It was my shame, and now it is my boast, That I have loved you rather more than most. -Hilaire Belloc, writer and poet (1870-1953)
Back home. Thank you again, Patrick.
Misha
ps: ordered Panicking Ralph
Hi Misha!
Glad you made it home safely! Hope same goes for Marcus Aurelius. Thanks again for lovely wafers!! Enjoyed evening immensely, as did Andrew. Dropped him off at YVR at about 5:30am so he should be in the air by now, winging his way back to Toronto!
Cheers, Patrizio!
Hi Patrick,
Just wanted to drop you a quick line and say thanks for hosting last night. As always it was a most enjoyable evening. I look forward to our next get together.
Hope the biking continues to go well. Enjoy all your new books.
Cheers,..Dave
Hi again, Dave!
First message was a tad "cryptic"! Guess you might have been a bit drowsy after pool time! Just arranged to meet with Robo Man. He will come by our place at 9:30am and we'll circumcycle Stanley Park and then head out to UBC, along Spanish Banks, through campus and then probably along 39th, making for Ray's place near Arbutus and 23rd. No word from Whirlygig so don't know when he is back from SF. Probably ride with him tomorrow as weather is supposed to remain dry.
When it starts to rain, I'll dig into new titles. Cheers, Patrizio!
Hi Titanium Man!
Trust your swim went well this morning. Heard from Misha and he made it home safely! Hope same was true for Marcus Aurelius. Enjoyed evening immensely, as did Andrew. Dropped him off at YVR at about 5:30am so he should be in the air by now, winging his way back to Toronto! Thought of you, surging through the pool on my way back home! Cheers, Patrizio!
I got some kind of flu from this morning. So please excuse me from attending our no-Readers meeting. See you next time.
Hi Mo!
Sorry to learn that you had a touch of flu. We, (Guy, Dave, Mark, Misha and my friend, Andrew), missed your presence. Everyone seemed to enjoy the evening immensely, as did Andrew. Dropped him off at YVR at about 5:30am this morning so he should be in the air by now, winging his way back to Toronto!
Cheers, Patrizio!
I missed you guys too. Hope to see everyone next time. Cheers Moe
Hi again, Mo!
Whirlygig will be sending out details of next meeting over next few days, I assume. He was in San Francisco over weekend, playing in a doubles squash tournament. Cheers, Patrizio!
Looking forward to it. Moe
Dear Patrick,
How can we thank you enough? Another great festival has now come and gone: 13,000 audience members, 69 events, more than 100 authors, and 254 volunteers!
We all hope you had a great time volunteering and that you were able to take in some Festival events.
We'd love to hear what you have to say about your festival experience, good and bad.
Please fill out the attached feed-back form and return it to me, by e-mail, snail mail or fax (604 681-8400) by Friday Nov 4th at 5 pm. We will be drawing from the returned feedback forms at the volunteer party that night; the grand prize is two tickets to a Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival Tasting evening.
You are eligible to win even if you don't attend the party; all you need to do to be eligible for the draw is to submit your completed volunteer feedback form! Complete the form even if you were a pre-festival volunteer only, and did no Festival Week volunteering this year.
It would also be great to see you at the Volunteer Appreciation Party here at the Festival offices on Friday evening Nov 4th, 7 - 10:30 pm. Sign up now for 5 minute readings (one set at 7:30, the next at 8:30 and the last at 9:30 pm).
Kathryn
Hi Kathryn!
Trust life is a little less hectic by now! Have attached my feedback form. See you at the party! Cheers, Patrizio!
Monday 31 October 2011
Saturday 29 October 2011
IIDD, Oct 29th
Hi Patrice,
I have one question for you , when do you actually have time to read? I
love hearing about all your adventures but that almost fulfills my daily
allotment of reading time!
With all the exposure to film and the written word , I would thing that
there is a novel or two at least percolating in the back of your mind yet to
be written.
I also missed riding this week although I did ride to Colleen's class on
Monday night at Champlain heights comm. center and went for her morning
class on Thursday so I feel pretty good about activity for the week. As I
write this the sun just poked through and I might try for a quick jaunt
although I have to go to the west side and visit my aunt. My aunt Diana
(Dads brothers wife but he died in '74) was struck with polio at age 17 and
has been in a wheel chair ever since. we remain close and I try and help her
out as much as I can. her wheel chair needs some repair and she is bed
ridden right now recovering from surgery on a relentless bedsore problem
that has plagued her for the last couple of years.
I would love to be your guide and give you a tour of some of Burnaby,s
finest trails and sights one day soon . I'm sure we can coordinate something
when the weather cooperates again. until then have a great weekend !
Cheers, Al
Hi Big Al!
Must apologize for not replying sooner but has been a busy time these past ten days or so. Week ago this morning, I picked up my friend, Andrew, (as I mentioned I was going to do, in my last email, I believe), who flew into town from Toronto, for a little more than a week at The Island Inn.
Night before we were able to find seats for the last session we attended at VIWF, entitled An Intimate Evening with Aminatta Forna, from the UK/ Sierra Leone. She read from and talked about her "Memory of Love which won the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize for Best Book, was shortlisted for the Orange Prize and was selected as one of the best books of the year by the Sunday Telegraph, Financial Times and Times. She is also the author of Ancestor Stones, a novel, and The Devil That Danced on the Water, a memoir of her activist father and her country, Sierra Leone. She now lives in London."
A passionate, highly articulate speaker, she mesmerized us with her reading and thoughts, her informed answers to the audience's questions, her delightful sense of humour, her wonderfully ironic comments, both wry and dark. What an eye-opening, informative experience to the highly complex society and current situation of Sierre Leone, in particular, to the African continent as a whole. Certainly a powerful, remarkable spokesperson whose compelling voice needs to be heard, should be heard across the globe.
For The Latte/Pastry non-rider, had a fabulo jaunt this past Thursday with Robo Ray, also an avid reader but not interested in joining our book club! We met at Macdonald and Point Grey and made our way out to UBC, along Spanish Banks, and thence along SW Marine to Arthur Laing/Iona. Mountains were stunning with an icing sugar dusting of snow. Some of the trees looked almost ablaze, such were the magnificent oranges and reds. Saw two bald eagles as well so we felt pretty exhilarated with ride and scenery, and perhaps, most importantly for our aged frames, lack of a strong headwind! After that we headed for Steveston, along Railway, rather than atop the dike, and back via #6 Road, over CSTB and then up Heather, cutting along 39th to make our way back to Raymundo's place with 83K on the clock.
Waved goodbye to Robo Ray and proceeded down Macdonald to make my way home via Kits Beach. Had 91K on odometer once I was in front of Harbour Terrace so knew I only had to ride to Science World/Plaza of Nations to make 101.33K by time I was ready to call it a day. Did just that and pulled into the parkade at 2:00pm so total elapsed time was five hours and twenty minutes. Know that is not much compared to your blistering pace/admirable distances on the hills and dales of Burnaby but a good ride for both Ray and I. You will be pleased to learn, Dear Reader, that my feet never touched the ground during the entire ride as I had my most attentive and willing squire, (Aged though he be. Sylvia mentioned that Ray will turn 70 next March, I believe. Had to be sharpish about keeping up with him for most if not all of the ride, as he had the bit in his mouth and was running like a thoroughbred, half-wheeling me to lung bursting and leg muscle screaming on the hills!), to push the walk button at all the important intersections! Wanted to cycle as far as we did as I knew, from the forecast, that the wonderful weather wouldn't last over next few days.
That night we had a wonderful roast potatoe, twice-baked cauliflower and New Zealand lamb chop dinner. Invited a former girlfriend, Barbara Young, from university days in Winnipeg, now living here in Vancouver, for dinner. Barbara knew Andrew back then as well so thought it would be fun to have her meet Andrew again, after more than forty years. One of our first dates was when we went to a rugby Halloween party, costumed as die! Andrew and I played but a year or so, at a time when rugby was just starting in Winnipeg. Speaking of rugby, he and I watched the finals of the World Cup. Started just after midnight here and didn't finish until about 3:00am. Not sure if you followed the series but I thought that the French outplayed the All Blacks for most of game. Not that I know much, if anything, about the game and its strategy, but from my point of view, only their incredible defensive play near the end allowed them to hang on to their one point lead. I hadn't realized, at the time, that they hadn't won the title in 24 years, so am pleased, for the team and the fans, that they did so on home turf, of course.
Finally, to spur you on to greater distances, wanted to mention that had a wonderful ride this past Tuesday with RR and Whirlissimo. Three of us met at Crown and SW Marine Drive, (One of group, Ken, Ray's friend, lives in Ladner and so drove to rendezvous. This was first time we've met.), and once Ken arrived, cycled back to UBC and around campus as Ken had not really been there since he graduated in 1974! Back towards Kits along Spanish Banks and then around Seawall, past Science World, to circumcylce Stanley Park. As you know, we often ride over the Lions Gate and back but Ray had a tutoring time constraint so we just enjoyed the wonderfully calm ocean and gorgeous sunshine.
Once around park Raymundo and Ken, (no nickname yet as we've just met, as I mentioned above), left us to make their way over Burrard Bridge while Giorgio and I retraced our earlier route around Science World back to our place, arriving just after noon. I started at 8:25am so it was a fairly decent ride, as far as distance and time are concerned, as I logged 73.33K by time we reached our place. Hoped, as I walked in the door, that I wouldn't collapse on ice at curling that evening!
I invited Whirlissimo in for a spot of lunch and friend, Andrew, (El Cordobés), whipped us up absolutely fabuloso cheese and avocado omelettes! Ragin' Bull phoned just after we walked in door and wanted to go for a ride! Told him we had honked at him at around 10:30am, on way to SP, so invited him for a java. He arrived just as we were finishing our meal and we chatted over cookies and more coffee before Whirls and I said goodbye to Ragin'. Giorgio's girlfriend, Kerry, has an eleven-year old daughter, Tia, who is going to play the piano on November 11th, at Broadway Lodge, where Mother is a resident, as I think you know. I wanted to introduce George to chap, Bob, who looks after social activities so that they could make arrangements for Tia's recital. While the two were chatting I visited Mom and put cream on her arms and the back of her hands. At her age her skin is very dry and lotion certainly helps. While there I helped her with her juice. Bit like priming a pump as at first she would only chew the straw in the cup. Had to make her take a sip from the open container and then after that she seemed to remember how to draw the liquid up through the straw. Unfortunately, she isn't really able to comprehend any instructions for drinking or sipping. Once a given process is started, it seems that some sort of reflex mechanism sets in and, by and large, she then knows the appropriate response. Still, she finished the entire glass and was smiling by the time it was finished. Kissed her goodbye and said hello to a number of other residents we have come to know on way out.
Back home, Andrew was waiting for me as we had to drive out to the airport. When he left Toronto, last Saturday, he didn't realize, for some inexplicable reason, that he couldn't take the bottle of bourbon, Eagle Rare, 45%, he was bringing as a present for me, in his carry-on. Since he had already checked his bag, he had to leave the security area and return to the WestJet counter for a small box. He wrapped the bottle, (already in bubble wrap), in a few T-shirts and packaged it up. Once in Vancouver, it wasn't with his other bag so he filed a missing luggage form. When he told me what had happened, (I thought that he had missed his flight as he should have been out of the terminal by about 9:25am and I didn't locate him, at WestJet's YVR service counter, until shortly after 10:00am. This after circling three times and then eventually finding a spot in the "Loading Only" lane where one can usually park for a few minutes without being told to move on by the YVR Traffic Polizei! By 10:00am I decided that I needed to go inside as nobody was coming out of the terminal by this time. I told the warden that I would only be a minute or so and headed in search of the lost soul!), I thought that that would be the last we would see of the package. Felt especially badly for Andrew as I know he was quite excited about giving me the gift.
At any rate, WestJet called, just as the chef was finishing his masterpieces, to inform him that the parcel had finally arrived! To boot, they gave me a $100 credit towards my next flight with them for simply coming to collect the package. Everybody was happy!
Will be hosting the Non-Readers Book Club, (Although I do find it difficult, at times, to find time to read, Whirlygig and I are often only ones to have completed a given book! Marcus Aurelius is one of the most serious offenders!!), at our place Sunday evening. (One of members, Misha, is in a wheelchair so it is easier for him with our single level access.) Will be discussing The Billionaire's Vinegar: The Mystery of the World's Most Expensive Bottle of Wine, by Wallace, Benjamin, 2008.
Fondestos to you and Marilyn from Cora Lee. Cheers, Patrizio!
Pics: Happy Halloween! 40th anniversary of our first meeting, at a pub, in Winnipeg. Beautiful Fall afternoon, clear, crisp and sunny, when we went inside, to meet, by chance, later. More than a foot of snow, (felt sorry for all the kids who were going out trick or treating), when we left, together, as I wanted to drive Cora Lee to her place so I could "stalk" her!
The Sisterhood reading while I do housework. Precisely why I don't have as much time to read as Cora Lee does!!!
Andrew, Executive chef, flown in from Toronto, at great expense, at sink, at stove. One of his magnificent creations. He prepared a scrumptious chicken curry last night. We had two tables of bridge, eight players and two observers, latter needed as bartenders and food servers, scullions and maids!
Hi Big Al:
Might want to warn your friend! Cheers, Patrizio!
This was sent from Thomas Cook Holidays listing some of the guests' complaints during the season.
"I think it should be explained in the brochure that the local store does not sell proper biscuits like custard creams or ginger nuts."
"It's lazy of the local shopkeepers to close in the afternoons. I often needed to buy things during 'siesta' time - this should be banned."
"On my holiday to Goa in India , I was disgusted to find that almost every restaurant served curry. I don't like spicy food at all."
"We booked an excursion to a water park but no-one told us we had to bring our swimming costumes and towels."
A tourist at a top African game lodge overlooking a waterhole, who spotted a visibly aroused elephant, complained that the sight of this rampant beast ruined his honeymoon by making him feel "inadequate".
