The Petawawa Diaries: Sunday, June 9th

Often war is waged only in order to show valor; thus an inner dignity is ascribed to war itself, and even some philosophers have praised it as an ennoblement of humanity, forgetting the pronouncement of the Greek who said, "War is an evil in as much as it produces more wicked men than it takes away." -Immanuel Kant, philosopher (1724-1804)

Hello Bridge Afficionados!

We’re having the Penguin over for bridge along with Gladys Knight (of the Pips) who is going to be in town. Are you available for bridge & bbq at our place – June 29 5 ish pm? If you can make it, may get another couple to play from our list of experts. CC

Hello Champagne! Lovely invitazzione which we are more than happy to accept! Gladsy Knight and the Pips with The Penguin! Sounds like a summer movie blockbuster!!!

Be forewarned, however, I have been playing weekly, this past few months, with lads I cycle with, some of my Book Club and Sarge when he is in town or not playing ball, (He always plays hardball even when he's playing softball!), honing my already extraordinary bidding skills to even more razor edged precision. Top Dog last week!

Please let us know what we can contribute in terms of food. I assume you have a plethora of bridge prizes waiting in the wings, screaming "Choose Me! Choose Me!", but if supply is finally exhausted we can scrounge up something, I'm sure. Fondestos from Cora Lee to you and O Susannah! Cheers, Patrizzio!  

Hello Laddage! Given Victorious' predilection for the 7th of July, I throw my vote behind his choice. The premises of the Islay Inn have been swept for bugs, secreted by The Sisterhood, so the NRBC is welcome to meet here, in relative safety, from surprise attack by the Amazons. Unfortunately, I cannot speak to the likely internecine strife between certain, (unnamed), intransigent members but I will do my best to pour oil on the troubled waters. In the spirit of mediation, I urge the usual procrastinators to finish the book so that a plethora of moderate views might be expressed, ameliorating the vitriol spewed forth by the above mentioned hot, intemperate heads.

I remain, as ever, Your Humble, Quiet Voice of Reason and Possessor of Ill-Advised Respect for Others' Idiocies. Cheers, Il Conductore, Purveyor of Life's Lessons, Seller of Fine Drink, Sustainable Snacks and Other Junk Food!

Hi Cabin People!

Thanks for message with phone number. I didn't read it until later on in the afternoon yesterday. Cora Lee was doing a volunteer shift at Aunt Leah's Thrift Store on Broadway and Main. I was charged with a number of errands so I decided to ride out to UBC beforehand, following my usual route. Wasn't a particularly nice day so roads were rather quiet. No scantily clad babes at Kits Beach either, unfortunately!
 

Out along Spanish Banks and then MD to Crown with a loop back through Musqueam to hit MD again, then climb up Camosun  to Imperial Drive. Back down to MD and then through Wesbrook Village, back to MD and up 16th to Tolmie. Quite a bit of road construction at the intersection of 16th and East Mall, in front of the new high school there. Looks like it will be going on for sometime so I need to avoid that section on future rides. Trust it will be complete when we return in October!

Since I had a time constraint, I took Chancellor Blvd, instead of NW MD, and then cut back to 16th at Blanca. I had to pick up some hyper expensive cat food at Tisol Pet Store on Arbutus, near 11th, so I followed 1th all the way to Vine and then dipsy doodled to land at the store with 62.8 K over 2:58:54, AVG 21.0 KPH, MAX 51.6 KPH. Had the clerk write down those numbers as the "officlal" part of the ride was now over! Even had her place the dozen cans of "caviar" in my camel pack, (sans bladder), so I didn't have to take it off. (All planned with military precision!) Then off along Broadway to Chapters on Granville for a gift certificate for our niece, Rachel. We will be celebrating her 23rd birthday, (as I believe I mentioned in last message), this evening.

Home by just before 4:00pm with 65.7 K over 3:10:32, AVG 20.7 KPH, MAX 51.6 KPH so you can see the deleterious effect touching the ground has on stats! Time for a quick shower and after I'd dressed we drove to Creekside CC, to park underground, to attend the Keating/Anderson wedding. It was a wonderful affair, from the simple, touching ceremony to the fabulous food and drink at the reception. Elaine, bride's mother, made all the wonderful sushi appetizers while the remarkable meal itself was catered by Trafalgar's Bistro, on 16th & Trafalgar, obviously! The owners, a gay couple, Lorne Tyczenski and Stephen Greenham, are very close friends of the Keatings.

We had a delightful time, before, during and after meal, visiting with many friends and meeting relatives/close friends who had flown from Australia to attend ceremony. Slide show Elaine had put together, shown before decadent deserts were served, had everyone howling with laughter and shedding tears at the same time. Dancing to follow but we had to say our farewells before it started, (Much to Cora Lee's disappointment!), as we wanted to pop in at another wedding reception. Only two weddings all summer, for us, and both on same day!

Katie and Brian, very close friends of Chloë's, were actually married in February, in Hawaii, but wanted to celebrate with family and friends here. Smaller reception, at their new place, but a few blocks for Tisol store I'd been at earlier, but lovely to see many friends and relatives we've come to know over the years. Party was winding down by the time we arrived but we still didn't leave until after midnight. Once home I quickly brushed and flossed and said goodnight to Cora Lee who was reading when my head hit the pillow. Woke up at 2:30am to find her book on her tummy, glasses on her nose and gentle snores coming from her mouth! Gave her a nudge but she only mumbled something incoherent and didn't turn out light or close her book. Bit of a struggle to get her to comply and she grumbled all the while. The Sisterhood!
 

Heavy shower about half an hour ago but blue sky now so I'm hoping to go back out to Iona/Steveston. Will be a solo ride as Whirlygig has gone fishing, (not sure where), until Thursday and Robo Man is tutoring all weekend. Probably won't have a chance to call until early in week but will certainly do so! Enjoy cabin. Fondestos from Cora Lee. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Pics: Unfortunately, my camera battery died after these six shots! My fault entirely as I knew it needed recharging but simply forgot to do so! Will, Stephanie's husband, second son-in-law; Commissionaire, James,(Groom), James, (Best Man), Ross, (Groom's brother. On crutches, not shown, but he is using a cane here, to help him through ceremony, barely noticeable, even if you know what to look for, with a broken ankle! Soccer!!); Stephanie, middle daughter, just before ceremony started, holding Hazel, first granddaughter; Stephanie, Christina, (eldest daughter), Jenny, (close friend of Bride), Laura, (youngest daughter); Bride and Groom; guests with Cora Lee at far end. Think this was the first wedding I'd been to where all the bridesmaids are either pregnant or have a very young child!

