delighted that things worked out for each party! On another matter, not sure if you received the invitation to our Open House so am sending it along. Do hope you can join us. If not, we know it is a very busy time of year so understand the numerous social commitments most people have. Thanks again. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Patrizzio:) Patty had her first day of tutoring with us last night and we had a chance to chat about her house sitting opportunity:) thank you sooooo much for inviting her into your home. I'm very glad it worked out for all of you:) I would absolutely love to join in the festivities, but am actually heading to Maui that same morning for a couple of weeks of sunshine :) May you and your family enjoy a most wonderful Christmas and I'm sure we will see each other in the new year:) Have a great evening, Martina

Hi again, Martina! Sorry you won't be able to join us! However, have a grand time on Maui! Another set of friends are unable to attend as they will be on Kauai! Lady Dar is already green with envy. At any rate, travel safely, take care of yourself and hope to see you, one way or another, perhaps on a hike, at some other point in space and time! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!
 

Hi Patrick, Can’t quite make the journey this time though we are thinking about the trip for the Grand Fondo in 2017 have a great open house. Cheers Greg and Claire Hello 2017 GranFondo Folk! How de-loverly to receive your news! Couldn't imagine a better set of riding companions. Naturally, we expect you to stay with us. If possible, please entertain coming at least a few days before event so that I can orient you to the route.Fondestos to you both. Take care of each other. Stay well and warm, or cool, as the case might be! Cheers, Patrizzio!







Wednesday, 23 November 2016

Day 67, Post-Op Dental Bridge Blues: Wednesday, November 23rd!

Poetry is a sort of homecoming. -Paul Celan, poet and translator (23 Nov 1920-1970)

The Arcadian or Pastoral State
Art: Thomas Cole (1801-1848)
Dear friends, On our way to Puente Arenas.Hopefully we are able to cross the border , since the boarder patrol people are on strike. 3 days of hiking were " fabeltasties" Glamping the first night, cramping the next. Beautiful weather so far, good wines, and nice mixture of characters in our group. Unfortunately no bridge players,t o kill time on the bus,finished my book,and very happy to hear about your rehab. Driving through guanaco country now, will send a picture separate. Adios mi amigos. Jos


Hello Mucho Vino Travelers! Loved the shot of the wine store but I thought you people were roughing it, camping and trekking, not hanging out in well-stocked deli/coffee shops, eyeing the bottles of Torrontés and Malbec!!! Glamping indeed! Sorry to learn that no bridge players for you, Josinta, another strong reason for Aarturo to learn the game! [That and riding bare-back on wild guanacos!] Unfortunately, Pamela came down with a nasty flu bug so we didn't play bridge this evening. Spumoni took the opportunity to go to the community meeting regarding latest Skaha Lake Park proposed development. Fondestos to you three. Take care of each other. Stay well and travel safely. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Tummler, Thanks for keeping us ion the loopage. Let us know when you have more info on the organized tours in eastern Europe. We do not know our timing on the Norway leg at this time. Europe plans are pretty fluid right now but for our time in Italy mid April until at least early May. Let us know how the recovery is going and when you are back on the steed. Fond regards to all, C&W

Hello Amantes del fin de Semana I will certainly be in touch as soon as I hear more from Katerina. With dates she has provided I think I'll plan for Hungary so if you are interested, first one starts on May 15th, next on May 29th, so it depends on your schedule. Fondestos to you three. Etta and Duke miss Morita terribly, even though they've never met! Take care of each other. Stay well and travel safely on the ferries. Guess you need to take sleeping bags now! Cheers, Patrizzio!
Patrick, I came down with something nasty last night. I think it's the flu. Still not feeling well today so I will not be at Bridge tonight. My apologies. I hope the numbers work out. Pam Hello to The Naramata Patient! Sorry to hear that you are under the weather, Pamela. Have Wild Bill make you plenty of hot rum with lemon and honey! Don't worry about bridge, although you will be sorely missed. Take care of yourself and we'll chat soon. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Last night at Mile Zero with friends, Rosemary and Andre, and Erin, server/owner, (along with her parents, I believe!) 👍

