To read is to translate, for no two persons' experiences are the same. A bad reader is like a bad translator: he interprets literally when he ought to paraphrase and paraphrases when he ought to interpret literally. -W.H. Auden, poet (1907-1973)
Good afternoon Patrick.
I am sorry for the delay in handing in my homework assignment. I did find it challenging and have been reading War and Peace to give myself a break. As this was an electronic communication I can't blame the dog for eating it or my little sister for tearing it up.
In order that you and I align the seasons let it be known that I insist on Autumn staring on September 1 and not on the equinox.There is some debate over here as to when the seasons begin and end but the notion that Dec 20 is autumn and spring only beginning on March 21 isn't acceptable to me. My way we are half way through autumn already and spring is only four and a half months away. I am not sure if and when summer will arrive.
For a number of years we have always had a late Autumn/early winter holiday to look forward to and I have just rectified this omission. Chris wasn't fussed, says she likes the season but I prevailed and we are now looking forward to visiting Tenerife in the Canaries for two weeks starting November 25. Canaries are more popular at this time of year than in summer being a break from the northern winter. This is only the second time we have been to this island-last time being 2003 when we watched the rugby world cup from there. Last time I was swimming in the sea in early December so I hope I can do the same again. We try and avoid the busy resorts and will do some more touring to spots we didn't get to such as the far north east of the island. I have been pleasantly surprised at the car hire rates on the Canaries at first I was taken aback by the price until I realised the quote was for the two weeks and not just one. The Canaries aren't the most beautiful of islands but being around 4 hours from the Uk they are bit easier and, because of so called low cost airlines, cheaper to get to than say Red Sea, West Indies or beyond. The Med is certainly too cold for swimming between late October and end April although pleasantly warmer than the UK of course.
Given our main TV broke down a few months ago and poor Ray and Sylvia only had a 22in screen to watch- Ray tells me he doesn't bother much with TV- I found myself shelling out for a 42 in Tv which arrived during this rugby world cup. Chris hoped I would get rid of some of the rat's nest of wires but after trying the new TV without an amplifier and external speakers we are back to usual complicated set up. This includes cable modem, router, audio/visual send unit, cable TV box, Dvd player and internet connections- so no danger of any dusting taking place in the corner.
I had thought of including my recent bike rides in leagues, furlongs, chains, rods, poles and perches - did you have exercise books with these on the back when you were practising being the perfect little boy? As it is I have nothing impressive to report other than the occasional 20 or 30 kms. I went running yesterday mainly to try out my knees and found it disappointingly hard- showing cycling and running are quite different aerobically for me anyway. I do have the occasional gym visit , static exercise bike with the help of a crossword and earphones and do some weights in the garage together with walking in and out of and round Wetherby. I have stopped occasional hill walking which I need to get back to. A trip to the Lakes is called for.
My mother's 96th birthday next week. She seems to have improved after the stay in the respite home and with her perfect son. Candidly neither stay away from her place proved beneficial at the time - she forgot to bring her tablets to our house and we had to improvise not altogether successfully. She is hard of hearing but can talk for Britain, especially when we are are watching something on TV or listening to the radio, so conversation is a bit one sided. I tried to interest her in DA but she kept reminiscing about the Forsyth Saga and Upstairs/Downstairs. Having seen the residents in the respite home I know just what you mean about lack of stimulation. There is a great deal of controversy in the UK about long term care and it sure gets one thinking about the future. The feeling is that nurses here with their university educations are above patient care.
We continue to juggle DA and Spooks using catch up TV to watch DA so as to avoid the frequent and long ads. Last episode of DA was suicidal- not sure the audience will approve of the doom and gloom. Am I to understand that finally his Lordship will succomb to temptation and ruin his position as my role model.
Not having watched Spooks much, it is beginning to look a bit far fetched to me but still intrigues me and and I think we are on last episode this Sunday. It could be that they play the iconoclast trick on dear old Harry too.
Tinker Tailor etc is on the local cinema this week so we might try and challenge ourselves with that. My brain would be hurting with all the culture you have been imbibing. We tried a bit last night watching a documentary about Brian Clark- never previously heard of him. He is an artist mainly working in stained glass from Lancashire seemingly with assignments around the world only occasionally for church buildings and sometimes in association with Norman Foster. Quite opinionated and rubbing shoulders with eg Paul McCartney and other celebrities. 50 minutes of that and I was ready for bed.
Our ex next door neighbour (the Cartwrights who had their 40th anniversary) inherited a small bungalow from his parents in Cornwall and we have been invited down there to stay in what is now one of their five homes. We haven't been to Cornwall since 1979. It would probably be just a week-end trip for you but it seems a long way in Britain from where we are. We may make it some time next year. Andy is a DIY man par excellence at least in the sheer quantity of projects- I can't comment too much about the quality but it all looks pretty good to me.
If you do come over to see your friends in Cornwall do bear in mind coming up north to stay with us. You would both be most welcome. We could do some rides together and you could go round twice just to make sure you were learning the routes. In fact I could set you an orienteering course and you could pick me up at a local pastry shop. I am sure Chris could find some interesting places for Corinne and her to visit.
I noticed you barbed comment about obeying the rules. My response is to remind you of the abuse I received at Steveston when you had run over that poor young man along the sidewalk and to comment on how Canada's most careful tourist driver could be ensnared into a speeding trap (with no proof shown ) by randomly changing the speed limit every 20 metres in order to pay for the Olympic Games.
Please give our good wishes to Corinne and Wayne and Michele. I have almost forgiven him.
I assume you went to the web to find out about Timothy Taylors? Quiz question -what is their next most popular beer?
Best wishes
Jim and Christine( the worker)
PS Will try harder in future.
Hello Boy, and Chris, of course!