A woman threatened to call police after claiming that she'd been locked in by staff. When in fact, she had mistaken the "do not disturb" sign on the back of the door as a warning to remain in the room.
"The beach was too sandy."
"We found the sand was not like the sand in the brochure. Your brochure shows the sand as yellow but it was white."
A guest at a Novotel in Australia complained his soup was too thick and strong. He was inadvertently slurping the gravy at the time.
"Topless sunbathing on the beach should be banned. The holiday was ruined as my husband spent all day looking at other women."
"We bought 'Ray-Ban' sunglasses for five Euros (£3.50) from a street trader, only to find out they were fake."
"No-one told us there would be fish in the sea. The children were startled."
"It took us nine hours to fly home from Jamaica to England it only took the Americans three hours to get home."
"I compared the size of our one-bedroom apartment to our friends' three-bedroom apartment and ours was significantly smaller."
"The brochure stated: 'No hairdressers at the accommodation'. We're trainee hairdressers - will we be OK staying here?"
"There are too many Spanish people. The receptionist speaks Spanish. The food is Spanish. Too many foreigners."
"We had to queue outside with no air conditioning."
"It is your duty as a tour operator to advise us of noisy or unruly guests before we travel."
"I was bitten by a mosquito - no-one said they could bite."
"My fiancé and I booked a twin-bedded room but we were placed in a double-bedded room. We now hold you responsible for the fact that I find myself pregnant. This would not have happened if you had put us in the room that we booked."
Thanks Patrick. Looking forward to it.
I'm also bringing a friend of mine with me. He's an avid scotch drinker, likes to bike, and reads a fair bit too.
See you on Sunday. Cheers.
Hi Pat,
8^) cheers, Mark
I have one question for you , when do you actually have time to read? I
love hearing about all your adventures but that almost fulfills my daily
allotment of reading time!
With all the exposure to film and the written word , I would thing that
there is a novel or two at least percolating in the back of your mind yet to
be written.
I also missed riding this week although I did ride to Colleen's class on
Monday night at Champlain heights comm. center and went for her morning
class on Thursday so I feel pretty good about activity for the week. As I
write this the sun just poked through and I might try for a quick jaunt
although I have to go to the west side and visit my aunt. My aunt Diana
(Dads brothers wife but he died in '74) was struck with polio at age 17 and
has been in a wheel chair ever since. we remain close and I try and help her
out as much as I can. her wheel chair needs some repair and she is bed
ridden right now recovering from surgery on a relentless bedsore problem
that has plagued her for the last couple of years.
I would love to be your guide and give you a tour of some of Burnaby,s
finest trails and sights one day soon . I'm sure we can coordinate something
when the weather cooperates again. until then have a great weekend !
Cheers, Al
Hi Big Al!
Must apologize for not replying sooner but has been a busy time these past ten days or so. Week ago this morning, I picked up my friend, Andrew, (as I mentioned I was going to do, in my last email, I believe), who flew into town from Toronto, for a little more than a week at The Island Inn.
Night before we were able to find seats for the last session we attended at VIWF, entitled An Intimate Evening with Aminatta Forna, from the UK/ Sierra Leone. She read from and talked about her "Memory of Love which won the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize for Best Book, was shortlisted for the Orange Prize and was selected as one of the best books of the year by the Sunday Telegraph, Financial Times and Times. She is also the author of Ancestor Stones, a novel, and The Devil That Danced on the Water, a memoir of her activist father and her country, Sierra Leone. She now lives in London."
A passionate, highly articulate speaker, she mesmerized us with her reading and thoughts, her informed answers to the audience's questions, her delightful sense of humour, her wonderfully ironic comments, both wry and dark. What an eye-opening, informative experience to the highly complex society and current situation of Sierre Leone, in particular, to the African continent as a whole. Certainly a powerful, remarkable spokesperson whose compelling voice needs to be heard, should be heard across the globe.
For The Latte/Pastry non-rider, had a fabulo jaunt this past Thursday with Robo Ray, also an avid reader but not interested in joining our book club! We met at Macdonald and Point Grey and made our way out to UBC, along Spanish Banks, and thence along SW Marine to Arthur Laing/Iona. Mountains were stunning with an icing sugar dusting of snow. Some of the trees looked almost ablaze, such were the magnificent oranges and reds. Saw two bald eagles as well so we felt pretty exhilarated with ride and scenery, and perhaps, most importantly for our aged frames, lack of a strong headwind! After that we headed for Steveston, along Railway, rather than atop the dike, and back via #6 Road, over CSTB and then up Heather, cutting along 39th to make our way back to Raymundo's place with 83K on the clock.
Waved goodbye to Robo Ray and proceeded down Macdonald to make my way home via Kits Beach. Had 91K on odometer once I was in front of Harbour Terrace so knew I only had to ride to Science World/Plaza of Nations to make 101.33K by time I was ready to call it a day. Did just that and pulled into the parkade at 2:00pm so total elapsed time was five hours and twenty minutes. Know that is not much compared to your blistering pace/admirable distances on the hills and dales of Burnaby but a good ride for both Ray and I. You will be pleased to learn, Dear Reader, that my feet never touched the ground during the entire ride as I had my most attentive and willing squire, (Aged though he be. Sylvia mentioned that Ray will turn 70 next March, I believe. Had to be sharpish about keeping up with him for most if not all of the ride, as he had the bit in his mouth and was running like a thoroughbred, half-wheeling me to lung bursting and leg muscle screaming on the hills!), to push the walk button at all the important intersections! Wanted to cycle as far as we did as I knew, from the forecast, that the wonderful weather wouldn't last over next few days.
That night we had a wonderful roast potatoe, twice-baked cauliflower and New Zealand lamb chop dinner. Invited a former girlfriend, Barbara Young, from university days in Winnipeg, now living here in Vancouver, for dinner. Barbara knew Andrew back then as well so thought it would be fun to have her meet Andrew again, after more than forty years. One of our first dates was when we went to a rugby Halloween party, costumed as die! Andrew and I played but a year or so, at a time when rugby was just starting in Winnipeg. Speaking of rugby, he and I watched the finals of the World Cup. Started just after midnight here and didn't finish until about 3:00am. Not sure if you followed the series but I thought that the French outplayed the All Blacks for most of game. Not that I know much, if anything, about the game and its strategy, but from my point of view, only their incredible defensive play near the end allowed them to hang on to their one point lead. I hadn't realized, at the time, that they hadn't won the title in 24 years, so am pleased, for the team and the fans, that they did so on home turf, of course.
Finally, to spur you on to greater distances, wanted to mention that had a wonderful ride this past Tuesday with RR and Whirlissimo. Three of us met at Crown and SW Marine Drive, (One of group, Ken, Ray's friend, lives in Ladner and so drove to rendezvous. This was first time we've met.), and once Ken arrived, cycled back to UBC and around campus as Ken had not really been there since he graduated in 1974! Back towards Kits along Spanish Banks and then around Seawall, past Science World, to circumcylce Stanley Park. As you know, we often ride over the Lions Gate and back but Ray had a tutoring time constraint so we just enjoyed the wonderfully calm ocean and gorgeous sunshine.
Once around park Raymundo and Ken, (no nickname yet as we've just met, as I mentioned above), left us to make their way over Burrard Bridge while Giorgio and I retraced our earlier route around Science World back to our place, arriving just after noon. I started at 8:25am so it was a fairly decent ride, as far as distance and time are concerned, as I logged 73.33K by time we reached our place. Hoped, as I walked in the door, that I wouldn't collapse on ice at curling that evening!
I invited Whirlissimo in for a spot of lunch and friend, Andrew, (El Cordobés), whipped us up absolutely fabuloso cheese and avocado omelettes! Ragin' Bull phoned just after we walked in door and wanted to go for a ride! Told him we had honked at him at around 10:30am, on way to SP, so invited him for a java. He arrived just as we were finishing our meal and we chatted over cookies and more coffee before Whirls and I said goodbye to Ragin'. Giorgio's girlfriend, Kerry, has an eleven-year old daughter, Tia, who is going to play the piano on November 11th, at Broadway Lodge, where Mother is a resident, as I think you know. I wanted to introduce George to chap, Bob, who looks after social activities so that they could make arrangements for Tia's recital. While the two were chatting I visited Mom and put cream on her arms and the back of her hands. At her age her skin is very dry and lotion certainly helps. While there I helped her with her juice. Bit like priming a pump as at first she would only chew the straw in the cup. Had to make her take a sip from the open container and then after that she seemed to remember how to draw the liquid up through the straw. Unfortunately, she isn't really able to comprehend any instructions for drinking or sipping. Once a given process is started, it seems that some sort of reflex mechanism sets in and, by and large, she then knows the appropriate response. Still, she finished the entire glass and was smiling by the time it was finished. Kissed her goodbye and said hello to a number of other residents we have come to know on way out.
Back home, Andrew was waiting for me as we had to drive out to the airport. When he left Toronto, last Saturday, he didn't realize, for some inexplicable reason, that he couldn't take the bottle of bourbon, Eagle Rare, 45%, he was bringing as a present for me, in his carry-on. Since he had already checked his bag, he had to leave the security area and return to the WestJet counter for a small box. He wrapped the bottle, (already in bubble wrap), in a few T-shirts and packaged it up. Once in Vancouver, it wasn't with his other bag so he filed a missing luggage form. When he told me what had happened, (I thought that he had missed his flight as he should have been out of the terminal by about 9:25am and I didn't locate him, at WestJet's YVR service counter, until shortly after 10:00am. This after circling three times and then eventually finding a spot in the "Loading Only" lane where one can usually park for a few minutes without being told to move on by the YVR Traffic Polizei! By 10:00am I decided that I needed to go inside as nobody was coming out of the terminal by this time. I told the warden that I would only be a minute or so and headed in search of the lost soul!), I thought that that would be the last we would see of the package. Felt especially badly for Andrew as I know he was quite excited about giving me the gift.
At any rate, WestJet called, just as the chef was finishing his masterpieces, to inform him that the parcel had finally arrived! To boot, they gave me a $100 credit towards my next flight with them for simply coming to collect the package. Everybody was happy!
Will be hosting the Non-Readers Book Club, (Although I do find it difficult, at times, to find time to read, Whirlygig and I are often only ones to have completed a given book! Marcus Aurelius is one of the most serious offenders!!), at our place Sunday evening. (One of members, Misha, is in a wheelchair so it is easier for him with our single level access.) Will be discussing The Billionaire's Vinegar: The Mystery of the World's Most Expensive Bottle of Wine, by Wallace, Benjamin, 2008.
Fondestos to you and Marilyn from Cora Lee. Cheers, Patrizio!
Pics: Happy Halloween! 40th anniversary of our first meeting, at a pub, in Winnipeg. Beautiful Fall afternoon, clear, crisp and sunny, when we went inside, to meet, by chance, later. More than a foot of snow, (felt sorry for all the kids who were going out trick or treating), when we left, together, as I wanted to drive Cora Lee to her place so I could "stalk" her!
The Sisterhood reading while I do housework. Precisely why I don't have as much time to read as Cora Lee does!!!
Andrew, Executive chef, flown in from Toronto, at great expense, at sink, at stove. One of his magnificent creations. He prepared a scrumptious chicken curry last night. We had two tables of bridge, eight players and two observers, latter needed as bartenders and food servers, scullions and maids!
A few years ago I was a cook/deckhand on his prawn boat the "Prawn Star". He has moved into eco-tourism & wildlife watching. A very reliable, knowledgeable and experienced seafarer with a pleasant and accommodating demeanor.
Hi Big Al:
Might want to warn your friend! Cheers, Patrizio!
This was sent from Thomas Cook Holidays listing some of the guests' complaints during the season.
"I think it should be explained in the brochure that the local store does not sell proper biscuits like custard creams or ginger nuts."
"It's lazy of the local shopkeepers to close in the afternoons. I often needed to buy things during 'siesta' time - this should be banned."
"On my holiday to Goa in India , I was disgusted to find that almost every restaurant served curry. I don't like spicy food at all."
"We booked an excursion to a water park but no-one told us we had to bring our swimming costumes and towels."
A tourist at a top African game lodge overlooking a waterhole, who spotted a visibly aroused elephant, complained that the sight of this rampant beast ruined his honeymoon by making him feel "inadequate".
A woman threatened to call police after claiming that she'd been locked in by staff. When in fact, she had mistaken the "do not disturb" sign on the back of the door as a warning to remain in the room.
"The beach was too sandy."
"We found the sand was not like the sand in the brochure. Your brochure shows the sand as yellow but it was white."
A guest at a Novotel in Australia complained his soup was too thick and strong. He was inadvertently slurping the gravy at the time.
"Topless sunbathing on the beach should be banned. The holiday was ruined as my husband spent all day looking at other women."
"We bought 'Ray-Ban' sunglasses for five Euros (£3.50) from a street trader, only to find out they were fake."
"No-one told us there would be fish in the sea. The children were startled."
"It took us nine hours to fly home from Jamaica to England it only took the Americans three hours to get home."
"I compared the size of our one-bedroom apartment to our friends' three-bedroom apartment and ours was significantly smaller."
"The brochure stated: 'No hairdressers at the accommodation'. We're trainee hairdressers - will we be OK staying here?"
"There are too many Spanish people. The receptionist speaks Spanish. The food is Spanish. Too many foreigners."
"We had to queue outside with no air conditioning."
"It is your duty as a tour operator to advise us of noisy or unruly guests before we travel."
"I was bitten by a mosquito - no-one said they could bite."
"My fiancé and I booked a twin-bedded room but we were placed in a double-bedded room. We now hold you responsible for the fact that I find myself pregnant. This would not have happened if you had put us in the room that we booked."
Patrick,
Andrzej told me he had not been able to view my website as he said he is `` computer illeterate`` so please show it to him on your computer: http://giebertrand.jigsy.com
Some of the large 6`x 4` paintings are also exhibited at ZIENTTE in Gastown...I do not have the address with me but the store is across the street from ``The Spaghetti Factory`` in Gastown, I am sure if you do a search under Zientte Vancouver the address will pop up.
