"The spindle cells gain their power from the deep interconnectedness of their long apical dendrites with many other brain regions. The high-level emotions that the spindle cells process are affected, thereby, by all of our perceptual and cognitive regions. ... It is remarkable how few neurons appear to be exclusively involved with these emotions. We have fifty billion neurons in the cerebellum that deal with skill formation, billions in the cortex that perform the transformations for perception and rational planning, but only about eighty thousand spindle cells dealing with high-level emotions. It is important to point out that the spindle cells are not doing rational problem solving, which is why we don't have rational control over our responses to music or over falling in love."
The Singularity Is Near: When Humans Transcend Biology
Ray Kurzweil, The Viking Press, 2005, 191-194
Hi Patrice,
Might be true, however all play and no work makes Big Molly a broke boy!.
Hope you had a great ride, and looks like just in time as the weather looks
to be on the turn. Take care, Al
Might be true, however all play and no work makes Big Molly a broke boy!.
Hope you had a great ride, and looks like just in time as the weather looks
to be on the turn. Take care, Al
I need to go to this meeting at 6:00 so you and Pat will need to go in his car
Skins Volunteers,
This is a reminder that we have a meeting this evening at 6 PM in the meeting room (upstairs in the Lounge across from the side of the bar).
Attached is an Agenda for tonight’s meeting with a lot of supporting documentation (Budgets, Introductory Schedule, Fundraising/Donor talking points, Initial Volunteer List).
I will bring a number of copies to the meeting this evening.
Looking forward to seeing everyone tonight.
Cheers, Hamish
10-4
Hi Big Al!
Understand your need to shun our company! You probably stayed home and surfed The Net as you knew you'd not be able to stand the stand the "stanchion" ribbing! To, too bad as it was, as you suggest, a grand and glorious day! Couldn't persude Barnacle Bill to do an up 'n over but ride around Stanley park Seawall was spectaculare. Cityscape, montaignes and English Bay, poifect. Little is any breeze so we cruised along, pinching ourselves every few minutes to remind ourselves that we weren't dreaming.
Exhausted by his first foray in some time, Ragin' left us to return to the womb-like comfort of his bubble: he now has the winter shell covering his rum runner and it looks a pretty sight, a gray, curvo-rectangular igloo! Should keep him dry and cosy throughout the winter. Pleased that something has finally gone without hitch for the him. He's had a string of tough gigs what with his separation and his parents' deteriorating health. Not to mention his own problems with arthritis, necessitating some very expensive, toxic drugs.
No Knead had to do some work so he peeled off at Macdonald/Point Grey and I was forced to make my way. alone and forsaken, to UBC/Forshore Hill, cogitating on the difference 'tween The Brotherhood and The Sisterhood: at least the Sisters of Un-Mercy are always with you, never letting go, pit-bull tenacity and ferocity, whether in nightmare apparition or haranguing, full body presence!
So comforted, I managed to wring a fair bit of pleasure from the gorgeous vista along Spanish Banks and hardly noticed the climb up the Foreshore Hill, spurred on by some shutterbugging tourists who cheered me on as I rounded the first bend, near the top. Remainder of ride, along Marine to Crown and back was almost meditative. Even my bladder, (it had started to complain while we were still circling Stanley Park), seemed to have achieved a Zen-like state of suspended animation and I felt as if I could have topped 101.33K had it not been for the fact that I had to be back at The Heartbreak Hotel and Terrrace to take Coriandre's recently arrived parentos shopping for groceries. As it was, I tied my trusty steed to the hitchin' post with 72.33K on the clock, pleased at the outing.
Had a pleasant meal that evening, fairly early on as Clarisse and Dusty were operating on Ottawa time and had had to be up at 500am there to catch their flight. I curl with Flamin' and Sarge on Tuesday evenings and we had late draw last night. In fact, it was one of the best games we have had to date. Everyone, on both teams, curled well and we see-sawed back and forth, one point ahead and then one point down. Four all tie going into 7th end, (Clock had run out so when that happens you can only finish end you are playing.), opposition with hammer. They missed a few shots and we were able to protect two of our stones in the house. With his last shot their skip had an open draw or a tap to win. Bit of nail biting as he had made some similar clutch shots earlier. Few sighs of relief as his final delivery was quite a bit outside and well before it crossed the hog line we new we had stolen the end. However, even if we had lost, it really wouldn't have mattered as it was, as I mentioned, such a close, hard-fought but more than friendly encounter. Bit like some of our rides!