Thanks Patrick. I'm not sure why Grant didn't share the original offer with our Board however its encouraging to see that he had a good response to his cask purchase program. We are currently canvassing our members and those on our wait List to determine level of interest in the 30L Cask Offer from Caledonian Distillery. Cheers Kevin 
Hi Kevin! So far I have four friends, (including myself), who are interested in Grant's cask purchase program. Will you be sharing this offer with your members and those on the wait list? If not, I'm hoping to drum up 7 more investors so if you know of anyone who would be interested I'd appreciate you passing along my email address. Please let me know what you think. Thanks and Cheers, Patrizzio! 
Hello Fellow Malt Tasters: Terrific to meet everyone. Certainly enjoyed the wonderful tasting! Here is the information on the malt offering from Dubh Glas which I mentioned. Let me know what you think and we'll plan  accordingly. Cheers, Patrizzio! 
Hello Malt Man! I'm keen to take part in this offering. If I can drum up 10 fellow investors, (total 11), cost per share would be around $208, which translates into 4 bottles @$52 per bottle. I am very impressed with Grant's product. Have tasted and purchased each one. Noteworthy Gin doesn't last very long, unfortunately! Since malt has always been what drove him to open distillery in the first instance, I have every confidence that it will be something worth having. Anyway, let me know, the sooner the better, what you think and I'll plan accordingly. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hello Flin Flon Folk! I'm happy to meet at the Bellevue BUT why not come to our place and we can have a bite to eat and/or coffee and visit. You mentioned 10:30 am so that is fine. Anyway, let me know what you think and we'll plan accordingly. Looking forward to seeing you both. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pat:

The reason that I was hesitant to come to the house for coffee is that I'm not very good about cats or dogs.  You mention that you have new kittens and I'm not very good with that......Sorry to be such a poop head...See you Saturday.  Here is my phone number too. Cheers Patti 
Hi Patti! That's fine! I'll see you both at the Bellevue at 10:30 am on Saturday morning. Travel safely! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Tuesday night at Mile Zero: red flight; Erin/Andre; Patrizzio/Andre; Erin/Lady Dar/Rosemary!
Dear Pasticcio, Thanks for the invitation to your Christmas Open House event.
Unfortunately, we won't be able to attend. We're pre-scheduled for Sunday brunch with some of my cousins on December 11, (local venue yet to be decided). Here's more dance music to help you break in your new metal hip: https://youtu.be/T7pxa488YmI 
 
Hi Full Dance Card People! Devastated to learn that your cousins take precedence over Sally's but you Hubbles were always pushy! Quite enjoyed the last dance as I had just returned from my React physio/rehab session. Did about an hour, or so, of deep-water walking, with a flotation belt. Also took along my Creature from the Black Lagoon webbed water gloves for more resistance. They worked well so am pleased about that.
If things change, you are more than welcome to pop by. We know it is a very busy time of year, particularly for Winterpeggers trying to stay un-thawed! Take care of yourselves. Cheers, Patrizzio!
Pics: Quail in back patio, yesterday afternoon! Etta and Duke waiting for roast Quail! [We don't allow them on the table of counter tops BUT! CFTBL!


Hello Former Disney Employee! This is especially for you, Ayn! Cheers, Daffy! 

 
 

Tuesday, 22 November 2016

Day 66, Post-Op Toni Onley Landscape Blues: Tuesday, November 22nd!

The color of truth is grey. -Andre Gide, author, Nobel laureate (22 Nov 1869-1951)


Hi Patrick, Thank you very much for your emails and photos. When I come home I am going to send you a photo of our family member, cat Mica. I think, she will be glad to pose me how she knows to enjoy relax on my parent´s sofa. My apologize for late response. I was on the place with not good internet connection.

