Monday 31 August 2015

Blind Mice Blues: Monday, August 31st

The greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say, "The children are now working as if I did not exist." -Maria Montessori, educator (31 Aug 1870-1952) 


Glad you are enjoying your new pastime!! How are the new boots? xx Hi Dad,
Had not read what you wrote about Andrew until just now, was a very lovely description, all things I would think as well. He always was happy to chat and know what was going on, even at 3 am.Was nice to read about how you met, your dance parties and you staying home so that he and mom could see Dylan!
Love you,






Hi Patricio I hope you interior people survived the weekend storm unscathed. We too were unaffected here in the valley....been thrilled to watch the river getting higher and higher and then this morning to hear that the burning ban has been lifted is just excellent. I spoke with Ayn the other night and wanted to offer our condolences first on Chloe loss and secondly on the suicide of your dear friend from Toronto. I seem to remember you and Corinna discussing this chap...seems to me he had a hoarding issue or something and I remember you two helping him dig himself out at one time. Anyway so very sorry for your losses....please pass our regrets to Corinna as well that is one terrible week and we hope that you are not too saddened by the very unfortunate series of events. AL has gone to drive his friend Jims truck to Vancouver today...I Wil continue working on some projects here...will send along a pic of our newly resurfaced bar. Hope all else is well...have fun this wind with my folks if they make it to see you. All the best...lots love Marilyn ♡♡♡

[Sara Jane McGillivray Hey Pat, Maybe you could draw a wine bottle and glasses with your bike routes!! http://www.bicycling.com/rides/art/become-strava-artist-these-gps-tips

Met the group at HH at 9:00 am and I went in Chuckster's car to The Naramata where we left Naramata Road, opposite Quidni Winery, to drive up Riddle Road a short way  to park the vehicles. Our hike was to take us towards  The Three Blind Mice and for much of the early part of the climb we were on a fairly easy, two rut road, perhaps an old logging road, of sorts. In fact, just after we started uphill, we had to make way for two mountain bikers, brave energetic souls that they were! The entire area is literally criss-crossed with bike trails and we often followed one until we set out bushwhacking or "creative blundering" as regulars refer to it! Perhaps one of the most enjoyable hikes, for me, to date,as although some of the ascents/descents were quite steep, the footing, in general, was extremely comfortable. Think much of the trees are second growth so plenty of easy walking in the numerous, far-reaching open spaces. Came across some truly magnificent Ponderosa Pines so that was a treat in itself. Coolest hike, in terms of temperature, so I was pleased to have had my Olympic jacket on, worn with the expectation of showers. None materialized but the wind, at times, was pretty strong and quite chilly. 

Saw many cow patties, old and fresh, on the various trails and came across four of the creatures on way down. Although I'm probably still the slowest member of group, particularly on steep downhill slopes, I think my hiking muscles are improving as no aches and pains. My boots are terrific and  more and more comfortable with each outing. No complaints at all so pleased as punch to be included in this marvellous group. Might even be able to take some friends, at some point, on a hike here as pretty straightforward, as opposed to most of the earlier hikes. Stats for hike:

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/884133328#.VeTSrhvNj9g.email

Back home to have a mug of java and answer a few messages before Jugos Dom Pedro came over, around 3:300 pm, to collect their four flower pots, left for us to water while they were on Vancouver Island this past week. After I helped him load the patio plants into his car he helped us mount the fairly large, heavy, two shelf, four glass door, oak shelving unit Mme Coriandre had spotted at the Salvation ArmyThrift Store a few weeks ago and which we bought for $45 last Friday. Used three oak braces, which matched nicely, we'd saved from a completely useless shelf Big Al had taken down for us in Rumpus Room, day after we moved in. Came in extremely handily, not only to help support unit but also to balance it upon until we had affixed the six lag bolts which would anchor it in place. JDP used my spiffy new stud finder to locate the studs and with Lady Mary's help they decided where the shelf would fit on the wall, relative to studs, etc.

When all the pencil marks were made and all the holes were drilled, Peter and I lifted the unit into place and then, while Cora Lee and I held it, Engineer Man put in two of the top lag bolts. I had wanted to have washers but forgot to ask Lady Mary to buy some when she piked up the lag bolts yesterday. This being the case we decided that we'd only put in the aforementioned two before we picked up the necessary washers later that day. Shelf wasn't going anywhere so we repaired to the sofa to admire our work over a couple of tumblers of Bruichladdich, Infinity 55%, and even prim and proper Lady M had a snort with the workmen!

Peter was off, around 5:00 pm, secure in the knowledge that he had recruited us to pick his St Laurent grapes on Wednesday morn. I had a quick shower and while I was performing my ablutions, Mrs Patmore prepared the sauce for th epasta dinner we were to have after attending the rally for Tom Mulcair at the Convenrtion Centre at 7:00 pm. We left the house about 6:20 pm and drove to Rona where I picked up the washers and we were parked and in the lobby of the CC by 6:40 pm. People watched until close to 7:00 pm. Just before doors to Salon A opened Al Tinka, one of initial founders of the hiking group, wandered by and I introduced Cora Lee to him. We chatted, briefly, and then made our way into auditorium. Found seats to the right of the podium and weer lucky to find them as there were many, many people who had to stand. About 1,000 supporters, in all, i believe, so a very good turnout, apparently. Candidate for Kelowna-Lake Country, Norah Bowman, spoke first and then Richard Cannings, our candidate, in the new South Okanagan-West Kootenay riding, introduced Thomas Mulcair. Aside from all the boosterism one expects at any political rally, I was taken with both Mulcair's speech and manner. He delivered many passages in quite passable French and had an easy, straightforward, no-nonsense delivery. Three of the five candidates present were women so we both liked this aspect of the NDP campaign. Speeches took about an hour and a quarter so it wasn't an oppressively long evening filled with nothing but political rhetoric. Now it remains to be seen, should the NDP form the next government, whether they can turn their $15/day Child Care, Old Age eligibility back to 65, $15 Minimum Wage, etc., planks into operational policies and financial realities.

Saw Jake Synder, (He introduced me to hiking group.), on way out but only a brief hello and goodbye as I think he is "connected" as was obviously on his way to the "back room"! For our part we drove home and while Mrs Patmore made a salad and brought pasta to a boil, I put the washers on the needed lag bolts and once I'd affixed the missing four, removed the two without washers, one at a time, and then, now proudly wearing a washer, replaced them. Dinner was ready by the time I had finished and we sat down to enjoy the delicious meal while watching an episode of Orange is the new Black. Dinner and episode over, I set about doing the dishes and putting away the overlefts while the Downstairs Maid cleaned the shelf and then started putting wine glasses and some other assorted bowls/dishes in and on the new unit. Still a work in progress as we need to see what works where. Still, very pleased with unit  and much appreciative of Jugos Dom Pedro's expert help in putting it in place! 