As you say, not sure when we'll be able to manage another ride, given gloomy forecast, so we'll have to keep an eye on forecast and try to pounce on any windows of riding opportunity. Cheers, Il Conduttore!
A Scotsman moves to Canada and attends his first baseball game.
The first batter approaches the batters' box, takes a few swings and then hits a double. Everyone is on their feet screaming "Run".
The next batter hits a single. The Scotsman listens as the crowd again cheers "RUN RUN". The Scotsman is enjoying the game and begins screaming with the fans.
The fifth batter comes up and four balls go by. The Umpire calls: "Walk."
The batter starts his slow trot to first base. The Scot stands up and screams, "Run ye lazy bastard, RRUNN!"
The people around him begin laughing. Embarrassed, the Scot sits back down. A friendly fan notes the man's embarrassment, leans over and explains, "He can't run -- he's got four balls."
The Scot stands up and screams: "Walk wi' pride, Laddie!"
Understand your need to shun our company! You probably stayed home and surfed The Net as you knew you'd not be able to stand the stand the "stanchion" ribbing! To, too bad as it was, as you suggest, a grand and glorious day! Couldn't persude Barnacle Bill to do an up 'n over but ride around Stanley park Seawall was spectaculare. Cityscape, montaignes and English Bay, poifect. Little is any breeze so we cruised along, pinching ourselves every few minutes to remind ourselves that we weren't dreaming.
Exhausted by his first foray in some time, Ragin' left us to return to the womb-like comfort of his bubble: he now has the winter shell covering his rum runner and it looks a pretty sight, a gray, curvo-rectangular igloo! Should keep him dry and cosy throughout the winter. Pleased that something has finally gone without hitch for the him. He's had a string of tough gigs what with his separation and his parents' deteriorating health. Not to mention his own problems with arthritis, necessitating some very expensive, toxic drugs.
No Knead had to do some work so he peeled off at Macdonald/Point Grey and I was forced to make my way. alone and forsaken, to UBC/Forshore Hill, cogitating on the difference 'tween The Brotherhood and The Sisterhood: at least the Sisters of Un-Mercy are always with you, never letting go, pit-bull tenacity and ferocity, whether in nightmare apparition or haranguing, full body presence!
So comforted, I managed to wring a fair bit of pleasure from the gorgeous vista along Spanish Banks and hardly noticed the climb up the Foreshore Hill, spurred on by some shutterbugging tourists who cheered me on as I rounded the first bend, near the top. Remainder of ride, along Marine to Crown and back was almost meditative. Even my bladder, (it had started to complain while we were still circling Stanley Park), seemed to have achieved a Zen-like state of suspended animation and I felt as if I could have topped 101.33K had it not been for the fact that I had to be back at The Heartbreak Hotel and Terrrace to take Coriandre's recently arrived parentos shopping for groceries. As it was, I tied my trusty steed to the hitchin' post with 72.33K on the clock, pleased at the outing.
Had a pleasant meal that evening, fairly early on as Clarisse and Dusty were operating on Ottawa time and had had to be up at 500am there to catch their flight. I curl with Flamin' and Sarge on Tuesday evenings and we had late draw last night. In fact, it was one of the best games we have had to date. Everyone, on both teams, curled well and we see-sawed back and forth, one point ahead and then one point down. Four all tie going into 7th end, (Clock had run out so when that happens you can only finish end you are playing.), opposition with hammer. They missed a few shots and we were able to protect two of our stones in the house. With his last shot their skip had an open draw or a tap to win. Bit of nail biting as he had made some similar clutch shots earlier. Few sighs of relief as his final delivery was quite a bit outside and well before it crossed the hog line we new we had stolen the end. However, even if we had lost, it really wouldn't have mattered as it was, as I mentioned, such a close, hard-fought but more than friendly encounter. Bit like some of our rides!
As you say, not sure when we'll be able to manage another ride, given gloomy forecast, so we'll have to keep an eye on forecast and try to pounce on any windows of riding opportunity. Cheers, Il Conduttore!
A Scotsman moves to Canada and attends his first baseball game.
The first batter approaches the batters' box, takes a few swings and then hits a double. Everyone is on their feet screaming "Run".
