The Arcadian or Pastoral State
Art: Thomas Cole (1801-1848)
P,
Nice ridemanship, lad.
12:50 in the lobby.
Why don't you bring a couple pairs of 3D glasses -- if you have them? W
Hey, when will you be in HK? Want to come up here or me to visit you? R
The Sisterhood on the Seawall near us, close to GI Market.
Hi Randy!
We leave Vancouver on March 5th and arrive in HK on March 6th. Be wonderful if you could fly over! we are staying at the The Salisbury - YMCA of Hong Kong, 41 Salisbury Road, Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong:
Would love to visit Taiwan but not enough time this trip. Let us know if you think you can swing some time away from hiking!
Off to swim a couple of miles shortly and then going to see Hugo with Whirlygig. Cheers, Patrizzio!
We leave Vancouver on March 5th and arrive in HK on March 6th. Be wonderful if you could fly over! we are staying at the The Salisbury - YMCA of Hong Kong, 41 Salisbury Road, Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong:
Would love to visit Taiwan but not enough time this trip. Let us know if you think you can swing some time away from hiking!
Off to swim a couple of miles shortly and then going to see Hugo with Whirlygig. Cheers, Patrizzio!
Who are we, and when do you leave HK?
I have a friend visiting me from Mar. 1 to Mar. 8
Wait, that's April
Shit, you're going next week!
Hi again, Absent-Minded Professor!
Cora Lee and I Leave HK on March 11th, 7:00pm! Cheers, Patrizzio!
Cora Lee and I Leave HK on March 11th, 7:00pm! Cheers, Patrizzio!
Thanks for the hospitality --
I've tweaked the calendar and hefted the change purse, and it was almost
a go, but no dice in the end! Next time. Coming back from Australia
through the far east? I could show you a very good time! Randy
Might be worth knowing -
Hi Lads!
Thanks for article Raymondo:
For those who didn't receive original message:
Might be worth knowing -
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/healthnews/9110824/Cycling-increases-warning-signs-of-prostate-cancer.html
I suppose this is one reason why the peleton is so under-subscribed! Cheers,Il Conduttore!
Very good pictures, Mr. Dunn. You must be very busy
as the departure date nears but if you are available Saturday night, we'd be
delighted to have you and Corinne for dinner. Ray
Hi Patrick,
Many thanks for
sending on the photos. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves last Saturday
evening and were very pleased to meet Tina and Trevor, delightful
people!
Do thank Corinne as well and I am so happy her foot is coming along so well now.
As
Ray might have mentioned, you are both welcome to come up here for
dinner on Saturday evening if you don't have any other plans. You are
probably jam packed with engagements until you leave!
I got an email
from Pauline Carter, they really enjoyed their time at our Ohope cottage
and are continuing to have a pleasant NZ trip so far. best wishes, Sylvia
Hi Big Al and Marilyn!
Thanks again, ever so much, Al, for the simply wonderful relocation project! You should make up a sign, to go where license plate was formerly housed, letting passing motorists know where they can have their bike racks modified! I'm serious! I would only charge 49% commission on each transaction!!! (As well, I'm more than happy to report that just before I started this message Chloë brought in the mail and I had a reply from Provincial Court allowing me a hearing to dispute original ticket. Fault was all my own, (Ridiculous misunderstanding, on my part, about amount of time I had to file notice of dispute.), so I missed last filing date, (month from date of issue of ticket), and then had to file an appeal. Anyway, court clerk said, when I submitted appeal that court date, if granted, would probably be a least six months away so we'll be home for hols by then.)
Last Saturday evening I picked up our close friends Tina and Trevor Tassell, from Adelaide, who have been skiing near Kamloops for last month or so. They left for home on Sunday so we had invited Sylvia and Ray to join us for dinner. (Corinne and I will stay with TNT when we are there in March, along with Flamin' and Sarge.) Coriandre prepared a wonderful Japanese recipe for sliced pork. I did Yukon Gold potatoes, halved, on skewers, with a Dijon mustard/olive oil/fresh rosemary coating, broiled, and Her Majesty added fresh green beans, cherry tomatoes and feta, to the menu for vegetable dish.
Couple of white wines from BC's Okanagan Valley, 2009 Dunham Froese, Amicitia, (blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Viognier), 13%, pink grapefruit, tart, with a fine, spicy, lingering finish,
and a 2010 Sandhill Chardonnay, 14.5%, clean and fresh, tropical fruit and spice. First red was from Chile: 2009 Novas Carmenere/Cabernet, 14.5%. I'd never tasted this wine before so was really looking forward to it. Not disappointed in the least as it was gloriously intense, ripe strawberries and black pepper with subtle, well‐structured tannins. Need to pick up a few more bottles before we leave! Next red was from Argentina, 2008 Trivento Malbec, 14.5%. Had not had this particular vintage before but had quite liked earlier ones. Eucalyptus and blackberry, wonderfully jammy with a touch of black cherry sourness, impressive length.
Sylvia had brought along a divine crumble, apple with rhubarb, topped with rolled oats and brown sugar, for dessert, topped with French Vanilla ice cream. Even persuaded some of The Sisterhood to have a few snorts of single malt, Bunnahabhain's Darach Ur, 46%, sweet vanilla oak with dried fruits and a hint of cinnamon, as well as Auchentoshen's Three Wood, 43%, caramel and a little bit of sherry, touch of orange peel along with light, toasty oak fragrance. Lovely evening with wonderful friends.
We had a leisurely brunch on Sunday morning. Trevor and Cora Lee took a quick trip to the Market for turkey sausages while I sliced and fried mushrooms and onions. After breakfast TNT went back to Market while I worked on income tax returns. Very pleased to say that I have the bulk of all of them completed. It is now just a matter of waiting for some of the slips to arrive. Fortunately, Sarge will be back by April 22nd and he can file any returns for which I don't have all the necessary paperwork before we leave on March 5th. Since both Chloë and Coriandre will owe money, we wouldn't have submitted their returns until just before April 30th deadline anyway. Still, a big weight off my shoulders and I can now concentrate on packing!
As I mentioned above, I took TNT to the airport for 4:00pm and it wasn't quite as difficult to say goodbye knowing that we would see them again in a little less than a month. After embracing and waving goodbye I made for your place as you know. Have included description of Relocation Project, prototype for StanchionOmetre Mounting:
Close friend and cycling buddy, Big Al, had offered to move my rear license plate to the bottom of the car bicycle rack. All of this as a result of receiving a ticket, ($196), on January 11th for having an "Obstructed plate"! Won't go into the details but I was told by the motorcycle policewoman issuing ticket that if I took a picture of vehicle without rack and produced such evidence at court, fine would be waived. Since I want to leave rack on car, (storage/convenience, etc.), I had asked Big Al what he thought an easy solution might be.
Since regulations require that the rear license plate be illuminated, how to overcome this issue was crux of the problem. Al suggested that he tap into the wiring leading to right taillight and so that is jsut what he did. I arrived at 4:40pm and he set to work splicing the feed wire once he'd isolated it, (with a tester and probe), from a bundle of about eight other wires. Once he'd found source he cut it and spliced an extra length to each, to provide necessary "play". He is an extremely skilled craftsman and it was a pleasure to watch him work so quietly and efficiently as he soldered the extra, short lengths and then shrink-wrapped the joints to ensure they were further protected.
