Estádio Nacional de Brasilia Blues: Monday, June 30!

No man, or body of men, can dam the stream of language. -James Russell Lowell, poet, editor, and diplomat (1819-1891) 

The national team's traditional colours are blue, white and red, the colors of the national flag of France, known as the drapeau tricolore, and the coq gaulois is the symbol of the team. France is colloquially known as Les Bleus (The Blues), which is the name associated with all of the country's sporting national teams, due to the blue shirts each team incorporates.

The Nigeria national football team, nicknamed Super Eagles or previously Green Eagles, is the national team representing Nigeria and is controlled by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). During April 1994, Super Eagles ranked 5th in the FIFA World Rankings, the highest ranking achieved by an African football team. They are the current Africa Cup of Nations champions. They have won the Africa Cup of Nations a total of 3 times, and have reached 3 times the FIFA World Cup round of 16. They have qualified for five of the last six World Cups, with their first appearance coming in the United States in 1994.

Hi Irene! Trust you are well. Friends in Wetherby, (We stayed with Chris and Jim Brownlee in July, 2012 and I cycled in the area. Wonderful!), sent along following link. Not sure if you follow or are interested in Tour but I noticed that one of the stages goes through Elland! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

http://www.examiner.co.uk/news/west-yorkshire-news/yorkshire-tour-de-france-video-7092331

P, Hope all is well with you and yours. Apologies for the hiatus in communication while on the road. Great trip to the north, the details of which I will share when next we are together.

The move is in high gear and the place is full of boxes. Kerry and Tia move to their new digs on Friday. I move around the 15th and have much to do before then as you can imagine. Grateful for the books. I consumed a Nesbo, 'Police' on the way up. I finally opened the Toews and I am really taken with this book.Will return the bag of books in short order.
 

Not sure when I can commit to ride but let me know when you are getting out. I could use the exercise -- more than the box lifting routine . Regards to C & C,
W

Hi On-the-Road Yukon Man! When did you return? Glad you are back, safely, if not soundly! Was wondering when you were going to surface. The handy-dandy Snorkelflugelapparat must have served you well, although I gather, from extended silence, that it blocks out wireless communication!

Before I go any further, please let me know if you need any help with various moves. Like Cora Lee I can offer loads of advice but very little actual heavy lifting! Furthermore, is there going to be an evening before you head for the hills to have a meal here, to say goodbye to a few quasi-friends? We can/will chat, of course, but just wanted to mention proffered help and possible dinner. 

Been busy here, recounting of which I will also share "when next we are together." (Almost sounds like a line from a parting scene in a war movie, take you pick of century!) I'm pretty much "free" all day today so if you want a run, at some point, give me a shout. Give me a shout when you need a break from packing and labeling! Fondestos to you and your Sisterhood from mine. Cheers, Il Conduttore!

P, Nice ride stats Lance. What is the elixir? The peloton knows nothing about stereos. Thanks for the generous offer of assistance and for a dinner. I will talk to Kerry and see if we can find a date that works for all before next Tuesday training begins. I am tied up Tuesday but may be able to get an early run in on Wednesday. Will confirm. W

Pat, I'm thinking of heading off from here about 9:30 tomorrow morning and I could be at your place at 9:45 if that fits in with your plans. Probably have to go across Lions Gate and need to arrive at Deep Cove at 11:30 or a bit earlier. I'll check my e-mail later or we can communicate in the morning. Ray 

Hi Raymond! I'm up for hitting Deep Cove tomorrow. I'm prepared to leave earlier, from here, if that suits you. Departing shortly after 9:00 am would be fine for me but you decide.

Just had a relatively easy ride out to UBC this afternoon. Watched the end of the Germany vs Nigeria game and then headed out. Was a gorgeous day, as you probably experienced, so I was happy to cruise along, stretching my legs but not really pushing myself after yesterday's effort. Even varied my route home so one can see just how flexible I'm becoming! After I did the Crown/Musqueam Loop I returned to campus via Wesbrook Village/Marine/16th and after cycling to end of Main Mall I returned to roundabouts on 16th to take Wesbrook Mall to University Blvd. Hadn't ridden past the University Golf Club in ages so it was fun to do so. Onto Blanca then and right on W 4th Ave. Must say that one can really whiz down that hill. Not overly much traffic so I enjoyed the thrill of the long, uninterrupted descent.

After that is was back to Point Grey and straight home, nary a dipsy-doodle in sight. Grassed areas around Kits Pool were fullest they've been been for some time so a grand start to tomorrow's Canada Day. Stats for ride:

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/532149283#.U7JE0tE_soo.email

When I uploaded the ride I noticed that the maximum speed was 52 km/hr and that was coming down the hill on 4th, without even pedaling, most of the time! Talk tomorrow but I'll be ready to leave by 9ish if you decide to meet then. Cheers, Patrizzio!

PS: Whirlygig is back and might be able to ride on Wednesday, if you are interested. As well, I've asked him to nominate a few dates for a dinner get-together. Will run them by you and Sylvia once he let's me know his schedule. As you can well imagine he is literally swamped with his coming move, not to mention the fact that Kerry and Tia move into housing at UBC this coming Friday!