To those of you who will be in France later this summer I thought I'd pass along this annual bulletin from my friend Geoffrey, and to the others as well who might be tempted. Guy

Paris in Summer!

Dear Friends, friends of friends and their friends...please forward this message on to anyone you know who might be interested.
Paris in August! Our very well appointed and situated apartment is available for parts of July and the month of August. Read on for details...

PARIS APT. FOR SHORT TERM RENTALS - 5TH ARRONDISSEMENT/Latin Quarter
Character apartment in 18th century building with elevator in quiet neighbourhood.
995€ per week fully furnished - Two bedrooms, both doubles + living room hide-away (sleeps 6), 3 fireplaces, hardwood floors, shower (no bath) large sunny living room with piano, very well equipped kitchen, washing machine, gas stove, 3 standard VCR, DVD and monitor, WIFI Internet connection, free telephoning to North America, Australia, Europe…Across the road from the Jardin des Plantes and down the hill from the Arenes de Lutece, 5 minutes from the Seine, Notre Dame, the Pantheon, the rue Mouffetard, St-Germain, Odeon, Luxembourg Gardens. 3 outdoor markets every day but Monday. Concierge. (deposits required).
 

The apartment is in the 5th arrondissement, close to Jussieu University (Metro Jussieu is the closest metro stop) and between the Arenes de Lutece (Roman Arena) and the Jardin des Plantes (National Botanical Gardens). It is a short walk to the Seine, the Institut du Monde Arabe, Place de la Contrescarpe, the Mouffetard Market, the Pantheon and Notre Dame and the Ile St-Louis and the Marais. There are 3 markets (Place Monge, Place Maubert and Mouffetard) and two of the best bakeries in the city at the corner of rue Lacepede and the rue Monge and Kayser at 8 rue Monge.

The apartment is on the third floor of an 18th century building with a cobblestone courtyard and is very quiet. It has two bedrooms, both doubles and a foldout couch that sleeps two in the living room. There is one bathroom (shower only) and the loo is in a separate closet. The kitchen is equipped with gas and copper pots and a good range of cookbooks in English. The television receives a broad range of international channels and there is a separate DVD player. Telephoning to over 30 countries including Canada, the US, China, Australia and most of Europe is free. There is an extensive library and an eclectic CD collection. 

Patrick, thank you for this.  I've shared it with Nancy as we've been talking about an end of summer trip.  Beau Soleil looks great.  She tells me, however, she has been speaking to friends in Toronto about a sojourn with them and some regional cultural outings as well such as the Shaw and/or Stratford festivals.  But nothing decided yet, though time is as usual roaring on.  Put us in the "toying" group for now if acceptable and I'll  update you when we come to a firmer sense of a notion of a plan.  G

Hi again, Big Al!

As I mentioned in my last message, I didn't think I'd have time to give you Cabin Fever Folks a call but was thinking of you nonetheless. After Cora Lee left for church, to pray for my black soul, I suited up and headed out for my ride. Think I mentioned that I was probably going to make for Iona/Steveston but by the time I was at UBC and rolling along MD, I thought that perhaps I'd head out along Kent Ave as I'd not ridden that way for quite some time. This being the case I went under Arthur Laing instead of over it and soon found myself hurtling towards Burnaby! 

Really a very,very pleasant ride on the weekend as don't think I ever encountered a single large truck. Not many cyclist either. Was interested to see the condo development between Kerr and Kinross, or thereabouts, I think, now nicely finished and attractive but under construction when last I was past this section. Furthermore, the road in front of this development and beyond, all the way to Boundary, has been resurfaced. It was pretty rough, with many potholes and patch jobs, as I recall. Great to zip along on this smooth, wide roadway, especially since wind was at my back.

Once past Boundary I headed into the large industrial park on N Fraser Way. I had been through parts of it before, (One time, the infamous "Desertion Ride" by members of the once vibrant Peleton!), so enjoyed retracing my steps. Didn't "risk" the trails of the Burnaby Fraser Foreshore Park in case there were residual vibes from my last abandonment, but contented myself with exploring Glenlyon Pkwy. Followed it to reconnect with N Fraser Way and Byrne Road. 

Cycled past what seemed to me fairly new/recently finished, quite attractive, both from an architectural and landscaped point of view, warehouses/businesses, noting one, Mitchell Press, relocated from a large building, (Now completely renovated and specializing in mid-century furniture, according to Interior Designer Coriandre!) not far from us, on 1st & Pine. Saw another huge complex, something like the Canadian Motion Picture Park, on Glenwood Drive, I think. Thought of you, naturally, and wondered if you have ever worked there. 

Great cycling on almost completely deserted streets. Crisscrossed my way around Riverbend Drive Trapp Avenue, Willard Street, Meadow Avenue and then N Fraser Way to Marine Way and back, simply following my nose. This would be a wonderful ride with a number of other people as one could ride two or even three abreast and chat all the while. Even out to Iona on a quiet day there is usually enough vehicular traffic to make that a bit difficult, not to say unsafe. Here, the Peleton could take up the entire road, spitting on cars!

By the time I had poked around, to the extent that I had covered most of the bays and crescents, I had almost 60 K on the clock so headed back to KAB and fought the reasonably steady, but not overwhelming, head wind to Cambie, taking it only as far as 65th, taking advantage of a chanced- upon pedestrian domestique who had pushed the walk button to allow me to scamper across otherwise busy thoroughfare. 

 From there I was almost on autopilot as I made my way to Heather and then back down to 70th to faultlessly negotiate the all the lights at Oak and Granville, and in between, to shoot along MD for the Endowment Lands and UBC. More than pleased with having reacquainted myself with territory of the Burnaboids and with overall ride statistics, once back at The Heartbreak Terrace: 103.4 K over 4:46:56, AVG 21.6 KPH, MAX 55.4 KPH. 