Space he had to work in was quite restricted so that added to difficulty of making the change. Nevertheless, once wire was prepared to accept splice, he threaded the extension cord he had affixed to the light housing, (This itself was an extremely efficient, small, waterproof plastic junction box, holding a readily available, replacement rear plate light bulb), into the trunk space, through an existing hole in the bottom of the tire jack compartment. I learned that vehicles routinely have such access points. Typically there is a rubber plug to keep out moisture and grit so Big Al simply removed it, made a small hole in the centre, large enough to accept the cord, and then the seal was intact once the plug was pushed back into place.
Once cord was in place Mr Infinite FX affixed lamp housing to rack and together we adjusted "play" to provide length of cord needed to allow rack to swivel to maximum opening limit. Once we'd determined this, Al zapped the cord with a number of plastic ties to keep it in place and then proceeded to finish the splice. Once he'd done this he even put a flexible covering over the wire bundle further protecting the wires he had had to expose in the first instance. This done, he asked me to turn on the running lights and Presto, it worked! Not that I didn't think it wouldn't but one is always aware that something can always go wrong.
Then, by the light of the new lamp, Big Al drilled into the base of the rack, firmly affixing the license plate to its new location. Once he'd zapped a few more ties on extension cord in storage compartment, both to keep it secure and away from tire jack and its housing, we collected tools he'd used and job was completed! Couldn't have been more pleased with the result. Another load off my shoulders as I have been dreading that I'd receive another ticket even though the reasoning behind handing one out seems ridiculous in the extreme. To some degree every bike rack obscures the plate yet I've never seen a single one with the license plated mounted, more or less, where Al had attached mine. Will report back once I've had my day in court, probably not for six months or so, according to clerk at Provincial Court with whom I chatted when I applied for a hearing! Such is the backlog!!!
After a quick visit with Colleen, I thanked Al again for such splendid roadside service and made for home, secure in the knowledge that my license plate was glowing, unobstructed for either infra-red cameras or the naked eye of an over-zealous traffic cop!
The calls are already coming in!!!
Back home by just after 7:00pm and Chloë's Oscar Party was in full swing. About fifteen guests, Clan Sutherland and hangers-on, a number of Chloë's girlfriends, (Katie brought Emma, her two-year old. She spent much of the time re-arranging all of the fridge magnets she could reach, spurred on by Sarge who had her running back and forth from where he was sitting to the kitchen to bring him another and then another and then another!), Joanne, (a neighbour who is living in a hotel for next month or so while her place is being torn apart after her washing machine leaked and ruined all the flooring, etc.), and Robbie, a former manager at The Urban Barn. He and Chloë are quite good friends, (He is married to Jason. Flamin' keeps telling her that she needs more male friends who are not gay!, and even traveled together in Europe in 2007 for a month or so. Wonderful potluck so a veritable feast: chicken wings, (Flamin'), Greek salad, (Coriandre), spanokopita, made with tofu for vegetarians, (Chloë), Joanne a large Tourtière, (In case you are not familiar with this dish it is, basically, a meat pie with a savory pork, beef, onion and spice filling.), delish pizzas, (Gaelen), innumerable dips, (one in particular, a spicy artichoke concoction, courtesy of Flamin', was dynamite), and all sorts of chips/crackers/various cheeses, etc., so perfect fare for the audience. On Saturday Chloë had baked a huge chocolate cake with a peanut butter/cocoa icing, (We were allowed to taste a few small pieces, before I took TNT to the airport, to make sure it was fit to be served!), Nicole brought some mouthwatering lemon/raspberry pastries and Flamin' her wonderful carrot cake. Plenty of dessert and fortunately, for me, loads of overlefts, so I'll be living like a king this coming week. Can hardly wait to have my next cup of coffee. Hard to choose which sweet I'll have so perhaps I'll settle for a small helping of each!!!
Missed you on Monday as Whirlygig and I were the only members of the peleton. Robo Ray retreated to the warmth of the gym!!! Giorgio rode by Heartbreak Terrace just before noon and we set off for Stanley Park. Simply glorious day although a touch coolish. Not much of a breeze so we were both quite comfortable once we got going. Giorgio nixed an up-and-over Lions Gate as he had to take his daughter, Amira, to dottore. A few weeks ago she broke a bone in her right hand when she landed awkwardly while playing Ultimate. She has tryouts for the National Team in mid-March so there is some concern that she may not be able to compete. She is a highly regarded, elite player so this is really an unfortunate turn of events, not only for her but also for the Canadian Team. Anyway, she was to have an x-ray so hope she is well on the mend.
This being the case, we stayed on the Seawall and were most delighted by the sandstone cliffs, near Siwash Rock, many of the surfaces covered with a thin film of ice, reflecting the sun to the extent it was almost like looking into a mirror, innumerable icicles hanging from exposed tree roots and small mounds of sand covering the bike path, the grains washed onto the Seawall by the melt water. Plenty of walkers and joggers enjoying the wonderful day. Quite few scantily clad, curvaceous, nubile and fetching stanchionnettes so perhaps it was just as well you were not along!!!
After we said goodbye on Point Grey and Macdonald, I decided I would take advantage of the incredible sunshine to try and log 100K, given the fact that the weather is not supposed to be cycling friendly for rest of week so I probably won't have another opportunity for such an extended ride. Although I headed out to UBC, along Spanish Banks,I wasn't sure what my destination would be after I reached campus. Along the way I thought that I might go all the way along Marine Drive to Granville to cross over Arthur Laing and then out to Iona. However, decided against that trek in favour of revisiting some of the routes around campus so cycled as far as the Musqueam Reserve. Took Crown into the reserve itself as I wanted to see how the new community center/gymnasium facility was progressing. Almost finished as far as I could tell.
Back up Crown to cross Marine Drive and then along it to Camosun, up Camosun to ride past St George's and then back down Crown to MD and then back towards UBC. I'd not ridden through Wesbrook Village in some time so was interested to see how construction there was proceeding. Two completely new building sites underway and two that had been little more than foundations are now two or three stories high.
Back down Wesbrook Mall to MD and then along to 16th, all the way to Tolmie and hen a short loop back to Blanca and then towards campus, again along 16th. By the time I was heading into the university on East Mall I had about 75K on the clock so I knew that I could, relatively easily, log at least 85K with a few dipsy-doodles/backings/forthings, so I proceeded to ride Main Mall all the way to the Rose Garden and then back to 16th. Down 16th for a short stint on MD and then up Stadium Road to travel west on West Mall as far as University Blvd. Turned around here and retraced my steps to MD and then along it to turn right back onto West Mall, just by the Museum of Anthropology. Few shorter dipsy-doodles along Main Mall and I was as 87K as I headed down NW Marine Drive to Spanish Banks.
Eagle perched atop one of the tall pines just beyond Newton Wynd, so I took this as a good omen! In fact, I felt remarkably fresh. Probably had more to do with not having had any exercise since Friday than anything else. Nevertheless, I whizzed along, the wind at my back now, and made Kits Point with 97.5K on the clock, necessitating another side loop onto Cypress before making for home. More than chuffed with exhilarating outing, I pulled up next to the unisex, uninspiring stanchion near the parkade gate with exactly, precisely 101.33K on the Deadly Odometer, Dear Reader!