PPS: I'm sure you will be busy tomorrow afternoon but if not, please feel free to drop around and have a drink and a chat even if you can't stay for bbq itself

NOTICE OF 2013 RELEASE (BARREL AGED 10 MONTHS) *and* Â INVITATION TO OUR 20TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY!!
The Invitation

We're very proud and happy to announce that it's been 20 years since Dave and Pat first started producing wine in their garage under the "David Coffaro Vineyard & Winery" label! Thanks to folks like you, we are still around and going strong, and we thought that our annual summer release event in August would be the perfect time to commemorate this exciting milestone! In honor of our 20th Anniversary, you are cordially invited to join us and help celebrate at this year's 2-day event - Saturday August 16th and Sunday August 17th - drop by anytime from 11:00 to 4:00 each day.

In addition to previewing the new 2013 wines (barrel aged 10 months), there will be music, food, and prizes - as well as a private tasting of our latest sparkler, a 100% Pinot Noir from the 2011 vintage, accompanied by something delicious and chocolatey. Get a "ticket" for this special tasting for only $3 a glass and you'll get to keep the David Coffaro flute as a souvenir from the event.  On Saturday we'll be providing a complimentary light barbecue lunch or something alternatively just as tasty to accompany your wine tasting, and on Sunday, we'll be setting out a spread of cheeses to pair with the wines. Either day, you may bring up to two additional guests who are not members of Dave's Wine Club or our Vintage Circle program to join in the festivities.
 

Please RSVP to Cindi by August 10th, (please no phone rsvp's...thanks!).

An Important Notice
The 2013 vintage will not be bottled or available until the end of July, so if you've ordered 2013 futures (aged 10 months), please don't plan a visit to pick up before then. And please also note that this August release will be of the 10-month barrel aged wines, only. The 2013, 16-month barrel aged wines, won't be available until early in the 2015 new year.
2013 Wine Release Details If you have placed a 2013 10-month barrel aged order, the party weekend of August 16-17 will be a great time to come pick it up. Even if you can't make it to the party, now is also a good time to make the necessary shipping arrangements to receive your order. The shipping request form can be accessed at https://coffaro.com/shop/shippingform.html.

Since we are sending this invitation to all of our futures buyers, as well as to all of our wine club members, it may be that you might not have anything on order. If you can't remember what you've ordered, please click here. The link contains your own personal ID code and it will take you to our online database so that you can check on your past and pending orders.
A Special Offer
We also want to announce that at the time of the party, we're going to feature on special our newly-released ZP2C, one of our most popular and sought-after wines, which we put together and label up year in and year out.
Look for another email in about a week with details on a special sale on this great wine! Cheers from all of us here at the winery!  Follow us on Facebook! 

Check us out at http://www.facebook.com/DavidCoffaroWinery

David Coffaro Vineyard and Winery, 7485 Dry Creek Road, Geyserville CA 95441, 707-433-9715, Fax 707-433-6008 http://www.coffaro.com/open.html

Estádio Castelão, Fortaleza Blues: Sunday, June 29th

Life is an adventure in forgiveness. -Norman Cousins, author and editor (1915-1990) 

The FIFA World Cup, often simply called the World Cup, is an international association football competition contested by the senior men's national teams of the members of Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), the sport's global governing body. The championship has been awarded every four years since the inaugural tournament in 1930, except in 1942 and 1946 when it was not held because of the Second World War. The current champions were Spain, who won the 2010 tournament in South Africa. 

The current format of the tournament involves 32 teams competing for the title at venues within the host nation(s) over a period of about a month; this phase is often called the World Cup Finals. A qualification phase, which currently takes place over the preceding three years, is used to determine which teams qualify for the tournament together with the host nation(s). The 19 World Cup tournaments have been won by eight different national teams. Brazil have won five times, and they are the only team to have played in every tournament (Brazil automatically qualified for the 2014 tournament, as the host nation). 

The other World Cup winners are Italy, with four titles; West Germany, with three titles; Argentina and inaugural winners Uruguay, with two titles each; and England, France, and Spain, with one title each.

The World Cup is the most widely viewed and followed sporting event in the world, exceeding even the Olympic Games; the cumulative audience of all matches of the 2006 FIFA World Cup was estimated to be 26.29 billion with an estimated 715.1 million people watching the final match, a ninth of the entire population of the planet.

Plucking Twits Live! Thanks for the clip. Yes it does put a new slant on garage music. I think I would opt for this group over garage music any day!
 

You probably heard by now of Krissy's latest catastrophe! Matt and Krissy driving to the kitchen in Piggy van and some nig nog decided to cut across several lanes of traffic and plower into the front of them. Of course Krissy was not wearing her seat belt at the time so hit the windshield and smashing it, and hit the dash board with her leg and stomach. Matt had his seat belt on thank goodness. Both taken to the hospital where Krissy had X-rays and a cat scan. She was very fortunate to end up with bruising and concussion. Could have been much much worse. Matt just suffered bruising. Somehow the van is still drivable, albeit with a smashed windscreen. So they decided to open today at the food fest at Olympic Village! I think a lesson has been learned here regarding the importance of her wearing her seat belt when in the van. The vehicle goes in next Wednesday for repair so they will not be generating any income for the next week or so. I think Mark said he had some kind of insurance for loss of earnings so hope he can claim something off the insurance. The other party was at fault so his insurance should pay for the repair of the van.

we have had some terrific long walks over the last week. A few heavy rain showers over the last couple of days which the garden desperately needed but the weather looks promising again for the coming week.