Hi Dad, Had not read what you wrote about Andrew until just now, was a very lovely description, all things I would think as well. He always was happy to chat and know what was going on, even at 3 am.Was nice to read about how you met, your dance parties and you staying home so that he and mom could see Dylan! Love you,

Hi Chloë! Can understand you not having time to read anything, given the disaster you and Vancouver have had to deal with! Just pretty windy and a bit of rain here, at least so far. Thanks for the kind remarks about what I wrote about Andrew. What I had hoped to convey so pleased that you found it moving/informative as well. New boot a absolutely wonderful as you'll see, if you read on! Very busy, productive day here.

Met the hiking group at Home Hardware at 9:00 am and I went in Chuckster's car to The Naramata where we left Naramata Road, opposite Quidni Winery, to drive up Riddle Road a short way  to park the vehicles. Our hike was to take us towards  The Three Blind Mice and for much of the early part of the climb we were on a fairly easy, two rut road, perhaps an old logging road, of sorts. In fact, just after we started uphill, we had to make way for two mountain bikers, brave energetic souls that they were! The entire area is literally criss-crossed with bike trails and we often followed one until we set out bushwhacking or "creative blundering" as regulars refer to it! Perhaps one of the most enjoyable hikes, for me, to date,as although some of the ascents/descents were quite steep, the footing, in general, was extremely comfortable. Think much of the trees are second growth so plenty of easy walking in the numerous, far-reaching open spaces. Came across some truly magnificent Ponderosa Pines so that was a treat in itself. Coolest hike, in terms of temperature, so I was pleased to have had my Olympic jacket on, worn with the expectation of showers. None materialized but the wind, at times, was pretty strong and quite chilly. 

Saw many cow patties, old and fresh, on the various trails and came across four of the creatures on way down. Although I'm probably still the slowest member of group, particularly on steep downhill slopes, I think my hiking muscles are improving as no aches and pains. My boots are terrific and  more and more comfortable with each outing. No complaints at all so pleased as punch to be included in this marvellous group. Might even be able to take some friends, at some point, on a hike here as pretty straightforward, as opposed to most of the earlier hikes. Stats for hike:

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/884133328#.VeTSrhvNj9g.email

After we were back at HH for everyone's car we went to Opus, around the corner for java. I had an Italian soda, lime, with whipped cream! Yum. Wonderful to chat with different people as they really are a fascinating group. Back home to have a mug of java and answer a few messages before Jugos Dom Pedro came over, around 3:300 pm, to collect their four flower pots, left for us to water while they were on Vancouver Island this past week. After I helped him load the patio plants into his car he helped us mount the fairly large, heavy, two shelf, four glass door, oak shelving unit Mme Coriandre had spotted at the Salvation ArmyThrift Store a few weeks ago and which we bought for $45 last Friday. Used three oak braces, which matched nicely, we'd saved from a completely useless shelf Big Al had taken down for us in Rumpus Room, day after we moved in. Came in extremely handily, not only to help support unit but also to balance it upon until we had affixed the six lag bolts which would anchor it in place. JDP used my spiffy new stud finder to locate the studs and with Lady Mary's help they decided where the shelf would fit on the wall, relative to studs, etc.

When all the pencil marks were made and all the holes were drilled, Peter and I lifted the unit into place and then, while Cora Lee and I held it, Engineer Man put in two of the top lag bolts. I had wanted to have washers but forgot to ask Lady Mary to buy some when she piked up the lag bolts yesterday. This being the case we decided that we'd only put in the aforementioned two before we picked up the necessary washers later that day. Shelf wasn't going anywhere so we repaired to the sofa to admire our work over a couple of tumblers of Bruichladdich, Infinity 55%, and even prim and proper Lady M had a snort with the workmen!

Peter was off, around 5:00 pm, secure in the knowledge that he had recruited us to pick his St Laurent grapes on Wednesday morn. I had a quick shower and while I was performing my ablutions, Mrs Patmore prepared the sauce for th epasta dinner we were to have after attending the rally for Tom Mulcair at the Convenrtion Centre at 7:00 pm. We left the house about 6:20 pm and drove to Rona where I picked up the washers and we were parked and in the lobby of the CC by 6:40 pm. People watched until close to 7:00 pm. Just before doors to Salon A opened Al Tinka, one of initial founders of the hiking group, wandered by and I introduced Cora Lee to him. We chatted, briefly, and then made our way into auditorium. Found seats to the right of the podium and weer lucky to find them as there were many, many people who had to stand. About 1,000 supporters, in all, i believe, so a very good turnout, apparently. Candidate for Kelowna-Lake Country, Norah Bowman, spoke first and then Richard Cannings, our candidate, in the new South Okanagan-West Kootenay riding, introduced Thomas Mulcair. Aside from all the boosterism one expects at any political rally, I was taken with both Mulcair's speech and manner. 

He delivered many passages in quite passable French and had an easy, straightforward, no-nonsense delivery. Three of the five candidates present were women so we both liked this aspect of the NDP campaign. Speeches took about an hour and a quarter so it wasn't an oppressively long evening filled with nothing but political rhetoric. Now it remains to be seen, should the NDP form the next government, whether they can turn their $15/day Child Care, Old Age eligibility back to 65, $15 Minimum Wage, etc., planks into operational policies and financial realities.

Saw Jake Synder, (He introduced me to hiking group.), on way out but only a brief hello and goodbye as I think he is "connected" as was obviously on his way to the "back room"! For our part we drove home and while Mrs Patmore made a salad and brought pasta to a boil, I put the washers on the needed lag bolts and once I'd affixed the missing four, removed the two without washers, one at a time, and then, now proudly wearing a washer, replaced them. Dinner was ready by the time I had finished and we sat down to enjoy the delicious meal while watching an episode of Orange is the New Black. Dinner and episode over, I set about doing the dishes and putting away the overlefts while the Downstairs Maid cleaned the shelf and then started putting wine glasses and some other assorted bowls/dishes in and on the new unit. Still a work in progress as we need to see what works where. Still, very pleased with unit  and much appreciative of Jugos Dom Pedro's expert help in putting it in place!

Time for bed as I'm quite sleepy. Hope you are doing well and feeling better, both psychologically/emotionally and physically. Much Love, Dad! 

Glad you are enjoying your new pastime!! How are the new boots? xx
Hi Hikers! Thanks for another terrific hike! Could someone forward this to Olga Polga and  Heraldo  as I don't have their email addresses. Thanks and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Corinne & Patrick--Here is the updated version of our reservation confirmation at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Chennai. Note that Peter is getting there a day ahead of us. I will update them on our arrival times when I get that info from Peter. I arrive at 8:00 p.m. and I think you two arrive at 11:50 p.m. Is that correct? Cheers, Lynnie

Hi Colleen! Thanks for the very kind, sympathetic remarks about Chloë and Andrew. You were correct in what you mentioned about Andrew. For her part, Chloë seems to be doing well and feeling better, both psychologically, emotionally and physically so will just have to wait and see what happens next!

Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Sunday 30 August 2015

Rainy Challenge Blues: Sunday, August 30th!

There are many ways to be free. One of them is to transcend reality by imagination, as I try to do. -Anais Nin (1903-1977) [The Diary of Anais Nin] 

Chloe Alexis DunnPower after 20 hours!! thank you!!! It's time for a hot shower and something warm to eat!! Margareta Maunsbach What happened?Patrick James Dunn Chloë didn't pay her hydro bill! All her wages went to craft beer! Chloe Alexis Dunn Big Storm, power out every where, trees uprooted the whole shebang!!!!! Patrick James Dunn Another reason to the calm Okanagan!

Hi Goils! Here are some of the snaps from this past Thursday's hike. You will see Erika's B&B if you look carefully! Love, Hiker Dad/Patrizzio! 

Hi Al! Thanks very much for the wonderful snaps of the last two hikes, (Fascinated by your stump series!), as well as the picture of the rock face. Felt like I was on Easter Island, (Not that I've been there, although I'd dearly love to explore the plethora of wonderful islands in the South Pacific.), when I saw the picture of this fantastic, craggy sculpture.

As well, certainly appreciate your friendly "official" welcome to the group and the "manifesto". Seems pretty much what I had expected, having been treated so warmly and helpfully by everyone that I've had the great good fortune to meet and hike with so I trust I will fit in. Missed your company this past Thursday but did enjoy meeting a number of other members, new to me. Thanks again for everything. Meeting such an incredible number of interesting and energetic individuals while being introduced to the surrounding, phenomenal landscape/terrain, its flora and fauna, makes me have to pinch myself to make sure I'm not actually dreaming! Hope to see you soon. Cheers, Patrizzio!


Hello Fellow Hikers! Just wanted to say thanks very much for the terrific hike this past Thursday. I know I don't have email addresses for everyone who has been on the various hikes I've joined but I'm trying to build up that list, spread as it seems to be between Monday and Thursday hikers. Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Wasn't released from indentured service, by Lady Mary, until nigh on 4:00 pm. Until then she had me changing light fixtures in our bathroom and then tidying up the garage. When I had special dispensation to ride I suited up and headed for Lakeshore Drive but the Challenge Race thwarted that venue so I did the Upper Bench Loop and then made for Skaha. Another road block shortly before Main Street South so I doubled back and took a new route, past Penticton Foundry to Carmi Ave and the onto Dartmouth Road which brought me, eventually, via Greenwood Ave back to South Main. Here I encountered many runners from the Challenge and one of them, around 5:30 pm was Andrea, from Westpoint Cycles in Vancouver. I'm sure she didn't recognize me as, by the look on her face and her body language, she looked as if she was concentrating on finishing whatever part  of the race was left. Trust she did well as when I asked one of the flag people working at controlling one of the intersections on my route, what time the event closed down, she replied, "Midnight!" If this was true, Andrea, presumably, was doing quite well as run, is, I believe, last component of this more than taxing test of fitness and endurance. At any rate, I felt a bit sheepish from then on in as my almost negligible distance, in comparison to the 180 km Challenge ride, let alone the swim and the run, seemed like almost nothing. Due to fairly brisk head wind out of the south decided I'd simply dipsy-doodle my way around Skaha Lake Park and then to the Penticton Airport to log the distance I wanted. Took a bit of a side-trip to a trailer park on the east side of the the runways, both parallel to the tubing channel, and really saw much evidence of trailer trash living, I'm sorry to report, Dear Reader. Still, a perfect late afternoon/evening for a more than pleasant ride. Bit of a touch of Fall coolness in the air and the sky was actually blue for the first time in about a week. Yesterday's fairly heavy rain and some lighter precipitation today seems to have washed much of the terrible wildfire smoke away. Stats for ride:

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/883229033#.VeP1LLZcYU0.email

Saturday 29 August 2015

Main Street Market Blues: Saturday, August 29th!

We can pay our debt to the past by putting the future in debt to ourselves. -John Buchan, poet, novelist, and politician (26 Aug 1875-1940)


Hi Patrick & Corrine I finally got around to selecting some photos for you! I’m still battling the sciatica bug by stepping up into the heavy-weight class of analgesics; hoping the end of the 15th round is imminent.

I am lucky, just heard that a friend of mine at 66ish is in cardiac arrest with an induced coma. Always considered that he would far outlive me because of his relative youth and very programmed fitness.

Heading to the airport later today on our way to Amsterdam! Maybe when I get back on Sept 17th I’ll get the chainsaw ready for you if you are still interested?

Enjoy the early harvest, although I’m not certain now as a major monsoon has arrived out here on the wet coast.


Hi Penny and Madcap! Understand completely your need to have time together. Just delighted that we will have a chance to see you here. I know Madcap will probably take you to places we probably have never heard of even though we lived in Vancouver for forty years. You are in even better hands! Anyway, I assume you will drive straight to our place once you start to make your way from Banff and environs. Let us know a day or so before you plan to arrive so that we know that Madcap's milk-fed body hasn't been gobbled up by bears!
You'll be fine, Penelope, as Canadian bears only like rye whiskey and your will reek of gin and tonic, I'm sure!

Anyway, trust all goes well with you and the Mill Hill Mob.Take care of each other. Fondestos from Cora Lee to you and Madcap. Cheers, Patrizzio! 


Oh pat I'm so sorry to hear about Andrew - is it Andy keepsake or Andy henke? Will reply in more detail later xx Sorry pat I didn't read the whole of your email before asking which Andy - I was sitting in the garden with carol after a long boozy barbecue with the Italians , Lisa , Anna , Joan and joy so didn't read it in depth.
 

How very sad that he went the same way as his father but I can understand how having 2 strokes must be horrendous when you live alone . My lovely cousin Richard who you met in Sydney has just died - he had cancer and was given months to live but then had a stroke . His wife Pat felt relieved as he was in a very bad way . I am so glad that I phoned him recently and he sounded just the same - always playing down any problems and trying to stay positive.

Your eulogy to Andy was wonderful - his family must feel very heartened to read your kind words about your long friendship. Well let's hope he is at peace now and we can have a toast to long loving friendships when we meet Love to all Penny xx

Friday 28 August 2015

Double-Barreled Rain Barrel Blues: Friday, August 28th!

If only the sun-drenched celebrities are being noticed and worshiped, then our children are going to have a tough time seeing the value in the shadows, where the thinkers, probers and scientists are keeping society together. -Rita Dove, poet (b. 28 Aug 1952) 


WIN 2 tickets to 'The Whiskey Experience' on Thurs, Sept 3. The whiskey dinner includes 4 cocktails matched with a 4 course dinner. SHARE this post & TAG a friend to win. Good luck! *T&Cs Apply- competition closes Friday, Aug 28 Patrick James Dunn I'll be there!
 