First, I'm sorry to say that you will not be allowed any tuck for a week, or so, given the tardiness with which you attend to your homework. Please spend more time swotting than eating pastry in front of the telly, whether it is a 22 perch, b/w set or a monster 42 pole, HD beut!!! Watching sports on TV is simply not the same as riding up Seymour or to Steveston and beyond, whether dodging cantankerous locals or not! If you believe your fine for speeding was astronomical, wait for the notice for late assignment. You'll need three calculators, one each for pounds, shillings and pence, to convert the total into $CDN, my perfect, delinquent lad!
Seriously, loved your last informative missive. Reported a few of your comments to Raymundo on our ride this past Tuesday and we were chuckling all the way round the Seawall to Stanley Park. He was at the Heartbreak Parkade at 9:00am and we proceeded around Stanley Park. Reasonably quiet on Seawall but enough people to keep one alert. Instead of going, "up and over", I suggested we head out to UBC after the circuit of the park. Did just that as we thought it would be far more pleasant along Spanish Banks than having to contend with traffic and noise over Lions Gate. Bit of a head wind on way to Foreshore Hill but otherwise it was lovely.
Robo Man had taken a water bottle when he left home but it was too small for carrier so he left it behind. This being the case he stopped near the Boathouse Restaurant at Kits Beach but fountain wasn't working. Had to wait until first concession booth along Spanish Banks. Once at UBC, we cut across campus, on Main Mall and made for 16th Ave, taking it all the way to Macdonald where I waved goodbye to Ray. I did a bit of dipsy-doodling around Kits Point to log 61.33 furlongs by time I was home!
However, ride I really wanted to describe took place last Friday. Met Robo Ray and Whirlygig at 2nd and Macdonald at 8:10am and we headed out to UBC and along Marine Drive all the way to Kent. We had arranged to meet Marcus Aurelius and Big Molly at Kent and Kerr at 9:45am but they didn't show until closer to 10:00am. We had decided that we'd let Big Molly show us some of the bike trails in Burnaby, (he lives there so is more familiar with routes), so we followed him into Burnaby Fraser Foreshore Park where we enjoyed the well-packed gravel paths along the Fraser River, past Boundary. City is working on paving some of the paths and when we came to a construction zone at the east end of the bike route, I turned around as it looked as if there was no egress, heading back the way we had just cycled. Big Al had mentioned, earlier, that we were only going as far as we had so that we could have a look at that part of park but that we would have to retrace our steps in order to follow the route we had expressed an interest in wanting to explore.
I assumed everyone was following me but by the time I had cycled about 500m, (half a league), I looked back and path was deserted! Headed for a side street and made my way back, via surface streets, to point where construction barrier blocked the way. No sign of fellow riders so I continued in an easterly direction, following another gravel path along river. I assumed, incorrectly as it turned out, that peleton had continued on, following this path. Very pleasant cycling through woods but no riders. By this time, I knew it was highly unlikely that we would meet up again so I decided to explore by following my nose. Kept going on path, passing a number of people walking their dogs, until I came to a dead end, a pump station on the edge of river, and turned around, (feet never touching the ground, Dear Reader!), making for surface streets that I intuited would be off to my right.
After a few minutes I found myself back in an industrial park made made my way eastward as far as Trapp. Here, or thereabouts, I could see Marine Way and a bridge that I assumed was the Quensborough, one we use to cross over onto Lulu Island, Richmond, from New Westminster. Had gone about as far as I could without making for very busy Marine Way so I dipsy-doodled back towards Boundary, exploring as I went, cycling past Lululemon athletica. Thought I should stop and pick up some "in" cycling garb but didn't have my panniers so pushed on. Had I been with the you and Christine, I'm sure you would have insisted we stop for lattes while shopping for spandex!!!
By the time I had turned around and was heading west, I had 50K, (75 rods), on my odometer so I decided, once back on Kent, that I would go to Iona. It was such a glorious morning and I wanted to log 100K so it seemed like the poifect opportunity, unencumbered by whiners complaining about numb hands and sore necks and the like. Scooted over the CSTB and had 65K, (99 chains), on the clock when I hit River Road. Past River Rock Casino, taking Valet Parking Lane in order to avoid some fairly heavy road construction. Was about 11:45am when I fighting a reasonably stiff head wind, the new Post Office site off to my left. Closer to sewage treatment plant I noticed a crew putting loops of razor wire atop high fence which surrounds YVR runways.
By noon I was circling in the parking lot at Iona and had exactly 75K on the odometer. Decided not to ride to the end of spit carrying huge cement outflow pipe as I had calculated that I wouldn't need the extra 7K, (round trip), to meet my goal. With the wind at my back, now, I literally sailed along, enjoying 3rd gear and watching a number of aeroliners and prop planes land, imitating graceful Canada Geese on their approach and landing. Really quite remarkable how much these "human" birds looked like the magnificent golden eagles I'd seen in Flirting with Heights, the flaps on the wing tips, in the up position, almost identical to the ones used with such remarkable effect to allow these wonderful creatures to soar above the Alps.
Made my way back to River Rock, earning a few disapproving looks from the uniformed doormen fro going the wrong way, and then over the CSTB to Cambie. All the way up and then down, near 33rd, to 18th where I turned east again, to Ontario, a designated bike route, and thence to the Seawall at Olympic Village. Here I turned west to ride along 1st, making a few dipsy doodles onto Spyglass Place and then Moberly Road, to kick up the klicks, followed by a quick turn around Sitka Square before making for Harbour Terrace. Home by 1:45pm with 101.33K, (one million perches), on the clock! Quite pleased as my legs felt pretty loose. However, my heart was down, me heart was turning around/Had to leave the little whingers in Burnaby Town! (Thanks, Harry!)
Had a quick cup of java and then took TG to Go Green to recycle a car load of beer/wine bottles and assorted other plastic drink containers. Richer by $23 I drove home and went to see Mom. She was pretty drowsy when I arrived at about 3:50pm. I put lotion on her arms and a few places on her forehead and held her hand and talked to her about one thing and another. Didn't have much response and after a few minutes I decided that she might be thirsty. Turned out to be very much the case as I helped her sip almost a full glass of water. Much like a poor plant that hasn't been watered in ages, she seemed to come alive after finishing the drink. She opened her eyes and smiled at me, gripping my hands with an incredibly strong grip. Hard to believe that she still has such strength in her hands. I stayed with her until it was time for dinner and then kissed her goodbye.