Gayle has her hairdresser over tomorrow so Gayle, Audrey and Maur will be spending the morning having their hair "done". For my part I will take the opportunity to disappear on the bike to Perranporth via Mithian and St Agnes. A few gruelling hills to grapple with but, as you know, its impossible to avoid them here! The winds are supposed to be light which should help.
 

Regarding your invite to Nanaimo, we thought Sept 15th and 16th returning to the mainland on the 17th if that will be ok with you. We will take the float plane over from Canada Place. It lands in Nanaimo harbour which I hope will be OK for you regarding pick up. We may pop up to Nanoose Bay while there to say hello to friends Steve and Linda. This will depend on wether they are working or not. We are returning to the Island again at some point during our trip so we can always catch up with them then if those dates aren't suitable for them.
 

We are off to Southampton on Thursday for the weekend to look after Tris and will be returning on Monday. Best wishes to you all, Derek

Hi Gayle and Derek! When your message arrived I hadn't heard about the Piggy catastrophe! Must say that both Cora Lee and I are certainly relieved that it wasn't anymore serious than what you described. We were eating a lovely dinner: stir fried snow peas in peanut sauce, steamed quinoa and fried Tilapia, with a mixed green salad, watching Masterpiece Theatre, The Escape Artist, (In case you don't know it:

David Tennant (Doctor Who) stars as brilliant defense lawyer Will Burton, who has a storybook family and a potent nickname, “The Escape Artist,” for his ability to spring the obviously guilty. "Everybody deserves a defense," Burton boasts, but Liam Foyle (Toby Kebbell), a reclusive bird lover, is about to strain that assertion.

Foyle has been charged with a gruesome killing, leaving Will to search for a weak link in the seemingly ironclad evidence against Liam. In the ensuing legal battle, the wheels of justice turn much as Will anticipates. But then strange and disturbing things begin to happen. The tables are turned—and then turned again. Will finds himself fighting fervently for a new cause that may end his career or worse.  

Written by David Wolstencroft (Spooks), this gripping legal thriller costars Sophie Okonedo (Hotel Rwanda) as the hero’s rival, along with a courtroom full of ambitious attorneys and one very unnerving defendant.)

when Chloë phoned, on her way to see Krissy and Mark. Of course, she was most upset for them. Anyway, trust all the insurance claims work out. Always something, I've come to accept. You think you are swinging the world by the tail when something comes out of the blue. Something that in your wildest dreams you probably would never have imagined had you been asked to prognosticate!  

Well, in spite of these thunderbolts, (and needed rain), am glad you have been able to go on such lovely walks. Pictures are simply stunning. Sweet peas are gorgeous. Mention of Perranporth, Mithian and St Agnes brings back very fond cycling memories. Only managed two rides to Perranporth but did find on second outing that the hills were not as daunting. Once I'd ridden them I knew, more or less, what to expect. This is theory, anyway, behind me wanting to go up to Naramata before Penticton Granfondo so that I can "suss out" the parts of the 160 km route I've not yet ridden! With that in mind, as far as distance goes, I logged 120+ km today and am rather pleased with ride.
 

Robo Man and I had tentatively arranged to ride today but when I called nothing but voice mail. I didn't leave until 11:30 am, in part because I was watching Netherlands vs Mexico. Must say I have been quite enjoying the TV coverage. At any rate, I set out, making for UBC. AS a direct reuslt of last few lengthier rides, I knew that if I stitched Iona and Steveston together, approaching and returning via Marine, I'd have the distance I was aiming for. Pleased as punch that I reached a 24 km AVG by the time I was ready to cross CSTB to make for Iona.

Was worried, however, that the prevailing head wind would cut into this. As things transpired, wind, though quite brisk, was more of a cross wind, both ways, so I was actually able to log and keep a 24.1/24.2 km/hr AVG there and back to Templeton. Here I'd already decided I'd take a quick swing past YVR to loop back to Russ Baker Way and then I was well on the way to Steveston, although fighting the wind most of the way. Once in Steveston, I followed Dyke Rd all the way to No 3 Rd as I knew that the surface had just been resurfaced. Followed latter to Finn Rd and then made a right onto Garden City Rd as I needed about one kilometer to give me 75 km before heading back. Glad that I followed my nose as I discovered that this route takes one around Reagle Terminals on paved surface. Otherwise one needs to take a hard-packed earth trail which can be muddy, at times, particularly during the winter, as one would expect.  

Pleased with both my discovery of a viable, alternate route and my registered distance I made for Railway with relish, knowing that the wind would be pushing me along. Literally sailed along, all the way to River Rd and then it was nothing but more smooth sailing to take me back to Russ Baker Way. By then I was almost on autopilot as I know this section "like the back of my hand", Dear Reader! In fact, it really is surprising how both muscle and mental memory take over and before I knew it I was back on Marine and puffing towards UBC. By this time I could feel the pace in my legs but nothing that seemed too, too disconcerting so was pleased about that.