Thanks again for all your hard work, Al. Trust everyone has a great time in LA! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!
Pics: Saturday night's gathering: Flamin'; Sylvia/Trevor; Ray/Chloë; Sarge; Cora Lee; Tina; latest of Pierre!
Hi Champagne!
Did you watch
the Oscars? Chloë hosted an Oscar Party, about fifteen guests, Clan
Sutherland and hangers-on, a number of Chloë's girlfriends, (Katie
brought Emma, her two-year old. She spent much of the time re-arranging
all of the fridge magnets she could reach, spurred on by Sarge who had
her running back and forth from where he was sitting to the kitchen to
bring him another and then another and then another!), Joanne, (a
neighbour who is living in a hotel for next month or so while her place
is being torn apart after her washing machine leaked and ruined all the
flooring, etc.), and Robbie, a former manager at The Urban Barn. He and
Chloë are quite good friends, (He is married to Jason. Flamin' keeps
telling her that she needs more male friends who are not gay!), and even
traveled together in Europe in 2007 for a month or so.
Wonderful
potluck so a veritable feast: chicken wings, (Flamin'), Greek salad,
(Coriandre), spanokopita, made with tofu for vegetarians, (Chloë),
Joanne a large Tourtière, (In case you are not familiar with this dish
it is, basically, a meat pie with a savory pork, beef, onion and spice
filling.), delish pizzas, (Gaelen), innumerable dips, (one in
particular, a spicy artichoke concoction, courtesy of Flamin', was
dynamite), and all sorts of chips/crackers/various cheeses, etc., so
perfect fare for the audience. On Saturday Chloë had baked a huge
chocolate cake with a peanut butter/cocoa icing, (We were allowed to
taste a few small pieces, before I took TNT to the airport, to make sure
it was fit to be served!), Nicole brought some mouthwatering
lemon/raspberry pastries and Flamin' her wonderful carrot cake. Plenty
of dessert and fortunately, for me, loads of overlefts, so I'll be
living like a king this coming week. Can hardly wait to have my next cup
of coffee. Hard to choose which sweet I'll have so perhaps I'll settle
for a small helping of each!!! Cheers, Patrizzio!
Hi Patrizio!
Interesting that
Susannah insisted on seeing The Artist on Saturday night, which we did.
It was a date night because we also went to Milestones for a delicious
dinner and glass of wine. Thoroughly enjoyed it, and after seeing it, we
both predicted it would win the big one. (Along with all the other
prognosticators) Also interesting that I am old enough to actually
remember movies' intro credits looking like this long ago. Amazing that a
silent b & w movie won! Uggie the dog was the real scene stealer !
Are
you all packed yet. Even I wouldn't know how to pack for such a long
trip. Perhaps you will provide tips on what works when you return so
that we can prepare for our round the world cruise! Charlie
Hi Champagne!
"It was clear as mud/But it covered the ground/The confusion made me head go round!"
Anyway, thanks for latest re-working of insurance! With respect to packing, the secret is just to fill your suitcase with $100 bills! Will be in touch while "on the road"! My suitcase is calling!!! No sorry, "shouting"!!! Thanks again for your help and support. Best wishes for now to O Susannah and you. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!
Thanks for article Raymondo:
For those who didn't receive original message:
Might be worth knowing -
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/healthnews/9110824/Cycling-increases-warning-signs-of-prostate-cancer.html
I suppose this is one reason why the peleton is so under-subscribed! Cheers,Il Conduttore!
Very good pictures, Mr. Dunn. You must be very busy
as the departure date nears but if you are available Saturday night, we'd be
delighted to have you and Corinne for dinner. Ray
Hi Patrick,
Many thanks for sending on the photos. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves last Saturday evening and were very pleased to meet Tina and Trevor, delightful people!
Do thank Corinne as well and I am so happy her foot is coming along so well now.
As Ray might have mentioned, you are both welcome to come up here for dinner on Saturday evening if you don't have any other plans. You are probably jam packed with engagements until you leave!
Many thanks for sending on the photos. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves last Saturday evening and were very pleased to meet Tina and Trevor, delightful people!
Do thank Corinne as well and I am so happy her foot is coming along so well now.
As Ray might have mentioned, you are both welcome to come up here for dinner on Saturday evening if you don't have any other plans. You are probably jam packed with engagements until you leave!
I got an email
from Pauline Carter, they really enjoyed their time at our Ohope cottage
and are continuing to have a pleasant NZ trip so far. best wishes, Sylvia
Hi Big Al and Marilyn!
Thanks again, ever so much, Al, for the simply wonderful relocation project! You should make up a sign, to go where license plate was formerly housed, letting passing motorists know where they can have their bike racks modified! I'm serious! I would only charge 49% commission on each transaction!!! (As well, I'm more than happy to report that just before I started this message Chloë brought in the mail and I had a reply from Provincial Court allowing me a hearing to dispute original ticket. Fault was all my own, (Ridiculous misunderstanding, on my part, about amount of time I had to file notice of dispute.), so I missed last filing date, (month from date of issue of ticket), and then had to file an appeal. Anyway, court clerk said, when I submitted appeal that court date, if granted, would probably be a least six months away so we'll be home for hols by then.)
Last Saturday evening I picked up our close friends Tina and Trevor Tassell, from Adelaide, who have been skiing near Kamloops for last month or so. They left for home on Sunday so we had invited Sylvia and Ray to join us for dinner. (Corinne and I will stay with TNT when we are there in March, along with Flamin' and Sarge.) Coriandre prepared a wonderful Japanese recipe for sliced pork. I did Yukon Gold potatoes, halved, on skewers, with a Dijon mustard/olive oil/fresh rosemary coating, broiled, and Her Majesty added fresh green beans, cherry tomatoes and feta, to the menu for vegetable dish.
Couple of white wines from BC's Okanagan Valley, 2009 Dunham Froese, Amicitia, (blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Viognier), 13%, pink grapefruit, tart, with a fine, spicy, lingering finish,
and a 2010 Sandhill Chardonnay, 14.5%, clean and fresh, tropical fruit and spice. First red was from Chile: 2009 Novas Carmenere/Cabernet, 14.5%. I'd never tasted this wine before so was really looking forward to it. Not disappointed in the least as it was gloriously intense, ripe strawberries and black pepper with subtle, well‐structured tannins. Need to pick up a few more bottles before we leave! Next red was from Argentina, 2008 Trivento Malbec, 14.5%. Had not had this particular vintage before but had quite liked earlier ones. Eucalyptus and blackberry, wonderfully jammy with a touch of black cherry sourness, impressive length.
Sylvia had brought along a divine crumble, apple with rhubarb, topped with rolled oats and brown sugar, for dessert, topped with French Vanilla ice cream. Even persuaded some of The Sisterhood to have a few snorts of single malt, Bunnahabhain's Darach Ur, 46%, sweet vanilla oak with dried fruits and a hint of cinnamon, as well as Auchentoshen's Three Wood, 43%, caramel and a little bit of sherry, touch of orange peel along with light, toasty oak fragrance. Lovely evening with wonderful friends.