The next batter hits a single. The Scotsman listens as the crowd again cheers "RUN RUN". The Scotsman is enjoying the game and begins screaming with the fans.
The fifth batter comes up and four balls go by. The Umpire calls: "Walk."
The batter starts his slow trot to first base. The Scot stands up and screams, "Run ye lazy bastard, RRUNN!"
The people around him begin laughing. Embarrassed, the Scot sits back down. A friendly fan notes the man's embarrassment, leans over and explains, "He can't run -- he's got four balls."
The Scot stands up and screams: "Walk wi' pride, Laddie!"
Hi Hamish!
Great game last night! In case you've not heard this before! Cheers, Patrizio!
Great game last night! In case you've not heard this before! Cheers, Patrizio!
Pat:
Thanks for the morning cheer as I am back to the grind. Hamish
Thanks for the morning cheer as I am back to the grind. Hamish
Hi again, Hamish!
Work wi' pride, Laddie! Cheers, Patrizio!
Work wi' pride, Laddie! Cheers, Patrizio!
Oh dear, we may need to talk about this Puff Pastry Patrizio, I'm now quite concerned.
Hi Kerry and No Knead!
No Need to worry as I was forsook by the Recipe Riders!
This is what I wrote to Big Al!
Understand your need to shun our company! You probably stayed home and surfed The Net as you knew you'd not be able to stand the "stanchion" ribbing! For his part, Recipe Ray had some lame, mealy-mouthed excuse. Too, too bad as it was, as you suggest, a grand and glorious day! In spite of this, couldn't persuade Barnacle Bill to do an up 'n over, (In addition to a lateness affliction he suffers from hill phobia!), but ride around Stanley Park Seawall was spectaculare. Cityscape, montaignes and English Bay, poifect. Even the Canada Geese seemed less grumpy and responded, at times, to Whirlissimo's klaxon! Little is any breeze so we cruised along, pinching ourselves every few minutes to remind ourselves that we weren't dreaming about being in Nirvana.
No Knead had to do some work, or so he insisted, probably a long nap after a hearty lunch and a few snorts of maltage), so he peeled off! at Macdonald/Point Grey! Cheers, Il Conduttore!
Canadian health food!
No Need to worry as I was forsook by the Recipe Riders!
This is what I wrote to Big Al!
Understand your need to shun our company! You probably stayed home and surfed The Net as you knew you'd not be able to stand the "stanchion" ribbing! For his part, Recipe Ray had some lame, mealy-mouthed excuse. Too, too bad as it was, as you suggest, a grand and glorious day! In spite of this, couldn't persuade Barnacle Bill to do an up 'n over, (In addition to a lateness affliction he suffers from hill phobia!), but ride around Stanley Park Seawall was spectaculare. Cityscape, montaignes and English Bay, poifect. Even the Canada Geese seemed less grumpy and responded, at times, to Whirlissimo's klaxon! Little is any breeze so we cruised along, pinching ourselves every few minutes to remind ourselves that we weren't dreaming about being in Nirvana.
No Knead had to do some work, or so he insisted, probably a long nap after a hearty lunch and a few snorts of maltage), so he peeled off! at Macdonald/Point Grey! Cheers, Il Conduttore!
Pat,
Thanks for the glorious ride today. We will reconvene in May.
I thought you might appreciate this opinion especially when one has those awkward conversations about the Occupy movement. This guy has some insights, I think.
SPEAKING TRUTH TO POWER: THE OCCUPY MOVEMENT HAS ALREADY WON
A UFCW Canada Human Rights Department Release
By James Clancy
National President
National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE)
National President
National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE)
Ottawa (15 Nov. 2011) - The response of the mainstream media, business class and political establishment to the Occupy movement has been dismissive, patronizing and hostile.
It’s sad. But it’s predictable. And it’s been the story of successful progressive movements for the last hundred years. A powerful elite have been treating our democracy and economy as their own private playground and everyone else and the public interest with contempt.
Some of us have been highlighting the problem for a while. Finally, something clicked. And the Occupy movement sprung up around the world.
There isn’t a specific policy demand or political strategy. That’s not what the movement is about. It’s on a moral mission.
The economic and political system today is rigged against ordinary people who work hard and play by the rules.
It’s this moral failure the movement is talking about. They’ve brought two essential things to the table: passion and people.
Change starts with evoking visceral emotions about what is fair and unfair – not armies of actuaries, squads of statisticians and detailed policy prescriptions. The Occupy movement is forcing people to think hard about a moral issue: do you think the current system is fair or unfair for the vast majority of people?