   
By the time I was at the bottom of the Foreshore Hill I could tell that it must have rained quite heavily as the there were puddles everywhere and road surface was still wet, although not disconcertingly so. I had seen very, very black, ominous clouds over the North Shore and downtown when I was heading back from Iona and out to Steveston but I guess they disgorged their water content, fortunately for me, over city. (Back home Cora Lee informed me that rain at GI was torrential. Didn't last all that long but it poured so heavily that our building's downspouts were overflowing!) Another "benefit" for me was that rain had obviously driven people away from beaches along Spanish Banks, as well as driving sun-bathers from Kits Pool. 

These two sections can be "dicey" to negotiate, at speed, when there are scads of cars, people and dogs about. Relief washed over me once I realized my great good fortune as I knew that, barring an aforementioned "thunderbolt" I'd be home with, for me, a pretty respectable AVG. Turned out to be as ordered, I'm very pleased to report. Stats for ride:

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/531400634#.U7C0oZvSNS0.email

Pleased as punch if only because I've never logged such an AVG, 24.3 km/hr, over such distance, 123.09 km. Better yet, it was slightly higher than when I was out with Sara to record an AVG of 24.1 km/hr over 102.83 km. Of course, all of these stats depend on relative velocity of wind, direction, terrain, etc. Still, the fact that I was able to achieve this rate, by myself, without benefit of drafting, is certainly heartening, in light of the work that I know I have cut out for me with respect to the Penticton Granfondo.
 

Enough about my mania! Absolutely delighted that you'll be coming to Madroña Manor. Dates are fine. We can collect you from float plane dock in Nanaimo Harbour. When you first arrive you should try my Brodie and if you are comfortable on it, I'll take it over. Weather permitting, I'll ride to Nanaimo and Cora Lee will bring car, with bike, collect Gayle and bags, and we can ride back to Parksville, if that suits you. Shouldn't be difficult to have you visit your friends in Nanoose Bay on that trip but you can decide, closer to the time.

Back to cycling, you may well be aware of these links but friend in Yorkshire, Jim, and Raymondo, here, sent them along:http://www.examiner.co.uk/news/west-yorkshire-news/yorkshire-tour-de-france-video-7092331

http://www.theguardian.com/sport/ng-interactive/2014/jun/27/tour-de-france-2014-stage-tactics-guide-route-maps-profiles-yorkshire

Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!
 

Pics: Last evening's bridge party. P/CL; Champagne Charlie, (host), The Penguin, O Susannah, (hostess), Gladys Knight and the Pips, (Birthday, 90th), Girl; deadly South African liqueur; mother and daughter.

Hello Sir James and Lady Patrizzia! Do apologize for not replying to both your lovely post cards, (Vietnam, Cambodia), and lengthy voice mail. No excuses but plenty of reasons, as I am wont to say! You sounded well, on recorded message, but I was sorry to learn about your "trapped nerve" and related pain, groin and elsewhere, as well as the as yet undiagnosed problem with vocal chords. Trust these matters will be resolved to the extent possible, quickly.
 

We have had an almost non-stop flurry of visitors, (Australia, Quebec, California, Powell River), ever since we returned from destination wedding in Playa del Carmen, in early May. Fondestos from Coriandre to you and Lady Patrizzia. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Bridge People! Thank you, first and foremost, O Susannah and Champagne Charlie, for the wonderful, wonderful evening, food and drink beyond compare! (Any Amarula left?) Thank you, as well, Penguin, for all the driving! Muchly appreciated. Goes without saying that the bridge prizes were exraordinary!!! Congratulations to all the players, partners and opponents alike. Happy Birthday, again, to Gladys Knight and her rock and roll entourage. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Wonderful night, bridge, dinner, photos. Patricio – I will continue to lead from singleton trumps! (hah) Charles G. said I could do that. It was a great way to start the long weekend Canada Day celebrations. Thanks for bringing your mum, Janet. She is quite a lady. Charlie

Thank you so much for the fun evening with delicious food and fabulous company. Ill bone up on my bridge for next time. I don't think the glasses are mine. Janet Ps. Darn my iCloud email. Not sure why emails from me use it. Please try to use my telus account. 

Hi CG and iCloud Woman! Champagne Charlie is as stubborn as a proverbial mule. He's the one who needs to swot his bridge, not you, Penguin! I have a copy, (autographed, by me!), of Bridge for Dummies which I happy to lend!

Not sure about the eye glasses reference. If the pair is a red one, perhaps they belong to Cora Lee. Thanks again, one and all. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Yes, red around the trim. We’re at Granville Island all the time. Next time we’re there we will let you know and drop off the glasses. Is that OK Corinne? Or do you need them sooner? Would say within a week or 2. Charlie  Thanks that's fine, I have lots of other pairs. Corinne

Hi Pauline! Thank you for the lovely invitation. I see that Coriandre replied that all the dates you suggested are fine. Not quite true, from my point of view, however. I leave for Naramata, probably on Monday, July 7th, certainly on July 8th. (Cora Lee just walked in the door and "claims" she simply forgot about my early departure!) I'm going up to "train", basically to familiarize myself with Penticton Granfondo route. Event itself is on Sunday, July 13th. Cora Lee will drive up with Flamin' and Sarge on Friday, July 11th. We will be back in Vancouver on Monday, July 14th so 16th or 17th are best for us.  Let us know which date you prefer and we'll plan accordingly. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Will try for the 17 th. pauline Hi again, Polly: 17th sounds terrific. Let us know when you know. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Pat, Sorry I missed you this morning. Pete phoned just after 8 and I was on the road shortly thereafter for a ride to Steveston and through the trails on the mountain bikes. Bumped into an old teaching friend who was running in Steveston and training for the ironman. Stopped and chatted with her for a while. She had done a 170km ride yesterday in the Whistler area and was running for 2 hours this morning - definitely out of my league.