My mom`s funerals are Thursday Oct 27 and my sister and I are unlikely to be back in Vancouver before Oct 31 or Nov. 1, bad timing for A`s visit but hopefully he will be back at another time as I would like to gift him a painting one of these days.
Ginette
| Exhibition of my paintings at Zientte over so no need to go to Gastown with A!!! |  |
When cleaning out my mom's personal effects I found all of Andrzej and I' wedding photos from Athens in 1971 and some photos of his mom and dad, I remember a few years ago he mentioned that he had loss most of the photos of his life...ask him if he would like me to mail him this package to his home address in Toronto, if not I will throw them away as I have them in double in vancouver?
Funeral Mass and burial now over so we can not move on and grieve privately, those last 10 days have been pretty stressful and full of sadness. You are lucky to still have your mom!
Ginette
Hello Ginette!
First, let me send you and your family heartfelt condolences on the death of your Mother. Andrzej has asked me to offer his sincere sympathy as well.
Must apologize for not replying sooner but has been a busy time these past ten days or so. With respect to your wedding pictures, Andrew mentioned that he has copies in Toronto. If you don't mind, I'd like to have the ones you mention. If you can bring them with you when you return to Vancouver, we could arrange a time for me to pop by and pick them up. I would appreciate the snaps of his parents as I knew them as well.
Sorry that the exhibition of your paintings closed before we had a chance to see it . Not sure if we would have been able to visit gallery in any event. Unfortunately, Andrew came down with a very nasty head cold this past Wednesday night when he was visiting his friends on Gabriola. He has felt pretty rotten since then so he has been lying fairly low. I noticed he seemed to have a persistent cough when I collected him from the airport, a week ago today, so I think the bug was already at work.
First, let me send you and your family heartfelt condolences on the death of your Mother. Andrzej has asked me to offer his sincere sympathy as well.
Must apologize for not replying sooner but has been a busy time these past ten days or so. With respect to your wedding pictures, Andrew mentioned that he has copies in Toronto. If you don't mind, I'd like to have the ones you mention. If you can bring them with you when you return to Vancouver, we could arrange a time for me to pop by and pick them up. I would appreciate the snaps of his parents as I knew them as well.
Sorry that the exhibition of your paintings closed before we had a chance to see it . Not sure if we would have been able to visit gallery in any event. Unfortunately, Andrew came down with a very nasty head cold this past Wednesday night when he was visiting his friends on Gabriola. He has felt pretty rotten since then so he has been lying fairly low. I noticed he seemed to have a persistent cough when I collected him from the airport, a week ago today, so I think the bug was already at work.
Fond regards to you from Corinne. Once again, deepest sympathy from Andrzej. Take care of yourself, Ginette. Patrizio!
Hi Titanium Man, Robertitio and rest of Lads!
The Non-Readers Book Club will be meeting at our place, The Island Inn, #20-1425 Lamey's Mill Road, 604-734-9200, place you were at the first time you met with us. Great that you are bringing Rob. Look forward to meeting him. Have attached directions in case you can't remember way.
Had a fabulo ride today with friend, Robo Ray, also an avid reader. We met at Macdonald and Point Grey and made our way out to UBC, along Spanish Banks, and thence along SW Marine to Arthur Laing/Iona. Mountains were stunning with an icing sugar dusting of snow. Some of the trees looked almost ablaze, such were the magnificent oranges and reds. Saw two bald eagles as well so we felt pretty exhilarated with ride and scenery, and perhaps, most importantly for our aged frames, lack of a strong headwind! After that we headed for Steveston, along Railway, rather than atop the dike, and back via #6 Road, over CSTB and then up Heather, cutting along 39th to make our way back to Raymundo's place near Arbutus and 23rd, with 83K on the clock.
Waved goodbye to Robo Ray and proceeded down Macdonald to make my way home via Kits Beach. Had 91K on odometer once I was in front of Harbour Terrace, our building, so knew I only had to ride to Science World/Plaza of Nations to make 101.33K by time I was ready to call it a day. Did just that and pulled into the parkade at 2:00pm so total elapsed time was five hours and twenty minutes. Know that is not much compared to your blistering pace/admirable distance but a good ride for both Ray and I. Wanted to cycle as far as we did as I don't think the wonderful weather will last over next few days.
See you around 7:00ish on Sunday. Cheers, Patrizio!
The Non-Readers Book Club will be meeting at our place, The Island Inn, #20-1425 Lamey's Mill Road, 604-734-9200, place you were at the first time you met with us. Great that you are bringing Rob. Look forward to meeting him. Have attached directions in case you can't remember way.
Had a fabulo ride today with friend, Robo Ray, also an avid reader. We met at Macdonald and Point Grey and made our way out to UBC, along Spanish Banks, and thence along SW Marine to Arthur Laing/Iona. Mountains were stunning with an icing sugar dusting of snow. Some of the trees looked almost ablaze, such were the magnificent oranges and reds. Saw two bald eagles as well so we felt pretty exhilarated with ride and scenery, and perhaps, most importantly for our aged frames, lack of a strong headwind! After that we headed for Steveston, along Railway, rather than atop the dike, and back via #6 Road, over CSTB and then up Heather, cutting along 39th to make our way back to Raymundo's place near Arbutus and 23rd, with 83K on the clock.
Waved goodbye to Robo Ray and proceeded down Macdonald to make my way home via Kits Beach. Had 91K on odometer once I was in front of Harbour Terrace, our building, so knew I only had to ride to Science World/Plaza of Nations to make 101.33K by time I was ready to call it a day. Did just that and pulled into the parkade at 2:00pm so total elapsed time was five hours and twenty minutes. Know that is not much compared to your blistering pace/admirable distance but a good ride for both Ray and I. Wanted to cycle as far as we did as I don't think the wonderful weather will last over next few days.
See you around 7:00ish on Sunday. Cheers, Patrizio!
Hi again, Dave!
Sorry, I forgot to attach directions! Cheers, Patrizio!
Sorry, I forgot to attach directions! Cheers, Patrizio!
Thanks Patrick. Looking forward to it.
I'm also bringing a friend of mine with me. He's an avid scotch drinker, likes to bike, and reads a fair bit too.
See you on Sunday. Cheers.
P,
Thanks for the ride and the repast that followed and created so deftly by your head chef. Also for taking the time to introduce me to the Broadway Lodge people. The sisterhood is now onto the case.
I hope to be on the bike again next Tuesday or Wednesday and hope to have more connectivity on the road this weekend.
Enjoy the bridge on Friday. Hope we can play some hand soon.
Speaking of which you may want to get a copy of Lyle Lovett’s Penguins to play at the party. Lyrics below. G
Penguins
I don't go for fancy cars
For diamond rings
Or movie stars
I go for penguins
Oh Lord I go for penguins
Throw your money out the door
We'll just sit around
And watch it snow
I go for penguins
Oh Lord I go for penguins
Penguins are so sensitive
Penguins are so sensitive
Penguins are so sensitive
To my needs
Penguins are so sensitive
Penguins are so sensitive
Penguins are so sensitive
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
Penguins are so sensitive
Penguins are so sensitive
Penguins are so sensitive
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
For diamond rings
Or movie stars
I go for penguins
Oh Lord I go for penguins
Throw your money out the door
We'll just sit around
And watch it snow
I go for penguins
Oh Lord I go for penguins
Penguins are so sensitive
Penguins are so sensitive
Penguins are so sensitive
To my needs
Penguins are so sensitive
Penguins are so sensitive
Penguins are so sensitive
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
Penguins are so sensitive
Penguins are so sensitive
Penguins are so sensitive
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
To my needs
Hi Whirlygig and Carlos the Jackal!
Trust tourney and stay on Nob Hill go well. As you know, will be hosting the Non-Readers Book Club on Sunday evening. By chance I bumped into Nancy at GI Market. I was using one of our $5 discount coupons, from VIWF Volunteer package, at Terra Breads, (since you no longer see fit to pass along any mouldy loaves!), when I heard a "Hi Patrick" behind me. Invited her for a malt but she declined as she had to go downtown for some small props for Jitters, play she's currently working on in Victoria. She thought Guy would attend NRBC since he would be left alone and palely loitering without her!
Buona Fortuna and Cheers, Il Conduttore!
Pics: We had two tables of bridge, eight players and two observers, latter needed as bartenders and food servers, scullions and maids! Too, too bad you couldn't have joined us.
The Sisterhood poundin' or reading while I and a host of penguins do housework, dishes, vacuuming, and the like! Precisely why I don't have as much time to read as Cora Lee does!!!
5 pearls of wisdom to remember. . .
1. Money cannot buy happiness but somehow, it’s more comfortable to cry in a Mercedes Benz than on a bicycle.
2. Forgive your enemy but remember the bastard’s name.
3. Help a man when he is in trouble and he will remember you when he is in trouble again.
4. Many people are alive only because it’s illegal to shoot them.
5. Alcohol does not solve any problem, but then neither does milk.
Bonus item
The new definition of liquidity: Liquidity is when you look at your retirement funds and wet your pants.
Trust tourney and stay on Nob Hill go well. As you know, will be hosting the Non-Readers Book Club on Sunday evening. By chance I bumped into Nancy at GI Market. I was using one of our $5 discount coupons, from VIWF Volunteer package, at Terra Breads, (since you no longer see fit to pass along any mouldy loaves!), when I heard a "Hi Patrick" behind me. Invited her for a malt but she declined as she had to go downtown for some small props for Jitters, play she's currently working on in Victoria. She thought Guy would attend NRBC since he would be left alone and palely loitering without her!
Buona Fortuna and Cheers, Il Conduttore!
Pics: We had two tables of bridge, eight players and two observers, latter needed as bartenders and food servers, scullions and maids! Too, too bad you couldn't have joined us.
The Sisterhood poundin' or reading while I and a host of penguins do housework, dishes, vacuuming, and the like! Precisely why I don't have as much time to read as Cora Lee does!!!
5 pearls of wisdom to remember. . .
1. Money cannot buy happiness but somehow, it’s more comfortable to cry in a Mercedes Benz than on a bicycle.
2. Forgive your enemy but remember the bastard’s name.
3. Help a man when he is in trouble and he will remember you when he is in trouble again.
4. Many people are alive only because it’s illegal to shoot them.
5. Alcohol does not solve any problem, but then neither does milk.
Bonus item
The new definition of liquidity: Liquidity is when you look at your retirement funds and wet your pants.
Hi Pat,
Not sure why you've include the family photos, but they are mildly titillating.
I did my big (12 hr!) shift yesterday at Performance Works. i was in my glory -being a slave to the sound tech, running cables for microphones, monitors, and power enlarging the stage, and being a general jahboney. We were setting up (and then taking down) the stage for the Literary Cabaret. Of course I got to watch/hear the whole production - what a treat!
Thank you for the bridge invite, but we'll have to decline - unfortunately we are busy on the 28th - a benefit for a friend with cancer.
I did read your tome about your recent comings and goings etc. The month in Oz sounds exciting! (Apropos I'm not sure what, I actually gave up my stool "in the booth in the back in the corner in the dark" to an Aussie writer last night. She needed it more than I as I was bopping to
Sal F. et. al.
My bike is going o the doc today as I managed to bend my front derailleur on Thursday evening :( . there is a wicked raised bit of asphalt at the base of a lamp post on the CVGW just as you come out from the stretch east of Gilmore onto the roadside. I clipped it, and the pavement clipped me and my bike. My knee took a good whack, and is a lovely blue now, but otherwise all seems functional. Teach me to ride home in the rain and the dark when I'm in a hurry? Well maybe...
Not sure about riding till I get the diagnosis on my bike.
8^) cheers, Mark
Hi Marcus Aurelius!
Terribly sorry to learn of your rather nasty sounding accidento! Trust all is well, with you and your bike now. Glad you enjoyed Literary Cabaret so much! You probably gave your stool to Cate Kennedy. She had us in stitches when she read from her latest work, a debut novel, The World Beneath, shortlisted for the Australian Literary Society Gold Medal for outstanding literary work. Glad you liked my family pic!
Terribly sorry to learn of your rather nasty sounding accidento! Trust all is well, with you and your bike now. Glad you enjoyed Literary Cabaret so much! You probably gave your stool to Cate Kennedy. She had us in stitches when she read from her latest work, a debut novel, The World Beneath, shortlisted for the Australian Literary Society Gold Medal for outstanding literary work. Glad you liked my family pic!
Will you be joining the Non-Readers Book Club at our place Sunday evening? Cheers, Il Conduttore!
Hi Carmen Miranda and Southside Johnny!
Great Halloween card! Thanks! Must apologize for not replying sooner but has been a busy time these past ten days or so. Week ago this morning, I picked up my friend, Andrew, who flew into town from Toronto, for a little more than a week at The Island Inn. Grogg and Lurch were over for dinner last Sunday before they left for Hawaii the next day! Tony/Sheila, mutual friends from squash days.
Great Halloween card! Thanks! Must apologize for not replying sooner but has been a busy time these past ten days or so. Week ago this morning, I picked up my friend, Andrew, who flew into town from Toronto, for a little more than a week at The Island Inn. Grogg and Lurch were over for dinner last Sunday before they left for Hawaii the next day! Tony/Sheila, mutual friends from squash days.
Friday 28 October 2011
IIDD, Oct 28th
A person without a sense of humor is like a wagon without springs -- jolted by every pebble in the road. -Henry Ward Beecher, preacher and writer (1813-1887)
Hi Ian!
Trust that your Mom's 88th went well. My Mother celebrated her 98th on September 22nd!
Had a wonderful ride yesterday with a number of friends. Met at Crown and SW Marine Drive, (One of group, Ken, lives in Ladner and so drove to rendezvous. He is Ray's friend and this was first time we've met.), and cycled back to UBC and around campus as Ken had not really been there since he graduated in 1974! Back towards Kits along Spanish Banks and then around Seawall, past Science World, to circumcylce Stanley Park. We often ride over the Lions Gate and back but Ray had a time constraint, (He is a retired math teacher and still tutors quite a few students.), so we just enjoyed the wonderfully calm ocean and gorgeous sunshine.