Back home I lay down on the living room floor and did my back stretches and tummy crunches. Was almost finished my routine when Cora Lee returned form a full day at the volunteer office. She flopped down in an armchair to watch The Young and the Restless with Maggie happily purring on her lap. I repaired to the bedroom to answer email. A few minutes later, Flamin' came upstairs and The Sisterhood decided to go to a movie at 7:10pm, The Guard, playing at Fifth Avenue. Corinne whipped up a scrumptious turkey curry with brown rice and Michele joined us for dinner. Chloë came home from work just as we were finishing our meal and she offered to drive us to cinema.
Found seats we wanted and chatted for a few minutes before movie started:
"Sergeant Gerry Boyle, a salty village cop in Ireland, has a subversive sense of humor, a caustic wit, and an uncanny knack for keeping people at arm's length. When a straitlaced FBI agent chasing an international drug-smuggling ring hits town, Boyle has no intention of letting the arrival disrupt his routine of hookers and wisecracks. Initially, he relishes offending and ridiculing the agent, but a murder and a series of peculiar events draw the reluctant sergeant into the investigation."
This synopsis is fine, as far as it goes, but certainly doesn't due justice to this wonderfully uproarious film. It is so politically incorrect that is it more than refreshing, absolutely liberating. That isn't to say that there aren't moments of deep and difficult emotion, (Boyle's mother is terminally ill, his new, youthful partner's wife must deal with his disappearance), for the Sergeant is far from being insensitive or callous. Irreverent country bumpkin on the outside, both caring as a Samaritan and cunning as a fox, on the inside, he is a quixotic force for good against some very, very nasty, albeit howlingly funny, villains. Don't miss this film. It's full of surprises and twists and turns yet doesn't stretch one's willing suspension of disbelief. I'll pay for your pint of Guinness if you don't like The Guard!
On the VIFF film front, I saw Here I Am, earlier this week. From program:
Karen (the striking Shai Pittman), newly out of prison, tries to get her life together in inner-city Adelaide in Beck Cole's debut drama. Cole--a woman--fashions a powerful tale about the strength and resilience she finds in Karen and her fellow Aboriginal women, all looking for a break and a fresh start. "A deeply felt first feature from both actor and director."--Screen
"Beginning with the work of Ivan Sen and following on from Warwick Thornton's Samson and Delilah (which won the Camera d'Or at Cannes, to give it extra cachet,) Australia's indigenous filmmakers have continued to break new ground in exploring the very basics of life for Australia's Aboriginal community. The new voices are completely unafraid of contemplating subjects that until recently nobody wanted to discuss. Beck Cole's moving Here I Am focuses on a young woman's efforts to get her life together after being released from prison for drug charges. A former user, her efforts to keep clean, re-bond with her child and reconcile with her mother are not without slips but you can't help but be moved by the prodigious effort involved in getting off the bottom. Beck Cole is an authenticate Aboriginal voice putting her own people's lives on screen with poignant honesty."--Geoff Gardner
This is quite a film as well. Much different in tone, and perhaps more difficult than The Guard, of course, but similar in that it really brings to life the lives of the people portrayed. Since it was filmed in Adelaide, I recognized quite a few of the locations around the city. Not that that this necessarily made it any better but I liked the fact that it was anchored so completely in the streets and pubs and
cheap motels of the city that it could just as easily have been Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. Canada's Aboriginal communities, in all the inner-cities across the country, are dealing or trying to deal with the very same social and racial problems. In some ways, a relatively quiet, unassuming film but the pain and frustration and marginalization of Karen and the other Aboriginal women speak eloquently of the hurt white culture has visited upon them, as well as the mistakes that they themselves have made. Not an easy film as it depicts a a truly difficult life. Yet, with love, grudgingly given in some instances, freely offered in others, hope remains that change can occur.
Time to read Proust's Remembrances of Time Past now that you've finished War and Peace!
For your part, you seem wonderfully busy and active. I gather you are planning to work for the Farmers' Almanac as their seasons consultant. Perhaps you can finish the final draft while you are lolly-gagging about the beach in Tenerife or thereabouts, after you complete your other homework assignments, of course! Please keep your computer away from the local dogs and any of the lifeguards little sisters. Funnily enough, I'm actually "toying" with the idea of starting to jog again, in a very limited way. Know that it is going to be very difficult to cycle regularly when away in Oz and Japan next year so have wondered if I might do a bit of running to try and keep up a modicum of fitness. Of course, I'll need a pair of $500 shoes and three or four new pairs of matching spandex/lycra jogging togs! Hoping to start swimming again, once I've seen should specialist on November 9th.
Loved your Mother's niche specialty: Talking for Britain! Look at it this way, you can use all her gold medals to pay for one of your next trips!
Most recently we have been watching Case Histories with Jackson Brodie, private investigator, based on books by Kate Atkinson. Have you seen it? Quite like it so far. Green with envy over DA that you can watch while holding a razor over your wrists! Knew it was going to be bleak, given start of the Great War. Speaking of which, attended a session at VIWF this morning, after a very pleasant, early morning jaunt with Whirissimo, around Stanley Park. Left our place at 7:50am and Seawall was almost completely deserted, at least around SP portion. Only had time for 31.33K as event started at 10:00am. Turned out that I couldn't get in to Fatty Legs, session with Christy Jordon-Fenton and Margaret Pokiak-Fenton. Christy retells her mother-in-law's story of two years in a Catholic residential school, on Banks Island, in the Arctic Ocean, as it was sold out. However, was able to hear Sarah Ellis, Kit Pearson and John Wilson talk about Scholastic's two historical series, Dear Canada, aimed at girls, and I Am Canada, written for boys. Wilson's work , Shot at Dawn, tells the story of "Allan McBride who has fought in some of WWI's bloodiest battles. He has seen his comrades, and his best friend, killed. But tonight he waits in a shed outside Amiens, accused of desertion, to discover if dawn will bring a last-minute reprieve—or execution by firing squad.")