On Tuesday morning, I'm planning to ride to Deep Cove to meet Sylvia and her friend who are kayaking out there. I'll probably stop and chat with them, then either ride to her friend's place in N.Van or put the bike on the car to return. You might have other plans for Canada Day and you won't want to stop but if you want to do the Deep Cove leg with me, let me know. Not sure of the times at this point. Ray

http://www.theguardian.com/sport/ng-interactive/2014/jun/27/tour-de-france-2014-stage-tactics-guide-route-maps-profiles-yorkshire

Hi Raymond! First, thanks for Tour maps. I noticed you received Yorkshire Tour link from Jim as well! Sorry I missed you but glad you had a ride with Peter and met your Iron Woman friend. I'm impressed. Funnily enough, I went out to Steveston, myself, but about four or five hours after you.

I'm keen to ride to Deep Cove on Tuesday but it will depend on what time you plan to head out as our Canada Day bbq is set for 3:00 pm. Somewhere between 9:00 am-10:00 am would probably work. We'd need to work out route as well. Think Lions Gate might be best as work on Second Narrows complicates things. Anyway, let's chat tomorrow. Cheers, Patrizzio!

http://www.examiner.co.uk/news/west-yorkshire-news/yorkshire-tour-de-france-video-7092331

Hi James! First, thanks for the Yorkshire Tour link. I noticed Raymond was included. We have been talking about you, wondering how you and Chris have been, on our last few rides. Trust all goes well.


I'm keen to ride to Deep Cove on Tuesday with Raymond but I'd like to approach via Lions Gate as work on Second Narrows bike path complicates things. Fondestos to you both from Cora Lee. Cheers, Patrizzio!
  

Not that I want to be a god or a hero. Just to change into a tree, grow for ages, not hurt anyone. -Czeslaw Milosz, poet and novelist (1911-2004)

Pitchfork No Trump Blues: Saturday, June 28th!

Your argument is sound, nothing but sound. -Benjamin Franklin
If you aren't fired with enthusiasm, you will be fired with enthusiasm. -Vince Lombardi
Learn some craft when young, that when old you may live without craft. -Anonymous 

Latest from Bruno! Dead in the water. There was a toxic mix made up of an old oil tank, a couple splitting up and some side deals where Carol and I might have been used to raise the bids. Oh well.

Hi VWF Potential Attendee and Mama's Boy!

Very pleased to learn that your celebratory birthday time, in spite of fog, in foggy San Francisco, was such a delight. [Personally, I simply love the sound of foghorns here, usually in the Fall/Winter.] Tell your Mom, David, to move to Canada, as country has done away with pennies so she won't have to bother counting them anymore! Of course, she'll probably always insist that merchants round-down. Those inveterate penny-pinchers are never satisfied!
 

Both Cora Lee and I do hope that you, Patrizzia, and Susie will join us at the Writers Fest, at some point. You already know some of the staff. David can stay in The Annexe and read, or tipple with Charles at Long Table. If he has enough Cucucmber Gin perhaps he'll even want to kayak with the Orcas.

Off to play bridge tonight with close friends. Gladys, mother of one of players, is celebrating her 90th and is still sharp as a tack. (I hope I'm partnered with her!) Always loads of fun. Cora Lee has already delivered invitations to everyone in building for Canada Day Block Fest, July 1st. I'll send your fond regards to "fussed" lady from building opposite. I'm sure we won't be nearly as loud without pushy Californians! Cheers, Patrizzio!

PS: We enjoyed some of the Breyers Cadbury Caramilk last night, while watching a couple of episodes of Orange is the new Black. I assume you left this in our freezer. Thanks! Freeloaders in our own home. Never imagined it would happen. Pic: Granville Island, yesterday, in the drizzle!

Marlo Thanks for all the leg work and organizing. Pat Thanks for doing all this Mar, looking forward to seeing everybody!!

Hello Colonel Klink! Rest of foot soldiers are just afraid of you and don't want to be put on KP duty! Cheers, Sad Sack Dunn!

Yahol mein commandant!                 Achtung Sergeant Schultz, et al!

You haff relatives in ze old country, yes? Dummkopf! Jawohl, Mein Commandant, Jawohl! Not Yahoo you Kartoffelsalat, you. This is und Kriegsgefangenenlager not a website, Kohl Gehirn!

We need to add in bagels, cream cheese and lox for Sunday morning opening of Dad's art exhibit. We wan to invite the congregation to come and see the art work before church. Ayn and I will hang it on Thursday. Corinne          So I think the men have demonstrated their inability to take thing seriously...well done 

Dear Sisterhood! The Brotherhood takes seriously what needs to be taken seriously: shoes, hair, lattes, spas, pedicures and remembering anniversaries! Cheers, Patrizzio "On My Way to Target"!