We had a leisurely brunch on Sunday morning. Trevor and Cora Lee took a quick trip to the Market for turkey sausages while I sliced and fried mushrooms and onions. After breakfast TNT went back to Market while I worked on income tax returns. Very pleased to say that I have the bulk of all of them completed. It is now just a matter of waiting for some of the slips to arrive. Fortunately, Sarge will be back by April 22nd and he can file any returns for which I don't have all the necessary paperwork before we leave on March 5th. Since both Chloë and Coriandre will owe money, we wouldn't have submitted their returns until just before April 30th deadline anyway. Still, a big weight off my shoulders and I can now concentrate on packing!
As I mentioned above, I took TNT to the airport for 4:00pm and it wasn't quite as difficult to say goodbye knowing that we would see them again in a little less than a month. After embracing and waving goodbye I made for your place as you know. Have included description of Relocation Project, prototype for StanchionOmetre Mounting:
Close friend and cycling buddy, Big Al, had offered to move my rear license plate to the bottom of the car bicycle rack. All of this as a result of receiving a ticket, ($196), on January 11th for having an "Obstructed plate"! Won't go into the details but I was told by the motorcycle policewoman issuing ticket that if I took a picture of vehicle without rack and produced such evidence at court, fine would be waived. Since I want to leave rack on car, (storage/convenience, etc.), I had asked Big Al what he thought an easy solution might be.
Since regulations require that the rear license plate be illuminated, how to overcome this issue was crux of the problem. Al suggested that he tap into the wiring leading to right taillight and so that is jsut what he did. I arrived at 4:40pm and he set to work splicing the feed wire once he'd isolated it, (with a tester and probe), from a bundle of about eight other wires. Once he'd found source he cut it and spliced an extra length to each, to provide necessary "play". He is an extremely skilled craftsman and it was a pleasure to watch him work so quietly and efficiently as he soldered the extra, short lengths and then shrink-wrapped the joints to ensure they were further protected.
Space he had to work in was quite restricted so that added to difficulty of making the change. Nevertheless, once wire was prepared to accept splice, he threaded the extension cord he had affixed to the light housing, (This itself was an extremely efficient, small, waterproof plastic junction box, holding a readily available, replacement rear plate light bulb), into the trunk space, through an existing hole in the bottom of the tire jack compartment. I learned that vehicles routinely have such access points. Typically there is a rubber plug to keep out moisture and grit so Big Al simply removed it, made a small hole in the centre, large enough to accept the cord, and then the seal was intact once the plug was pushed back into place.
Once cord was in place Mr Infinite FX affixed lamp housing to rack and together we adjusted "play" to provide length of cord needed to allow rack to swivel to maximum opening limit. Once we'd determined this, Al zapped the cord with a number of plastic ties to keep it in place and then proceeded to finish the splice. Once he'd done this he even put a flexible covering over the wire bundle further protecting the wires he had had to expose in the first instance. This done, he asked me to turn on the running lights and Presto, it worked! Not that I didn't think it wouldn't but one is always aware that something can always go wrong.
Then, by the light of the new lamp, Big Al drilled into the base of the rack, firmly affixing the license plate to its new location. Once he'd zapped a few more ties on extension cord in storage compartment, both to keep it secure and away from tire jack and its housing, we collected tools he'd used and job was completed! Couldn't have been more pleased with the result. Another load off my shoulders as I have been dreading that I'd receive another ticket even though the reasoning behind handing one out seems ridiculous in the extreme. To some degree every bike rack obscures the plate yet I've never seen a single one with the license plated mounted, more or less, where Al had attached mine. Will report back once I've had my day in court, probably not for six months or so, according to clerk at Provincial Court with whom I chatted when I applied for a hearing! Such is the backlog!!!
After a quick visit with Colleen, I thanked Al again for such splendid roadside service and made for home, secure in the knowledge that my license plate was glowing, unobstructed for either infra-red cameras or the naked eye of an over-zealous traffic cop!
The calls are already coming in!!!
Back home by just after 7:00pm and Chloë's Oscar Party was in full swing. About fifteen guests, Clan Sutherland and hangers-on, a number of Chloë's girlfriends, (Katie brought Emma, her two-year old. She spent much of the time re-arranging all of the fridge magnets she could reach, spurred on by Sarge who had her running back and forth from where he was sitting to the kitchen to bring him another and then another and then another!), Joanne, (a neighbour who is living in a hotel for next month or so while her place is being torn apart after her washing machine leaked and ruined all the flooring, etc.), and Robbie, a former manager at The Urban Barn. He and Chloë are quite good friends, (He is married to Jason. Flamin' keeps telling her that she needs more male friends who are not gay!, and even traveled together in Europe in 2007 for a month or so. Wonderful potluck so a veritable feast: chicken wings, (Flamin'), Greek salad, (Coriandre), spanokopita, made with tofu for vegetarians, (Chloë), Joanne a large Tourtière, (In case you are not familiar with this dish it is, basically, a meat pie with a savory pork, beef, onion and spice filling.), delish pizzas, (Gaelen), innumerable dips, (one in particular, a spicy artichoke concoction, courtesy of Flamin', was dynamite), and all sorts of chips/crackers/various cheeses, etc., so perfect fare for the audience. On Saturday Chloë had baked a huge chocolate cake with a peanut butter/cocoa icing, (We were allowed to taste a few small pieces, before I took TNT to the airport, to make sure it was fit to be served!), Nicole brought some mouthwatering lemon/raspberry pastries and Flamin' her wonderful carrot cake. Plenty of dessert and fortunately, for me, loads of overlefts, so I'll be living like a king this coming week. Can hardly wait to have my next cup of coffee. Hard to choose which sweet I'll have so perhaps I'll settle for a small helping of each!!!
Missed you on Monday as Whirlygig and I were the only members of the peleton. Robo Ray retreated to the warmth of the gym!!! Giorgio rode by Heartbreak Terrace just before noon and we set off for Stanley Park. Simply glorious day although a touch coolish. Not much of a breeze so we were both quite comfortable once we got going. Giorgio nixed an up-and-over Lions Gate as he had to take his daughter, Amira, to dottore. A few weeks ago she broke a bone in her right hand when she landed awkwardly while playing Ultimate. She has tryouts for the National Team in mid-March so there is some concern that she may not be able to compete. She is a highly regarded, elite player so this is really an unfortunate turn of events, not only for her but also for the Canadian Team. Anyway, she was to have an x-ray so hope she is well on the mend.
This being the case, we stayed on the Seawall and were most delighted by the sandstone cliffs, near Siwash Rock, many of the surfaces covered with a thin film of ice, reflecting the sun to the extent it was almost like looking into a mirror, innumerable icicles hanging from exposed tree roots and small mounds of sand covering the bike path, the grains washed onto the Seawall by the melt water. Plenty of walkers and joggers enjoying the wonderful day. Quite few scantily clad, curvaceous, nubile and fetching stanchionnettes so perhaps it was just as well you were not along!!!