Change also requires boots on the ground. People need to stand up and fight for what they believe in – as if the cause depends on every one of them showing up, because it really does.
These things have made the movement a game-changer. No matter what happens from this point forward the movement has already won.
Recent polling by Nanos Research shows a majority of Canadians believe the point the movement is making is very valid.
It has altered the political debate. It has shifted the discussion in the media. And it has changed the conversations on loading docks and around the water cooler.
The issues of economic and social equality – issues ignored by the powerful for a generation – are front and center once again.
This is a huge victory for the movement. And it follows the best traditions of successful progressive movements.
All the major progressive movements that changed our society (e.g. the union movement, civil rights movement, peace movement, gay rights movement, and environmental movement) have followed the same model.
They started with a small group of people highlighting a moral question. They brought energy and passion. They believed in each other and put themselves on the frontlines.
And they succeeded only after long struggles and in the face of bitter opposition and sneering attacks from the powerful and privileged.
The Occupy movement is here to stay. It will morph into something else. But it’s not going away until there are serious reforms to our economy and democracy.
It all reminds me of the old saying: “First they ignore you. Then they ridicule you. Then they fight you. Then you win.”
Hi Whirlyraisedfistintheair!
Thanks for two alternative opinions! Did you send them along to 'Orrible? I'm sure he would post them at the Lawn! Cheers, Pastry Puff Rabble Rouser!
Thanks for two alternative opinions! Did you send them along to 'Orrible? I'm sure he would post them at the Lawn! Cheers, Pastry Puff Rabble Rouser!
 |
|
Canadian health food!Christmas 2011 -- Birth of a New Tradition
As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into
high gear to provide Canadians with monstrous piles of cheaply produced
goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of Canadian
labor. This year will be different. This year Canadians will give the
gift of genuine concern for other Canadians. There is no longer an
excuse that, at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced
by Canadians hands. Yes there is!
It's time to think outside the box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit
in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper? Everyone --
yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your
local Canadian hair salon or barber?
Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about
some health improvement.
Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, Canadian
owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift
certificate or a book of gift certificates.
Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plonking
down the Loonies on a Chinese made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful
gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the
summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf
course.
There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift
certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what
about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember,
folks this isn't about big National chains -- this is about supporting
your home town Canadian with their financial lives on the line to keep
their doors open.
How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or
motorcycle, done at a shop run by the Canadian working guy?
Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of
a local cleaning lady for a day.
My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy
who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.
OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people
spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and
pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.
Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave
your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet
at your hometown theatre.
Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.
Honestly, people, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese
lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of lights, about
fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to
burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.
You see, Christmas is no longer about draining Canadian pockets so that
China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring
about us, encouraging Canadian small businesses to keep plugging away to
follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Canadians, we care
about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we
couldn't imagine. THIS is the new Canadian Christmas tradition.
Forward this to everyone on your mailing list -- post it to discussion
groups -- throw up a post on Craigslist in the Rants and Raves section
in your city -- send it to the editor of your local paper and radio
stations, and TV news departments. This is a revolution of caring about
each other, and isn't that what Christmas is about?
BUY CANADIAN - BE CANADIAN - The job you save might be your own
As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into
high gear to provide Canadians with monstrous piles of cheaply produced
goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of Canadian
labor. This year will be different. This year Canadians will give the
gift of genuine concern for other Canadians. There is no longer an
excuse that, at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced
by Canadians hands. Yes there is!
It's time to think outside the box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit
in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper? Everyone --
yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your
local Canadian hair salon or barber?
Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about
some health improvement.
Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, Canadian
owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift
certificate or a book of gift certificates.
Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plonking
down the Loonies on a Chinese made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful
gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the
summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf
course.
There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift
certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what
about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember,
folks this isn't about big National chains -- this is about supporting
your home town Canadian with their financial lives on the line to keep
their doors open.
How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or
motorcycle, done at a shop run by the Canadian working guy?
Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of
a local cleaning lady for a day.
My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy
who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.
OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people
spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and
pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.
Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave
your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet
at your hometown theatre.
Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.
Honestly, people, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese
lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of lights, about
fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to
burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.