I think that we should have mimosa's too, but some people think booze and church don't mix......vote? Not only does alcohol and church mix, it should be mandatory.  Thanks Greg, if no one else agrees we can always hide our booze in tea cups! ;) The LA crew will be down for booze and God as well.... Amen

Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! At last, a matter on which The Sisterhood, The Brotherhood, Tinsel Town and The Hinterland, all agree! Praise The Lord and pass the moonshine! A Wretch like me is finally Saved! I do believe, Lordy, I does believe! Take me down to the lake and baptize me! Cleanse me in your fiery, everlasting Love. I see the Light and there is definitely a bottle of over-proof rum at the end of the tunnel! PS: I'll have another mimosa, Gabriel, while you're at it!       Where is a lightening bolt when you need it???   Yea, though I walk through the Valley of San Fernando, I fear no Evil. Neither Lightening bolts nor Tinsel Town jeers can smite me for I am protected by the Lords of the Grape, Bacchus and Dionysus!

Hi Kjell! Trust you are now fully recovered or at least well on the way back to feeling like all is well. Cheers, Patrizzio! PS: A friend happened to send along a series of snaps and I thought of you when I saw one of recycling! Pics: Dreaded Burning Ground! Recycling!

Spent an enjoyable morning watching the Netehrlands squeak by Mexico. Not only was I mesmerized by the wonderful play but was trying to out-wait the Rain Gods. Left home about noon as the forecast suggested that skies would be rain-free until about 3:00 pm. As things transpired, drizzle continued, with increasing intensity, all the way to Spanish Banks where I did my parking lot loops. Only good thing about wrong forecast was that the wind was behind me when I was heading to UBC so the precipitation wasn't quite as noticeable.

 Once I'd logged close to 29 km on the flats below the Foreshore Hill I made the ascent and then headed for Dunbar, via Marine. Up 41st to climb Dunbar to 37th and then it was a pretty straight run to MacDonald. By this time things had dried up considerably so whizzing down hill from 33rd was sheer delight. Dipsy-doodled my way down MacDonald to take a short jog back onto Point Grey and then it was autopilot time. Stats for today's ride:

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/530392645#.U69BGY6Fdg4.email

Quick shower and change and then we were ready to be collected by The Penguin and Gladys Knight and the Pips for bridge at the Pitchforks. Started play inside as it was still cool and chilly. We played four rounds and then winners, (Cora Lee and Gladys), took on Champagne and O Susannah while The penguin and I chatted. Next up I paired with GK and Janet and Coriande were partners. Break after that for a simply delicious dinner, (mixed green salad, succulent roasted chicken, tasty rice dish and grilled asparagus), outside on patio as sun had broken through and it was warm and sunny.

Once sun went down it started to cool off so we repaired back inside for dessert: fresh raspberries/blackberries, ice-cream and wonderful cookies. More bridge, with very tasty Amarula liqueur, from South Africa, to stimulate bidding! I was fussed with Champagne when he led trump as it forfeited my otherwise protected, winning King, and opponents made their contract when they should have been two down!. Nevertheless, the fabulous bridge prizes made up for blunder, a blunder, according to my perspective, but a strategy fiercely defended by perpetrator.

Great good fun and it was wonderful to see Gladys Knight again and to celebrate her 90th as well. The Penguin was very responsible and chauffeured her tipsy fares back to The Island Inn after we thanked our most hospitable and generous hosts. Had been a busy day for both of us so after we had brushed and flossed we went straight to bed like good little boys and girls!


 

Fishing Weather Blues: Friday, June 27th!

The test of a democracy is not the magnificence of buildings or the speed of automobiles or the efficiency of air transportation, but rather the care given to the welfare of all the people. -Helen Adams Keller, lecturer and author (1880-1968) 

I am back from our visit to Millbrae and the condo where Kate lives. We had a nice dinner with Kate celebrating her 29th birthday and then out to lunch yesterday on the foggy beach in San Francisco to celebrate my sister Lynda's 70th. My Mother of 92 paid for the lunch even though she is counting here pennies. I don't argue about who pays but as you know I offer to pay first, especially when someone like you has offered us a nice place to stay...............Thanks again............Dave 

Dear UBC Parking: I would like to request, Option A, a continuation of my present pass which provides unlimited parking. Thanks very much. Cheers, Patrick Dunn.

Hi Admiral Barnacle/FIFA World Cup Pool Meister!

As I mentioned on the phone, I have really been enjoying watching the World Cup so thanks for doing the pool! In between watching the fabulous play, I have managed to log some good training rides so am pleased about that as the Penticton Granfondo, (160 km), Sunday, July 13th, is fast approaching! 

Just one more thing before I bring this brief missive to a close! You will be delighted to hear this, just in from Whistler Wonder Woman, aka Sara:

Coach's Corner: Hey Pat, Nice that you had a Personal Best average speed on our ride!  It was a good ride, thanks.

I had a Eureka thought about your average speed while I was riding last night in my training clinic: I think that your dipsy doodles (at a very slow speed) are dragging your average down.  Despite your fear of the Burning Ground, why don't you try one of your familiar routes but stop at lights instead of riding slowly to wait for the green.  Just make sure that you gear down so that you can get a nice, quick start from the red light.  Maybe your average speed will increase.  Let me know if you try it.