I am putting together all the information about the trips next year. If you are interested in dates, I can write you them before I finish the nice posters with the description and pictures: Bicycling Hungary 1st trip: May 15-May 28, 2nd trip: May 29 - June 11

Then back to Slovakia and doing Hiking and Spa relax trip: June 12 - June 25 (accomodation in two hotels, one week in High Tatras, another week in Spa hotel in a beautiful valley Turcianska kotlina with spa and treatment procedures, both weeks hiking and exploring the area) Then I am ready for Slovakia Bicycling trip and other trips in Slovakia. I am open with dates. Before I continue, I may need a couple of days rest to visit my family in Bardejov. I hope that I helped you to organize your tentative planes at least by letting you know these dates. Best regards, Katarina


Hi Katerina, et al!Glad you are well. Look forward to seeing Mica! Thanks for supplying the dates for the two trips in Hungary. This information certainly helps me to plan my/our travel. While I am not as keen on the Hiking and Spa trip I am very interested in biking in Slovakia, so I would be interested to see the itinerary when you have settled details. Since Lady Dar will be back in Penticton, just before the beginning of May, I probably won't return to Canada until after the biking excursion in Slovakia, date(s), permitting. [Whirlygig/Calamity, there is also the possibility of a stopover in Norway, (We are most likely booking on Icelandair.), so I'd like some dates from you. Even if we cannot connect, I would like to see Patrizzio the Younger, again, dates/costs permitting.] 

Spent a wonderful time at the Penticton Art Gallery, late this morning, where we took in a terrific exhibition: Toni Onley Landscapes 1965 - 1988. In fact, there were other works from when he first started painting, on the Isle of Man, his birthplace, to the artistically important time in Mexico, in San Miguel de Allende. He lived in Penticton from 1955-1957 and apparently his parents and sister still reside here. It was a delight to see so many of the Okanagan vistas and landscapes that I've come to know and appreciate as a result of hiking in this area.

Salt degustation in Niederfinow, Germany
Photo: Ralf Roletschek/Wikimedia
[DEGUSTATION:
 
MEANING:
 
noun: Tasting samples of a variety of similar foods or drinks.

ETYMOLOGY:
 
From Latin degustare (to taste), from de- (completely) + gustare (to taste). Ultimately from the Indo-European root geus- (to taste or choose), which also gave us choice, choose, gusto, ragout, and disgust. Earliest documented use: 1651.]
 
Look forward to hearing from everyone. Mary Lee, [Thanks for call this morning, by the way. Sorry I couldn't chat longer!], I have included you as you expressed an interest in joining one of the biking tours. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Okanagan scenes; last two are early works.

Hi! Patrick: Great chatting with you ............... even though it was a quick one!! Since I am in ON for my Dad's kidney surgery & take care of Mom till April 12th. I am definitely interested in the hiking & spa trip in June. I am interested in biking in Slovakia & Poland too.Hope to see you before I leave for Maui on Fri. Dec. 2-10th. Thanks for your Xmas Open House invite. I am just getting back from Hawaii that morning but we will be there. Our annual Xmas Open House is on Friday, Dec. 16th @ 6:00 pm. If you are still in town, pls stop by for some Xmas cheer. Hugs, Mary Le

Hi Patrice, Ah I see, good I can stop squinting so hard looking at the pictures of everyone knowing that recognition won’t occur although there’s always the 6 degrees of separation that could come into play so always fun to have a look anyway. I have to say I am very happy that you two have made such a nice home for yourselves up there and met such a fascinating and friendly group from tick eaters to old college friends!.

We had a nice weekend with Colleen and the kids making their way up to the valley and Maureen on Saturday to join us for the Alpine potluck which was small but fun.


Of course being the community minded person that I am I wound up having a 2-1/2 hour meeting on Saturday morning regarding the Sunshine community cooperative club and another for the Alpine board at 3 followed by the potluck. still not sure weather it’s better to get it all done at once or not but anyway I did so don’t have to think about it for a little while. 

We did get quite a bit done on the cabin and got three quarters of it sheathed, insulated and the Tyvek house wrap around the outside so quite a relief to have that all waterproofed. I came home Sunday afternoon and Pick Jeremy, Lil and Sally the very large dog they are taking care of and head back up tomorrow morning and work on the very front section to hopefully get the whole bottom sealed up and happy for winter and move on to getting the front lower wall pushed out to the edge of the deck. 