Once around park, Ray, (Robo Ray/Raymundo), and Ken, (no nickname yet as we've just met, as I mentioned above), left us to make their way over Burrard Bridge while George, (Whirlygig/Giorgio), and I retraced our earlier route around Science World back to our place, (Harbour Terrace, 1425 Lamey's Mill Road, #20, 604-734-9200), arriving just after noon. I started at 8:25am so it was a fairly decent ride, as far as distance and time are concerned, as I logged 73.33K by time we reached our place.
As I mentioned, you are more than welcome to be an "official observer" on Friday. People will be arriving between 6:00pm-7:00pm, so come whenever convenient. I have attached directions for how to find our place if the address alone isn't sufficient Look forward to hearing more about your exploits! Cheers, Patrizio!
Hi Misha!
Sorry I didn't read your email sooner as I renewed Billionaire's Vinegar and it isn't due until November 15th1 Keep it until then if you still have it. Are you planning to attend on Sunday? If you will need a parking spot just let me know. Cheers, Patrizio!
Thank you Pat.
I hope to cycle :) . But will let you know. M
Hi Barb!
Trust you are well! Haven't heard from you in ages. Am wondering if you are still in Vancouver!
At any rate, I left a phone message but thought that I'd send an email as well. Andrew Sredzki is in town, from Toronto, until this coming Monday. Would like to invite you for dinner this coming Thursday evening, if you are free and interested. Let me know and we'll plan accordingly. Cheers, Patrizio!
Hi Titanium Man, Robertitio and rest of Lads!
The Non-Readers Book Club will be meeting at our place, The Island Inn, #20-1425 Lamey's Mill Road, 604-734-9200, place you were at the first time you met with us. Great that you are bringing Rob. Look forward to meeting him. Have attached directions in case you can't remember way.
Had a fabulo ride today with friend, Robo Ray, also an avid reader. We met at Macdonald and Point Grey and made our way out to UBC, along Spanish Banks, and thence along SW Marine to Arthur Laing/Iona. Mountains were stunning with an icing sugar dusting of snow. Some of the trees looked almost ablaze, such were the magnificent oranges and reds. Saw two bald eagles as well so we felt pretty exhilarated with ride and scenery, and perhaps, most importantly for our aged frames, lack of a strong headwind! After that we headed for Steveston, along Railway, rather than atop the dike, and back via #6 Road, over CSTB and then up Heather, cutting along 39th to make our way back to Raymundo's place near Arbutus and 23rd, with 83K on the clock.
Waved goodbye to Robo Ray and proceeded down Macdonald to make my way home via Kits Beach. Had 91K on odometer once I was in front of Harbour Terrace, our building, so knew I only had to ride to Science World/Plaza of Nations to make 101.33K by time I was ready to call it a day. Did just that and pulled into the parkade at 2:00pm so total elapsed time was five hours and twenty minutes. Know that is not much compared to your blistering pace/admirable distance but a good ride for both Ray and I. Wanted to cycle as far as we did as I don't think the wonderful weather will last over next few days.
See you around 7:00ish on Sunday. Cheers, Patrizio!
Hi again, Dave!
Sorry, I forgot to attach directions! Cheers, Patrizio!
Hi Ian!
Trust that your Mom's 88th went well. My Mother celebrated her 98th on September 22nd!
Had a wonderful ride yesterday with a number of friends. Met at Crown and SW Marine Drive, (One of group, Ken, lives in Ladner and so drove to rendezvous. He is Ray's friend and this was first time we've met.), and cycled back to UBC and around campus as Ken had not really been there since he graduated in 1974! Back towards Kits along Spanish Banks and then around Seawall, past Science World, to circumcylce Stanley Park. We often ride over the Lions Gate and back but Ray had a time constraint, (He is a retired math teacher and still tutors quite a few students.), so we just enjoyed the wonderfully calm ocean and gorgeous sunshine.
Once around park, Ray, (Robo Ray/Raymundo), and Ken, (no nickname yet as we've just met, as I mentioned above), left us to make their way over Burrard Bridge while George, (Whirlygig/Giorgio), and I retraced our earlier route around Science World back to our place, (Harbour Terrace, 1425 Lamey's Mill Road, #20, 604-734-9200), arriving just after noon. I started at 8:25am so it was a fairly decent ride, as far as distance and time are concerned, as I logged 73.33K by time we reached our place.
As I mentioned, you are more than welcome to be an "official observer" on Friday. People will be arriving between 6:00pm-7:00pm, so come whenever convenient. I have attached directions for how to find our place if the address alone isn't sufficient Look forward to hearing more about your exploits! Cheers, Patrizio!
Hi Misha!
Sorry I didn't read your email sooner as I renewed Billionaire's Vinegar and it isn't due until November 15th1 Keep it until then if you still have it. Are you planning to attend on Sunday? If you will need a parking spot just let me know. Cheers, Patrizio!
Thank you Pat.
I hope to cycle :) . But will let you know. M
Hi Barb!
Trust you are well! Haven't heard from you in ages. Am wondering if you are still in Vancouver!
At any rate, I left a phone message but thought that I'd send an email as well. Andrew Sredzki is in town, from Toronto, until this coming Monday. Would like to invite you for dinner this coming Thursday evening, if you are free and interested. Let me know and we'll plan accordingly. Cheers, Patrizio!
Hi Titanium Man, Robertitio and rest of Lads!
The Non-Readers Book Club will be meeting at our place, The Island Inn, #20-1425 Lamey's Mill Road, 604-734-9200, place you were at the first time you met with us. Great that you are bringing Rob. Look forward to meeting him. Have attached directions in case you can't remember way.
Had a fabulo ride today with friend, Robo Ray, also an avid reader. We met at Macdonald and Point Grey and made our way out to UBC, along Spanish Banks, and thence along SW Marine to Arthur Laing/Iona. Mountains were stunning with an icing sugar dusting of snow. Some of the trees looked almost ablaze, such were the magnificent oranges and reds. Saw two bald eagles as well so we felt pretty exhilarated with ride and scenery, and perhaps, most importantly for our aged frames, lack of a strong headwind! After that we headed for Steveston, along Railway, rather than atop the dike, and back via #6 Road, over CSTB and then up Heather, cutting along 39th to make our way back to Raymundo's place near Arbutus and 23rd, with 83K on the clock.
Waved goodbye to Robo Ray and proceeded down Macdonald to make my way home via Kits Beach. Had 91K on odometer once I was in front of Harbour Terrace, our building, so knew I only had to ride to Science World/Plaza of Nations to make 101.33K by time I was ready to call it a day. Did just that and pulled into the parkade at 2:00pm so total elapsed time was five hours and twenty minutes. Know that is not much compared to your blistering pace/admirable distance but a good ride for both Ray and I. Wanted to cycle as far as we did as I don't think the wonderful weather will last over next few days.
See you around 7:00ish on Sunday. Cheers, Patrizio!
Hi again, Dave!
Sorry, I forgot to attach directions! Cheers, Patrizio!
Dear Patrick I attach my report card for the last few days. Day 1 Received my next homework assignment and unfortunately scant praise for my recent efforts. Some threats of corporal punishment which, by the way, has been abolished in the mother country. Took some time off from homework to take Chris to a mentoring assignment at a primary school on the outskirts of York. Found some heathland owned by our shrinking army and explored there including the golf course therein. Distant sounds of gunfire and plenty of warning signs but managed to escape unscathed. Spoke to three veteran locals who seemed to have army connections who told me the barracks I had passed was the Army Medical training centre- they described it as our Mash. Not sure why they needed live ammunition- training sounds too realistic . At the school Chris met the headmistress for the first time and she and her husband are lovers of Australia so Chris kept me waiting another half an hour while they exchanged notes. They visit Oz every year but in their winter given when our school summer holidays are. Her plan is a 12 month camper van tour when she retires needless to say I got itchy feet which will have to stay still for another year. Lunch at Pret a Manger in York( another one despite your allegations) and bought Chris a birthday present ( in addition to her surprise ones). I really have excelled myself this year trudging round ladies' shops. Having been turned away from Tinker etc last night from our humble one screen former bingo hall cinema we have reserved tickets for tonight. Quite right Patrick this is the new film- we get these surprisingly quickly. I am hoping there will be no further incidents tonight and I don't have to ask people to be quiet. Hopefully there will be no more arguments about seat placement either. So far we have witnessed three altercations only one of which I was involved in. Full house at the cinema. All we locals muttering as we left asking each other what was all that about.By the way there is little sign of in-breeding in Wetherby! Nevertheless quite enjoyed the concentration which should hold me in good stead for answering your email. Went on the web afterwards to seek clarification and noted the varying views on the film. The traditional Le Carre readers seemed disappointed by the way the story had been somewhat mangled. Having said that the author himself had been involved in the re-write for the screen. I could do with watching it again. Have discovered the merits of using my ipod( we haven't advanced as far as ipad or iphone) on the exercise bike today, particularly when I had already finished the crossword( only with the assistance of Chambers Crossword Dictionary). I was bellowing out The Four Seasons Opus 17( find that in the Vivaldi repertoire if you can!) and several of Charles Hardin Holleys repertoire. I hope the garage door prevented the neighbours discomfort - with sufficient backing and not hearing one's own voice for the earplugs one can almost believe one can sing. Day 2 After my supermarket duties did an hour fartlek- more walking than running. Daughter and husband Ed due to arrive and we thought we would do a raclette which we first discovered on a skiing holiday in France. Also watched Australia beat Wales in third place play-off- deserved as first Welsh try an obvious forward pass. Laura and Ed arrived 8pm from Newcastle and we enjoyed the raclette(our version of)-scallops, crevettes, steak, lamb chops, tuna and then chocolate birthday cake. Day3 After receiving another unscheduled bombardment I have decided that with my inadequacies I should call in the cavalry in the shape of my wife who seems more familiar with the authors you mention than I am. I am now waiting for her to set pen to paper metaphorically. In answering these recent missives or missiles may I request that teacher takes into account a picture is worth a thousand words so I start with a credit of 6,000 this week. Our school had English masters called "Black Harry" and "Bull" Lindsay and a music master called "Dai" Reah so it is little wonder I am deficient in these areas in addition to woodwork where we had a Mr Laverty. Our physics master was nicknamed "Death" because of his appearance and it might have been one of Ray's year who daubed the lab with "you stand at Death's door". A question or two, Patrick, on literary matters. Firstly how can busy people eg William Hague find the time to write biographies of William Pitt? Secondly and similarly why is it that so many celebrities including politicians seem to think they can and should knock out novels, thrillers etc in addition to their memoirs. And finally do you get disappointed with many books which are obviously researched well but then die a death in the last chapters. A personal view only that one after recent experiences but one that provides me with an excuse for not reading more. This literary pressure is emerging from two sides as our friends the Taylors ( new friends of Ray and Sylvia) clearly think I am devoid of cultural stimulation and keep lending me books which I feel obliged to read and comment on. They have also loaned me a box set of the 2002 Spooks. I have enjoyed Ian Rankin novels although they or the environment are a bit seedy in my opinion. More from the cavalry on novels when she can be persuaded. On the cycling front I note that you are frequently and carelessly mislaying your travelling companions and unfortunately you are not unique in this. I took two of my neighbours out to show them the local areas and noted that they have not reciprocated by asking me out again. Where are we going wrong would you say? I wouldn't mind but I paid for the coffees that day. In your case I feel it might be intimidation by distance and lack of stops both of which are advisable and easily remedied.. Day 3 Chris, Laura and Ed and I were on the bikes today -after a quick inner tube change. Down to Boston Spa for the Americanos and hot chocolates then the men went their separate ways for a longer ride- 240 furlongs approx. Realised when we got back that we had forgotten to take the thorn out of Chris's tyre so ended up doing two puncture repairs when we arrived home. Usual wrestling match to get the tyre back on. I tripped myself up on that question on Timothy Taylors as I found out when having our anniversary lunch. I had landlord(4.5%) and I bought Chris a half of "Golden Best" (3.5%) which I find pubs often serve alongside Landlord. However on asking the barman he claimed that the Best Bitter at 4% is probably their second biggest seller. The mats on the bar featured the mild you mentioned and also once called something like Ram Tam. Three beers from a Skipton brewery too. I noticed the local pub near where I was in York had a Rudgate beer sign- I believe they won the UK championship beer award last year- so next time I am waiting for Chris.......... Mother's birthday next week. Always struggle, or should I say Christine does, as to what to buy her. Presents still in their paper appear out of her cupboards( I nearly said drawers) several years later. She can be quite outspoken about gifts too. Will be meeting her and my sister and husband at Betty's in Northallerton on Monday for (yet another) lunch. Chris has since told me she is lunching in Harrogate with one of our next door neighbours on Wednesday to add to her lunch and coffee meetings last week with other friends. You perhaps can see how she has influenced my training and caused me to fall behind. Day 4 Down to the Taylors to watch World Cup Final over breakfast with Chris,Laura and Ed. Everyone but me seemed intent on New Zealand winning. I have no real allegiance to either side but since France were playing with some flair I began to favour them but was under strict family instruction to behave well so I bit my lip. I surpassed myself by not contradicting our hostess who claimed that "Now is the hour" is an Irish song. Consequently I feel quite virtuous (as usual). Still no assistance form the cavalry so will have to keep defending my corner myself. In my opinion an underhand move by my professeur to give me another set of homework before I had responded to the earlier one. More intimidating behaviour and I refuse to lie down in the face of this. Has he not heard of "child centred learning"? Any more of this and I shall refuse to downsize photos before I send them in the hope it exceeds the teacher's download allowance. Last episode of Spooks tonight and another of DA following the results of "Come Dancing". How is a fellow expected to complete his assignments with so many distractions? I trust your celebrations went well as our double celebrations indeed did and that you have resumed serious cycling. I have not been able to fathom how you are able to cycle furlong distances so often, thereby making a rod for your own and others' backs but I do recognize that you are in a league of your own especially in your capacity to dipsy doodle ( and clearly multi-task). As you sit on your perch in the Island Inn preparing another assignment