I think that you mentioned riding on Saturday but it's not a go for me.  But thanks. When are you heading up to Penticiton? See you soon. Sara

Obviously, my Burning Ground fetish has become a cause célèbre with friends and family! Was wondering if you might share some of your World Cup Pool administrative fee skimmings to help me seek treatment? In answer to WWW's question, I'm probably heading to Naramata on Monday, July 7th or Tuesday, July 8th. Hope we can connect before then. Cheers, Il Conduttore!

 

Pics: Bike Maintenance 101!

Hello again, Admiral Barnacle! Forgot to attach my pool picks but I also wanted to attach a picture of The Dreaded Burning Ground! I trust you will be a tad more sympathetic now that you know the full extent of the aweful truth! Cheers, Il Conduttore, now riding with asbestos-lined cycling shoes!

Eureka................. Or, you are faster (on average) than you think!!

Hi Coach! Quite enjoyed your more than entertaining Eureka theory! I appreciate your advice and concern BUT both are flawed, for quite different reasons. If I did stop, (aside from not to be thought about consequences), the stoppage itself would provide a "false" reading even if it resulted in a higher AVG. You are either moving or not. It's binary. On or off, Babycakes!!! 

 Furthermore, Dipsy-Doodling is an art in and of itself. Challenging, physically and intellectually, a cycling chess game where one must out-think one's adversaries, whether traffic lights or crazed motorists, inattentive pedestirans or yappy, small dogs, dangerous big ones and Sunday cyclists! However, being the inordinately flexible individual that you know me to be, I will probably try what you suggest, at some point in the not too, too distant future and will have my people report the results to your people!

I'm planning to head to Naramata any day after Sunday, July 6th. Before then, would be delighted if we can arrange a ride although you may not know it yet, but I took your bike from Westpoint today! Had taken mine in yesterday and the "Nice Sara" told me yours was in as well. Close to $300 later , (Rear bearings, new front tire, etc. Imagine what the wear would have been if I had been stopping and starting all the time!), managed to pry it out of hock! Since you weren't able to ride on Saturday and forecast calls for showers I'd rather ride your bike than get mine begrimed! If you won't ride with me, you won't ride with anyone!!!

That being said, if this weekend doesn't suit your busy schedule, weather this coming week looks pretty good so let me know what you think and we'll plan accordingly. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pic: The Dreaded Burning Ground!

Hi Colin and Jo-Anne! Quite enjoyed the French breathalyzer joke and Internet dating spoof, as well as some of those fascinating facts! Have you seen this clip:

http://www.reshareworthy.com/louis-jobidon-spots-orcas-hornby-island/

Thank you, as well, Jo-Anne, for the lovely card which just arrived today! I see it was dated May 20th so I don't know where it has been hiding if it was mailed on or around that date! Better late than never. Was probably lost at the new Canada Post facility by YVR. I ride by it fairly regularly. Guess I'll stop in and complain next time I head out to Iona!

Love to get together with you but as events are unfolding it will probably have to be in September as next two weeks are chock-a-block already and we leave for Manitoba on July 22nd, not to be back until late August. Bit sorry to be leaving, inasmuch as just heard today that weather, for Vancouver, over the summer, is to be warmer and drier than in past years. Well, we have a bumper crop of mosquitoes to look forward to in Winnipeg and at Falcon Lake so who can complain! Fondestos to you both from Cora Lee. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Colin and Yu Mi! Delighted that you were able to attend bbq. Terrific to meet Wesley and chuffed that he found my vinyl interesting. Sorry that you felt a tad "green around the gills", Colin, on Friday morning. You should have stopped by, en route to work, for a snort or two to get you through the introduction of the speaker! Hair of the dog and all that! Fondestos to you three from Cora Lee. 
Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Wildlife Man and Marilyn! Quite enjoyed your more than entertaining saga. Felt I was almost on safari in Africa, what with all the birds and beasts of prey stalking you, Alfred, aka Great White Hunter! (Coincidentally, have you seen the Orca clip? [Above]) Once my extended chortling finally subsided, (my stomach still hurts from laughing so much!), your crowbatics reminded me of Cora Lee's headgear, a number of years ago. She took to wearing her bicycle helmet when working in the garden area off our deck as the crows there had a nest in one of the large maples alongside the path. Poor Maggie was dive-bombed countless times as well but we couldn't find a helmet small enough for her!

Would be delighted if we can arrange a ride. Not sure if you are even in town this weekend but Saturday looks a bit iffy, weather wise. Sunday hope to ride with Robo Man so we could arrange to meet at CSTB or Boundary and do a Queensborough Loop, or some-such, if that might be of interest.
If weekend doesn't suit your busy schedule, weather this coming week looks pretty good so let me know what you think and we'll plan accordingly. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Pics: Bike Maintenance 101! Jon and Izzy Stardust et al!

Dear Patrick and Corinne: Thank you so very much for your hospitality!! I so appreciate it. The lovely meal, fine wine, wonderful conversation. It was so special to catch with you both and Chloe. And that handsome Spainard....Oh la la! Good thing I am totally smitten with my Powell River guy or I’d want to hide in his suitcase. Cheers Izzy Stardust

Isabelle Southcott, Powell River Living Magazine, "Celebrating the best of Powell River" www.prliving.ca 

Hi Izzy Stardust, et al! Glad to hear you made it safely home! Knew you would but pleased you were able to catch an early ferry. Made things easier, I'm sure, to be home in good time. Was planning to drop you a line and send along some snaps when your message arrived!

