Hi Famiglia Killjoy!
Too, too bad about the non-bridge! Does that mean we are playing, à la the Non-Readers Book Club? Understand completely so not a big deal. When time works. Cheers Patrizio!
PS: We have a spare clown's nose if that is of any help. As well, Whirlygig, when you are providing water for elephants you could always sneak out to the Heartbreak Hotel Cigar and Whiskey Patio for a snort or two of maltage to soothe your mayhem addled noives!!!
PPS: We also happen to own a strait-jacket if confinement is deemed required within the confines of your home!
PPSS: We can discuss other methods of restraint and/or torture on the ride domani!
Patrick's funny, says Tia!
Hi Three Ring Circus People!
I trust that Tia is warming up on the high wire and trapeze as I write! No safety nets allowed! As well, I think she needs to work on her contortion exercises. Wriggling out of doing homework and twisting away from the keyboard, these basic skills are simply not good enough if she hopes to tie her parents into Gordian knots and then run away to join the circus, living happily ever after in the limelight!
Please have the Lion Tamer let me know if he is interested in riding bare-back domani, out to Iona, perchance, to visit with the cousins of our trusty steeds, munching their fodder in the fields along the way. Tell him to bring his whip since we may well have to pull in the reins on Racehorse Ray, in spite of his near bone-crunching spill on the slopes of QE yesterday. Probably the royal mountain having its way with his socialist, "Whot about the workin' man?", tendencies! Cheers, Otto Ringling!
P,
Tia was scheduled to play at 11AM tomorrow, Saturday, but Kerry is negotiating with Wayne for a time on Sunday. Tia will be training on the high wire and trapeze tomorrow.
Will confirm the time Sunday when we know -- in case you are available to attend. W
P,
See you and Ray at 37th & Cypress around 9AM.
I will be dropping Tia at her bike pool near Jericho so will meet you at the
rendezvous point on Cypress. W
See you and Ray at 37th & Cypress around 9AM.
I will be dropping Tia at her bike pool near Jericho so will meet you at the
rendezvous point on Cypress. W
P,
Two mishaps in one day -- that is nerve racking especially for my fused
rubber neck.
I did call Ray when I got home and he is indeed okay but for a bruise on the
knee. He bailed out of safety concerns on the rest of the ride. Hope Big Al
is indeed without injury.
Monday I will plan to play cards for a couple hours and then head home.
Thanks for the offer of the tofu rack.
Enjoy your evening out to play and VIWF celebrations. Maybe Markus will be
there.
Will let you know the plan for Ms T and ragtime at the Lodge.
Hi Whirlissimo!
In fact, 'Orrible 'Ungie is really a thug, a school yard bully, rather than a flannelmouth, (He really doesn't have the mental wherewithal to be a smooth operator.), a laughable, pathetic tin pot dictator, a browbeating buffoon infatuated with an erroneous sense of entitlement, an insufferable megalomaniac. This condition, as my esteemed colleague, Sigmund Freud, would say, obviously stems from a complete lack of self-worth and has resulted in a hyper inferiority complex which manifests itself in pomposity and bluster. I'll tell you what I really think tomorrow! Cheers, Carl Jung.
Hi Whirlissimo!
What I really enjoyed for the entry was A Thought for Today:
Comedy has to be based on truth. You take the truth and you put a little curlicue at the end. -Sid Caesar, actor and writer (b. 1922)
Guess that is why 'Orrible 'Ungie was so gloomy after he read about himself in my squash scribblings. He certainly didn't like the kernel of truth and the curlicues didn't help much either!
Hi Rubbernecker!
As you know, went to The Penelopiad, with Flamin'/Sarge, at the Stanley, that evening. Popped by Festival House, before making our way to Granville, to the VIWF Volunteer Appreciation Party. Didn't bump into Marcus Aurelius while we were there but we left about 7:35pm, after hastily slurping down a few free drinks before having to shell out heavy coin for anaemic malt at Intermission at Stanley!