Back home for a quick shower and a cup of java, (Don't like to have any before a long ride as that might force me to have to stop!), before helping get ready for niece Rachael's 23rd birthday dinner. I had cut up steaks from large beef tenderloin package we'd bought at Costco earlier in week and Patti did them to poifection on bbq while Cora Lee and Chloë and Joanne carried out the execution, by boiling, roiling water, of ten crustaceans, of the lobster persuasion, which Sarge had had flown in from Nova Scotia earlier that morning. This stupendous fare, along with Joanne's wonderful mixed green salad and Cora Lee's feta topped oven kartofelage and the feast was on! Loads of wine, both red and white. Gavin and I started out with a few snorts of some recently acquired hootch: Elmer T. Lee Kentucky Straight Bourbon, 46% and El Dorado 12 year old Demerara Rum from Guyana, an anaemic 40% but very, very flavourful!

For dessert there was a marble chocolate cheesecake, from Sweet Obsessions, (same owners as Trafalgar's Bistro!), and some incredible gelato Joanne had discovered while in Mesa but also available at Costco, here: pineapple, lemon, orange and coconut, all in their hollowed-out original encasings. Rowdy For She's a Jolly Good Fellow after Rachael blew out all her candles. After all this excitement and rich food I needed a couple of snorts of Jura Superstition, 43%, to calm my frazzled nerves as I loaded the dishwasher!

Great, great ending to a wonderful, wonderful day! To be continued...

Hey Pat, My distant relatives, the Archers, live in Malvern near Worcester, England & Travis has been staying @ their home. Colin & Lorna Archer are both retired social workers & remain very politically active especially supporting the Palestinians & opposed to the Jewish occupation of Palestine. On Friday Travis attended a rally w/ them & thousands of others in London promoting famine relief & the idea that no one in the world need go hungry. He arrived in Dublin on May 30 but I'm not exactly sure of his present whereabouts. I'm not much on Facebook but Travis has posted some pics which you might enjoy. Here's a sample:

Statues mark the path to the Dublin docklands commemorating the potato famine.

Hi Patrizzio! A few updates. If you want to bring a light appy that would be fine. Penguin bringing a dessert. (BTW, as a special treat, my partner will prepare a delicious salad fresh from our #1 son’s organic farm)

Think we’ll keep it to 3 couples if that’s OK so we can do a round robin kind of thing. Added advantage is that everyone will get even more prizes at the end. Plus can catch up with everyone more. Finally, at your advanced age it is certainly best that you play more often. CC

Hello all, Rome, part 2

Thursday – Jo-Anne’s big day – her conference presentation is at noon.  I headed out after a leisurely breakfast (many cappucchinos) and headed back to Termini and the Metro.  Got off at the Flaminio stop and walked over to the Piazza del Popolo.  Went into one of the twin Santa Maria churches (the other was closed for renovations) – quite small inside.  The Via del Corso starts at Piazza del Popolo and ends at the Victor Emmanuel monument – I looked at a bit of this end.  Then I followed the Via del Basuino to the Piazza di Spagna.  From there I went over to the Via Veneto – the area with the expensive hotels (Westin, etc.) and high end shops.  It is one of the nicer looking streets in Rome.  Then it was back to Termini and on to the hotel.

Friday – Morning’s big activity was laundry.  Met Jo-Anne for lunch, and then we went to the Spagna station and walked along Basuino to the Piazza del Popolo, and hence to the Via del Corso, the Via della Croce, and back to Piazza Spagna.  Then it was on to the Via Veneto and the Borghese Gardens.  Took a bus back to the hotel and crashed.

Saturday – Travel day.  This was supposed to be an easy trip to Porto.  We finally arrived in Porto at 3:00 PM on Sunday.  It took less time to go from Vancouver to Rome.  There was an “incident” at the Rome airport.  A Romanian Airlines flight had a bad landing.  Stories and rumours varied from a crash to a landing gear problem.  Didn’t hear of any deaths or serious injuries, but a runway had to be closed.  Our flight was cancelled.  A re-booked flight through Milan was delayed such that we missed our connecting flight.  We finally left Milan early Sunday afternoon.  The rest of the story (ie-lost luggage) needs much wine.-Colin

The Petawawa Diaries: Saturday, June 8th, Laura's/James' Wedding Day!

I have never been contained except I made the prison. -Mary Evans, actress (1888-1976) 

Hello Kurt's Music Nemesis! Grand that you could make it across the pond to spice up discussion. Have attached brochure and rates for Beau Soleil. Take a look and let me know what you think and if keen I'll book you and Naughty Nancy in! Cheers, Il Conduttore!

Hi Denise and Bill! Lovely to bump into you on Thursday! Did you know Ted from VRC, Wild Bill? On squash matters, I had a long chat with Bill Dempster on the evening of May 22nd. He was in town but we couldn't manage to see each other. I was just back from LA and left for Winnipeg next day. Unfortunately, he was in considerable pain as he had somehow put his back out just before leaving for BC and I gather this really restricted what he could do and where he could go.

Have attached brochure and rates for Beau Soleil. Take a look and let me know what you think and if keen I'll book you in! Cheers, Il Conduttore!

Hi Filmer and Sally!

Thanks for wonderful ad! Can hardly stop playing it. (Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, has always been one of my most admired works. Don't know if you saw Darling with Julie Christie, 1965. Wonderfully comic scene in Harrod's with her and her gay photographer friend shoplifting to the strains of this Bach.) You are spot on about the Japanese and their remarkable culture. We would dearly love to return as we just barely scratched the surface of things.

How are managing being de-nested? How go Travis' travels? Which computer did you decide upon for Kaitlyn? I am awaiting the delivery of my MacAir. Coming from Shanghai! Funnily enough, according to tracking system, it left city on same day, (last Wednesday), that Patti and Gavin, (Cora Lee's sister and brother-n-law), flew from there to Vancouver. They had been in China on a small group tour for about two weeks. They left yesterday, after collecting their two daughters, Rachel and Rebekah, (family lives in Petawawa), who flew in from Ottawa, at YVR, for Victoria, to see Gavin's father. Back on Sunday to celebrate Rachel's birthday. They leave this coming Wednesday.