I will send some pics. to update you on the progress. I really look forward to spending some time together soon! and would love to meet some of your new friends too. Take care and talk soon. xoxoAl 

Hi 6º of Separation/Tyvek Man! Glad to learn that you don't need bifocals on account of my album! Very pleased to hear that you have made such headway on cabin. Wonderful indeed and I'm sure you are very pleased, as mentioned. Buona Fortuna with finishing up last section, especially as you are so busy with community affairs.

Lady Dar is busing into Vancouver this Thursday, for her Book Club on Monday. I'll be at home, taking care of Etta and Duke and continuing with rehab. Had my second React session this afternoon and am pleased with how deep water-walking, (with a flotation belt), helps with stretching and resistance. Next week I plan to take my goggles and start swimming, (gradually, but a few laps at first), after I've done about an hour of the prescribed exercises. Also enjoy the sauna, steam room and hot tub. Water jets, in latter, provide a wonderful massage.

Must away as we are off to Mile Zero, the wine bar on Ellis, this evening and we are having some appetizers and a bottle of wine beforehand, just to prime the pump! Fondestos from Lady Dar to you both. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Picked up wine at Terravista on Sunday and had their red, 2015 Syrah, 14.4%, for dinner last night! Gangbuster! Bob and Senka, pressing this year's red! Dinner!

Thinking about this! Thanks for the invitation! We know it will be super! Jo-Anne Hi Marps! Sorry you won't be able to join us!  Take care of yourselves and hope to see you, one way or another, since not at the Open House, then at some other point in space and time! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi! Patrick: Great chatting with you ............... even though it was a quick one!! Since I am in ON for my Dad's kidney surgery & take care of Mom till April 12th. I am definitely interested in the hiking & spa trip in June. I am interested in biking in Slovakia & Poland too. Hope to see you before I leave for Maui on Fri. Dec. 2-10th. Thanks for your Xmas Open House invite. I am just getting back from Hawaii that morning but we will be there. Our annual Xmas Open House is on Friday, Dec. 16th @ 6:00 pm. If you are still in town, pls stop by for some Xmas cheer. Hugs, Mary Lee
 
Hi Dynamo Woman! I'll be home all weekend, except for Saturday morning, and then all next week, except for React, Tuesday and Thursday, between 1:00 pm-3:00 pm. Hope to see you, one way or another, at some point before you leave for Maui! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

OK….sounds like Wednesday (tomorrow) works for both of us Patrick. I will drop by around 1000 am and we can decide from there OK. St Kilian! Poifect, Mr Apex, I'll have the java ready for you and perhaps even a slice or two of lemon cake, from Christmas Fair!

 



Monday, 21 November 2016

Day 65, Post-Op Saint-Germain Café and Gallery Blues: Monday, November 21st!

You may shoot me with your words, / You may cut me with your eyes, / You may kill me with your hatefulness, / But still, like air, I’ll rise. -Maya Angelou, poet (1928-2014) 



Words form the thread on which we string our experiences. -Aldous Huxley, novelist (1894-1963) 

Hi you two! Very sorry we missed you yesterday, must have just missed you too. Thank you so very much for the lovely photo’s & for joining us for a great evening. Would it be ok with you if we used some of the photo’s on our social media platforms? 

Hi Upper Bench Upper Crusters! Terribly sorry to have missed you as well but Michaelo gave us a wonderful tasting so we were able  to drown our sorrows! Glad you enjoyed the snapolas so please feel free to use as many as you might wish, wherever you would like.

Hello Fellow Hikers, I know this isn't the proper way to do things but Tim and I have an extra ticket to Celtic Thunder this coming Thursday at the South Okanagan Events Centre.. Is anyone interested in joining us? First come, first served. Thanks, Marian Carmi 21 nov 2016 hike pause goats from rattle snake

I have suggested Andre make a salmon, marscapone and leek lasagna for dinner tomorrow! Will pair it with an Upper Bench wine, or wines, it goes without saying! Fondestos from Lady Lady Dar, watching, to my utmost shame, The Young and the Useless, with Etta and Duke, purring on her lap! Cheers, Patrizzio! PS: Do you have both a cheese and wine suggestion for pairing with Quail? About a dozen perch in the neighbour's tree across our back lane!!!                 Hi again, Shana and Gavin! Great to almost see you yesterday! Hope you can join us for our Open House. Your two pooches are more than welcome as Etta and Duke are inviting all of their canine and feline friends! Cheers, Patrizzio!   