please remember we are poles apart in terms of our capacity to swot and please don't condemn your student(s) to a life in chain (e)mails. With humble apologies for neglecting my work for such an indulgence. Good wishes to you both. Jim and Christine (later) Hi Patrick and Corrine, Trust all is well at the Island Inn. Jim asked me to add my literary views to some of your impressive meetings with authors ( lucky you!) and comments on some books. How envious I was at you meeting Ian Rankin and Peter Robinson. When Rankin lived in Edinburgh he frequented numerous coffee bars in his early days including coffees with J K Rowling.. Just goes to show how important lattes are for creativity Patrick! I have read a number of Rankin's books and think I prefer his work to Peter Robinson's. We have not read any Russell Banks..eg ..The Sweet Hereafter. Wondered if Corinne had read it and whether the Sisterhood would enjoy it? You mentioned Kate Atkinson.......I am rather a fan of hers and enjoy her style of writing . She is from this part of the world and only this September was at Fountains Abbey to discuss her novels, as part of Harrogate Festival. Unfortunately I missed it! The portrayal of Jackson Brodie on TV has been very good, a likeable roguish man in some respects. Her last book Started Early, Took My Dog, is set in Leeds and surrounding area. It received very positive write-ups , but not her best to my mind. On holidays or on long flights when we have time to kill we have read tomes such as C J Sansom (Dissolution, Sovereign and Revelation) and Ken Follett's mediaeval adventures. Jim sometimes says they are too long and verbose but we quite like the Shardlake character. He has been struggling with a book called The Rule of Four- turned to the end half way through after losing patience- we are not sure where this one came from. We have just been loaned The Trinity Six by Charles Cumming- we are amused by the glowing testimonials on the backs of some of these books! Philippa Gregory who is a prolific writer of a certain genre is herself from Hartlepool which just shows that not all Hartlepudlians are like my husband. We read Mallory's diary and then the novel by Jeffrey Archer and found the latter much easier to grasp and follow-shows where we are coming from. Jim brought Josephine Tey's "Bret Farrar" to Vancouver but like me failed to finish it. I went to see the film One Day with a friend after reading the book but Jim declined when he heard the subject. Apparently we have just missed the Ilkley Literary festival- must look into this for another time. DA got some poor press this week I am sad to say- perhaps rushed out? We look forward to catching up on some of the old episodes of Spooks after seeing the last one on Sunday. We have had a busy few days, with Anniversaries and birthdays ( me 21 again) and Jim's mother 96 yesterday. Jim has surprised me on my birthday with a new bright blue cycling top for the winter (among other things-JWB), so no excuses not keeping going over the winter! Jim's mother enjoyed going to to the famous tea room Bettys for lunch on her special day and Jim took a few photos of her and his sister and husband. Well domestic duties call, Take care and best wishes to you both. Love Chris Hi Chris and Jim! Simply wonderful to hear from the literary end of the latte/luncheon crowd! Too, too bad you are not still here, Hot Chocolate Christine, as The Non-Readers Book Club, (many of the group have never read or finished the book so The Lame Schoolboy, (as opposed to le Carré's The Honourable Schoolboy!), would be a poifect new recruit, especially since he is now familiar with live ammunition and the Army's training grounds!), will be meeting at our place this coming Sunday. Will be discussing The Billionaire's Vinegar: The Mystery of the World's Most Expensive Bottle of Wine, by Wallace, Benjamin, 2008. Last session we attended at VIWF was entitled An Intimate Evening with Aminatta Forna, from the UK/ Sierra Leone. She read from and talked about her "Memory of Love which won the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize for Best Book, was shortlisted for the Orange Prize and was selected as one of the best books of the year by the Sunday Telegraph, Financial Times and Times. She is also the author of Ancestor Stones, a novel, and The Devil That Danced on the Water, a memoir of her activist father and her country, Sierra Leone. She now lives in London." A passionate, highly articulate speaker, she mesmerized us with her reading and thoughts, her informed answers to the audience's questions, her delightful sense of humour, her wonderfully ironic comments, both wry and dark. What an eye-opening, informative experience to the highly complex society and current situation of Sierre Leone, in particular, to the African continent as a whole. Certainly a powerful, remarkable spokesperson whose compelling voice needs to be heard, should be heard across the globe. For The latte/pastry non-rider, had a fabulo jaunt yesterday with Robo Ray, also an avid reader, as you both know, but not interested in joining book club! We met at Macdonald and Point Grey and made our way out to UBC, along Spanish Banks, and thence along SW Marine to Arthur Laing/Iona. Mountains were stunning with an icing sugar dusting of snow. Some of the trees looked almost ablaze, such were the magnificent oranges and reds. Saw two bald eagles as well so we felt pretty exhilarated with ride and scenery, and perhaps, most importantly for our aged frames, lack of a strong headwind! After that we headed for Steveston, (Were not accosted by grumpy locals. Your altercation, this past summer, James, makes more sense to me after learning of your near fisticuffs at the local cinema. Perhaps you need to cut back on all the local craft brews you seem quaff so frequently without really working up a thirst, cycling or fartleking but a miserable few perches, at most!), along Railway, rather than atop the dike, and back via #6 Road, over CSTB and then up Heather, cutting along 39th to make our way back to Raymundo's place with 83K on the clock. Waved goodbye to Robo Ray and proceeded down Macdonald to make my way home via Kits Beach. Had 91K on odometer once I was in front of Harbour Terrace, our building, so knew I only had to ride to Science World/Plaza of Nations to make 101.33K by time I was ready to call it a day. Did just that and pulled into the parkade at 2:00pm so total elapsed time was five hours and twenty minutes. Know that is not much compared to your blistering pace/admirable distances on the hills and dales of Yorkshire but a good ride for both Ray and I. You will be pleased to learn, Dear Reader, that my feet never touched the ground during the entire ride as I had my most attentive and willing squire, (Aged though he be. Sylvia mentioned that Ray will turn 70 next March, I believe. Had to be sharpish about keeping up with him for most if not all of the ride, as he had the bit in his mouth and was running like a thoroughbred, half-wheeling me to lung bursting and leg muscle screaming on the hills!), to push the walk button at all the important intersections! Wanted to cycle as far as we did as I knew, from the forecast., that the wonderful weather wouldn't last over next few days. Last night we had a wonderful roast potatoe, twice-baked cauliflower and New Zealand lamb chop dinner. Invited a former girlfriend, Barbara Young, from university days in Winnipeg, now living here in Vancouver, for dinner. Barbara knew Andrew back then as well so thought it would be fun to have her meet Andrew again, after more than forty years. One of our first dates was when we went to a rugby Halloween party, costumed as die! Andrew and I played but a year or so, at a time when rugby was just starting in Winnipeg. Speaking of rugby, he and I watched the finals of the World Cup. Started just after midnight here and didn't finish until about 3:00am. Like you, I thought that the French outplayed the All Blacks for most of game. Not that I know much, if anything, about the game and its strategy but from my point of view, only their incredible defensive play near the end allowed them to hang on to their one point lead. I hadn't realized, at the time, that they hadn't won the title in 24 years, so am pleased, for the team and the fans, that they did so on home turf, of course. But back to the classroom, leaving the playing fields behind, I must say that I detect a certain amount of self-pitying whingeing regarding reading assignments and other homework. If you spent less time watching telly and more time swotting you'd be able to speed read all the books your well-meaning friends foist upon you, dashing off succinct, critical reviews of all the well-researched drivel the politicians, celebrities and memoir writers publish. Stop complaining lad, and get down to work for a change or your next Half Term report will be a failing one. Your dear Mother will have to be brought in for a interview and apprised of the sad and sorry situation in which her less than perfect son has managed, through sloth, dipsomania and unadulterated procrastination to ensnare himself. (Parenthetically, I'm sure she has saved her still wrapped birthday gifts so that she can pawn them to pay for Ray to tutor you! In a funny/sad way, we discovered many birthday/Christmas presents, sweaters and blouses, in my dear Grandmother's clothes closet, never worn. "Too good to wear," was here response when we'd ask. Coming from humble and difficult circumstance in the Ukraine and living through the Depression, she was of a generation, probably much like your Mom and the war, that denied themselves, selflessly but also because they had so little compared to our affluence. How could one wear a lovely cashmere sweater to dig the garden? Consequently, it remained in her chest of drawers, unused, not even put on in the house as it might be soiled in the course of baking bread or making soup or canning vegetables. You will note that both Ray and I have inherited some of this behaviour with respect to our cycling garb. Pleased to note that The Sisterhood is fighting this trend, rather successfully, I gather, hearing about the plethora of birthday gifts, one a spiffy cycling top! Of course, a built in excuse Not to ride: far too, too nice to get all sweaty!!!) Well, time to go and visit Mom and then a quick visit to the GI Market for a loaf or two from Terra Bread. Have a coupon worth $5, part of volunteer package from VIWF, and Andrew, like my lovely Grandmother, enjoys a slice with most meals. Cora Lee has her rice bread but I'd prefer to eat cardboard! Almost forgot, Raymundo forwarded the Hartlepool 1951 - YouTube clip! I enjoyed it immensely, in fact. Bit like watching newsreels that used to be shown at cinema when I was in Cyprus. I'm sure you saw such films yourself, British Pathé, was one, I think. Thought I saw you and Ray on the soccer pitch or in the background, watching the bathing beauty contest! Finally, to spur you on to greater furlongs, wanted to mention that had a wonderful ride this past Tuesday RR and Whirlissimo. Met at Crown and SW Marine Drive, (One of group, Ken, Ray's friend, lives in Ladner and so drove to rendezvous. This was first time we've met.), and cycled back to UBC and around campus as Ken had not really been there since he graduated in 1974! Back towards Kits along Spanish Banks and then around Seawall, past Science World, to circumcylce Stanley Park. As you know, we often ride over the Lions Gate and back but Ray had a tutoring time constraint so we just enjoyed the wonderfully calm ocean and gorgeous sunshine. Once around park Raymundo and Ken, (no nickname yet as we've just met, as I mentioned above), left us to make their way over Burrard Bridge while Giorgio), and I retraced our earlier route around Science World back to our place, arriving just after noon. I started at 8:25am so it was a fairly decent ride, as far as distance and time are concerned, as I logged 73.33K by time we reached our place. Hoped, as I walked in the door, that I wouldn't collapse on ice at curling that evening! I invited Whirlissimo in for a spot of lunch and friend, Andrew, (El Cordobés), whipped us up absolutely fabuloso cheese and avocado omelettes! Ragin' Bull phoned just after we walked in door and wanted to go for a ride! Told him we had honked at him at around 10:30am, on way to SP, so invited him for a java. He arrived just as we were finishing our meal and we chatted over cookies and more coffee before Whirls and I said goodbye to Ragin'. Giorgio's girlfriend, Kerry, has an eleven-year old daughter, Tia, who is going to play the piano on November 11th, at Broadway Lodge, where Mother is a resident, as I think you know. I wanted to introduce George to chap, Bob, who looks after social activities so that they could make arrangements for Tia's recital. While the two were chatting I visited Mom and put cream on her arms and the back of her hands. At her age her skin is very dry and lotion certainly helps. While there I helped her with her juice. Bit like priming a pump as at first she would only chew the straw in the cup. Had to make her take a sip from the open container and then after that she seemed to remember how to draw the liquid up through the straw. Unfortunately, she isn't really able to comprehend any instructions for drinking or sipping. Once a given process is started, it seems that some sort of reflex mechanism sets in and, by and large, she then knows the appropriate response. Still, she finished the entire glass and was smiling by the time it was finished. Kissed her goodbye and said hello to a number of other residents we have come to know on way out. Back home, Andrew was waiting for me as we had to drive out to the airport. When he left Toronto, last Saturday, he didn't realize, for some inexplicable reason, that he couldn't take the bottle of bourbon, Eagle Rare, 45%, he was bringing as a present for me, in his carry-on. Since he had already checked his bag, he had to leave the security area and return to the WestJet counter for a small box. He wrapped the bottle, (already in bubble wrap), in a few T-shirts and packaged it up. Once in Vancouver, it wasn't with his other bag so he filed a missing luggage form. When he told me what had happened, (I thought that he had missed his flight as he should have been out of the terminal by about 9:25am and I didn't locate him, at WestJet's YVR service counter, until shortly after 10:00am. This after circling three times and then eventually finding a spot in the "Loading Only" lane where one can usually park for a few minutes without being told to move on by the YVR Traffic Polizei! By 10:00am I decided that I needed to go inside as nobody was coming out of the terminal by this time. I told the warden that I would only be a minute or so and headed in search of the lost soul!), I thought that that would be the last we would see of the package. Felt especially badly for Andrew as I know he was quite excited about giving me the gift. At any rate, WestJet called, just as the chef was finishing his masterpieces, to inform him that the parcel had finally arrived! To boot, they gave me a $100 credit towards my next flight with them for simply coming to collect the package. Everybody was happy! Too bad they don't fly to England as I could pop over for an Americano and pastry in Wetherby, after cinema! Fondestos to you both from Cora Lee. Cheers, Headmaster Patrizio, otherwise known as El Muerte! Pics: Happy Halloween! 40th anniversary of our first meeting, at a pub, in Winnipeg. Beautiful Fall afternoon, clear, crisp and sunny, when we went inside, to meet, by chance, later. More than a foot of snow when we left, together, as I wanted to drive Cora Lee to her place so I could "stalk" her! The Sisterhood reading while I do housework. Andrew, Executive chef, flown in from Toronto, at great expense, at sink, at stove. One of his magnificent creations. He's doing a chicken curry tonight. Will have two tables of bridge, eight players and four observers, latter needed as bartenders and food servers, scullions and maids! Gather Chris would fit in well with her mention of domestic duties at the end of her last email!!! | |
Thursday 27 October 2011
IIDD, Oct 27th
The secret of good writing is to say an old thing in a new way or a new thing in an old way. -Richard Harding Davis, journalist and author (1864-1916)
Hi Pepperoni and Locker Room!