Kurt Traugott Was there, [Adelaide], spent a great time in a batch in Glenelg, friends in the old town, been all around and love ur city and all it has to offer, great memories, thanks Patrick James Dunn In a batch of what, Kurt? Rum?

Hi Ginette: Trust all is going as well as can be expected under circumstances. You seem to have quite a bit on your plate, given the sale of your condo and your sister. Sorry to hear about her hospitalization, etc. Very worrying and difficult, I'm sure, under any circumstances. Do hope we can arrange to see you and Bruce at the winery. Cora Lee was curious to know if you will be moving to the Okanagan or somewhere else in Vancouver. Again, heartfelt sympathy. Fond regards, Patrick.

Hi again, Maret: Would be wonderful if you could visit. Nicaragua sounds exciting. We are off to India, for six weeks, on October 27th, with close friends, Lynne and Peter, from Naramata. Back on December 10th. [Last payment for trip, Corinne] Not sure what our travel plans, after that will be. I'm leaning towards staying here for a variety of reasons, not the least financial! Our now emptier and emptier pockets, (Loads done and to do around house to make it as comfortable as Lady Mary would like!), and almost "worthless" Canadian dollar makes travel in US almost prohibitive unless Ms Tinsel Town wants to underwrite the next trip south for her pauper parents! However, as all our federal political parties proclaim, next government will fix all this so we'll soon be back swinging the world by its tail! Until then, I'm forced to drown my considerable sorrows with malt from an ever so rapidly dwindling collection! Fond regards to you and David from Mme Coriandre, buffing her nails and sipping rather expensive white wine! Cheers, Patrizzio.

Dad, that was a very warm and loving remembrance of Andy. I think his children will appreciate hearing of his earlier days with you and having these reminders of his very best qualities. I'm so sorry he felt life had become too much to endure any longer. Love ayn

Hi Ayn! Thanks for such a sensitive reading and reply. I'm pleased, if one can be pleased under such a circumstance, that you mentioned what you mentioned as I was hoping for the very effect you discerned. I did want to be truthful but more importantly wished to try to leave Alexander and Tessa with as positive, as possible, an image/memory of their father. As you say, without judgement, I do believe that Andrew's life had simply reached a point well beyond his capacity to endure it any longer. Love, Dad!   
 
Dear Patrick Thank you so much for Elaine's kind offer re accommodation and yours re chauffeuring in Vancouver - so lovely of you both to be so hospitable.
However we have had a very full on summer with loads of weddings plus visitors staying here and really need a little time to ourselves during this trip. With the wonders of the internet Mike has planned lots of places to visit and eat in and around Vancouver, so I do hope you won't mind if we do our own thing once we have left Penticton.
 

That's not to take away from the fact that we are really looking forward to seeing you and Corinne and tasting some of western Canada's best vino! Lots of love Penny and madcap

 


Thursday 27 August 2015

Trout Creek KVR Trestle Blues: Thursday, August 27th!

When you're traveling, you are what you are right there and then. People don't have your past to hold against you. No yesterdays on the road. -William Least Heat-Moon, travel writer (b. 27 Aug 1939) 


Drove to Summerland at about 8:30 am to park in the lot at Summerland Sweets, close to the KVR trestle and train stop, the former being the endpoint for the day's hike. Once I'd parked I hopped into Arturo's car and we drove back to the IGA parking lot in Summerland to regroup. From there we took three cars to drive to the Summerland Rodeo Grounds, off Bathville Road. After parking we took off into the surrounding hills. About half of the group were new to me so it was fun getting to know them as we trekked. 

Although there were a number of fairly steeps slopes to scale near the beginning and a number to descend, towards the end of the hike, this was perhaps the easiest of all the hikes to date, inasmuch as much of the time we were trod well defined trails on gentle or flat slopes. We ended up in the hills to the west of Trout Creek and at one point we could see parts of Conkle Mountain where some of us had hiked on Monday. On the way down we came across three of the many wild horses that live hereabouts. We'd seen about five a week or so ago, when driving on West Bench, right in a residential area, but I'd never seen any sign of them while hiking, although plenty, and I mean plenty of horse manure, some fresh, most well weathered, everywhere I've hiked, from the flats at the start of a hike right at the top of some very steep hills/mountains! 

Further along we had a spectacular view of The Three Pinnacles, I believe, to the east of where we were, a gorgeous set of peaks that can be reached by not all that difficult a hike, according to Kilean, who has done it a number of times. Believe one starts not far from where today's hike will end so do hope that group will decide on this destination at some point.  Very pleasant last few km on soft trail, through the shade of small pines. Close to the end of the hike one walks along a fence which encloses the The Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre lands here in Summerland. Shortly thereafter, one walks onto the KVR trestle and I could spy friend Erika's B&B, Alpine Rose, at the top of Canyon View Road, up above Dirty Laundry, with wonderful apple orchards/vineyards cultivated right to the lip of the canyon, Trout Creek Canyon, I presume but don't know for sure. Stats for hike:

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/879688248#.Vd-VnbGwhlU.email

This coming Monday we are going to go to the Three Blind Mice area near Naramata, starting and ending at Riddle Rd. Jim French has kindly agreed to be the one preventing everyone from getting too lost and would be happy to share the responsibility! So please meet at Home Hardware, eastern parking area in Penticton so that you can carpool and be off by 9am. Summerlanders can meet up at the IGA at 8:40 to carpool from there. I unfortunately won't be coming; I have another appointment to go to.


Hi Lori: Trust all is going as well as possible under such difficult circumstances. I did a bit of searching and the cemetery I believe Andrew's parent are buried at is called Green Acres Funeral Home & Cemetery, 1 Green Acres Ln, Winnipeg, MB R2C 2Z3, 1-204-222-3241. If this is not the one, I'm at a loss as to know where they are interred. One of the reasons I think it is Green Acres is due to the fact that is off the Trans Canada and we pass it every time we visit Corinne's parents at Falcon Lake, not far from Kenora. I remember, or think I remember, thinking we were well outside Winnipeg, driving to his father's graveside service. At any rate, as the Executor of Andrew's will you should be able to find out.

I have attached what I wrote about Andrew but thought I'd include it in the message just in case you had difficulty opening the attachment, given different computers, software, etc. Once again, sincere condolences to you, Tessa and Alexander. Please keep in touch once you have had time to deal with everything that needs attention and we can discuss what might be possible regarding a memorial service in Winnipeg. This can wait of course but I know that good friends, Maret and David Swayze, more of Andrew's friends from university days, now living in Ottawa, are in Winnipeg twice a year, dealing with aging parents, would try to be at any service you decide upon should they be able to tailor their visit. Same holds true for Corinne and I, as mentioned earlier.