Today Cora Lee and I are attending a wedding at Olympic Village, Creekside Community Centre, about a 2 K stroll down the Seawall from our place. Wonderful view of city/North Shore mountains over False Creek from there. Last night had a call from Crazy Andy Sredzki in Toronto so what with all the recent contact with Winnipegers, (Gavin is from there as well), I feel I'm still with you in Wildwood Park! Never left!!! Best wishes from Cora Lee to you both. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Pics: Patio and dinner, last Wednesday; Gavin and Kathleen, close friend, (Library School classmate), from Melbourne, in town on business and visiting her mother and eldest daughter, doing an MA in Children's Literature at UBC; Patti; Joanne, friend and neighbour; our tiny corner of Provence; a tavola at The Islay Inn. 

Hi Joan! Sorry I've not replied sooner. No excuses but plenty of reasons. Quite dismayed, of course, to learn about Bob's diagnosis. Not that I know him at all but he seemed rather quiet and subdued at the reunion dinner. I assumed it was simply his nature but he was probably fixated on the coming results of his medical tests. I know I would have been. At any rate, please pass along my concerns for this terribly difficult situation. I would send my own wishes for a successful outcome but because I really don't know him I think they might be better coming from you, if you don't mind.

Seems a bit callous to go on as if nothing has changed in our lives but I've come to learn that one cannot dwell overmuch on the terribly negative or circumstances simply worsen.

Last night had a call from Crazy Andy Sredzki, friend from university days, now living in Toronto, so what with all the recent contact with Winnipegers, (Gavin is from there as well), I feel I'm still there with you! Never left!!! Best wishes from Cora Lee to you, Joan. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Spumoni and Rickshaw People!

Do you know yet if you will be back in Vancouver? Glad you likes snaps of your boys! Royalty on screen saver is one bottle of London Dock Rum on next trip!!!  What with all the recent contact with Winnipegers I feel I'm still there with you, eating overlefts from your well-stocked fridge! Never left!!! Best wishes from Cora Lee to you and The Brotherhood. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio, your Favourite Brother-in-Law!

Hi Jean and John!

Sorry I've not replied sooner. No excuses but plenty of reasons. You should have been the teacher, not John. Your visuals really make the point! This being the case, I'm pleased to report that I am awaiting the delivery of my new MacAir, (For various reasons have decided upon this for travel purposes.), so watch out for my kinky Power Point presentations!  Best wishes from Cora Lee to you and John. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Two dates recommended for the next gathering. – 30^th June or the 7^th of July. Please let me know what works best for you. The book is Indian Horse by Richard Wagamis (George). Kurt has chosen Nabokov’s  Pnin  to follow the Wagamis. Stephen or Victor will choose the book to follow the Nabokov – whoever chooses first. 

Sorry lads, I'll be away on both weekends. 8^) Cheers, Mark

Hello all, I want my selection to be Blood's a Rover by James Ellroy, although Moonstone is indeed a fine book (and the first modern detective novel prior to Sherlock Holmes) For the dates, July 7th works for me. I will be out of town June 30th Best, VL 

Hi Patricio,

Ok, I just finally finished reading your email in three parts over a couple of days! lol. All good stuff as always, and I appreciate the detailed recount as it’s almost as if I was there and i wish I was . I do miss cycling with the lads and have got to figure out a time to get out. I’m off to the cabin right now , we can be reached there on my internet phone. give us a call if you feel like it or I’ll get in touch later in the week.Cheers, Al

 

The Petawawa Diaries: Friday, June 7th

The greatest obstacle to discovering the shape of the earth, the continents, and the oceans was not ignorance but the illusion of knowledge. -Daniel J. Boorstin, historian, professor, attorney, and writer (1914-2004) 

Rebecca Frazier

After 72 long hours of labor Avery Sheila Ann Sutherland was born via C section at 8:24pm on June 6th, 2013. Avery weighed 8lbs 9oz and is 20 inches long. Corey William and I love every inch of her and we are so blessed. She is absolutely amazing!!!

• 

  Patrick James Dunn Wonderful, wonderful news! Fondestos and much warm love to the new threesome, Patrizzio!

  
  

  
  
  Hi Big Al!
  
  Sorry that I've not sent along a message earlier. No excuses but plenty of reasons! Thanks for tip about Road Assist but I did know about it. Trust I never have to use it but great to know that service is there. As well, I did take a look at Google Maps for Sunshine Valley and environs when we had first talked about a ride thereabouts. I'm still keen to try it from Hope but we should chat about that, well beforehand.
  
  Foist and foimost, thanks again for being such a willing sherpa! Grand time indeed at Dram! Luckily, in particular, for two sherpas, all downhill so quite pleasant, while I clutched, at times, the Silent Auction malt, Ticks All the Boxes, apparently from Dufftown’s oldest distillery, Mortlach, 26 years old, 60.1%, a bargain at $310, (most expensive bottle I've ever bought but for a great cause, of course), only $65 more than retail price!
  
  
  

  

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  The rug is another matter, however. Cora Lee was not at all amused or pleased as she claims it doesn't "go" with our decor. Fortunately, I'm off the hook as close friend and neighbour, Joanne, wants it for her place on fourth floor. Cora Lee told her about it last Sunday evening when she, Flamin' and Sarge were there for dinner. I popped by later, after cycling back from Horseshoe Bay, just after 9:00pm.
  
  Not sure if I had mentioned it on Friday evening but Whirlygig, Marcus Aurelius and I rode out to HB on Saturday morning. Left the Heartbreak Terrace at just after 10:00am to meet up with Marcus at Science World. Bit cool and cloudy but otherwise fine. Caught the 12:50 ferry and read, chatted on way to Nanaimo. Weekend was planned around our Non-Readers Book Club. Kurt, close friend of Giggenheimer's from back east in the '80's when they both worked at same publisher, Fitzhenry & Whiteside, moved there about a year ago now. He has come to Vancouver a number of times for NRBC gatherings and at last meeting it was decided to convene on VI. 
  

  

  
  Three of us went over a day early so that we could play bridge on Saturday afternoon/evening. Met Natalia, Kurt's lovely wife, for first time, and they both made us extremely welcome in their gorgeous home. Patio off front of the house looks out towards Departure Bay and since they knew which ferry we were on they watched us dock and then were able to track us as we made our way down fairly steep hill, (Clocked 57.8 KPH and know I could have done over 60 KPH but was worried about car in front of me!), to Departure Bay Beach/Village. From there just a very short ride to Hammond Bay Road. Just past the beach front one turns right off Departure Bay Road, (Have taken the latter numerous times when I've ridden to Grogg's/Lurchesca's place in Parksville.), and then left onto Friar Tuck Way, a fairly steep, short hill to Sherwood Drive. Their home is built into the side of Sugarloaf Mountain so even the short driveway itself requires a bit of effort.
  