Fascinating to hear each author describe research and writing process for each work. Delighted that audience was composed, in the main, of school classes and the students were obviously keen readers and fans. Interestingly enough, I sat beside Leslie Hurtig, (and her son), daughter of Mel Hurtig, landmark Canadian publisher, in case you have not heard of him. I have met Leslie a number of times at various VIWF events, first when she was the Chair of the VIWF Board, often at A Dram Come True.
Is Tinker Tailor etc., a new film? I am a real fan of le Carré and guess which book I like best? A Perfect Spy!
Haven't seen Sarge in almost a week as he has been in Ottawa on business. Flamin' had to curl without us, yesterday, (I was at VIWF), but discovered that the team won 10/2 so we'll never live that down!!!
With respect to cycling in Cornwall and Wetherby, don't worry about an orienteering course, just find me an odometer that logs distance in furlongs and I'll be fine! Of course, we 'd love to visit you and do hope that trip will transpire.
Time to get ready for our VIWF shift so will say goodbye for now. Coriandre sends along her best wishes to you both, as do I. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizio!
PS: Timothy Taylors next most popular beer should be their Dark Mild!
Hello Boy, and Chris, of course!
First, I'm sorry to say that you will not be allowed any tuck for a week, or so, given the tardiness with which you attend to your homework. Please spend more time swotting than eating pastry in front of the telly, whether it is a 22 perch, b/w set or a monster 42 pole, HD beut!!! Watching sports on TV is simply not the same as riding up Seymour or to Steveston and beyond, whether dodging cantankerous locals or not! If you believe your fine for speeding was astronomical, wait for the notice for late assignment. You'll need three calculators, one each for pounds, shillings and pence, to convert the total into $CDN, my perfect, delinquent lad!
Seriously, loved your last informative missive. Reported a few of your comments to Raymundo on our ride this past Tuesday and we were chuckling all the way round the Seawall to Stanley Park. He was at the Heartbreak Parkade at 9:00am and we proceeded around Stanley Park. Reasonably quiet on Seawall but enough people to keep one alert. Instead of going, "up and over", I suggested we head out to UBC after the circuit of the park. Did just that as we thought it would be far more pleasant along Spanish Banks than having to contend with traffic and noise over Lions Gate. Bit of a head wind on way to Foreshore Hill but otherwise it was lovely.
Robo Man had taken a water bottle when he left home but it was too small for carrier so he left it behind. This being the case he stopped near the Boathouse Restaurant at Kits Beach but fountain wasn't working. Had to wait until first concession booth along Spanish Banks. Once at UBC, we cut across campus, on Main Mall and made for 16th Ave, taking it all the way to Macdonald where I waved goodbye to Ray. I did a bit of dipsy-doodling around Kits Point to log 61.33 furlongs by time I was home!
However, ride I really wanted to describe took place last Friday. Met Robo Ray and Whirlygig at 2nd and Macdonald at 8:10am and we headed out to UBC and along Marine Drive all the way to Kent. We had arranged to meet Marcus Aurelius and Big Molly at Kent and Kerr at 9:45am but they didn't show until closer to 10:00am. We had decided that we'd let Big Molly show us some of the bike trails in Burnaby, (he lives there so is more familiar with routes), so we followed him into Burnaby Fraser Foreshore Park where we enjoyed the well-packed gravel paths along the Fraser River, past Boundary. City is working on paving some of the paths and when we came to a construction zone at the east end of the bike route, I turned around as it looked as if there was no egress, heading back the way we had just cycled. Big Al had mentioned, earlier, that we were only going as far as we had so that we could have a look at that part of park but that we would have to retrace our steps in order to follow the route we had expressed an interest in wanting to explore.
I assumed everyone was following me but by the time I had cycled about 500m, (half a league), I looked back and path was deserted! Headed for a side street and made my way back, via surface streets, to point where construction barrier blocked the way. No sign of fellow riders so I continued in an easterly direction, following another gravel path along river. I assumed, incorrectly as it turned out, that peleton had continued on, following this path. Very pleasant cycling through woods but no riders. By this time, I knew it was highly unlikely that we would meet up again so I decided to explore by following my nose. Kept going on path, passing a number of people walking their dogs, until I came to a dead end, a pump station on the edge of river, and turned around, (feet never touching the ground, Dear Reader!), making for surface streets that I intuited would be off to my right.
After a few minutes I found myself back in an industrial park made made my way eastward as far as Trapp. Here, or thereabouts, I could see Marine Way and a bridge that I assumed was the Quensborough, one we use to cross over onto Lulu Island, Richmond, from New Westminster. Had gone about as far as I could without making for very busy Marine Way so I dipsy-doodled back towards Boundary, exploring as I went, cycling past Lululemon athletica. Thought I should stop and pick up some "in" cycling garb but didn't have my panniers so pushed on. Had I been with the you and Christine, I'm sure you would have insisted we stop for lattes while shopping for spandex!!!
By the time I had turned around and was heading west, I had 50K, (75 rods), on my odometer so I decided, once back on Kent, that I would go to Iona. It was such a glorious morning and I wanted to log 100K so it seemed like the poifect opportunity, unencumbered by whiners complaining about numb hands and sore necks and the like. Scooted over the CSTB and had 65K, (99 chains), on the clock when I hit River Road. Past River Rock Casino, taking Valet Parking Lane in order to avoid some fairly heavy road construction. Was about 11:45am when I fighting a reasonably stiff head wind, the new Post Office site off to my left. Closer to sewage treatment plant I noticed a crew putting loops of razor wire atop high fence which surrounds YVR runways.