After we said goodbye on Point Grey and Macdonald, I decided I would take advantage of the incredible sunshine to try and log 100K, given the fact that the weather is not supposed to be cycling friendly for rest of week so I probably won't have another opportunity for such an extended ride. Although I headed out to UBC, along Spanish Banks,I wasn't sure what my destination would be after I reached campus. Along the way I thought that I might go all the way along Marine Drive to Granville to cross over Arthur Laing and then out to Iona. However, decided against that trek in favour of revisiting some of the routes around campus so cycled as far as the Musqueam Reserve. Took Crown into the reserve itself as I wanted to see how the new community center/gymnasium facility was progressing. Almost finished as far as I could tell.
Back up Crown to cross Marine Drive and then along it to Camosun, up Camosun to ride past St George's and then back down Crown to MD and then back towards UBC. I'd not ridden through Wesbrook Village in some time so was interested to see how construction there was proceeding. Two completely new building sites underway and two that had been little more than foundations are now two or three stories high.
Back down Wesbrook Mall to MD and then along to 16th, all the way to Tolmie and hen a short loop back to Blanca and then towards campus, again along 16th. By the time I was heading into the university on East Mall I had about 75K on the clock so I knew that I could, relatively easily, log at least 85K with a few dipsy-doodles/backings/forthings, so I proceeded to ride Main Mall all the way to the Rose Garden and then back to 16th. Down 16th for a short stint on MD and then up Stadium Road to travel west on West Mall as far as University Blvd. Turned around here and retraced my steps to MD and then along it to turn right back onto West Mall, just by the Museum of Anthropology. Few shorter dipsy-doodles along Main Mall and I was as 87K as I headed down NW Marine Drive to Spanish Banks.
Eagle perched atop one of the tall pines just beyond Newton Wynd, so I took this as a good omen! In fact, I felt remarkably fresh. Probably had more to do with not having had any exercise since Friday than anything else. Nevertheless, I whizzed along, the wind at my back now, and made Kits Point with 97.5K on the clock, necessitating another side loop onto Cypress before making for home. More than chuffed with exhilarating outing, I pulled up next to the unisex, uninspiring stanchion near the parkade gate with exactly, precisely 101.33K on the Deadly Odometer, Dear Reader!
Thanks again for all your hard work, Al. Trust everyone has a great time in LA! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!
Pics: Saturday night's gathering: Flamin'; Sylvia/Trevor; Ray/Chloë; Sarge; Cora Lee; Tina; latest of Pierre!
Hi Champagne!
Did you watch the Oscars? Chloë hosted an Oscar Party, about fifteen guests, Clan Sutherland and hangers-on, a number of Chloë's girlfriends, (Katie brought Emma, her two-year old. She spent much of the time re-arranging all of the fridge magnets she could reach, spurred on by Sarge who had her running back and forth from where he was sitting to the kitchen to bring him another and then another and then another!), Joanne, (a neighbour who is living in a hotel for next month or so while her place is being torn apart after her washing machine leaked and ruined all the flooring, etc.), and Robbie, a former manager at The Urban Barn. He and Chloë are quite good friends, (He is married to Jason. Flamin' keeps telling her that she needs more male friends who are not gay!), and even traveled together in Europe in 2007 for a month or so.
Wonderful potluck so a veritable feast: chicken wings, (Flamin'), Greek salad, (Coriandre), spanokopita, made with tofu for vegetarians, (Chloë), Joanne a large Tourtière, (In case you are not familiar with this dish it is, basically, a meat pie with a savory pork, beef, onion and spice filling.), delish pizzas, (Gaelen), innumerable dips, (one in particular, a spicy artichoke concoction, courtesy of Flamin', was dynamite), and all sorts of chips/crackers/various cheeses, etc., so perfect fare for the audience. On Saturday Chloë had baked a huge chocolate cake with a peanut butter/cocoa icing, (We were allowed to taste a few small pieces, before I took TNT to the airport, to make sure it was fit to be served!), Nicole brought some mouthwatering lemon/raspberry pastries and Flamin' her wonderful carrot cake. Plenty of dessert and fortunately, for me, loads of overlefts, so I'll be living like a king this coming week. Can hardly wait to have my next cup of coffee. Hard to choose which sweet I'll have so perhaps I'll settle for a small helping of each!!! Cheers, Patrizzio!
Hi Patrizio!
Interesting that Susannah insisted on seeing The Artist on Saturday night, which we did. It was a date night because we also went to Milestones for a delicious dinner and glass of wine. Thoroughly enjoyed it, and after seeing it, we both predicted it would win the big one. (Along with all the other prognosticators) Also interesting that I am old enough to actually remember movies' intro credits looking like this long ago. Amazing that a silent b & w movie won! Uggie the dog was the real scene stealer !
Are you all packed yet. Even I wouldn't know how to pack for such a long trip. Perhaps you will provide tips on what works when you return so that we can prepare for our round the world cruise! Charlie
Hi Champagne!
"It was clear as mud/But it covered the ground/The confusion made me head go round!"
Anyway, thanks for latest re-working of insurance! With respect to packing, the secret is just to fill your suitcase with $100 bills! Will be in touch while "on the road"! My suitcase is calling!!! No sorry, "shouting"!!! Thanks again for your help and support. Best wishes for now to O Susannah and you. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!
Thanks again, ever so much, Al, for the simply wonderful relocation project! You should make up a sign, to go where license plate was formerly housed, letting passing motorists know where they can have their bike racks modified! I'm serious! I would only charge 49% commission on each transaction!!! (As well, I'm more than happy to report that just before I started this message Chloë brought in the mail and I had a reply from Provincial Court allowing me a hearing to dispute original ticket. Fault was all my own, (Ridiculous misunderstanding, on my part, about amount of time I had to file notice of dispute.), so I missed last filing date, (month from date of issue of ticket), and then had to file an appeal. Anyway, court clerk said, when I submitted appeal that court date, if granted, would probably be a least six months away so we'll be home for hols by then.)
Last Saturday evening I picked up our close friends Tina and Trevor Tassell, from Adelaide, who have been skiing near Kamloops for last month or so. They left for home on Sunday so we had invited Sylvia and Ray to join us for dinner. (Corinne and I will stay with TNT when we are there in March, along with Flamin' and Sarge.) Coriandre prepared a wonderful Japanese recipe for sliced pork. I did Yukon Gold potatoes, halved, on skewers, with a Dijon mustard/olive oil/fresh rosemary coating, broiled, and Her Majesty added fresh green beans, cherry tomatoes and feta, to the menu for vegetable dish.
Couple of white wines from BC's Okanagan Valley, 2009 Dunham Froese, Amicitia, (blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Viognier), 13%, pink grapefruit, tart, with a fine, spicy, lingering finish,
and a 2010 Sandhill Chardonnay, 14.5%, clean and fresh, tropical fruit and spice. First red was from Chile: 2009 Novas Carmenere/Cabernet, 14.5%. I'd never tasted this wine before so was really looking forward to it. Not disappointed in the least as it was gloriously intense, ripe strawberries and black pepper with subtle, well‐structured tannins. Need to pick up a few more bottles before we leave! Next red was from Argentina, 2008 Trivento Malbec, 14.5%. Had not had this particular vintage before but had quite liked earlier ones. Eucalyptus and blackberry, wonderfully jammy with a touch of black cherry sourness, impressive length.