  

  

  After we had been introduced to Natalia we took a short tour of their property and were delighted by the "resident" doe and fawn, literally bedded down in the tall grass on the hillside right outside the dining room windows. Kurt brews is own beer and the Lads pounded jug after jug over the course of the afternoon/evening. I suppose I was still saturated from Dram so I was actually happy to drink orange juice for most of the weekend. Had two glasses of wine, (home brewed Malbec but quite tasty), with the sumptuous dinner: divine bbq'd salmon, on cedar planks, with a fantastic aubergine parmigiana and a delicious mixed lentil, rice, currant salad.
  
  

  

  
  Whirlygig crashed at 11:00pm and Nalalia followed soon thereafter but rest of us chatted and sipped until 1:30pm! I had a fingare of Finnlagan as I'd not had any in some time. I didn't know anything about product when I first tried it so in case you don't either, here is a short blurb: 
  
  The man who set up in business to "produce" Finlaggan whisky (also sold as Ileach whisky) was formerly employed by one of the Islay distilleries. He purchases production from whichever of the Islay distilleries offers the best deal at the time of the purchase. This means that subsequent bottles sometimes do not 
  always contain the same whisky as a previous bottling Since it is sold as a single malt, they are not blended together.
  
  However, most Finlaggan does come from Coal Ila and Lagavulin, but also sometimes from Laphroaig. Finlaggan seems to be a pure commercial product. The result is a good single malt at a low price. The problem is that you will never know for sure which single malt is in your bottle.
   
  

  

  I drew the straw for the couch in the study but was more than comfortable there, particularly as I suspected there would be horrendous snorage emanating from all three bedrooms. Turned out I was correct but I was shielded from wind tunnel experiments and slept like a baby until 7:00am. Before going to bed Kurt asked me if he would disturb me if he ground coffee at 5:30am, his usual rising time. I told him I would probably wake up but would go back to sleep without any difficulty. Turned out that I was up well before anybody else, emptied dishwasher and scrubbed a large serving dish left to soak overnight before any bleary-eyed folk stumbled downstairs at 8:00am! 
  

  

  
  Fabulous breakfast of Natalia's homemade blintzes, topped with fresh raspberries and dusted with icing sugar. Two other members of the NRBC arrived shortly thereafter. Misha came by ferry and Kurt picked him up at DBFT while Guy drove up from Victoria where he had been visiting his sister. Guy arrived shortly before noon so once greetings/introductions were finished we repaired for another sumptuous feast: crackers, dips, (homemade baba ganoush, humous), a variety of cheeses and a wonderful, wonderful stuffed, (homemade soft cheese, chopped red onions, dill), salmon, lox, roll.
  
  Repaired to deck to discuss The Sisters Brothers, our current book, and had some heated arguments, as usual. Still, great good fun. Misha and Guy left just after 4:00pm as they were hoping to catch 5:20pm ferry and didn't know how busy/full it might be. We saddled-up and gave our thanks to our more than gracious hosts at 4:30. None of us were looking forward to the hill we had zipped down day before but once we made top rest of ride was a breeze. We were at ferry terminal by 4:55pm and read/chatted while waiting to board. Found our seats once we'd stowed our bikes and about half an hour into voyage both Guy and Misha came by to say hello. Obviously, everyone was pleased that they were able to make same ferry.
  
  

  

  
  Once we docked at HB we girded our loins for steep ascent ahead but even that seems to become a bit easier the more times one climbs that particular hill. On the ferry I had mentioned to Marcus Aurelius that ride back into Vancouver was much easier than coming the other way but he argued that it couldn't be. At any rate, evening was simply gorgeous. It was 7:00pm when we disembarked. Little traffic and light/temperature were almost more than one could ask for: a perfect summer evening! View of city/Lions Gate from a few open stretches about two or three kilometres before Dundarave Village were simply spectacular.
  

  

  
  Ambleside was fairly crowed with people out strolling, dog walking so we had to be careful at times. Slight wind behind us as we crossed bridge. I had to circle at Prospect Point as by this time ride had taken a bit of a toll on Marcus's sea legs. He has not ridden much, if at all, in last few weeks as he was away boating, all the way to  Alaska and back! Anyway, we regrouped and were soon at English Bay. I was a tad concerned that there would be hordes near Davie and Denman but actually we zipped right through that potential bottleneck.
  
  Whirlymeister peeled off at at the curve on Beach to head over Burrard so we waved goodbye there. Aurelius intended to catch Sky Train at VCC so we made for Science World. Just by Aquabus Dock, across from GI, his rear tire went flat! I circled while he tried to re-inflate it, suggesting we might take mini-ferry and then I'd put his bike on my bike rack and drive him to VCC, if he couldn't effect a temporary fix. After he had pumped for a bit he thought he could make it although, en route, he decided to take Sky Train from Main Street Station. I was glad to hear this as his rear tire seemed to be getting flatter and flatter as we rode towards Science World. I followed him all the way, the better able to watch and let him know if he should probably stop. Anyway, we limped along and made SW without incident. Waved adieu about 8:30pm and proceeded home. Asked him to let me know if he made it home safely and had a message later on to say he was back in Burnaby and all was fine.
  
  

  

  Not only was it a terrific weekend but rides were delightful. I had 83.4 K over 4:46:41, AVG 17.4 KPH, MAX 57.8 KPH, for the cumulative figures for Saturday and Sunday. Roughly 35-36 K to Horseshoe Bay from the Heartbreak Terrace, then about 4.1 K to Resedenza di Natalia from Departure Bay, to give approximately 40 K for one way trip. Figures are a bit more for me as they included some dipsy doodling on the fringes of Sherwood Forest, (I went along Hammond Bay Road ahead of others and when I turned around they were nowhere to be found! Kurt and Giggsters came to collect me in Kurt's car and led me to the house!), as well as the circling while Marcus attempted to fix/re-inflate tire.
  