By noon I was circling in the parking lot at Iona and had exactly 75K on the odometer. Decided not to ride to the end of spit carrying huge cement outflow pipe as I had calculated that I wouldn't need the extra 7K, (round trip), to meet my goal. With the wind at my back, now, I literally sailed along, enjoying 3rd gear and watching a number of aeroliners and prop planes land, imitating graceful Canada Geese on their approach and landing. Really quite remarkable how much these "human" birds looked like the magnificent golden eagles I'd seen in Flirting with Heights, the flaps on the wing tips, in the up position, almost identical to the ones used with such remarkable effect to allow these wonderful creatures to soar above the Alps.
Made my way back to River Rock, earning a few disapproving looks from the uniformed doormen fro going the wrong way, and then over the CSTB to Cambie. All the way up and then down, near 33rd, to 18th where I turned east again, to Ontario, a designated bike route, and thence to the Seawall at Olympic Village. Here I turned west to ride along 1st, making a few dipsy doodles onto Spyglass Place and then Moberly Road, to kick up the klicks, followed by a quick turn around Sitka Square before making for Harbour Terrace. Home by 1:45pm with 101.33K, (one million perches), on the clock! Quite pleased as my legs felt pretty loose. However, my heart was down, me heart was turning around/Had to leave the little whingers in Burnaby Town! (Thanks, Harry!)
Had a quick cup of java and then took TG to Go Green to recycle a car load of beer/wine bottles and assorted other plastic drink containers. Richer by $23 I drove home and went to see Mom. She was pretty drowsy when I arrived at about 3:50pm. I put lotion on her arms and a few places on her forehead and held her hand and talked to her about one thing and another. Didn't have much response and after a few minutes I decided that she might be thirsty. Turned out to be very much the case as I helped her sip almost a full glass of water. Much like a poor plant that hasn't been watered in ages, she seemed to come alive after finishing the drink. She opened her eyes and smiled at me, gripping my hands with an incredibly strong grip. Hard to believe that she still has such strength in her hands. I stayed with her until it was time for dinner and then kissed her goodbye.
Back home I lay down on the living room floor and did my back stretches and tummy crunches. Was almost finished my routine when Cora Lee returned form a full day at the volunteer office. She flopped down in an armchair to watch The Young and the Restless with Maggie happily purring on her lap. I repaired to the bedroom to answer email. A few minutes later, Flamin' came upstairs and The Sisterhood decided to go to a movie at 7:10pm, The Guard, playing at Fifth Avenue. Corinne whipped up a scrumptious turkey curry with brown rice and Michele joined us for dinner. Chloë came home from work just as we were finishing our meal and she offered to drive us to cinema.
Found seats we wanted and chatted for a few minutes before movie started:
"Sergeant Gerry Boyle, a salty village cop in Ireland, has a subversive sense of humor, a caustic wit, and an uncanny knack for keeping people at arm's length. When a straitlaced FBI agent chasing an international drug-smuggling ring hits town, Boyle has no intention of letting the arrival disrupt his routine of hookers and wisecracks. Initially, he relishes offending and ridiculing the agent, but a murder and a series of peculiar events draw the reluctant sergeant into the investigation."
This synopsis is fine, as far as it goes, but certainly doesn't due justice to this wonderfully uproarious film. It is so politically incorrect that is it more than refreshing, absolutely liberating. That isn't to say that there aren't moments of deep and difficult emotion, (Boyle's mother is terminally ill, his new, youthful partner's wife must deal with his disappearance), for the Sergeant is far from being insensitive or callous. Irreverent country bumpkin on the outside, both caring as a Samaritan and cunning as a fox, on the inside, he is a quixotic force for good against some very, very nasty, albeit howlingly funny, villains. Don't miss this film. It's full of surprises and twists and turns yet doesn't stretch one's willing suspension of disbelief. I'll pay for your pint of Guinness if you don't like The Guard!
On the VIFF film front, I saw Here I Am, earlier this week. From program:
Karen (the striking Shai Pittman), newly out of prison, tries to get her life together in inner-city Adelaide in Beck Cole's debut drama. Cole--a woman--fashions a powerful tale about the strength and resilience she finds in Karen and her fellow Aboriginal women, all looking for a break and a fresh start. "A deeply felt first feature from both actor and director."--Screen
"Beginning with the work of Ivan Sen and following on from Warwick Thornton's Samson and Delilah (which won the Camera d'Or at Cannes, to give it extra cachet,) Australia's indigenous filmmakers have continued to break new ground in exploring the very basics of life for Australia's Aboriginal community. The new voices are completely unafraid of contemplating subjects that until recently nobody wanted to discuss. Beck Cole's moving Here I Am focuses on a young woman's efforts to get her life together after being released from prison for drug charges. A former user, her efforts to keep clean, re-bond with her child and reconcile with her mother are not without slips but you can't help but be moved by the prodigious effort involved in getting off the bottom. Beck Cole is an authenticate Aboriginal voice putting her own people's lives on screen with poignant honesty."--Geoff Gardner
This is quite a film as well. Much different in tone, and perhaps more difficult than The Guard, of course, but similar in that it really brings to life the lives of the people portrayed. Since it was filmed in Adelaide, I recognized quite a few of the locations around the city. Not that that this necessarily made it any better but I liked the fact that it was anchored so completely in the streets and pubs and
cheap motels of the city that it could just as easily have been Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. Canada's Aboriginal communities, in all the inner-cities across the country, are dealing or trying to deal with the very same social and racial problems. In some ways, a relatively quiet, unassuming film but the pain and frustration and marginalization of Karen and the other Aboriginal women speak eloquently of the hurt white culture has visited upon them, as well as the mistakes that they themselves have made. Not an easy film as it depicts a a truly difficult life. Yet, with love, grudgingly given in some instances, freely offered in others, hope remains that change can occur.
Time to read Proust's Remembrances of Time Past now that you've finished War and Peace!