I'm more than honoured that you'd like me to be the auctioneer for the Gamble Calcutta, once again, even though I know I'm probably the last resort! Where is Brewster when I need him? HOWEVER, I'm so far out of the squash loop that I must decline, UNLESS you can provide me with the names of the majority of the teams now, as well as some biographical details about any of the players I may not know well or at all, for that matter, so that I can assess what would be involved in preparing my remarks. If I agree, (and of this writing I have not done so), I would like to do the job properly, from my point of view, and that takes a fair bit of work, whether it seems like it or not.
Please send along my best wishes and fond regards to all the Portlandians. Buona Fortuna in Wrightson. I remain, as always, your most faithful and humble servant, Il Conduttore!
Hey Dunners,
Thanks anyways. Locker Room will do it. Cheers, Covey
Hi Baby Beluga!
How did you do in Portland? Buona Fortuna with Gamble! Cheers, Il Conduttore!
Hi George,
Yes, I will be there. And I'm bringing my friend Rob with me. Rob is an avid reader and enjoys a glass of scotch just as much as anyone else.
As I have only been to one other meeting, please refresh my memory on the exact location and time.
Thanks Gents...D
Hi Titanium Man, Robertitio and rest of Lads!
The Non-Readers Book Club will be meeting at our place, The Island Inn, #20-1425 Lamey's Mill Road, 604-734-9200, place you were at the first time you met with us. Great that you are bringing Rob. Look forward to meeting him. Have attached directions in case you can't remember way.
Had a fabulo ride today with friend, Robo Ray, also an avid reader. We met at Macdonald and Point Grey and made our way out to UBC, along Spanish Banks, and thence along SW Marine to Arthur Laing/Iona. Mountains were stunning with an icing sugar dusting of snow. Some of the trees looked almost ablaze, such were the magnificent oranges and reds. Saw two bald eagles as well so we felt pretty exhilarated with ride and scenery, and perhaps, most importantly for our aged frames, lack of a strong headwind! After that we headed for Steveston, along Railway, rather than atop the dike, and back via #6 Road, over CSTB and then up Heather, cutting along 39th to make our way back to Raymundo's place near Arbutus and 23rd, with 83K on the clock.
Waved goodbye to Robo Ray and proceeded down Macdonald to make my way home via Kits Beach. Had 91K on odometer once I was in front of Harbour Terrace, our building, so knew I only had to ride to Science World/Plaza of Nations to make 101.33K by time I was ready to call it a day. Did just that and pulled into the parkade at 2:00pm so total elapsed time was five hours and twenty minutes. Know that is not much compared to your blistering pace/admirable distance but a good ride for both Ray and I. Wanted to cycle as far as we did as I don't think the wonderful weather will last over next few days.
See you around 7:00ish on Sunday. Cheers, Patrizio!
Hi Pepperoni and Locker Room!
I'm more than honoured that you'd like me to be the auctioneer for the Gamble Calcutta, once again, even though I know I'm probably the last resort! Where is Brewster when I need him? HOWEVER, I'm so far out of the squash loop that I must decline, UNLESS you can provide me with the names of the majority of the teams now, as well as some biographical details about any of the players I may not know well or at all, for that matter, so that I can assess what would be involved in preparing my remarks. If I agree, (and of this writing I have not done so), I would like to do the job properly, from my point of view, and that takes a fair bit of work, whether it seems like it or not.
Please send along my best wishes and fond regards to all the Portlandians. Buona Fortuna in Wrightson. I remain, as always, your most faithful and humble servant, Il Conduttore!
Hey Dunners,
Thanks anyways. Locker Room will do it. Cheers, Covey
Hi Baby Beluga!
How did you do in Portland? Buona Fortuna with Gamble! Cheers, Il Conduttore!
The next meeting will be this coming Sunday, 30 October, at the Island Inn. Let us know if you cannot attend. I will be out of town that night.
The book is The Billionaire's Vinegar - The Mystery of the World's Most Expensive Bottle of Wine by Benjamin Wallace (Dave). The book to follow will be Panicking Ralph, an early work by Bill James in his Harpur & Iles series (Pat). Mark will choose the book to follow the Nafisi. |
Newish to the List:
The Keeper of Lost Causes by Danish author, Jussi Adler-Olsen (Pat)
Botany of Desire (Mark)
Devil in the White City, Erik Larson (Dave)
The Poisoners Handbook, Deborah Blum (Dave)
The New York Trilogy, Paul Auster (Dave)
The Shadow of the Wind, Carlo Ruiz Zafon (Dave)
Anything written by Simon Beckett (Dave)
The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach (George)
Book of Secrets, Illegitimate Daughters, Absent Fathers, By Michael Holroyd (Pat)
Into the Silence: The Great War, Mallory, and the Conquest of Everest Wade Davis (Pat)
War By Sebastian Junger (George)
Unbroken: A World War II Story Of Survival, Resilience, And Redemption
by Laura Hillenbrand (George)
Origins of Political Order: Francis Fukuyama (Milton)
The Honor Code by Kwame Appiah (Moe)
Reading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books by Azar Nafisi (Pat)
The Best Laid Plans Terry Fallis (George)
Bounce, Mathew Syed (George)
Empire of Ice: Encounters in a Changing Landscape -- Gretel Ehrlich (George)
Everything Was Good-bye by Gurjinder Basran (Misha)
The Long Home, William Gay (Ralf)
Blood Meridian and The Road by Cormac McCarthy (Ralf)
Conversations with Joseph Brodsky Solomon Volkov (Misha)
David Mitchell's Number 9 Dream (Patricio)
Arc of Justice by Kevin Boyle (Jamie)
Tony Morrison, Beloved (Misha)
Chang-Rae Lee, Native Speaker (Misha)
Chang-Rae Lee, Native Speaker (Misha)
Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón (Mark)
The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell (Mark)
A Coffin for Dimitrios by Eric Ambler (Guy)
Secret Daughter Intl by Shilpi Somaya Gowda (Misha)
The Help by Kathryn Stocket (*)(Misha)
The Help by Kathryn Stocket (*)(Misha)
'The Outliers', Malcolm Gladwell (Guy)
Solar, by Ian McEwan (George)
Kabloona in the Yellow Kayak: One Woman's Journey Through the Northwest Passage (Mark)
Nikolski, Nicolas Dickner (George)
Iain Banks – Raw Spirit: In Search of the Perfect Dram and/or Crow Road (Pat)
February by Lisa Moore
The Man Who Loved China by Simon Winchester (Guy)
Blackstrap Hawco by Kenneth J Harvey (Pat)
The Anthologist, Nicholson Baker
Dirt Music and Breath by Tim Winton (George)
Berlin Noir by Phillip Kerr (Pat)
God Sleeps in Rwanda: A Journey of Transformation (Jamie)
South Asian Adventures with the Active Poor
The Girl with The Dragon Tattoo, Stieg Larsson
THELONIOUS MONK: The Life and Times of an American Original
By Robin D. G. Kelley (George)
Curve of Time, by Whylie Blanchet (George)
The standing list available upon request with requisite Brotherhood secret handshake.
Hi George,
Yes, I will be there. And I'm bringing my friend Rob with me. Rob is an avid reader and enjoys a glass of scotch just as much as anyone else.
As I have only been to one other meeting, please refresh my memory on the exact location and time.
Thanks Gents...D
Hi Titanium Man, Robertitio and rest of Lads!
The Non-Readers Book Club will be meeting at our place, The Island Inn, #20-1425 Lamey's Mill Road, 604-734-9200, place you were at the first time you met with us. Great that you are bringing Rob. Look forward to meeting him. Have attached directions in case you can't remember way.
Had a fabulo ride today with friend, Robo Ray, also an avid reader. We met at Macdonald and Point Grey and made our way out to UBC, along Spanish Banks, and thence along SW Marine to Arthur Laing/Iona. Mountains were stunning with an icing sugar dusting of snow. Some of the trees looked almost ablaze, such were the magnificent oranges and reds. Saw two bald eagles as well so we felt pretty exhilarated with ride and scenery, and perhaps, most importantly for our aged frames, lack of a strong headwind! After that we headed for Steveston, along Railway, rather than atop the dike, and back via #6 Road, over CSTB and then up Heather, cutting along 39th to make our way back to Raymundo's place near Arbutus and 23rd, with 83K on the clock.
Waved goodbye to Robo Ray and proceeded down Macdonald to make my way home via Kits Beach. Had 91K on odometer once I was in front of Harbour Terrace, our building, so knew I only had to ride to Science World/Plaza of Nations to make 101.33K by time I was ready to call it a day. Did just that and pulled into the parkade at 2:00pm so total elapsed time was five hours and twenty minutes. Know that is not much compared to your blistering pace/admirable distance but a good ride for both Ray and I. Wanted to cycle as far as we did as I don't think the wonderful weather will last over next few days.
See you around 7:00ish on Sunday. Cheers, Patrizio!
Wednesday 26 October 2011
IIDD, Oct 26th
I am a kind of paranoiac in reverse. I suspect people of plotting to make me happy. -J.D. Salinger, writer (1919-2010)
It is unwise to be too sure of one's own wisdom. It is healthy to be reminded that the strongest might weaken and the wisest might err. -Mohandas K. Gandhi (1869-1948)
Hi, Patrick. Thanks for the invite. Today's my mom's 88th birthday, so we'll be having a birthday dinner. Working the rest of the week and like to get an early night, but Friday definitely sounds like a possibility. I don't play Bridge but would be interested to watch. Just riding back over Lions Gate so I'll get back to you later. Email me later this week, if you could.
Cheers. Ian
Hi Ian!
Trust that your Mom's 88th went well. My Mother celebrated her 98th on September 22nd!
Had a wonderful ride yesterday with a number of friends. Met at Crown and SW Marine Drive, (One of group, Ken, lives in Ladner and so drove to rendezvous. He is Ray's friend and this was first time we've met.), and cycled back to UBC and around campus as Ken had not really been there since he graduated in 1974! Back towards Kits along Spanish Banks and then around Seawall, past Science World, to circumcylce Stanley Park. We often ride over the Lions Gate and back but Ray had a time constraint, (He is a retired math teacher and still tutors quite a few students.), so we just enjoyed the wonderfully calm ocean and gorgeous sunshine.
Once around park, Ray, (Robo Ray/Raymundo), and Ken, (no nickname yet as we've just met, as I mentioned above), left us to make their way over Burrard Bridge while George, (Whirlygig/Giorgio), and I retraced our earlier route around Science World back to our place, (Harbour Terrace, 1425 Lamey's Mill Road, #20, 604-734-9200), arriving just after noon. I started at 8:25am so it was a fairly decent ride, as far as distance and time are concerned, as I logged 73.33K by time we reached our place.
As I mentioned, you are more than welcome to be an "official observer" on Friday. People will be arriving between 6:00pm-7:00pm, so come whenever convenient. I have attached directions for how to find our place if the address alone isn't sufficient Look forward to hearing more about your exploits! Cheers, Patrizio!
We are looking at being in Australia from Mar 17th to Apr 20th 2012. No firm plans yet but hope to be in Brisbane for a couple of days. What are your upcoming plans. W
G'day Wayne and Michelle
Great to hear from you. Regarding March/April we will be here on the Gold Coast, as I have given up on trying to find a warm place in the northern hemisphere for my birthday in March. At this stage we will probably be catching up with friends in Europe in June/July for a walking tour in France or Italy(not sure about the walking bit) and a bit of drive around the the Emerald Isle involving a great deal of eating and drinking in small Irish pubs. Anyway as I've said before you are more then welcome to stay with us as we have a four bedroom house close to the beach, restaurants and good coffee shops. We are centrally located for a number of interesting short trips from coast towns to what we describe locally as the mountains or in your case probably oversized hills.
Cheers for now, Tony and Elly
Hi Elly and Tony!
Trust you are both well! Sorry that it has taken me so long to reply to your last message to Sarge, sent way back in September. Interestingly enough it was dated the 22nd, my Mom's 98th birthday! At any rate, thank you both for the kind invitation to stay. Sounds like a wonderful situation so looking forward to visiting already.
Have been busy, of late, volunteering first with the Vancouver International Film Festival and then followed immediately afterward by the VI Writers Festival. Both were truly wonderful, saw some incredible documentaries as well as feature films, listened to many exciting and remarkable authors, one being Cate Kennedy. She read from her latest work, a debut novel, The World Beneath, and had us in stitches. Do you know her work?
At any rate, last Thursday, came home to find the Freeloader Sutherlands upstairs, after their Thursday night curling match. Chloë, our daughter, was there as well and all five of us sat around and chatted and sipped wine, a Quinta Ferreira, Oliver, Okanagan, BC, 2009 Viognier, 16.6%, from downstairs and a 2008 Fruit Bomb, red table wine, (Cabbage, Merlot, Syrah, Malbec and Cab Franc), Columbia Valley, Washington, 13.9%, from the cellars of the Island Inn.
After solving most of the world's problems, we focused on hammering out the bare bones of our Australian itinerary, inasmuch as deciding when we plan to be in different cities and how we will move around the country. Essentially, we will rent a car in Sydney, (March 16th) and drive, with Sarge, from there to Melbourne to collect Flamin', there on points, on March 17th. Leaving on the 22nd/23rd, next will be to Adelaide, cross-country, via Clare and Barossa, to arrive in the city on the 25th. From Adelaide, probably leaving on the 29th, we'll either head south to McLaren Vale and then along the coast back towards Melbourne, in order to visit the Mornington Peninsula, below Melbourne or make our way back to Sydney, via Yarra and Rutherglen. Once in Sydney, April 2nd, we will stay for best of a week and then drive north, April 7th, via Hunter Valley, paralleling coast, stopping on the Gold Coast, April 10th/11th, to stay with you and then next into Brisbane itself, 14th/15th, for some time with Clare/Gregg.