Thank you for the thank yous! We certainly enjoyed the overnight visit. It was wonderful to see you and Alejandro again. He is certainly a fine young man, as Mom used to say about Grogg, if you can believe it! True about Alex, however, and I'm sure you are very proud of him. 

Terrific to meet Paolo, as well, of course. Trust all goes well with his visit. Don't hesitate to let us know about staying over, should this need be the case, when they fly back to Italy. When is this likely to be? You might have to arrange something with Flamin'/Sarge if after July 22nd as we are off to Winnipeg on that date. I'm sure they would be more than happy to accommodate lads. Just need a bit of warning, etc. Let me know what you think, as soon as you've had time to think, and we'll plan accordingly.
 

Glad you were able to meet Jon/Gianni as he is a most interesting individual. Basque, however, not Spanish, darling!!! Cora Lee was devastated to learn of his imminent return to Bibao as she was trying to "hook" him up with Chloë so there wouldn't have been room in his suitcase for the two of you! Take care of yourself and watch out as we might just turn up on your doorstep one of these days! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: IIPL: Islay Inn Patio Living, a new, illustrated magazine celebrating the best of Granville Island!"
  
Hi again, Izzter!  Can't send more than 10 snapolas at one time and wanted to include one of Freeloader Sarge! Cheers, Patrizzio!

I would have liked having a hot Basque brother-in-law!

Party information and task list attached…Marlo

Hi Sergeant-Major Marlo et al! I thought Gavin was the one in the military! You make the pushy Drama Queen from Tinsel Town look like Pollyanna! Cheers, Patrizzio "Shivering in my regulation army boots" Dunn! Yes, Siiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiir! Anything you say, Sir!!!!!!!
 

PS: Where do I obtain the chit for the hootch? from the quartermaster?

Hi Tinsel Town and Tall Cousins!

You just worry about discharging your MC duties on August 2nd and decorating club with Los Horridos and don't worry about No Stinkin' Hot Basques! Fondestos from a Relegated MC! Playa where are you when I really need you?

Nadienka Wyss

Jerks stay Jerks. Even if they win. Patrick James Dunn Soccer or Love?

• 

  Nadienka Wyss haha neither! I just had to post something like that for once.. just once but I find there's something true about that quote
• 

  Nadienka Wyss do you watch the soccer games dear host "fati"?
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  Patrick James Dunn Yes, indeed! Furthermore I'm hootin' and hollerin' words of encouragement for Team Switzerland! Go Swiss, Go!!!
  

  
• 

  Patrick James Dunn Forgot to correct you: "Quotation" not "quote"! Former is a noun, latter a verb. You need to return to Vancouver for further ESL lessons, Dear Host Daughter!
  

  • 

    Nadienka Wyss Dearest of all Host Fathers, as I must say that the fact that I was living with you for five month, chose your single malt and got spoiled with your delicious cooking skills, does not say that we have a formal relationship. Therefore, I stay with "quote" not only because it's less formal but because it is shorter too
  • 

    Nadienka Wyss But I could actually use some Canadian influences since lately I've been taught Irish rather than Canadian-English 
    
    
    
  • 

    Patrick James Dunn Corrections: five months; was spoiled; does not imply; will continue to use, (pig-hardheadedly and incorrectly); but also...since; too is unnecessary. The Irish speak well. There are lazy people everywhere! Cheers!
    

    Nadienka Wyss Well your words only hurt my ego. At least I have some english skills and as I can see you still haven't broken your habit. How I miss the cruelest of all cruel host fathers.

    

    Patrick James Dunn Put your money where your mouth is, Nadienka. Quit lollygagging around Europe and bring your parents and sister to Vancouver. We'll give you a group discount on ESL lessons, malt and patio bbq's!
    

    
    

    

No riding today! Just a walk to GI to deposit compost and then on to Market to buy a pound of java at JJ Bean. Emjyed free cup on way back to The Islay Inn. Spent most of the day catching up on email and blogging. Around 5:30 pm decided to go to Go Green before collecting Volunteer Woman at Aunt Leah's Thrift Store at 6:00 pm. To my dismay, GG was closed! (Should know that the doors close at 5:00 pm!) This being the case, I drove back to BC Liquor Store on Cambie and 8th to buy a case of 2010 Domaine de Babbio, 15%, and two bottles of Gérard Bertrand 2011 Saint Chinian, Syrah/Mourvedre, 14%. Funnily enough, there was a tasting of Bonny Doon's Big House, both red and white. I noticed Randall is marketing some of his wine in boxes as well!

Back home to prepare a tomatoe/mozzarella/fresh basil salad while Cora Lee fried up some of the delicious sausages, not bbq'd and frozen, bought for Coffaro Farewell BBQ, along with a roasted cauliflower. Alles delicoso indeed. Had some Breyers Cadbury Caramilk ice-cream, overlefts from Coffaros as David had bought it when they were staying at l'Hermitage. I had it in my freshly brewed JJ Bean Railtown, "very dark, smoky, and roasty. Full-bodied with no acidity." For her part, Cora Lee had it straight up while we watched Piper and her inmate friends.