Anyway, one day at a time. Heartfelt sympathy. Know that Corinne and I grieve with you and for you and your children. Take care of each other, Patrick.

Wednesday 26 August 2015

Andrew Sredzski Blues: Wednesday, August 26th!


Hi Ginette! Thank you for phoning yesterday even though it was to deliver such extremely sad news. I called Lori shortly after you talked to Corinne. One of Andrew's wishes is to have his remains buried with those of his parents. I think I can determine the name of the cemetery, in Winnipeg, as both Corinne and I attended the interment for his father there but if you happen to know it perhaps you could pass that information along to Lori. She hopes to bring Tessa and Alexander, sometime next summer, to have a graveside service there. I told her that if it is possible both Corinne and I would like to attend as well, given we usually travel to Falcon to see her parents and other relatives.

I gather, from talking to Lori, that his memorial service will be this Friday with just her, her sister, Tessa and Alexander. I will send her a short piece about my friendship with Andrew. Not sure if you knew it or not but Andrew spent the afternoon of the day of his father's death with Corinne and myself at my mother's place in Winnipeg. At the time we lived in a co-op, Willow Park, near Burrows and Keewatin, and Andrew cycled past on his way back from the airport.

I had talked to Andrew, about a month ago, informing him of our move to Penticton. He seemed well and excited about the fact that all the details of his retirement were in place and he even talked about a visit to the Okanagan, always the dreamer. Since then we have had an almost continuous stream of visitors. Have been on our own for last week or so and had been meaning to call to say hello as I wondered why I'd not heard from him in a bit. (We often had numerous voice-mails, in Vancouver, on our answering system, left when we were out.) And then your devastating news!

On a slightly brighter note, if that is possible, at this point, we were planning to visit Intersection in mid-September, (if not before), as very close friend, Penny, (You met in 1970, in Winnipeg and addressed her as "Pénélope"!), will be here, with her partner, Mike, and I thought it would be interesting, if you happened to be at the winery, to complete the circle, so to speak. At any rate, perhaps you could let me know when you might be there, over the next month or so, and perhaps we can still tailor a visit in person. Corinne and I both offer our heartfelt condolences to you. Deepest sympathy. Corinne and Patrick.

Pics: These two snaps were taken in 2010 when we drove from Vancouver, stopping in Falcon, to Toronto to fly to London.

Thank you Patrick, No I have no idea where Andrew's parents were laid to rest, that period was such a blurr for me, such a shock with his dad's suicide and then his mom getting cancer and also gone a few months later. Andrew was never quite the same after his parents passed away and then the dabbling in making fast money with drugs etc. what a whirlwind that was. Andrew (and Lori) told me that he had been diagnosed as Bipolar and that explains a lot of his "over the top behavior", his excitability at everything, his personality bigger than words etc. the good and the bad of that illness from which my sister suffers from necessitating frequent hospitalization and my supervision. In any event it is a well known fact that if one of your parents or one of your siblings take their own life one is likely to do the same in moments of depression and stress. Sad!

I cried last evening but now in the light of day I think if one is not happy and has health and financial stress i can understand why he may have chosen that path, people call it the "easy way out" but with my sister having attempted the same twice in her lifetime it should be referred to as "the difficult path"! It is mostly very very sad for his two children.

Not sure when in September I will be at the winery, we are in the process of selling our condo, [
http://www.movedbywill.com/property_details-1-87425.html], and my sister just out of the hospital etc. I have been held captive in Vancouver, I will let you know, Bruce is there a lot though. Glad to hear from your Facebook posting that you are enjoying the Okanagan, the bike ride, your new home etc. As you have discovered one always gets lots of visitors in the Okanagan from May to end of October!Will give you the heads up when I come to Oliver in September and hopefully with enough notice to coordinate things! Ginette

Hi Maret and David! Some very sad news. Ginette, Andrew's first wife, phoned yesterday, to inform us that Andrew had had taken his own life, on August 20th. He was 68. Not sure if you knew but he had suffered two strokes in the course of the past year and was very despondent. I called Lori, his ex-partner and the mother of his two children, Alexander and Tessa, shortly after Ginette talked to Corinne. One of Andrew's wishes is to have his remains buried with those of his parents. I think I can determine the name of the cemetery, in Winnipeg, [Lori couldn't find any mention of it in his papers.], as both Corinne and I attended the interment for his father there. She hopes to bring Tessa and Alexander, sometime next summer, to have a graveside service there. I told her that if it is possible both Corinne and I would like to attend as well, given we usually travel to Falcon to see her parents and other relatives.

I gather, from talking to Lori, that his memorial service will be this Friday with just her, her sister, Tessa and Alexander. I will send her a short piece about my friendship with Andrew. Not sure if you knew it or not but Andrew spent the afternoon of the day of his father's death with Corinne and myself at my mother's place in Winnipeg. At the time we lived in a co-op, Willow Park, near Burrows and Keewatin, and Andrew cycled past on his way back from the airport.

I had talked to Andrew, about a month ago, informing him of our move to Penticton. He seemed well and excited about the fact that all the details of his retirement were in place and he even talked about a visit to the Okanagan, always the dreamer. Since then we have had an almost continuous stream of visitors. Have been on our own for last week or so and had been meaning to call to say hello as I wondered why I'd not heard from him in a bit. (We often had numerous voice-mails, in Vancouver, on our answering system, left when we were out.) And then the devastating news!

On a slightly brighter note, if that is possible, at this point, we were planning to visit Intersection, (owned, in part, by Ginette and her third husband, Bruce), in mid-September, (if not before), as very close friend, Penny, (She met Andrew and Ginette in 1970, in Winnipeg and Ginette addressed her as "Pénélope"!), will be here, with her partner, Mike, and I thought it would be interesting, if Ginette happened to be at the winery, to complete the circle, so to speak. Trust all goes well with you both. Be delighted if you could come for a visit. Fondestos, Corinne and Patrick. Pics: Sent by Ginette.


Oh that makes me very sad. Thanks for keeping us in the loop and for the photos too. The kids look lovely and Alexander definitely has echoes of his Dad. Could you send me Lori’s coordinates so I can send her a card? Also let me know how things go for the Winnipeg leg of his passing. Andrew was a real character and a generous soul.

Would love to visit you in Penticton some time. A very dear friend of mine in Kelowna is not in good health and I have promised to visit her as soon as time allows. Given our current plans and work situation that would make it next spring or late winter. I’ll let you know later this fall how our timing shapes up. We have to go to Winnipeg at least twice a year on account of our elderly mothers, and now another grandchild is on the way there too. Also, we have plans to spend a month in Central America this winter as our niece and her family will be in Nicaragua sussing out work opportunities.