For your part, you seem wonderfully busy and active. I gather you are planning to work for the Farmers' Almanac as their seasons consultant. Perhaps you can finish the final draft while you are lolly-gagging about the beach in Tenerife or thereabouts, after you complete your other homework assignments, of course! Please keep your computer away from the local dogs and any of the lifeguards little sisters. Funnily enough, I'm actually "toying" with the idea of starting to jog again, in a very limited way. Know that it is going to be very difficult to cycle regularly when away in Oz and Japan next year so have wondered if I might do a bit of running to try and keep up a modicum of fitness. Of course, I'll need a pair of $500 shoes and three or four new pairs of matching spandex/lycra jogging togs! Hoping to start swimming again, once I've seen should specialist on November 9th.
Loved your Mother's niche specialty: Talking for Britain! Look at it this way, you can use all her gold medals to pay for one of your next trips!
Most recently we have been watching Case Histories with Jackson Brodie, private investigator, based on books by Kate Atkinson. Have you seen it? Quite like it so far. Green with envy over DA that you can watch while holding a razor over your wrists! Knew it was going to be bleak, given start of the Great War. Speaking of which, attended a session at VIWF this morning, after a very pleasant, early morning jaunt with Whirissimo, around Stanley Park. Left our place at 7:50am and Seawall was almost completely deserted, at least around SP portion. Only had time for 31.33K as event started at 10:00am. Turned out that I couldn't get in to Fatty Legs, session with Christy Jordon-Fenton and Margaret Pokiak-Fenton. Christy retells her mother-in-law's story of two years in a Catholic residential school, on Banks Island, in the Arctic Ocean, as it was sold out. However, was able to hear Sarah Ellis, Kit Pearson and John Wilson talk about Scholastic's two historical series, Dear Canada, aimed at girls, and I Am Canada, written for boys. Wilson's work , Shot at Dawn, tells the story of "Allan McBride who has fought in some of WWI's bloodiest battles. He has seen his comrades, and his best friend, killed. But tonight he waits in a shed outside Amiens, accused of desertion, to discover if dawn will bring a last-minute reprieve—or execution by firing squad.")
Fascinating to hear each author describe research and writing process for each work. Delighted that audience was composed, in the main, of school classes and the students were obviously keen readers and fans. Interestingly enough, I sat beside Leslie Hurtig, (and her son), daughter of Mel Hurtig, landmark Canadian publisher, in case you have not heard of him. I have met Leslie a number of times at various VIWF events, first when she was the Chair of the VIWF Board, often at A Dram Come True.
Is Tinker Tailor etc., a new film? I am a real fan of le Carré and guess which book I like best? A Perfect Spy!
Haven't seen Sarge in almost a week as he has been in Ottawa on business. Flamin' had to curl without us, yesterday, (I was at VIWF), but discovered that the team won 10/2 so we'll never live that down!!!
With respect to cycling in Cornwall and Wetherby, don't worry about an orienteering course, just find me an odometer that logs distance in furlongs and I'll be fine! Of course, we 'd love to visit you and do hope that trip will transpire.
Time to get ready for our VIWF shift so will say goodbye for now. Coriandre sends along her best wishes to you both, as do I. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizio!
PS: Timothy Taylors next most popular beer should be their Dark Mild!
I spoke with Andrzej, he had left me a couple of messages and we finally touched base. I was away in Quebec to assist my ailing mother from Oct. 1 to 11th, just before I left Quebec we had to put her in the hospital because due to another mini-stroke and epileptic seizures. At 93 and 8 mths there is not much hope that she will fully recover from this one and certainly will not be returning to her home (she was still living on her own in the house she was raised and we were raised in...she had moved into that home when she was 9 yrs old with her parents/our grandparents so the roots and attachment run deep for her with her/our home and she had always hope that this is where she would die but it looks that this is not to be!). I could leave again at any moment if my brother calls me and and there is a further emergency and I told Andrzej that I may or may not be in Vancouver while he is visiting you. If I am in town I will arrange to either have lunch with him (my sister Helene who knows him well too might join us as well) or dinner but he says he prefers lunch as he might be busy with you guys most evening...it will be nice for you to have a "resident" chef close at hand!
In any event I will keep in touch, the week end of his arrival I will be in Oliver tending to our vineyard as it is "vendanges" time but I Andrzej is aware that I might not be back from Oliver until Oct. 25 and perhaps even not in town at all if I get an emergency call from my brother. So far my mom is hanging in and doctors are baffled at how strong she is to keep surviving those assaults on her body and mind...getting old really sucks!
Will touch base with you and A. next week. Ginette
Can you give this photo to Andrzej...he does not have a computer! |
My mom at 20 and a the second photo a couple of years ago! He has not seen her since the mid-seventies but still speak fondly of her. Thanks, Ginette
Hi Ginette!
Terribly sorry to hear about your mother's deteriorating health. I trust that there will be no more emergencies, primarily for her sake, of course, as well as for that of the family.
We are looking forward to having Andrew visit. I'm delighted to pass along the lovely photo of your Mother.
Terribly sorry to hear about your mother's deteriorating health. I trust that there will be no more emergencies, primarily for her sake, of course, as well as for that of the family.
We are looking forward to having Andrew visit. I'm delighted to pass along the lovely photo of your Mother.
jsut got "the long expected call" that my mom is now in the final stage of her life and may not live through the next day+ taking an Air Canada flight at 10:30PM tonight which will get us into Quebec city tomorrow morning. Let Andrzej know please. Have no idea when we will return depending on when she passes away and ensuing funeral arrangements, we are booking only one way as the return date is unpredictable.
Ginette
Hello Ginette!
Very sorry to receive the sad news about your Mother. Both Corinne and I send our heartfelt sympathy to you and your family.
I will inform Andrew of the situation. With sincere affection and sorrow, Corinne and Patrick.
Very sorry to receive the sad news about your Mother. Both Corinne and I send our heartfelt sympathy to you and your family.
I will inform Andrew of the situation. With sincere affection and sorrow, Corinne and Patrick.