Once stay in Brisbane comes to an end, April 18th, we'll turn in car and fly to Cairns for a little less than a week. At this point, not sure where Cora Lee and I will make for as we will still have a bit more than a couple of weeks in Oz before heading to Japan, from Sydney, May 11th. F/S will fly to Melbourne and Sydney, (April 22nd), respectively, to return to Vancouver, next day. Whether we manage to visit Darwin or return to Sydney and/or Canberra has yet to be worked out.
We are open to any suggestions you might have so please feel free to comment on any of the stages as outlined above, particularly in your neck of the woods and Cairns. Nothing is really set in stone yet
so would certainly appreciate any local knowledge.
All the best. Fond regards from Cora Lee to you both,. Cheers, Patrizio!
Pat,
Any night you have difficulty sleeping, watch this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oizS3DWPj6E&feature=player_embedded
This is the old town of Hartlepool next to my town, West Hartlepool; twin towns and lots of
rivalry in my time there. Flurry of e-mails from the 2 Jimmies in England. They obviously enjoyed it.
Enjoyed the ride today, sorry about the delay. Perhaps we could go out
to Ken's in Ladner one day, either for a long ride when we have time or take
the bikes on the car and do our riding over there. Looking to ride Thursday
if the weather cooperates. Ray
Hi Ray!
Thanks for clip! I enjoyed it immensely, in fact. Bit like watching newsreels that used to be shown at cinema when I was in Cyprus. I'm sure you saw such films yourself, British Pathé, was one, I think. Thought I saw you and Jim on the soccer pitch or in the background, watching the bathing beauty contest!
Great ride. I was glad for slight delay as it gave me an excuse and a chance to "circle" for a legitimate reason! Really enjoyed meeting Ken. He will certainly up the pace if we continue to ride with him! Hate to see him when he's in shape if Tuesday's ride was an example of not having ridden for sometime!
After we left you to make your way over Burrard Bridge, Whirlygig and I retraced our earlier route around Science World back to our place, arriving just after noon. I started at 8:25am so it was a fairly decent ride, as far as distance and time are concerned, as I logged 73.33K by time we reached our place. Hoped, as I walked in the door, that I wouldn't collapse on ice at curling that evening!
I invited Whirlissimo in for a spot of lunch and friend, Andrew, (El Cordobés), whipped us up absolutely fabuloso cheese and avocado omelettes! Ragin' Bull phoned just after we walked in door and wanted to go for a ride! Told him we had honked at him at around 10:30am, on way to SP, so invited him for a java. He arrived just as we were finishing our meal and we chatted over cookies and more coffee before Whirls and I said goodbye to Ragin'. Giorgio's girlfriend, Kerry, has an eleven-year old daughter, Tia, who is going to play the piano on November 11th, at Broadway Lodge, where Mother is a resident, as I think you know. I wanted to introduce George to chap, Bob, who looks after social activities so that they could make arrangements for Tia's recital. While the two were chatting I visited Mom and put cream on her arms and the back of her hands. At her age her skin is very dry and lotion certainly helps. While there I helped her with her juice. Bit like priming a pump as at first she would only chew the straw in the cup. Had to make her take a sip from the open container and then after that she seemed to remember how to draw the liquid up through the straw. Unfortunately, she isn't really able to comprehend any instructions for drinking or sipping. Once a given process is started, it seems that some sort of reflex mechanism sets in and, by and large, she then knows the appropriate response. Still, she finished the entire glass and was smiling by the time it was finished. Kissed her goodbye and said hello to a number of other residents we have come to know on way out.
Back home, Andrew was waiting for me as we had to drive out to the airport. When he left Toronto, last Saturday, he didn't realize, for some inexplicable reason, that he couldn't take the bottle of bourbon, Eagle Rare, 45%, he was bringing as a present for me, in his carry-on. Since he had already checked his bag, he had to leave the security area and return to the WestJet counter for a small box. He wrapped the bottle, (already in bubble wrap), in a few T-shirts and packaged it up. Once in Vancouver, it wasn't with his other bag so he filed a missing luggage form. When he told me what had happened, (I thought that he had missed his flight as he should have been out of the terminal by about 9:25am and I didn't locate him, at WestJet's YVR service counter, until shortly after 10:00am. This after circling three times and then eventually finding a spot in the "Loading Only" lane where one can usually park for a few minutes without being told to move on by the YVR Traffic Polizei! By 10:00am I decided that I needed to go inside as nobody was coming out of the terminal by this time. I told the warden that I would only be a minute or so and headed in search of the lost soul!), I thought that that would be the last we would see of the package. Felt especially badly for Andrew as I know he was quite excited about giving me the gift.
At any rate, WestJet called, just as the chef was finishing his masterpieces, to inform him that the parcel had finally arrived! To boot, they gave me a $100 credit towards my next flight with them for simply coming to collect the package. Everybody was happy!
I'm keen to ride tomorrow. Does 9:00am sound fine? Macdonald/Point Grey? I'd like to go to Iona, via Spanish Banks, if that suits you as far as time, etc., as weather doesn't look particularly good for longish ride on weekend. Let me know and we'll plan accordingly. Cheers, Patrizio!
Patricio, let me just return it in a due time. please don't worry about it.
(i am off into the r a i n)
Hi Misha!
Sorry I didn't read your email sooner as I renewed book ands it isn't due until November 15th1 Keep it until then if you still have it. Are you planning to attend on Sunday? If you will need a parking spot just let me know. Cheers, Patrizio!
It is unwise to be too sure of one's own wisdom. It is healthy to be reminded that the strongest might weaken and the wisest might err. -Mohandas K. Gandhi (1869-1948)
Hi, Patrick. Thanks for the invite. Today's my mom's 88th birthday, so we'll be having a birthday dinner. Working the rest of the week and like to get an early night, but Friday definitely sounds like a possibility. I don't play Bridge but would be interested to watch. Just riding back over Lions Gate so I'll get back to you later. Email me later this week, if you could.
Cheers. Ian
Hi Ian!
Trust that your Mom's 88th went well. My Mother celebrated her 98th on September 22nd!
Had a wonderful ride yesterday with a number of friends. Met at Crown and SW Marine Drive, (One of group, Ken, lives in Ladner and so drove to rendezvous. He is Ray's friend and this was first time we've met.), and cycled back to UBC and around campus as Ken had not really been there since he graduated in 1974! Back towards Kits along Spanish Banks and then around Seawall, past Science World, to circumcylce Stanley Park. We often ride over the Lions Gate and back but Ray had a time constraint, (He is a retired math teacher and still tutors quite a few students.), so we just enjoyed the wonderfully calm ocean and gorgeous sunshine.
Once around park, Ray, (Robo Ray/Raymundo), and Ken, (no nickname yet as we've just met, as I mentioned above), left us to make their way over Burrard Bridge while George, (Whirlygig/Giorgio), and I retraced our earlier route around Science World back to our place, (Harbour Terrace, 1425 Lamey's Mill Road, #20, 604-734-9200), arriving just after noon. I started at 8:25am so it was a fairly decent ride, as far as distance and time are concerned, as I logged 73.33K by time we reached our place.
As I mentioned, you are more than welcome to be an "official observer" on Friday. People will be arriving between 6:00pm-7:00pm, so come whenever convenient. I have attached directions for how to find our place if the address alone isn't sufficient Look forward to hearing more about your exploits! Cheers, Patrizio!
We are looking at being in Australia from Mar 17th to Apr 20th 2012. No firm plans yet but hope to be in Brisbane for a couple of days. What are your upcoming plans. W
G'day Wayne and Michelle
Great to hear from you. Regarding March/April we will be here on the Gold Coast, as I have given up on trying to find a warm place in the northern hemisphere for my birthday in March. At this stage we will probably be catching up with friends in Europe in June/July for a walking tour in France or Italy(not sure about the walking bit) and a bit of drive around the the Emerald Isle involving a great deal of eating and drinking in small Irish pubs. Anyway as I've said before you are more then welcome to stay with us as we have a four bedroom house close to the beach, restaurants and good coffee shops. We are centrally located for a number of interesting short trips from coast towns to what we describe locally as the mountains or in your case probably oversized hills.
Cheers for now, Tony and Elly
Hi Elly and Tony!
Trust you are both well! Sorry that it has taken me so long to reply to your last message to Sarge, sent way back in September. Interestingly enough it was dated the 22nd, my Mom's 98th birthday! At any rate, thank you both for the kind invitation to stay. Sounds like a wonderful situation so looking forward to visiting already.
Have been busy, of late, volunteering first with the Vancouver International Film Festival and then followed immediately afterward by the VI Writers Festival. Both were truly wonderful, saw some incredible documentaries as well as feature films, listened to many exciting and remarkable authors, one being Cate Kennedy. She read from her latest work, a debut novel, The World Beneath, and had us in stitches. Do you know her work?
At any rate, last Thursday, came home to find the Freeloader Sutherlands upstairs, after their Thursday night curling match. Chloë, our daughter, was there as well and all five of us sat around and chatted and sipped wine, a Quinta Ferreira, Oliver, Okanagan, BC, 2009 Viognier, 16.6%, from downstairs and a 2008 Fruit Bomb, red table wine, (Cabbage, Merlot, Syrah, Malbec and Cab Franc), Columbia Valley, Washington, 13.9%, from the cellars of the Island Inn.
After solving most of the world's problems, we focused on hammering out the bare bones of our Australian itinerary, inasmuch as deciding when we plan to be in different cities and how we will move around the country. Essentially, we will rent a car in Sydney, (March 16th) and drive, with Sarge, from there to Melbourne to collect Flamin', there on points, on March 17th. Leaving on the 22nd/23rd, next will be to Adelaide, cross-country, via Clare and Barossa, to arrive in the city on the 25th. From Adelaide, probably leaving on the 29th, we'll either head south to McLaren Vale and then along the coast back towards Melbourne, in order to visit the Mornington Peninsula, below Melbourne or make our way back to Sydney, via Yarra and Rutherglen. Once in Sydney, April 2nd, we will stay for best of a week and then drive north, April 7th, via Hunter Valley, paralleling coast, stopping on the Gold Coast, April 10th/11th, to stay with you and then next into Brisbane itself, 14th/15th, for some time with Clare/Gregg.
Once stay in Brisbane comes to an end, April 18th, we'll turn in car and fly to Cairns for a little less than a week. At this point, not sure where Cora Lee and I will make for as we will still have a bit more than a couple of weeks in Oz before heading to Japan, from Sydney, May 11th. F/S will fly to Melbourne and Sydney, (April 22nd), respectively, to return to Vancouver, next day. Whether we manage to visit Darwin or return to Sydney and/or Canberra has yet to be worked out.
We are open to any suggestions you might have so please feel free to comment on any of the stages as outlined above, particularly in your neck of the woods and Cairns. Nothing is really set in stone yet
so would certainly appreciate any local knowledge.
All the best. Fond regards from Cora Lee to you both,. Cheers, Patrizio!
Pat,
Any night you have difficulty sleeping, watch this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oizS3DWPj6E&feature=player_embedded
This is the old town of Hartlepool next to my town, West Hartlepool; twin towns and lots of
rivalry in my time there. Flurry of e-mails from the 2 Jimmies in England. They obviously enjoyed it.
Enjoyed the ride today, sorry about the delay. Perhaps we could go out
to Ken's in Ladner one day, either for a long ride when we have time or take
the bikes on the car and do our riding over there. Looking to ride Thursday
if the weather cooperates. Ray
Hi Ray!
Thanks for clip! I enjoyed it immensely, in fact. Bit like watching newsreels that used to be shown at cinema when I was in Cyprus. I'm sure you saw such films yourself, British Pathé, was one, I think. Thought I saw you and Jim on the soccer pitch or in the background, watching the bathing beauty contest!
Great ride. I was glad for slight delay as it gave me an excuse and a chance to "circle" for a legitimate reason! Really enjoyed meeting Ken. He will certainly up the pace if we continue to ride with him! Hate to see him when he's in shape if Tuesday's ride was an example of not having ridden for sometime!
After we left you to make your way over Burrard Bridge, Whirlygig and I retraced our earlier route around Science World back to our place, arriving just after noon. I started at 8:25am so it was a fairly decent ride, as far as distance and time are concerned, as I logged 73.33K by time we reached our place. Hoped, as I walked in the door, that I wouldn't collapse on ice at curling that evening!
I invited Whirlissimo in for a spot of lunch and friend, Andrew, (El Cordobés), whipped us up absolutely fabuloso cheese and avocado omelettes! Ragin' Bull phoned just after we walked in door and wanted to go for a ride! Told him we had honked at him at around 10:30am, on way to SP, so invited him for a java. He arrived just as we were finishing our meal and we chatted over cookies and more coffee before Whirls and I said goodbye to Ragin'. Giorgio's girlfriend, Kerry, has an eleven-year old daughter, Tia, who is going to play the piano on November 11th, at Broadway Lodge, where Mother is a resident, as I think you know. I wanted to introduce George to chap, Bob, who looks after social activities so that they could make arrangements for Tia's recital. While the two were chatting I visited Mom and put cream on her arms and the back of her hands. At her age her skin is very dry and lotion certainly helps. While there I helped her with her juice. Bit like priming a pump as at first she would only chew the straw in the cup. Had to make her take a sip from the open container and then after that she seemed to remember how to draw the liquid up through the straw. Unfortunately, she isn't really able to comprehend any instructions for drinking or sipping. Once a given process is started, it seems that some sort of reflex mechanism sets in and, by and large, she then knows the appropriate response. Still, she finished the entire glass and was smiling by the time it was finished. Kissed her goodbye and said hello to a number of other residents we have come to know on way out.