Sylvia had brought along a divine crumble, apple with rhubarb, topped with rolled oats and brown sugar, for dessert, topped with French Vanilla ice cream. Even persuaded some of The Sisterhood to have a few snorts of single malt, Bunnahabhain's Darach Ur, 46%, sweet vanilla oak with dried fruits and a hint of cinnamon, as well as Auchentoshen's Three Wood, 43%, caramel and a little bit of sherry, touch of orange peel along with light, toasty oak fragrance. Lovely evening with wonderful friends.
We had a leisurely brunch on Sunday morning. Trevor and Cora Lee took a quick trip to the Market for turkey sausages while I sliced and fried mushrooms and onions. After breakfast TNT went back to Market while I worked on income tax returns. Very pleased to say that I have the bulk of all of them completed. It is now just a matter of waiting for some of the slips to arrive. Fortunately, Sarge will be back by April 22nd and he can file any returns for which I don't have all the necessary paperwork before we leave on March 5th. Since both Chloë and Coriandre will owe money, we wouldn't have submitted their returns until just before April 30th deadline anyway. Still, a big weight off my shoulders and I can now concentrate on packing!
As I mentioned above, I took TNT to the airport for 4:00pm and it wasn't quite as difficult to say goodbye knowing that we would see them again in a little less than a month. After embracing and waving goodbye I made for your place as you know. Have included description of Relocation Project, prototype for StanchionOmetre Mounting:
Close friend and cycling buddy, Big Al, had offered to move my rear license plate to the bottom of the car bicycle rack. All of this as a result of receiving a ticket, ($196), on January 11th for having an "Obstructed plate"! Won't go into the details but I was told by the motorcycle policewoman issuing ticket that if I took a picture of vehicle without rack and produced such evidence at court, fine would be waived. Since I want to leave rack on car, (storage/convenience, etc.), I had asked Big Al what he thought an easy solution might be.
Since regulations require that the rear license plate be illuminated, how to overcome this issue was crux of the problem. Al suggested that he tap into the wiring leading to right taillight and so that is jsut what he did. I arrived at 4:40pm and he set to work splicing the feed wire once he'd isolated it, (with a tester and probe), from a bundle of about eight other wires. Once he'd found source he cut it and spliced an extra length to each, to provide necessary "play". He is an extremely skilled craftsman and it was a pleasure to watch him work so quietly and efficiently as he soldered the extra, short lengths and then shrink-wrapped the joints to ensure they were further protected.
Space he had to work in was quite restricted so that added to difficulty of making the change. Nevertheless, once wire was prepared to accept splice, he threaded the extension cord he had affixed to the light housing, (This itself was an extremely efficient, small, waterproof plastic junction box, holding a readily available, replacement rear plate light bulb), into the trunk space, through an existing hole in the bottom of the tire jack compartment. I learned that vehicles routinely have such access points. Typically there is a rubber plug to keep out moisture and grit so Big Al simply removed it, made a small hole in the centre, large enough to accept the cord, and then the seal was intact once the plug was pushed back into place.
Once cord was in place Mr Infinite FX affixed lamp housing to rack and together we adjusted "play" to provide length of cord needed to allow rack to swivel to maximum opening limit. Once we'd determined this, Al zapped the cord with a number of plastic ties to keep it in place and then proceeded to finish the splice. Once he'd done this he even put a flexible covering over the wire bundle further protecting the wires he had had to expose in the first instance. This done, he asked me to turn on the running lights and Presto, it worked! Not that I didn't think it wouldn't but one is always aware that something can always go wrong.
Then, by the light of the new lamp, Big Al drilled into the base of the rack, firmly affixing the license plate to its new location. Once he'd zapped a few more ties on extension cord in storage compartment, both to keep it secure and away from tire jack and its housing, we collected tools he'd used and job was completed! Couldn't have been more pleased with the result. Another load off my shoulders as I have been dreading that I'd receive another ticket even though the reasoning behind handing one out seems ridiculous in the extreme. To some degree every bike rack obscures the plate yet I've never seen a single one with the license plated mounted, more or less, where Al had attached mine. Will report back once I've had my day in court, probably not for six months or so, according to clerk at Provincial Court with whom I chatted when I applied for a hearing! Such is the backlog!!!
After a quick visit with Colleen, I thanked Al again for such splendid roadside service and made for home, secure in the knowledge that my license plate was glowing, unobstructed for either infra-red cameras or the naked eye of an over-zealous traffic cop!
The calls are already coming in!!!
Back home by just after 7:00pm and Chloë's Oscar Party was in full swing. About fifteen guests, Clan Sutherland and hangers-on, a number of Chloë's girlfriends, (Katie brought Emma, her two-year old. She spent much of the time re-arranging all of the fridge magnets she could reach, spurred on by Sarge who had her running back and forth from where he was sitting to the kitchen to bring him another and then another and then another!), Joanne, (a neighbour who is living in a hotel for next month or so while her place is being torn apart after her washing machine leaked and ruined all the flooring, etc.), and Robbie, a former manager at The Urban Barn. He and Chloë are quite good friends, (He is married to Jason. Flamin' keeps telling her that she needs more male friends who are not gay!, and even traveled together in Europe in 2007 for a month or so. Wonderful potluck so a veritable feast: chicken wings, (Flamin'), Greek salad, (Coriandre), spanokopita, made with tofu for vegetarians, (Chloë), Joanne a large Tourtière, (In case you are not familiar with this dish it is, basically, a meat pie with a savory pork, beef, onion and spice filling.), delish pizzas, (Gaelen), innumerable dips, (one in particular, a spicy artichoke concoction, courtesy of Flamin', was dynamite), and all sorts of chips/crackers/various cheeses, etc., so perfect fare for the audience. On Saturday Chloë had baked a huge chocolate cake with a peanut butter/cocoa icing, (We were allowed to taste a few small pieces, before I took TNT to the airport, to make sure it was fit to be served!), Nicole brought some mouthwatering lemon/raspberry pastries and Flamin' her wonderful carrot cake. Plenty of dessert and fortunately, for me, loads of overlefts, so I'll be living like a king this coming week. Can hardly wait to have my next cup of coffee. Hard to choose which sweet I'll have so perhaps I'll settle for a small helping of each!!!
Missed you on Monday as Whirlygig and I were the only members of the peleton. Robo Ray retreated to the warmth of the gym!!! Giorgio rode by Heartbreak Terrace just before noon and we set off for Stanley Park. Simply glorious day although a touch coolish. Not much of a breeze so we were both quite comfortable once we got going. Giorgio nixed an up-and-over Lions Gate as he had to take his daughter, Amira, to dottore. A few weeks ago she broke a bone in her right hand when she landed awkwardly while playing Ultimate. She has tryouts for the National Team in mid-March so there is some concern that she may not be able to compete. She is a highly regarded, elite player so this is really an unfortunate turn of events, not only for her but also for the Canadian Team. Anyway, she was to have an x-ray so hope she is well on the mend.
This being the case, we stayed on the Seawall and were most delighted by the sandstone cliffs, near Siwash Rock, many of the surfaces covered with a thin film of ice, reflecting the sun to the extent it was almost like looking into a mirror, innumerable icicles hanging from exposed tree roots and small mounds of sand covering the bike path, the grains washed onto the Seawall by the melt water. Plenty of walkers and joggers enjoying the wonderful day. Quite few scantily clad, curvaceous, nubile and fetching stanchionnettes so perhaps it was just as well you were not along!!!