  
  

  

  Have had some even better rides this past week. On Tuesday I managed 110.2 K over 5:16:44, AVG 20.8 KPH, MAX 55.5 KPH with six PPH loops. First circuit was on the Seawall, just below start of hill as there was some tree work going on and road was closed. Since I couldn't touch the ground I opted for Siwash Rock instead! Lovely, lovely day so distance seemed to almost whiz by.
  
  Great playing bridge on Tuesday evening at Giggster's pad with Ragin' Bull and Mick Carter. He underwent knee replacement surgery about two months ago. Polly, his wife, dropped him off and he walked home, with ski poles, after bridge was finished so he is doing well in his recovery process.
  
  Bit of a busy errand day on Wednesday, shopping at Costco, (Bumped into close friend, Ted Keating, with his youngest daughter's, (Laura's), prospective father-in-law, Alex, (from Mornington Peninsula, Oz), buying a heavily laden dolly's worth of provisions for coming wedding this Saturday at Olympic Village, Creekside CC. We are going as we know most of the wedding party.), readying our place for the arrival of Cora Lee's sister, Patti, and brother-in-law, Gavin, who arrived from Shanghai at 1:00pm. They were on a small group tour for two weeks. Did a few errands on my bike after we returned from airport and then we sat on deck and finally enjoyed the wonderful weather. Really one of the first times we've been able to sit outside without sweaters and blankets and hot water bottles!
  
   
  

  

  
  
  

  Cora Lee did some truly delicious lamb ribs and chops on bbq, along with brown rice mixed with rice/feta and mint, pan fried cherry tomatoes and a mixed bean salad, "boughten" but still very tasty, from Costco. Fresh raspberries with ice cream and gluten-free macaroons, vanilla and chocolat, for dessert. Gavin and I started out the evening with a some hefty snorts of Laphroaig Triple Wood, 48%, so we didn't really notice or pay attention to the Gatling gun bursts of disapproving looks and comments from the assembled Sisterhood, literally!
   
  

  

  
  Yesterday I had another grand ride with Alex, one of Ted's other son-in-laws. He and Christina, Ted's oldest daughter, are in town from Brooklyn, for wedding. When I chatted with Ted at Costco, he mentioned that James, groom, to marry Laura, youngest daughter, and Alex had been riding a number of times since arriving in Vancouver. I popped by Keating's place on Bayswater and 7th after I'd done some shopping at Young Brothers on Wednesday, and arranged with Alex to ride next day. James, unfortunately, couldn't join us as he was involved with wedding plans. We headed out to UBC along Spanish Banks and then made our way along Marine to Arthur Laing and then Iona. Bit of a blow on way out but Alex is a very strong rider, (His longest ride is 157 miles, 12 hours, on Long Island! He did Cypress earlier in week but found it very, very taxing, as you can imagine. One of my goals but guess it will have to wait until after we are back from Europe now.)
  
  He stopped to fill his water bottle while I circled in parking lot and then we made for Steveston, opting for the No 6 Road return route so that we could come back over CSTB, a bridge he'd not been on before. Then up Cambie to 57th where I instructed Alex to push pedestrian/bike button while I circled until light changed! Back up Heather and then along 37th out towards UBC. We hit 41st at Dunbar and then took Camosun back up to Imperial Drive and then along 16th to Blanca.
  
  

  

  Down 7th to give Alex a view of city. Waved goodbye at Highbury as I was hoping to keep my non-stop record intact and I knew it would be risky if I accompanied him back to Bayswater. Very understanding domestique, (much more so than kranky regulares!), who had thoroughly enjoyed ride. We said goodbye saying we would see each other again, at wedding, on Saturday. Unfortunately, he and Christina fly back to New York on Monday so probably not time enough for another outing, what with wedding, visiting relatives, etc. Too, too bad as Alex simply raves about cycling here and he is very good company. Be wonderful to ride with him on Long Island and/or in a park he uses, about a 5K circuit, in Brooklyn, at some point.
  
  I zipped along Point Grey and by the time I had clocked 100 K I was only three seconds shy of 20 KPH so I felt I could maintain that pace for rest of the ride. Horror or Horrors, I was unable to do so as lights wouldn't cooperate on Burrard and 1st and then again at entrance to GI but I did manage to reach the Heartbreak Terrace with 102.6 K over 5:09:06, AVG 19.9 KPH, MAX 43.9 KPH so I was very pleased with wonderful outing, in spite of thwarted goal. You see, I'm in training for Sunshine Valley trek! Let's chat about timing, etc., over this coming weekend/week. Cheers, Patrizzio!

  

  P, sorry I missed your calls today -- I was driving during both your calls. Spent the day running about picking up stuff for our fishing trip tomorrow. Also had to pick up the MT and her Granny from the ferry. Would have dearly loved a ride. Hope you had a good one. I am gone early tomorrow morning, back Thursday. Let me know if you have any suggestions for the next NRBC date. Maybe you are too booked to contemplate that before your holiday. Just bought another Jack Reacher novel: A Wanted Man in so-called mass pb format. Can hand it off to you for your trip if you want it. See you late next week. Ride safe. Regards to C, W
  

  

  
  Hi Giggster!
  
  I suspected something along the lines of what you reported. I had completely forgotten that you were going fishing. Where again?
  
  Called Raymond this morning and he wanted to wait until around 11:00am to see if weather improved. It was drizzling quite heavily, at least at his place, although not as much here. He called back at 10:30am to say things looked pretty promising and he was keen to ride. However, he forgot tha the had a loaf of bread on the go so couldn't leave until just before noon. Fine with me as I had plenty to do.
  
  I rolled up at this place right at 12:00am and we set off for Iona. Robo Man wanted to try a new approach to Arthur Laing so we turned left on Marine Drive at Cornish, (Cypress Bikeway), to go to Granville. Negotiated the set of lights at that intersection and then at  Milton, without much difficulty. This avoids the stop sign at Milton and not knowing which way the vehicles from Granville are turning, right or straight through. As well, being in the curb lane as one comes around the curve which leads to Arthur Laing, one is positioned to ride straight onto the bridge deck without having to worry about cutting across a lane or two as is necessary if one comes along the continuation of the Cypress Bikeway. Anyway, it seemed to work well, perhaps even better earlier and on weekends.
  