Let me know about The Ragtime Blues! Cheers, Il Conductore!
Two mishaps in one day -- that is nerve racking especially for my fused
rubber neck.
I did call Ray when I got home and he is indeed okay but for a bruise on the
knee. He bailed out of safety concerns on the rest of the ride. Hope Big Al
is indeed without injury.
Monday I will plan to play cards for a couple hours and then head home.
Thanks for the offer of the tofu rack.
Enjoy your evening out to play and VIWF celebrations. Maybe Markus will be
there.
Will let you know the plan for Ms T and ragtime at the Lodge.
Hi Whirlissimo!
In fact, 'Orrible 'Ungie is really a thug, a school yard bully, rather than a flannelmouth, (He really doesn't have the mental wherewithal to be a smooth operator.), a laughable, pathetic tin pot dictator, a browbeating buffoon infatuated with an erroneous sense of entitlement, an insufferable megalomaniac. This condition, as my esteemed colleague, Sigmund Freud, would say, obviously stems from a complete lack of self-worth and has resulted in a hyper inferiority complex which manifests itself in pomposity and bluster. I'll tell you what I really think tomorrow! Cheers, Carl Jung.
Hi Whirlissimo!
What I really enjoyed for the entry was A Thought for Today:
Comedy has to be based on truth. You take the truth and you put a little curlicue at the end. -Sid Caesar, actor and writer (b. 1922)
Guess that is why 'Orrible 'Ungie was so gloomy after he read about himself in my squash scribblings. He certainly didn't like the kernel of truth and the curlicues didn't help much either!
Hi Rubbernecker!
As you know, went to The Penelopiad, with Flamin'/Sarge, at the Stanley, that evening. Popped by Festival House, before making our way to Granville, to the VIWF Volunteer Appreciation Party. Didn't bump into Marcus Aurelius while we were there but we left about 7:35pm, after hastily slurping down a few free drinks before having to shell out heavy coin for anaemic malt at Intermission at Stanley!
Let me know about The Ragtime Blues! Cheers, Il Conductore!
The next meeting be on either Sunday, 20th or Sunday 27th of November!
Hi Gang,
Would prefer the 27th myself. Thanks. And I've begun reading Panicking Ralph. So far, so good. Cheers. Dave
Would prefer the 27th myself. Thanks. And I've begun reading Panicking Ralph. So far, so good. Cheers. Dave
I'm good with either date. 8^) cheers, Mark
Hi Marcus Aurelius!
We missed you yesterday as had a grand ride with Whirlygig.
We missed you yesterday as had a grand ride with Whirlygig.
Hi all, I'm okay with either date. Milton
Oops! Sorry I spoke too soon. Nov 27 works best for me. Milton
Il Conductore!
How's it going? Sorry I didn't get a chance to make it to the last book
meeting. I had a squash practice that my team was organizing (we need the
practice since we're doing poorly in the league). As captain I had to be
there. How many non-readers showed up?
Just wondering if you're finished with the Fukuyama book. A friend would like to borrow it. Cheers Milton
Hi Generalissimo!
Sorry you couldn't make last meeting. Had Guy, Dave, Marcus and Misha, latter two cycled! Most enjoyable evening. How did your squash practice go? Not finished with Fukuyama yet but with all the other reading I have on my plate, your friend is more than welcome to book. Just let me know how best to arrange swap: Origins of Political order for umbrella!
Had a grand ride with Whirlygig yesterday. Had arranged to meet Robo Ray at 37th and Cypress at 9:00am to ride to Central Park to meet another friend, Big Molly, there to have him show us some of trails he is familiar with in that part of Burnaby. Weather was pretty frosty and we had to be extremely careful about black ice. Unfortunately, Robo Ray feel as he was descending the fairly steep slope next to Queen Elizabeth Park. Fortunately, it wasn't a terrible fall and he really only sustained a bruise on his right knee. However, he felt discretion was the better part of valour and decided to return home rather than risk anything worse. (His near bone-crunching spill on the slopes of QE was probably the royal mountain having its way with his socialist, "Whot about the workin' man?" tendencies!)