After we said goodbye on Point Grey and Macdonald, I decided I would take advantage of the incredible sunshine to try and log 100K, given the fact that the weather is not supposed to be cycling friendly for rest of week so I probably won't have another opportunity for such an extended ride. Although I headed out to UBC, along Spanish Banks,I wasn't sure what my destination would be after I reached campus. Along the way I thought that I might go all the way along Marine Drive to Granville to cross over Arthur Laing and then out to Iona. However, decided against that trek in favour of revisiting some of the routes around campus so cycled as far as the Musqueam Reserve. Took Crown into the reserve itself as I wanted to see how the new community center/gymnasium facility was progressing. Almost finished as far as I could tell.
Back up Crown to cross Marine Drive and then along it to Camosun, up Camosun to ride past St George's and then back down Crown to MD and then back towards UBC. I'd not ridden through Wesbrook Village in some time so was interested to see how construction there was proceeding. Two completely new building sites underway and two that had been little more than foundations are now two or three stories high.
Back down Wesbrook Mall to MD and then along to 16th, all the way to Tolmie and hen a short loop back to Blanca and then towards campus, again along 16th. By the time I was heading into the university on East Mall I had about 75K on the clock so I knew that I could, relatively easily, log at least 85K with a few dipsy-doodles/backings/forthings, so I proceeded to ride Main Mall all the way to the Rose Garden and then back to 16th. Down 16th for a short stint on MD and then up Stadium Road to travel west on West Mall as far as University Blvd. Turned around here and retraced my steps to MD and then along it to turn right back onto West Mall, just by the Museum of Anthropology. Few shorter dipsy-doodles along Main Mall and I was as 87K as I headed down NW Marine Drive to Spanish Banks.
Eagle perched atop one of the tall pines just beyond Newton Wynd, so I took this as a good omen! In fact, I felt remarkably fresh. Probably had more to do with not having had any exercise since Friday than anything else. Nevertheless, I whizzed along, the wind at my back now, and made Kits Point with 97.5K on the clock, necessitating another side loop onto Cypress before making for home. More than chuffed with exhilarating outing, I pulled up next to the unisex, uninspiring stanchion near the parkade gate with exactly, precisely 101.33K on the Deadly Odometer, Dear Reader!
Thanks again for all your hard work, Al. Trust everyone has a great time in LA! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!
Pics: Saturday night's gathering: Flamin'; Sylvia/Trevor; Ray/Chloë; Sarge; Cora Lee; Tina; latest of Pierre!
Hi Champagne!
Did you watch the Oscars? Chloë hosted an Oscar Party, about fifteen guests, Clan Sutherland and hangers-on, a number of Chloë's girlfriends, (Katie brought Emma, her two-year old. She spent much of the time re-arranging all of the fridge magnets she could reach, spurred on by Sarge who had her running back and forth from where he was sitting to the kitchen to bring him another and then another and then another!), Joanne, (a neighbour who is living in a hotel for next month or so while her place is being torn apart after her washing machine leaked and ruined all the flooring, etc.), and Robbie, a former manager at The Urban Barn. He and Chloë are quite good friends, (He is married to Jason. Flamin' keeps telling her that she needs more male friends who are not gay!), and even traveled together in Europe in 2007 for a month or so.
Wonderful potluck so a veritable feast: chicken wings, (Flamin'), Greek salad, (Coriandre), spanokopita, made with tofu for vegetarians, (Chloë), Joanne a large Tourtière, (In case you are not familiar with this dish it is, basically, a meat pie with a savory pork, beef, onion and spice filling.), delish pizzas, (Gaelen), innumerable dips, (one in particular, a spicy artichoke concoction, courtesy of Flamin', was dynamite), and all sorts of chips/crackers/various cheeses, etc., so perfect fare for the audience. On Saturday Chloë had baked a huge chocolate cake with a peanut butter/cocoa icing, (We were allowed to taste a few small pieces, before I took TNT to the airport, to make sure it was fit to be served!), Nicole brought some mouthwatering lemon/raspberry pastries and Flamin' her wonderful carrot cake. Plenty of dessert and fortunately, for me, loads of overlefts, so I'll be living like a king this coming week. Can hardly wait to have my next cup of coffee. Hard to choose which sweet I'll have so perhaps I'll settle for a small helping of each!!! Cheers, Patrizzio!
Hi Patrizio!
Interesting that Susannah insisted on seeing The Artist on Saturday night, which we did. It was a date night because we also went to Milestones for a delicious dinner and glass of wine. Thoroughly enjoyed it, and after seeing it, we both predicted it would win the big one. (Along with all the other prognosticators) Also interesting that I am old enough to actually remember movies' intro credits looking like this long ago. Amazing that a silent b & w movie won! Uggie the dog was the real scene stealer !
Are you all packed yet. Even I wouldn't know how to pack for such a long trip. Perhaps you will provide tips on what works when you return so that we can prepare for our round the world cruise! Charlie
Hi Champagne!
"It was clear as mud/But it covered the ground/The confusion made me head go round!"
Anyway, thanks for latest re-working of insurance! With respect to packing, the secret is just to fill your suitcase with $100 bills! Will be in touch while "on the road"! My suitcase is calling!!! No sorry, "shouting"!!! Thanks again for your help and support. Best wishes for now to O Susannah and you. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!
- Patrick James Dunn Will she still want to come to The Island Inn now that she is one of top Chefs on the Street!
Chloe Alexis Dunn hopefully we can convince her........
Hi TNT!
Glad to learn that you are back home safely! Thanks for snap of you and Cora
Lee, Teens! Great one! Thanks, as well, for visit, if only a brief one. Look
forward to more catching up in March!
After we waved goodbye I made for Burnaby where Big Al, as I mentioned, had
offered to move my rear license plate to the bottom of the bicycle rack. All
of this as a result of receiving a ticket, ($196), on January 11th for
having an "Obstructed plate"! Won't go into the details but I was told by
the motorcycle policewoman issuing ticket that if I took a picture of
vehicle without rack and produced such evidence at court, fine would be
waived. Since I want to leave rack on car, for ease of storage and
convenience, etc., I asked Big Molly what he thought an easy solution might
be.
Since regulations require that the rear license plate be illuminated, how to
overcome this issue was crux of the problem. Al suggested that he tap into
the wiring leading to right taillight and so that is jsut what he did. I
arrived at 4:40pm and he set to work splicing the feed wire once he'd
isolated it, (with a tester and probe), from a bundle of about eight other
wires. Once he'd found source he cut it and spliced an extra length to each,
to provide necessary "play". He is a very skilled craftsman and it was a
pleasure to watch him work so quietly and efficiently as he soldered the
extra, short lengths and then shrink-wrapped the joints to ensure they were
further protected.
Space he had to work in was quite restricted so that added to difficulty of
making the change. Nevertheless, once wire was prepared to accept splice, he
threaded the extension cord he had affixed to the light housing, (This
itself was an extremely efficient, small, waterproof plastic junction box,
holding a readily available, replacement rear plate light bulb), into the
trunk space, through an existing hole in the bottom of the tire jack
compartment, (I learned that vehicles routinely have such access points.