Patrick, Thank you for the dinner invitation on Dec 4. We are delighted to accept. May we bring dessert (in addition to wine)? Pam Hi again, Pamela! Lady Dar and I are certainly delighted that you both can join us for dinner on December 4th. Thank you for offering to bring dessert. Very generous, of course. However, you might not know that Lady Dar is gluten-intolerant, (as well as being rabidly husband intolerant!), so if it is not a bother or an inordinate hardship for you to bring something she can eat, that would be wonderful. However, no big deal, she insists, as she will just drink more wine!

On the off chance that you were thinking of an orange glaze sauce over stewed Quail, stuffed with almonds and pomegranate seeds, about a dozen perch in the neighbour's tree across our back lane!!! Delivery to be arranged! Personally, I am leaning towards young cat's paw, braised and then dipped in white chocolate! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Quail's Tree! Duke insists you choose Etta for dessert! We'll bring a gluten free dessert of course👍 Pam                                       Hi Katerina and Fellow World Travelers! Just wondering if you have come up with any dates for various bike trips, Katerina? I'm hoping to start booking flights and would also like to try to dovetail with Whirlygig, (Giorgio), and Calamity, (I'll fill you in while cycling!), so I'd appreciate what you have in mind, if only tentative dates, at this point in space and time. 

I'm probably going to stay in Europe until at least the end of June, perhaps later, depending on circumstances, so I'd like to try to join at least two of your guided excursions. Anyway, let me know what you think and I'll plan accordingly. All the best. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics:Duke, Etta and Lady Dar in a love fest!

Hello Chicago Devotees! Lady Dar and Patrizzio are hosting bridge on Wednesday so please let us know who might be attending. Spumoni has already confirmed. I trust that life continues to unfold, as Gaia meant it to do so, for all the the far-flung bidders and we table-bound folk wish you adventurous souls the very best as you scale glaciers, drink copious amounts of rum, hunt beavers, chew cocoa leaves or watch the sunsets emblazon the rock faces in Sedona! 

Cheers from a Pentictonite, sipping luscious local wine, (Terravista, Upper Bench), and about to eat a meal, scrumtuoso from the kitchen of Lady Dar. Dessert will be an assortment of malt, in front of the fire, cats upon laps, dreaming of wonderful friends in far away places and other climes! Cheers, Patrizzio! Pic: Life is not all play at The Burns Street Gin Joint and Hot Sheets Hotel, at least according to Etta and Duke! Hi Patrick; I forgot to mention that yes, please count me in for bridge this Wednesday! Pam Hi Patrick, I will play bridge on Weds. See you then.♠️♥️♦️♣️

Hello Patrick....So sorry to be so long getting back to you. Can we do this: Coffee at The Bellevue on Main Street, Penticton at 10:30 am on Saturday. If that doesn't work for you, please let us know what might work better.
Looking forward to it, kiddo. xoxo Patti  This is my cell and I'll have it with me. I'm coming down to help Wendy out with a function in Summerland Friday night and I'll be sleeping over. See you Saturday.
Hello Flin Flon Folk! I'm happy to meet at the Bellevue BUT why not come to our place at 611 Burns Street, and we can have a bite to eat and/or coffee and visit. You mentioned 10:30 am so that is fine. Anyway, let me know what you think and we'll plan accordingly. Looking forward to seeing you both. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hello Patrick and Corrine, Thank you for the lovely invitation to attend your open house. Unfortunately, we will be unable to attend due to a previous commitment. The hike was up Carmi above the Ellis Creek Canyon today, and we were fortunate to have sunshine, and a view of a couple of Mountain Goats on the north side of the canyon. I hope your good health continues, Patrick!
All the best to both of you, Dorothy and Ret Tinning Hi ex-Norfolk Pine People! Sorry you won't be able to join us but we know it is a very busy time of year so understand the numerous social commitments most people will have. Saw the snaps from above Ellis Creek Canyon. Looked fabulous, especially the goats. Take care of yourselves and hope to see you, one way or another, since not at the Open House, then at some other point in space and time! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!