Accident aside, we were really sorry that he was not able to continue on as we had a wonderful time with Big Al. We arrived at pool, (Bike route on 45th leads right across Boundary to pool area on edge of Central Park.), a few minutes before 10:00am, (RR's initial estimate was right on, although we probably would have been even earlier if not for concern over ice), a I did a bit of circling until our guide arrived. Took us on some of trails in Central Park and then we rode along bike path beside Sky Train, one we use to cycle to New West, then, near edge of MetroTown, cut across Kingsway, to find Sussex, (Quite a hill, let me tell you! Not sure if I'd like to ride up it as it is longer and steeper than UBC's Forshore Hill, steeper than Cariboo, as well, I think.), and then right into park around Deer Lake. Path was covered with leaves but fairly good traction and we did a bit of up and down before route leveled off.
Circuit around Deer Lake is gorgeous, much on attractive, raised boardwalk with metal mesh in middle so didn't really have to worry about ice, although exposed wood planking on each side looked fairly slippery. We took a short detour to ride around Shadbolt Centre and then finished circumnavigating lake, passing an attractive Arthur Erickson designed home, (now owned by Burnaby), on the south shore. More boardwalk and then a bit of dipsy-doodling to cross #1 via Kennsington Overpass and then, lo and behold, we discovered the lost link of The Central Valley Greenway! Big AL had never ridden it before so we set out for uncharted territory. Overall, a terrific surface, somewhat like stretches along Kent. Still some road construction at various intervening intersections but probably a most attractive and viable alternative to approach New West. Not far east of Boundary, path runs underneath Sky Train and we were soon crossing Broadway, a few blocks east of Commercial. Took route to Clarke Drive and then to 7th, past VCC and then back onto path on Great Northern Way to come out on Main, just down from Science World.
Left Whirlygig there, thanking him for leading the way, across the frozen wastes, into the wilds of Burnaby! (Really, really enjoyed getting to know more about Central Park and then Deer Lake, of course.) After we bid him adieu, Big Al and I proceeded on to Stanley Park. (I had suggested that he might take Sky Train home if he wanted to ride around SP.), as we had earlier decided we would.
Just before Plaza of Nations I indicated to Big Al that we would bear right and I went ahead of him. But a few seconds later I heard a very, very loud clang and turned back to see Big Molly being handed his canister-like metal water bottle. I assumed that he had collided with a pedestrian at that intersection, used by casino patrons, by and large. Next I heard someone else ask: "Are you alright?" I circled back to find a rueful Big Al inspecting the forks of his bike. As we pulled away I asked what had happened and was he injured or not. Rather embarrassed, he admitted that he had been looking at an oncoming sveltoid jogger in a bikini top and skin tight spandex and ran smack dab into one of the stanchions there. Impact certainly brought him back to reality and it is a considerable wonderment that he didn't sustain any serious damage, either to his steed or his cajones!
From then on, (until I waved goodbye, back at Science World), I pointed out each and every lamp pole, fire hydrant and hostile stanchion, cautioning him, as well, to avert his eyes when any curvaceous female jogger/in-line skater or cleavage exposed walker appeared on the path ahead! Fortunately, further catastrophic collisions were avoided and we enjoyed the Seawall, the calm ocean and the stunning, cut-out freighters set delightfully against the curve of the horizon, ("It's only a paper moon/hanging over a cardboard sea", running through my head), making our way back to Denman, past the grumpy flagwomen at the construction site that blocks the sidewalk there. As we dipsy-doodled through the barricades, Big Molly mentioned that The Cactus Club has taken over the English Bay Parks Board concession:
"Commissioners voted 6-1 in favour of the move, which will see Cactus Restaurants Ltd. pay $240,000 in annual rent—plus four percent of revenue over $4 million—to the Vancouver park board, according to a staff report.