You see, Christmas is no longer about draining Canadian pockets so that
China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring
about us, encouraging Canadian small businesses to keep plugging away to
follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Canadians, we care
about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we
couldn't imagine. THIS is the new Canadian Christmas tradition.
Forward this to everyone on your mailing list -- post it to discussion
groups -- throw up a post on Craigslist in the Rants and Raves section
in your city -- send it to the editor of your local paper and radio
stations, and TV news departments. This is a revolution of caring about
each other, and isn't that what Christmas is about?
BUY CANADIAN - BE CANADIAN - The job you save might be your own
OCCUPY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I had no idea that Chloe had such a rough weekend...poor sister
Hi Lovelorne Tinsel Towner!
Your sister seems to be making a slow, steady recovery as she went to class last night and is getting ready for her first day back at work today. Still not feeling 100% but is definitely on the mend. She has started bossy us around so you know she is feeling better!
This is what I wrote to Big Al about the ride which he was not able to make yesterday!
Understand your need to shun our company! You probably stayed home and surfed The Net as you knew you'd not be able to stand the "stanchion" ribbing! (He ran into a stanchion near Plaza of Nations while ogling...
['Medical study' purportedly published in the New England Journal of Medicine claims research has shown that ogling women's breasts increases men's lifespans. This is not a joke. It came from the New England Journal of Medicine. Great news for girl watchers: Ogling over women's breasts is good for a man's health and can add years to his life, medical experts have discovered. According to the New England Journal of Medicine, "Just 10 minutes of staring at the charms of a well-endowed female is roughly equivalent to a 30-minute aerobics work-out" declared gerontologist Dr. Karen Weatherby.
Dr. Weatherby and fellow researchers at three hospitals in Frankfurt, Germany, reached the startling conclusion after comparing the health of 200 male outpatients - half of whom were instructed to look at busty females daily, the other half told to refrain from doing so. The study revealed that after five years, the chest-watchers had lower blood pressure, slower resting pulse rates and fewer instances of coronary artery disease.
"Sexual excitement gets the heart pumping and improves blood circulation," explains Dr. Weatherby. "There's no question: Gazing at breasts makes men healthier." "Our study indicates that engaging in this activity a few minutes daily cuts the risk of stroke and heart attack in half. We believe that by doing so consistently, the average man can extend his life four to five years."
Analysis: Don't get your hopes up, guys. No such study was ever published in the New England Journal of Medicine (check for yourself). Damn!]
...a scantily clad, buxom jogger. Would have understood but the runner was male!!!
Take train from airport to Kowloon then taxi.
Hi Jim!
Thanks for confirming transportation links.
Pat,
so great hearing from you.
Your email sounded like a soap-opera, just with real people I know. Great bedtimestoryteller!
Hope Chloe is getting better and your and Corinne's operations ahead aren't going to be that painful. All the best to you! But those holidays seem to make quite up for it!
If everything goes well, I'll be in Hamburg at that time, in order to study a semester abroad.
Elsewise I'm still working as a cycle-messenger. And studying, but not so enthusiastically at resent. Hope that will chance sometime, as I already organised two internships. One in a court and the other in a law firm in Berne.
Last weekend, Simon and Sabine got married. They threw a great party, involving everybody and serving very tasty food and especially tasty wine. t was at a place just outside Berne and the later it got, the younger were the people staying.
It was wonderful to meet Nicole and Marvin, when they stoped by. Great people, the two of them. We had brunch at the Lehmann's and some other boarders joined. A great summer morning!
Now temperature is falling and I go regularly to the University-sauna with a friend of mine.
Also started winter-Aare-swimming last Sunday. The water was about 9 degree Celsius. Very googd for your imune system (I think - by turning red and blue).
All the best to you and give a hug to Corinne! love Fiona
Hi Fiona!
Lovely to hear from you and learn that all seems to be going so well with your studies and part-time job! I'm sure you are a wonderful cycle-messenger! Must have been all the practice you had riding to class in Vancouver! Thanks for letting us know about the marriage of Sabine and Simon! Wonderful news indeed!!! I'm more than impressed by your Polar Bear swims! You can go as a an American flag for next year's Halloween!
Please pass along fond regards to your parents. Much love from Cora Lee/Chloë to you and them as well. Cheers, Patrizio/Cruel Host Father!
Hi Sabine and Simon!