Back home, Andrew was waiting for me as we had to drive out to the airport. When he left Toronto, last Saturday, he didn't realize, for some inexplicable reason, that he couldn't take the bottle of bourbon, Eagle Rare, 45%, he was bringing as a present for me, in his carry-on. Since he had already checked his bag, he had to leave the security area and return to the WestJet counter for a small box. He wrapped the bottle, (already in bubble wrap), in a few T-shirts and packaged it up. Once in Vancouver, it wasn't with his other bag so he filed a missing luggage form. When he told me what had happened, (I thought that he had missed his flight as he should have been out of the terminal by about 9:25am and I didn't locate him, at WestJet's YVR service counter, until shortly after 10:00am. This after circling three times and then eventually finding a spot in the "Loading Only" lane where one can usually park for a few minutes without being told to move on by the YVR Traffic Polizei! By 10:00am I decided that I needed to go inside as nobody was coming out of the terminal by this time. I told the warden that I would only be a minute or so and headed in search of the lost soul!), I thought that that would be the last we would see of the package. Felt especially badly for Andrew as I know he was quite excited about giving me the gift.
At any rate, WestJet called, just as the chef was finishing his masterpieces, to inform him that the parcel had finally arrived! To boot, they gave me a $100 credit towards my next flight with them for simply coming to collect the package. Everybody was happy!
I'm keen to ride tomorrow. Does 9:00am sound fine? Macdonald/Point Grey? I'd like to go to Iona, via Spanish Banks, if that suits you as far as time, etc., as weather doesn't look particularly good for longish ride on weekend. Let me know and we'll plan accordingly. Cheers, Patrizio!
Hi Legs!
Sorry to learn that The General is flying to Onterrible but all the more tart
crust with gluten free flour or fruit crumble with gluten free topping,
whichever is easiest or preferable, given your hectic schedule! Thanks!!! We can
chat about arrival time, etc., closer to Friday, but anytime around 6:00pm,
(7:30pm for you!), is fine. Il Conductore,
Confirmazione on the gluten free dessert. Do you have room for one more? Castenettes misses you and Corinne very much and has offered to help you with you practice for Gamble 100 auctioneer.
L'Chaim, Legs
Hi Leggage! Costanza is always welcome! Bring her along! In fact, fold her into the gluten free pie crust! Cheers, Il Conduttore PS: Of course, I relish, positively salivate at the thought of Stanzzzzzzzzza helping me with the Gamble Auction! I'm sure, her undeniable, magnetic, sultry and alluring presence will up the bids to astronomical heights!
I think your reading glasses need a stronger prescription....Stanza is Stanza, Castennettes is Ruth. Is that still ok? Hi Leggage!
It isn't my reading glasses, (I don't need them!), it was the viewing through
the bottom of my malt glass that caused mistake, for your snarky information!!
Of course, Ruthless is more than welcome! What about the Chant of Jimmy
Blacksmith? Let me know. L'Chaim and Cheers, Eye Dottore! Il Conduttore, through
a glass darkly!
The Chant of Jimmy Blacksmith has some function that he's going to so Ruthless is "bach-ing" on Friday night.
see you around 7-ish...
Legs
Hi Kilroy, Whirlygig and Carlos the Jackal!
Trust The Thompson Twins are celebrating nothing but wins in Portland!!! You
did send along that list of untranslatable words, Whirlissimo, but I was
delighted to be reminded of Tartle, Scottish: The act of hesitating while
introducing someone because you've forgotten their name! I'm sure I suffer
from tartlephobia!!!Glad you enjoyed the paraprosdokians. So did Big Al, by
the way. Don't even think twice about family matters. You weren't ranting at
all. If it had been me I think you probably have had to call in 'Orrible
'Ungie to restrain me!!!
With respect to Broadway Lodge, aka Carnegie Hall, I spoke to chap, Wayne,
who does a lot of the social activities coordination there and he said it
would be great. Guess you and/or Kerry/Tia need to come and scope out
physical facilities, piano, etc., and then it is a matter of sorting out
dates, times, expectations, (on both sides, I guess), etc. Wayne mentioned
November 11th though you mentioned 12th or 13th as possibilities. Of course
we can chat about it when you are back or Kerry can give me a shout when
convenient.
Speaking of Kerry, Kerry, we are hosting a bridge night on Friday, October
28th and we'd be delighted if both of you, (and Tia if that works), would
like to join us. However, I believe The Giggster may be in SF. I plan to
invite Marcus and Susan as well, so you would be among friends, Kerry! At
any rate, let me know about Tia's playing and bridge when you have a moment.
Trust The Thompson Twins are celebrating nothing but wins in Portland!!! You
did send along that list of untranslatable words, Whirlissimo, but I was
delighted to be reminded of Tartle, Scottish: The act of hesitating while
introducing someone because you've forgotten their name! I'm sure I suffer
from tartlephobia!!!Glad you enjoyed the paraprosdokians. So did Big Al, by
the way. Don't even think twice about family matters. You weren't ranting at
all. If it had been me I think you probably have had to call in 'Orrible
'Ungie to restrain me!!!
With respect to Broadway Lodge, aka Carnegie Hall, I spoke to chap, Wayne,
who does a lot of the social activities coordination there and he said it
would be great. Guess you and/or Kerry/Tia need to come and scope out
physical facilities, piano, etc., and then it is a matter of sorting out
dates, times, expectations, (on both sides, I guess), etc. Wayne mentioned
November 11th though you mentioned 12th or 13th as possibilities. Of course
we can chat about it when you are back or Kerry can give me a shout when
convenient.
Speaking of Kerry, Kerry, we are hosting a bridge night on Friday, October
28th and we'd be delighted if both of you, (and Tia if that works), would
like to join us. However, I believe The Giggster may be in SF. I plan to
invite Marcus and Susan as well, so you would be among friends, Kerry! At
any rate, let me know about Tia's playing and bridge when you have a moment.
P,
Sorry for the slow response. E-mail connectivity was not what I had expected
over the weekend.
Greetings from many in Portland -- specifically the Ushers -- GordONe, Cici
& Gavin who is now, at 13 years, over 6 feet tall and playing with Gord!
We were happy with our performance on the court -- held our own in the 50s
even though we did not win a match and won the Div 1. Donated Portland glass
hardware to the AA in lieu of excesses over the weekend.
VWF sounds unbelievable.
Thanks for the invite to Bridge night. I will be away that evenng. I have
prodded the sisterhood to respond assuming she has not already. I hope we
can get in on another hand sometime soon.
Cannot ride today but am good to go tomorrow if that is workable for you and
others. Only restriction so far is a 8:45 drop of the MT. Weather looks
promising. W
Sorry for the slow response. E-mail connectivity was not what I had expected
over the weekend.
Greetings from many in Portland -- specifically the Ushers -- GordONe, Cici
& Gavin who is now, at 13 years, over 6 feet tall and playing with Gord!
We were happy with our performance on the court -- held our own in the 50s
even though we did not win a match and won the Div 1. Donated Portland glass
hardware to the AA in lieu of excesses over the weekend.
VWF sounds unbelievable.
Thanks for the invite to Bridge night. I will be away that evenng. I have
prodded the sisterhood to respond assuming she has not already. I hope we
can get in on another hand sometime soon.
Cannot ride today but am good to go tomorrow if that is workable for you and
others. Only restriction so far is a 8:45 drop of the MT. Weather looks
promising. W
Good day Patrick!
Thank you very much for paving the way for Tia to perform at Broadway Lodge, you may be her agent. She would love that. I really appreciate your being open to this idea. Other kids at Tia's piano school (VAM) have been playing at 'the lodges' and it has helped them feel more comfortable playing the piano in front of others. I also hope the people at 'the lodge' enjoy this attention. It is a great way for Tia to do something nice for others and gain some piano experience. At the moment Tia has 4 favourites that she would like to play, all very short. It will take about 20 minutes or less. We will bring along a nice tray of cookies for everyone. I hope this is a good thing for everyone...the piano playing, not the cookies!! However, I should find out if any of the folks have allergies. When would be a good time to scope out the location? Since the 11th is Remembrance Day that could work well for us, whatever works best for others is good for us. Also, want to keep this very, very casual, if only a few people show up that is totally fine.
I'm flattered that you would invite me over to play bridge in George's absence! Unfortunately, I have a very sophisticated evening planned. Tia and I will be heading to Lord Tennyson Elementary School to be spooked and scared out of our wits at their annual Halloween party. We are going with our friend Martin Krestow and his two boys, Owen and Bryn. You are all most welcome to join us - you could get all sugared up and then play bridge.
Hope to see you soon, and thanks. Kerry (and Tia)
Thank you very much for paving the way for Tia to perform at Broadway Lodge, you may be her agent. She would love that. I really appreciate your being open to this idea. Other kids at Tia's piano school (VAM) have been playing at 'the lodges' and it has helped them feel more comfortable playing the piano in front of others. I also hope the people at 'the lodge' enjoy this attention. It is a great way for Tia to do something nice for others and gain some piano experience. At the moment Tia has 4 favourites that she would like to play, all very short. It will take about 20 minutes or less. We will bring along a nice tray of cookies for everyone. I hope this is a good thing for everyone...the piano playing, not the cookies!! However, I should find out if any of the folks have allergies. When would be a good time to scope out the location? Since the 11th is Remembrance Day that could work well for us, whatever works best for others is good for us. Also, want to keep this very, very casual, if only a few people show up that is totally fine.
I'm flattered that you would invite me over to play bridge in George's absence! Unfortunately, I have a very sophisticated evening planned. Tia and I will be heading to Lord Tennyson Elementary School to be spooked and scared out of our wits at their annual Halloween party. We are going with our friend Martin Krestow and his two boys, Owen and Bryn. You are all most welcome to join us - you could get all sugared up and then play bridge.
Hope to see you soon, and thanks. Kerry (and Tia)
Hi Bob,
My name is Kerry Kilmartin and I understand that Patrick Dunn and my partner, George Maddison, were by the Lodge yesterday to inquire about the possibility of my daughter Tia playing the piano for the residents of Broadway Lodge. I also understand that you are open to this idea, which is great!
Tia has been taking piano lessons at the Vancouver Academy of Music and part of the program requires her to perform a recital at the end of the year. Some of the other children at VAM have started to play piano at other seniors centres and it seems like such a nice idea. It is a way for Tia to do something for others and to gain some confidence playing the piano.
Pat mentioned that November 11th is a good day for the residents of the Lodge and this also works for us.
Would you like to meet with Tia and I to make further arrangements? We are free to come by this weekend, at your convenience.
I look forward to meeting you!
All the best, Kerry
Hi Kerry:
It is so nice to hear from you and so promptly. Yes, we here at the Lodge are very excited that Tia would be available to play for our Elder’s on Nov. 11. Our other Activity Worker Wayne Johnston will be doing the service for that day at 10:00 a.m. and leading up to the minute of silence at 11:00 hrs.
Neither Wayne or I are working this weekend but we have Fe who will be working on Saturday and Sunday. If you and Tia and George would like to come in and introduce yourselves to Fe, that would be great. Also, it would give Tia an opportunity to see some of our Elder’s and the piano that she would be playing. We have a couple so she could probably take her pick.
Also any other time before the 11th, that Tia is free, please let me know and we will accommodate you so that Tia can play for our Elder’s. We would be more than delighted as I am sure our Elder’s will be.
You can call me if you wish. Thanks again. Bob.
Hi Kerry and Tia Maria!
Glad things seem to be working out at Broadway Lodge. Sorry you and Tia are otherwise engaged on Friday. Speaking of things Halloweenish, Chloë went to the Dunbar Haunted House, (now actually under the Oak Street Bridge off SW Marine), this evening and she said it was wonderful, scary as all get out! If you are going to take a look at BL on Saturday, pop by to say hello. Cheers, Patrizio!
Glad things seem to be working out at Broadway Lodge. Sorry you and Tia are otherwise engaged on Friday. Speaking of things Halloweenish, Chloë went to the Dunbar Haunted House, (now actually under the Oak Street Bridge off SW Marine), this evening and she said it was wonderful, scary as all get out! If you are going to take a look at BL on Saturday, pop by to say hello. Cheers, Patrizio!
Hi Bob,
This is so nice of you. Does this mean that Tia will be part of your Remembrance Day Ceremony? Is it quite formal? I’m curious to know how many people she might be playing in front of?
We will come by and meet Fe this Saturday, maybe around 10:30-11am. Also, I will touch base with you by phone after we have met with Fe.
This is very exciting! Tia is only 9 years old and in grade 4, so there is a bit of learning curve here (for me too!).
I look forward to meeting the folks at Broadway, and you and others who work there. It will also be nice to meet our friend Patrick’s mother.
All the best, and thank you. Kerry
Hi Lads!
Trust everyone is well.
Trust everyone is well.
Just in case anyone needs a copy of Billionaire's Vinegar, I have a VPL copy that isn't due until October 28th. I'm happy to lend it to anyone who might still need it. (In exchange for a bottle of malt, that is!!!) Cheers, Il Conduttore!
Hi Patrick,
The book loan will expire in 2 days :). Should i return it or can you renew?
T h a n k y o u M
T h a n k y o u M
Patricio, let me just return it in a due time. please don't worry about it.
(i am off into the r a i n)
Hi Misha!
Sorry I didn't read your email sooner as I renewed book ands it isn't due until November 15th1 Keep it until then if you still have it. Are you planning to attend on Sunday? If you will need a parking spot just let me know. Cheers, Patrizio!
The next meeting will be this coming Sunday, 30 October, at the Island Inn. Let us know if you cannot attend. I will be out of town that night.
| The book is The Billionaire's Vinegar - The Mystery of the World's Most Expensive Bottle of Wine by Benjamin Wallace (Dave). The book to follow will be Panicking Ralph, an early work by Bill James in his Harpur & Iles series (Pat). Mark will choose the book to follow the Nafisi. |
Hi George, unfortunately I won't be able to make it. My squash league team is having a practice on Sunday night, and as captain, I need to be there!
I'll be at the next gathering! Milton
Whenever a man has cast a longing eye on offices, a rottenness begins in his conduct. -Thomas Jefferson, third US president, architect and author (1743-1826)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)