  
  

  

  Once we were over bridge and headed for Iona, knew we were in for it when we saw our first plane landing towards us! In fact, I think this is the only time I can remember not having to ride into the wind. Naturally, we made the most of it and sailed along, catching up, side by each, as traffic was very light. Had high hopes that wind direction would change on way back but no such luck! About 12 KPH difference, from 28 KPH to 16 KPH so we had to work. Took turns drafting and took little noticeable effort to ride behind at 18-19 KPH but was really a taxing struggle when out in front.
  
  Nevertheless, it had turned into a gorgeous day with plenty of blue sky by this time. We were both glad we had dressed for coolish temperature/cloudy, overcast conditions at start but regretted layers by the time we were crossing CSTB and then up Heather. Said goodbye to Raymondo at his place and then made my way home, via Macdonald. Did two loops of Kits Point to up my distance and made it back home with 51.8 KPH over 2:53:00, AVG 17.9 KPH, MAX 48.1 KPH. Had thought of it as a "stretch" ride from the outset so was quite pleased just to have ridden and not felt overly tired.
   
  

  

  Raymond won't be able to ride, (tutoring, as you might expect!), until next week so perhaps we can organize something for when you are back. Would you be interested in bridge on Thursday, (at our place), as Patti/Gavin and girls are here until Wednesday. If not, I'll try for Wednesday first and see who can play.
  
  As far as NRBC dates go, June 30th or July 7th are best for me. However, if others prefer an alternate date I think you should go ahead. I leave it in your more than capable, capable hands! Bye the bye, do you own a copy of Pnin I could borrow?  Would be keen to read your proffered Reacher now that you are hooked. Guess you ain't no stinkin' highbrow!!!  Have a grand time and hook plenty of sustainable fish! Cheers,Il Conduttore!
  
  Pics: pre-Maltage, Maltage and Swedish Masseuses for France!
  
  Dear Board Chair of the VWF:
  
  I am more than delighted to accept the invitation to the reception in honour of Jeannette Walls. Thank you very much indeed. Cheers, Patrick Dunn!
  
  

  

  P, Sounds like I missed some good rides this week. Alas, poor Yorick!Better not plan for bridge this week, but thanks. May be home late that Thursday even, fish laden and bushed. Don't have Pnin. Will see if I can find us a used copy.Will put forward the two dates to the unread, unwashed and unresponsive NRBC. In other words, choose your date.W

  Hello all,

  Monday – June 3 – “STRIKE!!”  Not the best start to a travel day.  Took the shuttle bus into Sorrento from the hotel and arrived at the Circumvesuviana station to be told there was a wildcat train strike.  Fortunately, they are required to give limited service in such situations, so we finally were on our way by 12:40.  Got to Naples – no strikes on the regular trains, so it was on to Rome.  Got to Termini in the late afternoon and caught the bus to our hotel.  After check-in, it was off to the conference site so Jo-Anne could register.  It is less than a block away.  Then it was back to our favorite little deli for meat and cheese and buns and wine, and then a balcony picnic at the hotel.

  

  Tuesday – First full day of the conference for Jo-Anne.  I decided to walk to the Termini station and catch the Metro from there.  First went to Piazza di Popolo and looked around, then went across the Tiber to see what was there.  Came back to the Spagna stop, and wandered out to look at the Spanish Steps.  Went the other direction from the station towards the Borghese Gardens.  Found a Carrefour on my way, so stopped in to buy some wine, and then headed back to the hotel.  After dropping off my purchases (and putting the prosecco in the fridge), I went out to explore the surrounding area.  Found some interesting restaurants and a lavaria -  a laundromat!!  When one reaches the raunchy gaunchie stage, that is a godsend.  Then back to the hotel for mortadella, cheese, bread, and wine.

  

  Wednesday – Said goodbye to Jo-Anne after breakfast, and then headed to Termini.  Took the Metro to the Colosseum and then went by the Forum up to the Victor Emmanuel monument.  After that, I followed the Via Corso  until I could head to the Pantheon.  Then it was on to the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps (again) and back on the Metro to Termini and the bus to Viale Ippocrate.  Jo-Anne had an early day of it at the conference, so at 2:00 PM we headed to the Colosseum and Forum, the Victor Emmanuel monument, the Via Corso (and some shopping), and the Trevi Fountain.  After some pizza and gnocci at at place in the Piazza Barberini, it was back to the hotel and to bed. -Colin 
  
  The phrase "canary in the coal mine" means to serve as a warning to others. The phrase's origins date back to coal mining's best practices from the earlier parts of the 20th century. According to the U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration, "canaries -- and sometimes mice -- were used to alert miners to the presence of [carbon monoxide]. Following a mine fire or explosion, mine rescuers would descend into the mine carrying a canary in a small wooden or metal cage." Because the canaries were much more sensitive to this poisonous, odorless gas than humans, "any sign of distress from the canary was a clear signal that the conditions underground were unsafe, prompting a hasty return to the surface."
  

  

  
  Margot Wolk was a canary in that sense -- she was an early warning system designed to detect poison, even at the cost of her life. But she wasn't protecting coal miners. She was protecting Hitler.
  
  Wolk was born in Berlin in 1917. Throughout her childhood, she and her family attempted to avoid becoming Nazi facilitators. Her father refused to become a member of the Nazi Party and Wolk herself was not a member of the League of German Girls, the female equivalent of the Hitler Youth. Her childhood was otherwise typical, and she married by age 25. But soon after her husband was called to military duty; she soon lost contact with him and presumed him dead. She left her hometown after their apartment was damaged by Allied bombs, and moved in with her mother-in-law in an area of Prussia which is now modern day Poland.
  
  Her mother-in-law, though, lived not far from Hitler's base of command in that region. That bunker, known as the Wolf's Lair (the entrance is pictured above), is where she'd soon be ordered to go. Her job, and the job of fourteen other young women, was to taste delicious foods rarely available in the region -- "only the best vegetables, asparagus, bell peppers, everything you can imagine. And always with a side of rice or pasta," she'd later tell the Associated Press. (There's no meat on the menu because Hitler was a vegetarian.) But she and the others weren't there as a guess. Their job was, simply, to not fall ill. Because if they didn't, the theory went, the food wasn't poisoned, and therefore safe for Hitler to eat. And with rumors rampant that the British were trying to taint the Nazi leader's food, Wolk's role and the role of her compatriots was critical.
   