Just heard from Fiona about your recent marriage! Congratulations! Hip Hip Hooray! Wonderful news indeed! Trust you are both well and enjoying domestic bliss!Again, best wishes from Cora Lee/Chloë to you both. Cheers, Patrizio!
Hi Gayle and Derek!
Your sister seems to be making a slow, steady recovery as she went to class last night and is getting ready for her first day back at work today. Still not feeling 100% but is definitely on the mend. She has started bossy us around so you know she is feeling better!
This is what I wrote to Big Al about the ride which he was not able to make yesterday!
Understand your need to shun our company! You probably stayed home and surfed The Net as you knew you'd not be able to stand the "stanchion" ribbing! (He ran into a stanchion near Plaza of Nations while ogling...
['Medical study' purportedly published in the New England Journal of Medicine claims research has shown that ogling women's breasts increases men's lifespans. This is not a joke. It came from the New England Journal of Medicine. Great news for girl watchers: Ogling over women's breasts is good for a man's health and can add years to his life, medical experts have discovered. According to the New England Journal of Medicine, "Just 10 minutes of staring at the charms of a well-endowed female is roughly equivalent to a 30-minute aerobics work-out" declared gerontologist Dr. Karen Weatherby.
Dr. Weatherby and fellow researchers at three hospitals in Frankfurt, Germany, reached the startling conclusion after comparing the health of 200 male outpatients - half of whom were instructed to look at busty females daily, the other half told to refrain from doing so. The study revealed that after five years, the chest-watchers had lower blood pressure, slower resting pulse rates and fewer instances of coronary artery disease.
"Sexual excitement gets the heart pumping and improves blood circulation," explains Dr. Weatherby. "There's no question: Gazing at breasts makes men healthier." "Our study indicates that engaging in this activity a few minutes daily cuts the risk of stroke and heart attack in half. We believe that by doing so consistently, the average man can extend his life four to five years."
Analysis: Don't get your hopes up, guys. No such study was ever published in the New England Journal of Medicine (check for yourself). Damn!]
...a scantily clad, buxom jogger. Would have understood but the runner was male!!!
We dreamy retirees spit on so-called busy TV execs who seem to have more than enough time to spend on facebook while consuming heaps and heaps of Canadian choc! By the way, being a dreamy retiree is not all that easy when one inhabits the Nightmare of The Sisterhood, soon to be an HBO Blockbuster!
Ayn P Nice talk Poppa, do you kiss my mother with that mouth...I believe the Nightmare of the Sisterhood is your destiny
I'll have you know you seeks it out, constantly. I embrace my Destiny wholehearted
Take train from airport to Kowloon then taxi.
Hi Jim!
Thanks for confirming transportation links.
Pat,
so great hearing from you.
Your email sounded like a soap-opera, just with real people I know. Great bedtimestoryteller!
Hope Chloe is getting better and your and Corinne's operations ahead aren't going to be that painful. All the best to you! But those holidays seem to make quite up for it!
If everything goes well, I'll be in Hamburg at that time, in order to study a semester abroad.
Elsewise I'm still working as a cycle-messenger. And studying, but not so enthusiastically at resent. Hope that will chance sometime, as I already organised two internships. One in a court and the other in a law firm in Berne.
Last weekend, Simon and Sabine got married. They threw a great party, involving everybody and serving very tasty food and especially tasty wine. t was at a place just outside Berne and the later it got, the younger were the people staying.
It was wonderful to meet Nicole and Marvin, when they stoped by. Great people, the two of them. We had brunch at the Lehmann's and some other boarders joined. A great summer morning!
Now temperature is falling and I go regularly to the University-sauna with a friend of mine.
Also started winter-Aare-swimming last Sunday. The water was about 9 degree Celsius. Very googd for your imune system (I think - by turning red and blue).
All the best to you and give a hug to Corinne! love Fiona
Hi Fiona!
Lovely to hear from you and learn that all seems to be going so well with your studies and part-time job! I'm sure you are a wonderful cycle-messenger! Must have been all the practice you had riding to class in Vancouver! Thanks for letting us know about the marriage of Sabine and Simon! Wonderful news indeed!!! I'm more than impressed by your Polar Bear swims! You can go as a an American flag for next year's Halloween!
Please pass along fond regards to your parents. Much love from Cora Lee/Chloë to you and them as well. Cheers, Patrizio/Cruel Host Father!
Hi Sabine and Simon!