This has been a crazy year for us work-wise with lots to do and no good break. The money of course is appreciated. Daniel and Younglim have just moved back to Canada from Japan and are currently in Ottawa looking for work. Love to Corinne and I really appreciate your sending me the unfortunate news. It’s understandable that he would feel despondent but that doesn’t make it easier for us to accept it. Such a difficult situation. Thanks again. Maret

Hi Al! Trust you are well. Have been so busy with a constant stream of visitors ever since we returned form Winnipeg that haven't had a moment, it seems, to even look at the Power unit package which arrived via Greyhound a few weeks after we were back here. Just did so today and I discovered that the Garage Kit Hibbert, according to enclosed invoice, was not included. Not sure if it is still on back order or simply missed being shipped. 

At any rate, would appreciate an update when you have a moment. I 'm hoping to install the system after Labour Day as  a "handy" friend, (Where is Greg when you really need him!), from Vancouver, will be coming to visit and help with a number of other projects around the house. We will be putting in quite a bit of shelving in the garage and so want most of that in before we hook up Vacuflo so as to be able to mount power unit in most convenient spot, relative to piping in crawl space, etc. Greetings from Corinne. Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Hi Patrick, That garage kit was not back-ordered so we obviously forgot to send it with the rest of the order. Shall we put it on the bus or send it with Greg? Alan 
Hi Patrick: Alan forwarded your e-mail to me regarding your garage kit. Our records indicate you took the garage kit, along with all the other fittings and Hide-a-Hose stuff on June 25th. 

The only things that were on backorder were the power unit and cleaning kit. I was here when you and Corinne were in and I’m pretty sure the idea was to ship as little as possible to reduce shipping costs. We had everything else in stock except for the power unit and cleaning kit. Patrick, you might not recognize the box. It’s just a plans white box with a cartoon type vacuum character on the side in blue. The part number will say TK110. Let me know if you find it. Val Vacuflo MB.


Hi Val and Al, and Mighty Grigor! Thanks for update. However, after a thorough search, we don't have the garage kit. My recollection is that Al said you didn't have one in stock when we were there. The only hose we have is the one for the house. As I understand it, the garage kit hose doesn't have a cover, for obvious reasons. As well, I remember that the one on display came in a fairly large bag of sorts but I might be wrong. At any rate, no such package here, no plain white box with TK 110. Two other boxes, one with inside hose, the other with HH Installation Kit, (less long sections of pipe), pipe cutter, deburring tool, etc. I haven't taken the  power unit out of the box so unless the cleaning kit and pressure relief valve are included in that package we don't have them either.

Anyway, let me know what you think and we'll plan accordingly. I haven't been in touch with Greg, of late, so not sure what his travel plans might be. If he is coming west in the next little while then perhaps I can persuade him to mule whatever we still need once this is sorted out. Thanks very much. Cheers, Patrizzio! 


There is no organized hike for this Thursday, but AArt and I have decided to do one and it sounds like Phil and Jill are interested. We are planning a two-car hike from the Summerland rodeo grounds, around the south side of Trout Creek, investigate a few peaks and end up crossing the trestle to Summerland Sweets (where we can have an ice cream!) – should be around 4 hours. I hope the forecast is correct, for the smoke to clear a bit by then. If you are interested in joining us, meet at Summerland IGA at 8.00am. Could you let me know if you plan to come, as we need to place one or more cars at the endpoint before we begin. Cheers Tony By request, I have moved the hike time, so now meet at Summerland IGA at 9am. Responding to question, the hike will be all on land – we will not be wading across the creek, but coming back over the trestle bridge.
Tony

Hello Peter! Just to clarify things, at the end of Monday's hike it seemed to have been decided that we were planning to hike somewhere around See Ya Later Ranch. Obviously, this seems to have changed but I just wanted to confirm. At any rate, I'm happy to leave my car at the "new" endpoint but I'm not quite sure where this is, as I'm new to both Penticton and the hiking group. If you need me to do so please let me know where I should meet you at 8:45:27 tomorrow. I assume it might be near Summerland Sweets but would appreciate knowing for sure. Thanks, Patrizzio! 

Hi Patrick, I am assuming that next Monday's hike will still go as planned. However, tomorrow's Thursday hike is an alternative to the backpacking trip to Border Lake that was supposed to take the place of the regular Thursday hike this week. I hope that is not too confusing. In any case, the parking for the endpoint of tomorrow's hike is just past Summerland Sweets along the east side of the road just before where the road crosses the railway tracks. I will meet you there tomorrow morning unless I hear otherwise. Peter

Hi again, Peter! I knew about the backpacking trip to Border Lake and after the hike on Monday, at Good Omens, Al asked for suggestions about Thursday. That is why I was a tad confused about Summerland Sweets, etc. No never mind. Had decided I'd explore Canyon View Road in Summerland as a result of hike I'd done in that neck of the woods on Monday. So for my cycling exercise I followed my usual in-town route then along 97 to Lakeshore Drive, Summerland, to Crescent Beach and then up Peach Orchard. Instead of following Victoria Road I took Simpson Road to the Summerland Golf Course, just past the overflow parking lot for the course, where we'd parked on Monday. Back down Canyon View Road, whizzing past my friend's, Erika's, B&B, the Alpine Rose, and then the Kettle Valley Trestle, close to Summerland Sweets where I'll park my car tomorrow, the endpoint of the day's hike. I assume I should park closer to the trestle than to Summerland Sweets. Is this correct? See you tomorrow. Cheers, Patrizzio!












  • 1 Green Acres Ln, Winnipeg, MB R2C 2Z3
    Phone:(204) 222-3241

    Had a morning full of errands, (Toner cartridge into shop to fix a printer; recycling depot; into Penticton Auto Glass to have two small windshield chips fixed, at dealer's expense, part of original deal; then to PPL to return a book. Back home to learn from Cora Lee that Moriane had phoned so I popped around to pick up two Viognier. Chatted with Toshie, a charming young woman from Yokohama who worked in a wine store in Tokyo for two years before spending seven years in Banff, doing the same. Drawn to the Okanagan for the wine now!), so I wasn't able to leave until close to 3:00 pm. Had decided I'd explore Canyon View Road in Summerland as a result of hike I'd done in that neck of the woods on Monday. Followed my usual in-town route as well as Lakeshore Drive, Summerland, to Crescent Beach and then up Peach Orchard. Instead of following Victoria Road I took Simpson Road to the Summerland Golf Course, just past the overflow parking lot for the course, where we'd parked on Monday. Back down Canyon View Road, whizzing past Erika's B&B, the Alpine Rose and then a Ketle Valley Trestle, close to Summerland Sweets where I'll park my car tomorrow, the endpoint of the day's hike. Pretty much all downhill from there until I was back on 97 and then on the flat pretty much all the way to city limits. Did two circles of the Red Wing community just before the bridge to give me precisely the distance I needed when back at Burns Street!