Thanks Patricio, I found some newbies, so you're off the hook!!!
P,
I will be at the Heartburn Terrace by 7:50. If you want to adjust to 8AM give me a call. It could be a darkled ride around the park.
The drop stops went through the fire as well with the bottles but I think I can resurrect both stops and bottles. W
Hi Whirls!
Won't be a darkled ride if you bring the firewater to illuminate the way by heppin' us git lit up!! See you at 7:50am! Thanks and Cheers, Il Illuminato!!!
Won't be a darkled ride if you bring the firewater to illuminate the way by heppin' us git lit up!! See you at 7:50am! Thanks and Cheers, Il Illuminato!!!
Hi Whirlygig!
Thanks for early morning jaunt! Very pleasant in spite of your worrying familial matters. Trust some positive resolution occurs over next little while.
Turned out that I couldn't get in to Fatty Legs, session with Christy Jordon-Fenton and Margaret Pokiak-Fenton. Christy retells her mother-in-law's story of two years in a Catholic residential school, on Banks Island, in the Arctic Ocean, as it was sold out. However, was able to hear Sarah Ellis, Kit Pearson and John Wilson talk about Scholastic's two historical series, Dear Canada, aimed at girls, and I Am Canada, written for boys. Fascinating to hear each author describe research and writing process for each work. Delighted that audience was composed, in the main, of school classes and the students were obviously keen readers and fans. Interestingly enough, I sat beside Leslie Hurtig, and her son, daughter of Mel Hurtig, landmark Canadian publisher, as I need not tell you, of all people!. I have met Leslie a number of times at various VIWF events, first when she was the Chair of the VIWF Board, often at A Dram Come True.
Had planned to take in an afternoon session but thought they all started at 1:30pm. Cora Lee just walked in the door a few moments ago and disabused me of this notion! First word that entered my head when I realized my mistake was "PARAPROSDOKIAN!". As in "Oh Knockdhu! In case you don't know what "paraprosdokian" means, here is the definition:
"Figure of speech in which the latter part of a sentence or phrase is surprising or unexpected; frequently used in a humorous situation." "Where there's a will, I want to be in it," is a type of paraprosdokian.
1. Do not argue with an idiot. He will drag you down to his level and beat you with experience.
2. The last thing I want to do is hurt you. But it's still on my list.
3. Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.
4. If I agreed with you, we'd both be wrong.
5. We never really grow up, we only learn how to act in public.
6. War does not determine who is right - only who is left.
7. Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
8. Evening news is where they begin with 'Good Evening,' and then proceed to tell you why it isn't.
9. To steal ideas from one person is plagiarism. To steal from many is research.
10. A bus station is where a bus stops. A train station is where a train stops. On my desk, I have a work station.
11. I thought I wanted a career. Turns out I just wanted paychecks.
12. Whenever I fill out an application, in the part that says, 'In case of emergency, notify:' I put 'DOCTOR.'
13. I didn't say it was your fault, I said I was blaming you.
14. Women will never be equal to men until they can walk down the street with a bald head and a beer gut, and still think they are sexy.
15. Behind every successful man is his woman. Behind the fall of a successful man is usually another woman.
16. A clear conscience is the sign of a fuzzy memory.
17. I asked God for a bike, but I know God doesn't work that way. So I stole a bike and asked for forgiveness.
18. You do not need a parachute to skydive. You only need a parachute to skydive twice.
19. Money can't buy happiness, but it sure makes misery easier to live with.
20. There's a fine line between cuddling and holding someone down so they can't get away.
21. I used to be indecisive. Now I'm not so sure.
22. You're never too old to learn something stupid.
23. To be sure of hitting the target, shoot first and call whatever you hit the target.
24. Nostalgia isn't what it used to be.
25. Change is inevitable, except from a vending machine.
26. Going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than standing in a garage makes you a car.
27. A diplomat is someone who tells you to go to hell in such a way that you look forward to the trip.
28. Hospitality is making your guests feel at home even when you wish they were.
29. I always take life with a grain of salt. Plus a slice of lemon, and a shot of tequila.
30. When tempted to fight fire with fire, remember that the Fire Department usually uses water.
Words of Wisdom
"The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese."
Too bad as I certainly could have made the 1:00pm start. Well, suppose I'll just have to ring up Branko and go out to Steveston a couple of times! Cheers, Il Conduttore!
Thanks for early morning jaunt! Very pleasant in spite of your worrying familial matters. Trust some positive resolution occurs over next little while.
Turned out that I couldn't get in to Fatty Legs, session with Christy Jordon-Fenton and Margaret Pokiak-Fenton. Christy retells her mother-in-law's story of two years in a Catholic residential school, on Banks Island, in the Arctic Ocean, as it was sold out. However, was able to hear Sarah Ellis, Kit Pearson and John Wilson talk about Scholastic's two historical series, Dear Canada, aimed at girls, and I Am Canada, written for boys. Fascinating to hear each author describe research and writing process for each work. Delighted that audience was composed, in the main, of school classes and the students were obviously keen readers and fans. Interestingly enough, I sat beside Leslie Hurtig, and her son, daughter of Mel Hurtig, landmark Canadian publisher, as I need not tell you, of all people!. I have met Leslie a number of times at various VIWF events, first when she was the Chair of the VIWF Board, often at A Dram Come True.
Had planned to take in an afternoon session but thought they all started at 1:30pm. Cora Lee just walked in the door a few moments ago and disabused me of this notion! First word that entered my head when I realized my mistake was "PARAPROSDOKIAN!". As in "Oh Knockdhu! In case you don't know what "paraprosdokian" means, here is the definition:
"Figure of speech in which the latter part of a sentence or phrase is surprising or unexpected; frequently used in a humorous situation." "Where there's a will, I want to be in it," is a type of paraprosdokian.
1. Do not argue with an idiot. He will drag you down to his level and beat you with experience.
2. The last thing I want to do is hurt you. But it's still on my list.
3. Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.