Just heard from Fiona about your recent marriage! Congratulations! Hip Hip Hooray! Wonderful news indeed! Trust you are both well and enjoying domestic bliss!Again, best wishes from Cora Lee/Chloë to you both. Cheers, Patrizio!
Hi Gayle and Derek!
Trust you are both well. Chrissy was over yesterday, (although I was out riding at time), and mentioned you plan to return in February! Great news indeed! Best wishes from Cora Lee/Chloë to you both. Cheers, Patrizio!
Takagaki Toshiko
30 OctoberTakagaki Toshiko- Hi, Patrick!
Finally I have my facebook account!
Looking forward to contacting with you via facebook, too.
Toshiko
3 NovemberPatrick James Dunn- Hi Toshi!
Must apoligize for not writing sooner. Trust you and your Mother are well. Just a quick message now but will write a longer email about our coming travel plans. For the moment, however, we are scheduled to arrive in Japan on May 11, 2012.
Fond regards from both Corinne and Maggie! Cheers, Patrizio!
Pic: This past Halloween, 40th Anniversary of our first meeting, with Michele and Wayne from downstairs.
4 NovemberTakagaki Toshiko- Hello, Patrick!
That's OK! I could have written you sooner, too!
It's nice to keep in touch with you via facebook now. Finally, I made my account!
My mom and I are fine. She sends her best regards to you, Corinne, Chloe and Anne.
Thank you for the great news!! You are really coming to Japan on May 11, 2012!!
The weather should be beautiful! How exciting!!!
If you need any information or places to stay, please let me know.
Nice photo! Glad to hear that finally your first meeting with Michele and
Wayne come!
12 NovemberPatrick James Dunn- Hi Toshi!
Trust you are well. Sorry that it has taken me so long to write back but very busy times, currently and ahead, here at The Island Inn!
Took Chloë to Mount St Joseph at 6:45am, this past Monday morning. She's been suffering from constant throat infections over last few years and finally convinced our doctor to send her to a specialist. Once this woman saw her records, etc., she set up surgery. Current medical opinion, I gather, is that this is not something that most doctors want adults to undergo. Anyway, Chloë was pleased to have it done, although a tad nervous as I drove her to hospital. Apparently, she'll be off work for at least a week. She will miss two evening classes and so had been working feverishly on assignments the week before as she felt she might not be in any shape to concentrate for a bit.
Cora Lee brought her home about 3:00pm that afternoon and she didn't seem to be feeling too, too badly. Think she may still be "under the influence"! She seemed to be doing reasonably well but unfortunately, she really hasn't been able to sleep much and had herself propped up in a recliner, dozing in front of the TV for first few days after operation. Her throat is still extremely sore, as she knew it would be. Few days ago when I looked in, (She has been staying at her grandparent's place, next door, ever since they left last April. Clarisse and Dusty arrive on November 15th so we'll have to re-nest over next few days!), she was complaining of being feverish so I literally pulverized some Extra Strength Tylenol to see if that would help bring her temperature down. Her throat is so constricted and raw that swallowing is agony. She has a prescription for Tylenol 3 for pain but those pills don't really address her fever. Glad to report that she slept for six hours last night and seems to be on the mend now.
Last Wednesday, I finally met with with the shoulder specialist. At just before 8:00am, Cora Lee dropped me off, (I should have ridden but I thought it was going to rain harder than it did, at least when I walked back home over Burrard Bridge.), at St Paul's where I was examined by a resident and then orthopaedic surgeon, Jeffrey Pike. Quite liked him and he has suggested the least invasive orthoscopic procedure, (Day surgery, in and out, to tidy up joint. Don't have a "frozen" right shoulder. I'm suffering from same osteoarthritis that afflicted my hip), with an initial recovery of about 6 weeks, (pretty active with appropriate exercises, almost immediately, once arm is out of a sling, week or two, I gather), no lifting or pulling anything for three months! Not sure how this will play with our coming holiday at the beginning of March. Of course, Cora Lee could tote all the bags and discover what it is like to be a sherpa, role we usually play for The Sisterhood!
Don't have date yet but am on the "cancellation" list as well. Short notice, surgical standby! Will just have to play things by ear but if I don't have procedure before mid-January, at latest, I think I'll just have to wait until we return at end of May, beginning of June. Drag, of course, is that one is probably further and further down list. Anyway, at least I have seen the specialist and know what is in store for me. He said I don't really have any restrictions and should continue with shoulder exercises prescribed by physio to help strengthen muscles but physio itself will not improve anything. Given this diagnosis, I plan to start swimming again, now that cycling is becoming increasingly problematic with rain and ice!