    Stats for ride:

    https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/878857121#.Vd57Xn5w-jE.email
  • Tuesday 25 August 2015

    Ripe Tomatoe Pickle Blues: Tuesday, August 25th!

    Thanks for the very interesting email,  I must say I practically feel fatigued just reading about the action packed pace at which you have been going!. The hike sounded a bit dodgy lol...did you have porters to carry stuff for you as it sounds like you should have!. glad you got the Hi-Tecs as they are the same ones I got for Peru and I have to say they were absolutely fabulous. i have never owned a pair of boots that were lightwieght and water proof and didn’t cause me all sorts of blisters while breaking in.
    Was a rather crazy end of week last week as I finally had enough of how Jesse had been treated at NuWave where we have both been working. An incident occurred Thursday that left me extremely angry at the owner of the company and I wound up going and pulling all of my tools and equipment on Friday afternoon. It is very unfortunate in that it was a good paying job for me and at first it seemed as if it would be a great job for Jesse and his friend Steven. I tossed and turned and got up early and hastily wrote a letter to Greg regarding my concerns (m I had had a prior conversation regarding some concerns I had but felt unsatisfied so really wanted to put it down in writing, see attached).  At this point in my life and after a couple bad experiences with dealing with unscrupulous business partners and bosses I have developed zero tolerance and drew a line that I will not cross.  Good news is that I feel very good and have my head held high despite the fact that I am at a crossroads once again. i believe that if you let life flow and maintain your morals and ethics things will turn out fine so we’ll see what happens next.
    I have to say that it is a very good feeling to finally have some time to catch up on a myriad of things left on the back burner as I have not really had any “Al” time for a long while. Although technically I have had a bunch of time off from NuWave it has been filled with either some other work projects or else some action packed vacations or weekends at the cabin so it is a pleasure to be able to look after some of my own personal stuff for a while.
    Colleen’s foot is mending quite nicely and she has been walking over to look after some errands a mile or so and feeling good so that’s a relief as we know how active she likes to be as well.
    Very nice new ride you guys got as in the Equinox!. I have to ask did you phone Rosie and coach her to say that to Corrine regarding the bike rack?. It sounds a little out of context for her to express her desire for you to get one wouldn’t you say?.
    Wonderful to hear about your new hiking group! always nice to meet some new people. Speaking of which I have a former work associate  who lives in Penticton now but will be moving to OK falls in October who I think you would really like.  I told him about you as well and said I would pass his info along so you could maybe drop by his business and say hi sometime. Sounds like he’s very close to you so you could go by on one of your jaunts. 
      His name is Ron Howarth and I met him at a solid works seminar ( the computer design program I use) through one of my former fellow BCIT instructors who I also met in a solid works class.
    Ron and I chatted for quite a while at this seminar and it seemed he was starting a project that required a bunch of custom fabrication and welding and did I know anyone? . As it turned out I was available and started working for him when he was at Optimil out on river road in Delta. The project he was working on was for NuWave and that’s where I met Greg and his associates, whom by the way I contacted offering my regrets at having to pull out of Nuwave to which I got positive responses and assurances that they would be in touch regarding some projects outside of NuWave in the not too distant  future as their time was drawing to a close as well.
    Trying not to belabour the point  but one other concern I had about NuWave was that it was unclear as to how safe it was as there were several instances of leaking microwaves and needing to stay away from some equipment while it was operating but which one could accidentally stray close to if not paying very close attention. also after all the time I spent there it still did not seem that they had made a lot of headway on the research and development end of things and were still a long way from attaining any kind of commercially available unit. frankly I actually have my doubts weather it will ever happen but who knows. i do know that the investors were losing patience which may have contributed to Greg’s degrading demeanour.
    I’m getting a bunch of head shots and other photos done this week and am going to get them to my mom to give to her agent. it is another one of those things I have intended to do for years and will make a concerted effort. it’s a long shot of course as i don’t have a lot of acting experience although some from years ago. Figure i have twenty years of behind the camera work as well which should count for something. one never knows what they are looking for and sometimes it’s just a look and experience or talent don’t come into play that much. With the amount of film work going on in town I thought the time was nigh to finally get the ball rolling.
    Hope you have a great week, Give my love to Corriandre. Cheers, Al

    Hi Selfie People!

    Some great shots! You can use some of them for your casting pics!!! Glad Marilyn is on the mend and will soon be able to prance about in the more than active fashion that characterizes her head-on, full-bore approach to life! On the other hand, I must say that I was quite dismayed to hear the very nasty saga of the NuWave Bully. I must admit that I feel precisely as you do about such people for many, many reasons. (At some point, when we have time, I'll share a number of  episodes involving much the same sort of behaviour from two individuals, one work-related, the other squash-related that still makes my blood boil thinking about the incidents!) Suffice it to say that I applaud your very courageous and principled actions. Again, I know from personal experience, how upsetting such a situation can be and how difficult it can be to do what your instinct tells you is the right course of action. Furthermore,  I think that what you say about remaining true to yourself is far more important than anything else and that you will be certainly be far, far better off. Bravo! Onward!! Fight!!!

    Just talked to Clarisse as Cora Lee is making ripe-tomatoe pickle and needed some advice from her Mom. Told her about your comment about bike rack and she chortled! Had meant to say that I'd be delighted if you would like my old one. I'd like to give it to someone in The Peleton rather than try to sell it so let me know if you think you might be interested. I disconnected the wiring, capped and taped the ends and secured cord to hitch on Titanium Green. Wasn't quite sure about how to deal with wiring you'd done so thought that at some point I'd ask Chloë to pop by your place and have you take a look, if that is fine with you, to make sure what I did is safe, etc. I still have the light so I would include that fixture with hitch itself, depending on what new owner would like to do regarding license plate visibility. Anyway, let me know when you have a moment.


    In spite of the heavy smoke which has blanketed Penticton since late Saturday, I decided to join the Monday hiking group, led by Al Tinka, a retired teacher from Penticton High who taught Will, son-in-law of Elaine and Ted Keating, very close friends who live on Bayswater, I discovered! This is the third hike I've been on but Al was not on first two. Too, too busy with his orchard as Will would know. He told me that the had seen Will a few weeks ago as he came to collect fruit, if I'm correct. At any rate, another former student, Julien, (?), [Al calls him "Jules".], Ehlers, I believe, knows Will as they went to high-school together! Jules thought that the last time he had seen Will was about 17 years. ago. He and his wife, Heather, live in Paradise Valley, just out of Squamish. Have been there for about two years, apparently. She is expecting their first child on November 23rd, her birthday. Jules is finishing his doctorate, Mechanical Engineering, I think but am not completely sure, at U of Calgary. Heather has a post-doc at U of Victoria, in Environmental Science, I think.