Philip Josephs, manager of revenue services for the park board, told commissioners the board will retain ownership of the building, while the private corporation will own the fixtures and furniture, and pay the estimated $5-million cost of building a new two-level eatery. The establishment will also feature a concession with cheaper takeout items."
Needed Girorgio once back on the Seawall as we were beleaguered and beset by wedge after wedge, gaggle after gaggle, skein after skein of truculent, (seemingly deaf and dumb), guano excreting Canada Geese. Pathway was quite a bit more slippery, certainly more dangerous than ice rimed tarmac which brought you down! Having run the Goose Gauntlet without incident, (unless one counts our besmirched and befouled tires), we luxuriated in the glorious sunshine, the wind at our backs, and endured the agony of thawing extremities. Luckily, Big Molly still had certain, valuable extremities to thaw!!!
Left him in the care of Sky Train personnel and made my way for home, via 1st and then Lamey's Mill Road. Had decided I'd clock 10K more than Tuesday's ride so headed for Kits Point and Kits Pool. Debated whether I should keep going to UBC, weather was simply so beautiful, when I reached Cornwall, but decided I needed to be back in time to discharge the chores set out for me by none other than The Sisterhood. Back at Heartbreak Terrace Parkade with 81.33 on odometer, 2:30pm on chronometer, so a pretty good outing, in spite of spate of accidentos!
Went to The Penelopiad, with Flamin'/Sarge, at the Stanley, that evening. Popped by Festival House
before making our way to Granville as the VIWF Volunteer Appreciation Party was being held then as well. Slurped down a few free drinks before having to shell out heavy coin for anaemic malt at Intermission at Stanley! Quite enjoyed Atwood's feminist take on the story. However, I didn't feel that the songs which convey the plight and fate of Penelope's handmaidens were as powerful to they needed to be to illustrate, to do dramatic justice to the terrible situation, basically slavery, that was forced upon them. Of course, this is a potent, disturbing and more than legitimate metaphor for the condition of most of the world's female population, both historically and, dispiritingly, contemporarily. For my part, I think I like the book better, although I do believe the adaptation for the stage could be just as powerful, given reworked music/lyrics. Not that I could do better myself, of course, but it seems to me that the basic plot and perspective which Atwood has decided to deal with is fraught with so many highly charged, gripping dramatic possibilities that it is a time bomb, of nuclear proportions, just waiting to be detonated. This production didn't begin to realize that awesome potential. Still, being quite familiar with the Odyssey, I certainly enjoyed seeing it through Penelope's eyes and had to rethink my take on her her husband, in particular, and patriarchal society, in general. The Sisterhood never sleeps!!!
Cheers, Il Conductore!
HI Patrick, I'll pick it up during our next book club meeting. I'll bring
your brolly! Milton
Hi again, Generalissimo!
Exchange is on! Had a lovely meal with Flamin' and Sarge this evening, at their place. They had invited other two of their team from Thursday night league, along with spouses, so it was great good fun to get to know the other curlers they play with. Cheers, Patrizio!
The next meeting will be on Sunday, 27th November, at the Island Inn.
The book is Panicking Ralph, an early work by Bill James in his Harpur & Iles series (Pat). Mark will choose the book to follow the James. Milton has recommended Heart of Darkness (Conrad) to follow Mark’s choice. Hey Pat, Would very much have liked to join y'all yesterday, but duty called... I did cycle in to MEC today to get some cold-weather cycling tights, and was pleased with my time: 1:45 for the round trip via Central Valley Greenway and 10th Avenue. Awfully good of you to take the point with respect to spotting the sveltoid distractions for Alfonse. . I wonder which version of his encounter with the pole Colleen will hear? Susan and her women's group see Penelopiad this thursday - won't share your response to the piece 'till afterwards. I'm looking for a copy of Panickiking Ralph as BPL's sole copy has been purloined. Any suggestions? 8^) cheers, Mark Hi Marcus Aurelius! You are welcome to my copy of PR as soon as I'm finished with it. With any luck I'll be through with book by the end of this coming week, (Nov 10th), or perhaps sooner, and then you can have it until it is due on Nov 15th. Cheers, Patrizio! |
Patricio
Two comments:
the photo of the male model is out of focus--I noticed this as I
upped the magnification for a better look- whereas the female model is in
focus. Hmm what is going on here Patricio?