  

  

  Wolk served in this role for the last few years of the war, but for some unknown reason, was sent back to Berlin by a German lieutenant as the Soviets advanced on the Wolf's Lair in 1944. The other fourteen tasters remained behind and were killed by Soviet soldiers. Wolk, though, suffered a terrible fate as well. When Berlin fell, she was captured by the Soviet army and repeatedly sexually assaulted over a two week period. As a result of these brutal attacks, she was left unable to have children. She did, however, manage to be reunited with her husband in 1946. For understandable reasons, Wolk, kept her story a secret for decades. In December of 2012, at age 95, she finally opened up to the press, after living out most of her adult life (post-war) in relative obscurity. 
   
  
  

  

  Bonus fact : Visit a vineyard and you may notice roses planted on the end of the rows of vines. The reason isn't just for (or even primarily for) aesthetics, but -- like the canaries and food-testers above -- to act as a warning sign. Both grapes and rose bushes are susceptible to microbes called powdery mildew and downy mildew, which, while treatable, are easier to treat if caught quickly. The rose bushes are more susceptible to these mildews than the grapes are. As a few bloggers note, this flowery early warning system feature are the roses' main purpose in the vineyards.
  

The Petawawa Diaries: Thursday, June 6th

Convictions are more dangerous enemies of truth than lies. -Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche, philosopher (1844-1900)

Ayn P

Dear BBC America, I adore you but casting Helena Bonham Carter to play Elizabeth Taylor is a bit of a stretch I have to say.

Patrick James Dunn Disagree completely! I've been in love with Helena ever since Room With a View! In fact, we are having tea at the Ritz shortly after we arrive in London in July. Furthermore, she will probably come for the weekend in Cornwall, in August, but not when you are there, Tinsel Town, since you feel the way you do about her latest casting. We spit on your treatment!!!l

Hi Mick!

Great playing bridge on Tuesday. Trust walk home was not too, too hard on your new knee. Bit of a busy day yesterday, shopping at Costco, (Bumped into Ted, with his youngest daughter's, (Laura's), prospective father-in-law, Alex, (from Mornington Peninsula so you and Ted have Oz in common!), buying a heavily laden dolly's worth of provisions for coming wedding this Saturday at Olympic Village, Creekside CC!), readying our place for the arrival of Cora Lee's sister, Patti, and brother-in-law, Gavin, who arrived from Shanghai at 1:00pm. Did a few errands on my bike after we returned from airport and then we sat on deck and finally enjoyed the wonderful weather. Really one of the first times we've been able to sit outside without sweaters and blankets and hot water bottles!

Wayne Sutherland, Thursday at 21:42 

Corey and Rebecca had a baby girl tonight. I am officially a grandfather. So proud.

Chloe Alexis Dunn,Thursday at 22:18·

Welcome to the world ASAS!!!!! Or baby Sutherland!!! ❤❤❤

Cora Lee did some truly delicious lamb ribs and chops on bbq, along with brown rice mixed with rice/feta and mint, pan fried cherry tomatoes and a mixed bean salad, "boughten" but still very tasty, from Costco. Fresh raspberries with ice cream and gluten-free macaroons, vanilla and chocolat, for dessert. Gavin and I started out the evening with a some hefty snorts of Laphroaig Triple Wood, 48%, so we didn't really notice or pay attention to the Gatling gun bursts of disapproving looks and comments from the assembled Sisterhood, literally!

All this by way of saying that Coriandre finally mentioned that you had called and were interested in Languedoc. Delighted, of course! Have attached brochure and rates. As I have mentioned to others, I have rented Beau Soleil, the property in Languedoc, for the month of September. I will pay deposit, (€250), to owner, (He lives in Vancouver.), before we leave in July. I'm planning to arrive in Neffiès on September 1st.  Since place is able to accommodate up to 10 people, (Three bedrooms, loft, couches, etc., but I don't expect that many at any one time, however), what I plan to do is to figure out costs, (based on €1300/month), and work out a rough daily/weekly cost once I know who is coming and when. Basic, overall rate is about €44/night so depending on occupancy that could drop even lower, excluding €50/per person cleaning/laundry charge, regardless of length of stay.

You are also welcome to visit us in Cornwall as well. We are there for month of August, house exchange. We are meeting Flamin' and Sarge, and two other couples, in Agen, about three hours away from Neffiès, on September 28th, to start our two week Canal du Midi boat cruise. If you decided to come to France towards the end of September you are welcome to stay for last two days even though we won't be there. Just a thought.

Cora Lee will be in Italy until about the 20th, with some of her Book Club Sisterhood so she will only be able to spend one week in Neffiès. As I believe was mentioned on Tuesday, Whirlygig and Robo Man, are still "toying" with the idea of joining the Nubile Swedish Masseuse South of France Seminar for Tired Cyclists. Anyway, take a look and let me know what you think and if keen to have your knee massaged, I'll book you and Duplicate Polly in! Cheers, Il Conduttore!

PS: I have a couple of Wine Tour: Handbook to BC directories so you are welcome to them. I can pop them by sometime or bring them to bridge night next week and we can go over some of our favourite spots, some of which I mentioned on Tuesday evening.

Hi Pat,

Hope all is well, That was fun at the tasting the other night and thanks once again for the delicious nibblies beforehand. I thought you might be interested in this BCAA service that I just became aware of. I’m not sure if you’re a member but if so this is an added benefit. We should talk about next weekend and when you guys feel like coming up. just to let you know that the trek from Hope to the Sunshine Valley is about 21 k. but about 6 k. is at an 8% grade so...I’ve sent the link for google maps below.

https://maps.google.ca/maps?saddr=Hope,+BC&daddr=Sunshine+Valley,+BC&hl=en&ll=49.37209,-121.368027&spn=0.117589,0.338173&sll=54.112352,-126.555646&sspn=13.578727,43.286133&geocode=FXd78QIdEejC-CnXx4MZyvWDVDHDK8naBnF5Bw%3BFUfe7wId7iXG-CnxK6qFUYmDVDG8Q0eLE3NPsA&oq=sunshine+va&t=h&mra=ls&z=12 Cheers, Al