    On the second hike, I got to know Anthea and Dave Bryan, and their lovely pooch, Tia. Turns out that Heather is their daughter and she and Jules have been visiting. As well, Will probably knows Jim French, a retired mathematics teacher from PenHi. He was one of the leaders on first two hikes and took me under his wing, so to speak, always extremely welcoming and helpful, (As everyone has been, I must add.), to me as a newcomer to group and hiking in general. Anyway, seems like I'm getting to know loads of people somehow connected to friends in Vancouver! Couldn't agree more about hiking boots. I have taken to sleeping in them as they are so comfortable and quite effective for kicking Lady Mary when she snores!!!

    The hike itself was to Conkle Mountain, up above the golf course in Summerland.
    Cora Lee dropped me off at the IGA parking lot in Summerland, the meeting spot there, at 9:00 am. There were only five of us, (Smoke was a big issue for many, I gather.), and we loaded ourselves into Kilean's truck. He is originally from Switzerland so it has been very interesting to chat with him over the course of the the three hikes. Took us about five or ten minutes to drive to a small clearing across the road from the gold course and once we'd put on our packs, (Jules only had a water bottle!), we took off. Terrain was far less demanding than climb up N'Kwala Mountain, my first outing with group, so it really was most enjoyable for entire hike. Footing was often spongy with pine needles so very comfortable. A bit of scree, (I think that is the technical term.), at times but nothing that was at all worrisome. Much of the hike was along various ridges so pretty flat and easy going.

    About an hour and a half into the hike we came to a point, overlooking Trout Creek, where there was a pretty precipitous drop and difficult rock faces so Al suggested I take an easier route to the eventual summit. Kilean had hiked the other route before so he very kindly volunteered to keep me company. We set off up a slight slope and Jules, Al and Eduardo made for the rock face and its narrow ledges. A fall, apparently could be rather serious, so I was happy not to tempt Fate. Funnily enough, Cora Lee texted me, almost immediately, and suggested I was being a rather timorous and urged me, over and over again, to follow the mountain goats! Fortunately, coverage faded out and I followed Kilean up a reasonably steep slope but not at all punishing as footing was solid and quite comfortable.

    At the top we found a fairly well-defined road! He assumed it had been used for logging at some point. At any rate, we walked along, seeing our second deer, and he tried to get his bearings, relative to where we had agreed we'd meet our comrades. Headed back towards the edge of the cliff and followed a fairly wide, flat ridge for a bit. I called out and heard a whistle in reply. In fact, I actually saw one of the lads pass through a small clearing, a couple of hundred feet below our location. We then set off in same direction, up and down a few small gullies, and when we came to the next ridge we could hear talking. A few minutes later we were reunited in a small clearing where we stopped for lunch.

    Everyone had brought sandwiches or vegetables, etc., so we enjoyed a terrific picnic for twenty minutes or so. After the refreshing break we headed back in the same general direction but followed a slightly different route. Al is a wonderful fount of knowledge and he would always point out various fascinating landforms, flora and fauna and the like. At one point we came across a number of trees that had obviously been cut with a chain saw and Al said that this was probably the work of someone he knew, (I cannot remember the name.), who had a background in biology/forestry. Now retired, this chap conducts voluntary research on trees in the area, (Comparing tree rings on those felled by natural causes against others cut to allow neighbours to flourish, as this is a managed area, I understand.), to determine their age, possible growing conditions, and the like. Simply a delight to have a natural history lesson in such idyllic surroundings. 

    Descent was far easier than on Monday's hike, now shod in my spiffy new hiking boots, and I certainly appreciated the walking poles that I'd inherited from Rosie-the-Riveter when they left to return to Winnipeg this past April. Still the slowest member of the group but chaps didn't ever desert me to be eaten by Black Bears as we saw a fair bit of evidence of their scat. Back to the truck by close to 1:00 pm so we were on the mountainside for about three and a half hours. Short ride back to Summerland and we stopped at Good Omens Coffee House where everyone had a San Pellegrino Soda. 

    Met Pam, another member of hiking group there. She usually organizes Monday's outing but was to take off on an overnight hike next day so decided not to join today. With a bit of backing and forthing, it was determined that next Monday's outing will be to the Three Blind Mice Trail, above Naramata, so looking forward to that. As well, Thursday's hike was settled upon. It will be out of OK Falls, near to See Ya Later Ranch, off Green Lake Road, atop Hawthorne Mountain. While I've been to the winery a number of times, I've never hiked here so, again, looking forward to exploring this gorgeous landscape and rugged terrain.

    Wished Pam well on her hike to Border Lake, near Cathedral Provincial Park, and Kilean dropped us off at IGA. Hitched a ride with Eduardo as Cora Lee had taken the Equinox in to All Racks to have a trailer hitch and new bike rack installed. When home, she was still out. While I was away the new glass door for the master bedroom shower had been installed, as well as the glass bathtub shower screen, replacing the very dated three-panel unit. Very pleased with how both looked and a few minutes later Lady Mary arrived so I was able to see the new bike rack. Looks grand and although it only holds two bikes, it will allow the trunk door to open, without any adjustment to rack itself, when not loaded. When carrying bikes, a simple click of a lever allows the rack to tilt back to allow rear door to open.

    Back inside to have a shower with new screen. Much more room in tub now so happy with change. Other shower cannot be used yet as Silicon has to set. Chap who installed it will be back today to make final adjustments so guess we'll test it  when we know when it is ready. Cora Lee was off to volunteer at Richard Cannings' campaign office, from 6:00 pm- 8:00 pm, just down the street, a few blocks away, so I'd been charged with fixing dinner: salad and a bbq'd chicken. We watched four episodes of Homeland, Season 4, while eating and over the rest of the course of the evening as Cora lee started on preparation for tomatoe pickle. Must away now as I'm charged with dicing oniones and celery. Fondestos from Mrs Patmore in the Downton Abbey kitchen. Cheers, Patrizzio! 

    Pics: Jules, Al, Eduardo and Kilean; new shower doors and Rosita's bike rack!




    Still very smoky yesterday so I decided I'd wait until later in the day to go for a ride, hoping smoke would dissipate somewhat. Did a bit and around 6:00 pm I took off. Had decided I'd keep to the flats as I knew any climbs would probably cause me to inhale more of the smoke. This being the case I dipsy-doodled all over town, especially enjoying the stretch along the boardwalk at Skaha Lake Park, watching beach volleyball and a few swimmers as I rode past. The wildfire smoke is, apparently, keeping tourists away and it was certainly noticeable along Lakeshore Drive as there were far, far fewer people out strolling or on the  outdoor patios of the numerous restaurants that line the road. Imagine this is what it might be like once school is back and we are into fall weather. Stats for ride:


    https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/878367578#.Vd3-l7lmM_s.email