Your commentary on the event should be in the ...New Yorker or some
such publication. It is very funny and transportive.
Mary Q of S.
Hi Mary Q of S!
Thank you for your kind words! Perhaps you could be my literary agent! Just curious about the close scrutiny you exhibited with respect to male model! Perhaps the lady doth protest too much? Cheers, Il Conductore!
how about tackling the georgia straight? Send the one about the fashion
show. Agent orange (i have been chopping pumkins) M
Hi Agent Orange!
I like that moniker! We should do well in Viet Nam!
Had a lovely meal with Flamin' and Sarge this evening, at their place. They had invited other two of their team from Thursday night league, along with spouses, so it was great good fun to get to know the other curlers they play with. Cheers, Patrizio!
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Pat,
Quite the day. Sorry I missed it. Did get out in the afternoon up 16th to a tutoring job near Blanca. At least I fell off due to road conditions. I thought the distance would have been greater than 81K as you seem to have covered an enormous area. Must get those recipes to you so you have time to age the cake if you decide to make it. Sunday afternoon, about 1:30 or 2:00 is good for me. I could do morning but I have to be at UBC by 10:30.
Ray
Pat,
Hi Christmas Cake Maker Extraordinaire!
Thanks so much for the two recipes! Very much appreciated.
I'm happy to ride at 1:30pm, or thereabouts. Let me know where to meet and we'll take it from there.
Had a lovely meal with Flamin' and Sarge this evening, at their place. They had invited other two of their team from Thursday night league, along with spouses, so it was great good fun to get to know the other curlers they play with. Cheers, Patrizio!
Pat,
Christmas Cake Recipe No.1 (lady from UBC Food Services)
Peheat oven to 300
Combine the following in large pot
1 lb raisins
1 lb currants
1/2 lb chopped dates
1/2 lb chopped cherries
1/2 lb mixed fruit
1/2 lb chopped walnuts
2 cups water
1/2 lb butter
2 cups golden brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp cloves
1 tsp allspice
1 tsp vanilla
Bring to boil and simmer for 15 min.
Cool slightly
Combine
3 cups flour
2 tsp baking soda
Add this to the fruit mixture and mix well
Bake for approx 2 hours but test in center before removing from oven (an hour an three quarters has been enough for ours)
Use a 9 1/4 X 8 1/2 cookie tin to bake and line with foil
Ingredients from Weigh to Go on 41st near Dunbar
Allow to cool before adding 3 tbs brandy. Do this each week until Christmas.
Cake 2 (My mother's recipe)
1 lb flour ( 2 cups)
1 lb castor sugar
1 lb butter
2 lb currants
1/2 lb raisins
1/2 lb chopped peel
1/4 lb chopped almonds
1/4 pint brandy or sherry
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp mixed spice (nutmeg, maize, cinnamon)
8 eggs
Cream butter, sugar, and baking powder. Add beaten eggs alternatively with the flour. Add currants, raisins, peel, and brandy or sherry. Spoon into a greased tin. Bake at 300 for 2 -2.5 hours. Not sure of the exact time. you will need to check at reasonable intervals. According to my mother, this was a 50 year old recipe when she passed it along decades ago.
Hi Christmas Cake Maker Extraordinaire!
Thanks so much for the two recipes! Very much appreciated.
I'm happy to ride at 1:30pm, or thereabouts. Let me know where to meet and we'll take it from there.
Had a lovely meal with Flamin' and Sarge this evening, at their place. They had invited other two of their team from Thursday night league, along with spouses, so it was great good fun to get to know the other curlers they play with. Cheers, Patrizio!
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Compared to the drama of words, Hamlet is a light farce. -Anatoly Liberman, professor (b. 1937)
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