In mid-December, Cora Lee is scheduled to have corrective surgery on her right foot. First three toes are "wandering" and need to be re-aligned. Not sure if you know it or not but this is a very painful operation to recover from. She certainly does as she underwent similar surgery about ten years ago! She's already bought five new books on cross-stitching as she will be unable to do much for at least six weeks! Maggie is the only one who is delighted with the prospect of having Cora Lee sitting in an armchair, next to fireplace, a guaranteed lap available for prolonged cat naps! Little does Coriandre know but I plan to seek revenge for her less than attentive nursing after I had my hip replaced in April 2010. She confiscated the small dinner bell I'd use to summon the "ward nurse" after but one or two uses of my only form of communication with the outside world! Never get angry, just get even! Fortunately for her, Clarisse and Dusty arrive this coming Tuesday, as I mentioned above, so I'm sure she'll have her Mom making all her favourite foods to speed her recovery! Not completely sure, however. When Cora Lee was in grade school, Clara insisted that she wear her galoshes as it was very icy, one winter day. Already the fashionista, Coriandre refused to put on the unsightly footwear and, subsequently, managed to fall and break her arm! In Emergency, she received little, if any sympathy from her very annoyed mother: "CORINNE, I told you so! Stop wailing!!!"
As I mentioned in my last email, we will be flying to Japan, from Sydney, May 11th, via Hong Kong, to arrive at Narita on Saturday, May 12th at 2:35pm. We leave it up to you to suggest how we should proceed once we've landed. For example, should we stay in Tokyo, or thereabouts, for some time or should we come to where you live? In either case, you will know best what will be easiest for us and most convenient for you. Of course, we'd appreciate specific directions for travel if we need to undertake that part of journey ourselves. Depending on how much time we will spend with you and some of your relatives, should that still be the case, we thought that we'd like to head north to Sapporo sometime, plus or minus, about halfway through our stay. We are scheduled to leave from Narita on Thursday, May 31st, at 11:00am.
Fond regards from both Chloë and Corinne, to you and your Mother, Aunts and Uncles. Look forward to hearing from you. Love and Cheers, Patrizio!
MondayTakagaki Toshiko- Hello, Patrick!
Don't worry! I'm happy whenever I can be in touch with you.
Remember? I couldn't have written you for almost 2 years after my father died. But I always feel that you are very close to me.
It seems that you have been very busy time.
Is Chloe all right now?
And Corinne and you are expecting operations?
I'm very surprised to hear that.
But I'm sure all of you would get much much healthier after the operations!
So, finally you are ready to come to Japan!
I can't explain how excited we are to have you here!!
I'm already planning to have a party in Osaka when you come.
It would be very exciting!!
Are you visiting Izumi in Hokkaido? Can she show you around?
The following URL gives you some ideas what you can do in Hokkaido.
"Hokkaido Official Tourism Website"
http://en.visit-hokkaido.jp/
I would be more than happy to plan and suggest for your trip!
If there is anything particular you would like to do and see in Japan,
please let me know.
You can stay with us and our relatives.
Also there are lots of nice typical Japanese hotels with hot springs.
I'll tell you more in details from now on.
Please say hello to Corinne, Chloe, Clara and Dusty for me.
Lots of hugs,
Toshiko 
en.visit-hokkaido.jp
The new International Terminal building of New Chitose Airport has opened on 26 March 2010. For detailed information please see here.
- Hi Toshi!
Lovely to hear from you! Thank you for your generous invitation to stay. Thanks for link to Hokkaido. (Haven't heard from Izumi yet but hope to do so.) Much appreciated indeed. Party sounds wonderful indeed!!!
With respect to what we might do while visiting, perhaps you could suggest some sort of itinerary as a starting point. Corinne and I will take a look at some travel guides, etc., to come up with a number of places we might like to visit and things we might like to do and then we can try to come up with a plan that makes the most efficient use of everyone's time. Bit like you and your family coming to Canada and then going to Rockies, Victoria, Montreal, etc. Too many places to go to do everything, unfortunately!
Please pass along fond regards to your Mother/Aunts/Uncles. Much love from Cora Lee/Chloë to you and them as well. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizio!
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