4. If I agreed with you, we'd both be wrong.
5. We never really grow up, we only learn how to act in public.
6. War does not determine who is right - only who is left.
7. Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
8. Evening news is where they begin with 'Good Evening,' and then proceed to tell you why it isn't.
9. To steal ideas from one person is plagiarism. To steal from many is research.
10. A bus station is where a bus stops. A train station is where a train stops. On my desk, I have a work station.
11. I thought I wanted a career. Turns out I just wanted paychecks.
12. Whenever I fill out an application, in the part that says, 'In case of emergency, notify:' I put 'DOCTOR.'
13. I didn't say it was your fault, I said I was blaming you.
14. Women will never be equal to men until they can walk down the street with a bald head and a beer gut, and still think they are sexy.
15. Behind every successful man is his woman. Behind the fall of a successful man is usually another woman.
16. A clear conscience is the sign of a fuzzy memory.
17. I asked God for a bike, but I know God doesn't work that way. So I stole a bike and asked for forgiveness.
18. You do not need a parachute to skydive. You only need a parachute to skydive twice.
19. Money can't buy happiness, but it sure makes misery easier to live with.
20. There's a fine line between cuddling and holding someone down so they can't get away.
21. I used to be indecisive. Now I'm not so sure.
22. You're never too old to learn something stupid.
23. To be sure of hitting the target, shoot first and call whatever you hit the target.
24. Nostalgia isn't what it used to be.
25. Change is inevitable, except from a vending machine.
26. Going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than standing in a garage makes you a car.
27. A diplomat is someone who tells you to go to hell in such a way that you look forward to the trip.
28. Hospitality is making your guests feel at home even when you wish they were.
29. I always take life with a grain of salt. Plus a slice of lemon, and a shot of tequila.
30. When tempted to fight fire with fire, remember that the Fire Department usually uses water.
Words of Wisdom
"The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese."
Too bad as I certainly could have made the 1:00pm start. Well, suppose I'll just have to ring up Branko and go out to Steveston a couple of times! Cheers, Il Conduttore!
Hi Patrice,
Wow, you guys have certainly been getting lot's of exposure to new and
interesting people,places and things with your volunteership. Good on you I
think that's wonderful and some day when I have some more time available or
should I say less other things to do, I will be sure to follow your lead.
Keep up the good work, and thanks for the stories!
cheers, Al
Hi Big Al!
Had a very pleasant, early morning jaunt with Whirlissimo, around Stanley Park. Cheers, Il Conduttore!
Had a very pleasant, early morning jaunt with Whirlissimo, around Stanley Park. Cheers, Il Conduttore!
Hi Tinsel Town:
 |
Sounds like your life is full of great film and great literature these days Poppa! Cheers and Love to all! |
Il Conductore,
Sounds like you have been keeping yourself nice and busy and out of trouble for the most part. Thanks for the film reviews, both sounds interesting, at least through your description.
I would love to get together soon for bridge and of course face-time. How is next Friday, Oct. 28th? If that works I can see if General Petreos is around. For such a large man he has been rather incognito.
L'chaim, Legs
Hi Legs!
Next Friday sounds great! We'll set up the gaming tables at The Island Inn, say for 7:00pm. Will discuss menu over next little while. Pitchforks are in Bali so will have to drum up some others who can bring fab bridge prizes! Perhaps the General can finagle a used howitzer of a grenade launcher for the partner paired with most consistent over-bidder! Confoimazzione!!! Cheers, Il Conduttore!
Next Friday sounds great! We'll set up the gaming tables at The Island Inn, say for 7:00pm. Will discuss menu over next little while. Pitchforks are in Bali so will have to drum up some others who can bring fab bridge prizes! Perhaps the General can finagle a used howitzer of a grenade launcher for the partner paired with most consistent over-bidder! Confoimazzione!!! Cheers, Il Conduttore!
General Petreos,
please see below for KIND invitation for next Friday, Oct. 28th. Are you around or back in Onterrible?
cheers,
Karen/Legs
 |
Hey cruel Host Father, this is the cruelst Host Daughter ever!! Because I really couldn't make it on Skype.. trying to catch up with Nicolina too but it seems way to hard to come online during the Canadian timezone:( It's been also waaaay to long since I last wrote you an email, right?!;) I apologize for that too. To give you a short insight in my current life: I moved to Zurich! Can you imagine? :D Well actually it's Winterthur but it's still located in Kanton Zurich. I've started studying Physiotherpie here, that's why I had to come here, living with the Zurich people.. They're nice though, arrogant, but nice. Oh and stressed of course. Anyway, I live with 3 other students in a lovely appartment. 2 guys, 2 girls and somehow we seem to fit together :) School's awesome too, we don't just sit there and listen to the lectures, we actually get to do practice a little as well, like role-playing (physiotherapist and patient). In Bern, everything's and everyone's alright and happy as well :) Hope, you guys are fine too!? Let me see, I'll try to be online this saturday evening.. around 9pm Swiss time, which will be 3pm your time? Think I'll be online all evening anyway, so you can (try to) reach my by chance ok? I'd even love to see Maggie! Can you actually believe that I've missed her too? :D Ok dearest Host Father, gotta go to sleep and get up early to go learn some usefull things! Miss you and would u please kiss Cora Lee and hug her properly for me? Oh and Chloe as well. Talk to you soon. Fondestos and Cheers. Your Dearest Host Daughter Nadienka |
Can you take a shift or two in the Festival Kitchen?
*Saturday Oct 22, 5:30-8:30 pm
*Sunday Oct 23, 2-5 pm
You get to help our Festival Kitchen Staff Carolina and Deirdre, we have lots of laughs here at the Festival Kitchen. Good soup too!
Let me know a.s.a.p. if you'd like to help.
Kathryn
Hi Kathryn!
I could help out on Saturday, before our shift at Studio 1398, for an hour or so before I'd need to change. Could probably do a couple of hours on Sunday, until about 4:00pm, or so, if that would help. Cheers, Patrizio!
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