Typically there is a rubber plug to keep out moisture and grit so Big Molly
simply removed it, made a small hole in the centre, large enough to accept
the cord, and then the seal was intact once the plug was pushed back into
place.).
Once cord was in place Mr Infinite FX, (his card!), affixed lamp housing to
rack and together we adjusted "play" to provide length of cord needed to
allow rack to swivel to maximum opening limit. Once we'd determined this, Al
zapped the cord with a number of plastic ties to keep it in place and then
proceeded to finish the splice. Once he'd done this he even put a flexible
covering over the wire bundle further protecting the wires he had had to
expose in the first instance. This done, he asked me to turn on the running
lights and Presto, it worked! Not that I didn't think it wouldn't but one is
always aware that something an always go wrong.
Then, by the light of the new lamp, Big Al drilled into the base of the
rack, firmly affixing the license plate to its new location. Once he'd
zapped a few more ties on extension cord in storage compartment, both to
keep it secure and away from tire jack and its housing, we collected tools
he's used and job was completed! Couldn't have been more pleased with the
result. Another load off my shoulders as I have been dreading that I'd
receive another ticket even though the reasoning behind handing one out
seems ridiculous in the extreme. To some degree every bike rack obscures the
plate yet I've never seen a single one with the license plated mounted, more
or less, where Al had attached mine. Will report back once I've had my day
in court, probably not for six months or so, according to clerk at
Provincial Court with whom I chatted when I applied for a hearing! Such is
the backlog!!!
After a quick visit with Colleen, I thanked Al again for such splendid
roadside service and made for home, secure in the knowledge that my license
plate was glowing, unobstructed for either infra-red cameras or the naked
eye of an over-zealous traffic cop!
Back home by just after 7:00pm and Chloë's Oscar Party was in full swing.
About fifteen guests, Clan Sutherland and hangers-on, a number of Chloë's
girlfriends, (Katie brought Emma, her two-year old. She spent much of the
time re-arranging all of the fridge magnets she could reach, spurred on by
Sarge who had her running back and forth from where he was sitting to the
kitchen to bring him another and then another and then another!), Joanne, (a
neighbour who is living in a hotel for next month or so while her place is
being torn apart after her washing machine leaked and ruined all the
flooring, etc.), and Robbie, a former manager at The Urban Barn. He and
Chloë are quite good friends, (He is married to Jason. Flamin' keeps telling
her that she needs more male friends who are not gay!, and even traveled
together in Europe in 2007 for a month or so. Wonderful potluck so a
veritable feast: chicken wings, (Flamin'), Greek salad, (Coriandre),
spanokopita, made with tofu for vegetarians, (Chloë), Joanne a large
Tourtière, (In case you are not familiar with this dish it is, basically, a
meat pie with a savory pork, beef, onion and spice filling.), delish pizzas,
(Gaelen), innumerable dips, (one in particular, a spicy artichoke
concoction, courtesy of Flamin', was dynamite), and all sorts of
chips/crackers/various cheeses, etc., so perfect fare for the audience. On
Saturday Chloë had baked a huge chocolate cake with a peanut butter/cocoa
icing, (We were allowed to taste a few small pieces, before I took TNT to
the airport, to make sure it was fit to be served!), Nicole brought some
mouthwatering lemon/raspberry pastries and Flamin' her wonderful carrot
cake. Plenty of dessert and fortunately, for me, loads of overlefts, so I'll
be living like a king this coming week. Can hardly wait to have my next cup
of coffee. Hard to choose which sweet I'll have so perhaps I'll settle for a
small helping of each!!!
Today Whirlygig and I were the only members of the peleton. Robo Ray
retreated to the warmth of the gym!!! Giorgio rode by Heartbreak Terrace
just before noon and we set off for Stanley Park. Simply glorious day
although a touch coolish. Not much of a breeze so we were both quite
comfortable once we got going. Giorgio nixed an up-and-over Lions Gate as he
had to take his daughter, Amira, to dottore. A few weeks ago she broke a
bone in her right hand when she landed awkwardly while playing Ultimate. She
has tryouts for the National Team in mid-March so there is some concern that
she may not be able to compete. She is a highly regarded, elite player so
this is really an unfortunate turn of events, not only for her but also for
the Canadian Team. Anyway, she was to have an x-ray so hope she is well on
the mend.
This being the case, we stayed on the Seawall and were most delighted by the
sandstone cliffs, near Siwash Rock, many of the surfaces covered with a thin
film of ice, reflecting the sun to the extent it was almost like looking
into a mirror, innumerable icicles hanging from exposed tree roots and small
mounds of sand covering the bike path, the grains washed onto the Seawall by
the melt water. Plenty of walkers and joggers enjoying the wonderful day.
After we said goodbye on Point Grey and Macdonald, I decided I would take
advantage of the incredible sunshine to try and log 100K, given the fact
that the weather is not supposed to be cycling friendly for rest of week so
I probably won't have another opportunity for such an extended ride.
Although I headed out to UBC, along Spanish Banks,I wasn't sure what my
destination would be after I reached campus. Along the way I thought that I
might go all the way along Marine Drive to Granville to cross over Arthur
Laing and then out to Iona. However, decided against that trek in favour of
revisiting some of the routes around campus so cycled as far as the Musqueam
Reserve. Took Crown into the reserve itself as I wanted to see how the new
community center/gymnasium facility was progressing. Almost finished as far
as I could tell.
Back up Crown to cross Marine Drive and then along it to Camosun, up Camosun
to ride past St George's and then back down Crown to MD and then back
towards UBC. I'd not ridden through Wesbrook Village in some time so was
interested to see how construction there was proceeding. Two completely new
building sites underway and two that had been little more than foundations
are now two or three stories high.
Back down Wesbrook Mall to MD and then along to 16th, all the way to Tolmie
and hen a short loop back to Blanca and then towards campus, again along
16th. By the time I was heading into the university on East Mall I had about
75K on the clock so I knew that I could, relatively easily, log at least 85K
with a few dipsy-doodles/backings/forthings, so I proceeded to ride Main
Mall all the way to the Rose Garden and then back to 16th. Down 16th for a
short stint on MD and then up Stadium Road to travel west on West Mall as
far as University Blvd. Turned around here and retraced my steps to MD and
then along it to turn right back onto West Mall, just by the Museum of
Anthropology. Few shorter dipsy-doodles along Main Mall and I was as 87K as
I headed down NW Marine Drive to Spanish Banks.
Eagle perched atop one of the tall pines just beyond Newton Wynd, so I took
this as a good omen! In fact, I felt remarkable fresh. Probably had more to
do with not having had any exercise since Friday than anything else.
Nevertheless, I whizzed along, the wind at my back now, and made Kits Point
with 97.5K on the clock, necessitating another side loop onto Cypress before
making for home. More than chuffed with exhilarating outing, I pulled up
next to the stanchion near the parkade gate with exactly, precisely 101.33K
on the Deadly Odometer, Dear Reader!
Cora Lee had her Book Club this evening so I was all by my lonesome. Took a
quick shower and then fixed dinner, a delicious plate, a mélange of
overlefts! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!
Pics: Saturday night's gathering!
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