Day 74, Post-Op Wrecking Crew Blues: Wednesday, November 30th!

An old miser kept a tame jackdaw, that used to steal pieces of money, and hide them in a hole, which a cat observing, asked, "Why he would hoard up those round shining things that he could make no use of?" "Why," said the jackdaw, "my master has a whole chestfull, and makes no more use of them that I do." -Jonathan Swift, satirist (30 Nov 1667-1745) 

Photo: Grant Simon Rogers

Patrick, We will bottle at what ever strength you request - at Cask Strength or below. This does not change the amount of bottles which will remain at 44. So, I would recommend receiving at Cask Strength and cutting down the abv yourself - we fill barrels at 62.5%abv. With that being said, we can certainly do 62%. 

We are planning the same 3-3.5yr maturation. We anticipate storage fees to be in the $75-$100 / annually. We will confirm and contact Cask Futures purchasers once finalized.

We are doing a standard label with some naming options for the purchaser. There will be no graphics added - only text option. We are still in the preliminary phase of design.

Feel free to call me if you have any more questions. Every indication so far of our barrels and the warm climate maturation is really lending itself to an amazing accelerated maturation similar to warm climate matured whiskies like Amrut. It’s very exciting. We are presenting some not-yet-whisky at VWF this year and I’m very excited about the prospect of sharing our spirit amongst whisky aficionados. In good spirits, Stevely

Hi Grant! Thanks very much for the speedy response. Certainly much appreciated. You have answered all the the questions raised, to date. I will send along your observations to my group, (Eight confirmed investors, as of this writing, but I'm confident that I'll be at the magic number,11, for our "consortium", in the next little while!), and try to take the pulse of aging date and name. 62.5% abv is more than fine, I'm sure. I only mentioned the Shelter Point bottling by way of comparison. Furthermore, if I can be so bold as to speak for the group, I know we don't require fancy-smancy labels, just an old tattered envelope pasted on with the same kind of glue I used to like eating when in Primary School!

Finally, not a big deal, but am wondering if you are doing any tasting, of product in question, at the distillery, over the next few weeks. If so, my wife and I might pop down to Gallagher Lake. Again, just curious. At any rate, thanks again. Will be in touch as recruitment proceeds. In very good spirits indeed, Cheers, Patrizzio! Pic: Our first visit to distillery, last April! Hello Fellow Investors!Here is my response, (see above), to Grant, following message I sent to him, raising a number of questions. Let me know what you think and we'll plan accordingly. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Not sure at Shelter Point has to do with Duhb Glas. Are they the same distillery? If not, don't see the relevance. It would be like buying a case of wine from a winery without ever having tasted their product, but using the quality of a neighboring winery as your guide. Seems like a bit of a "pig in a poke" Hi Colin! You asked some questions, I was only trying to answer as best I could. I used Shelter Point as that is only local malt I've tasted and as an example of abv, particulars of length of aging, with respect to cost, and label. Nothing to do with comparison of product. The craft distillery business is a relatively new venture, at least here in BC, and certainly new to me. I'm not interested in Caledonia offering but in case you are, here is what I just received. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hello Card Sharks! Lady Dar is back where she belongs so we are delighted to host bridge this evening, anytime after 6:30 pm, so let us know who is interested and we'll plan accordingly. Sorry I didn't send this invitation out earlier but I ran into technical problems! (See attached snaps!) Cheers, Patrizzio! Pam was asking could you send out email please. Hi Patrick, I am in for tonight. See you then.

Hi Pamela and Spumoni! We are on so look forward to seeing you both in a couple of hours! Just back from seeing The Wrecking Crew, 60's studio musicians in LA! Fabulous documentary, part of series at the Shatford. Even had whipped cream in my complimentary coffee, along with a delicious peanut butter cookie! Colonel Klink and Double Bass Woman were there as well, spillovers from The Flatlanders. Cheers, Patrizzio! Pics: Flatlanders and Whipped-Cream Woman with some of the treats! 👍

Hello bridge gurus. Just got back from a day Uruguay, Colonial City, wishing you all fun tonight,while we start preparing for our long flight home. Salute, Jos

Hello South Americans! Are you home yet and over jet lag? Can hardly wait to hear about all your adventures and travels, not to mention drinking some of the many bottles you brought back!!! Fondestos to you three, from The Mistress of The Cat Emporium! See everyone soon, I trust. Cheers, Patrizzio!
Hi Patric Looks like the house needs a dog sometimes :-We are back from warm Cuba, but still in Calgary, back to Summerland on Monday. So, if you didn't forget about me I would gladly join the company next time. I am sure you have already forgotten your hip's "little adjustment" and you are as good as new? Kind regards to Lady Dar, Cheers for now Mike

Hello Cuba Libre! Can hardly wait to hear about all your travel adventures, not to mention drinking some of the many bottles of fabulous rum you brought back!!Fondestos to you both, from The Mistress of The Cat Emporium! See you soon, Michaelo, I trust this coming Wednesday. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Lady Dar joined The Flatlanders for their weekly walk and then we met at The Shatford Centre to seeThe Wrecking Crew, 60's studio musicians in LA! Fabulous documentary, part of monthly documentary series at the Shatford. Available on YouTube and Netflix so everyone must see it! Even had whipped cream in my complimentary coffee, along with a delicious peanut butter cookie! Colonel Klink and Double Bass Woman were there as well, spillovers from The Flatlanders. Home to allow Lady Dar to watch The Young and the Useless, avec purring felines on her lap, making up for lost love time!

This evening we hosted bridge and had a great time with Pamela and Spumoni. Pamela brought a fabulous 2012 Stoneboat, (Oliver), Pinotage, 13.9%. [Beforehand, enjoyed a 2015 Township 7 Gewürtztraminer, 12.5%, as a nod to drinkers of whites!] Have never really been a fan of this varietal, developed in South Africa, but this winery's expression is phenomenal. Picked up about four bottles there, when tasting with Flamin' and Sarge, this past Easter, so looking forward to cracking a bottle this weekend. Have the 2013 vintage so curious to see how it compares. Fondestos to you, Malt Glass Gazer, and Marilyn. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Pics: Bridge table. Duke's bidding was better than mine so The Sisterhood insisted he play in my place while I served drinks! Stoneboat Pinotage. Santa, (Naramata Pamela), brought this as an early Christmas present for Mrs Claus and it has become her favourite Xmas tipple! 

Patriçio, I am thinking that if you have 8 of 11 so far, that’s pretty good. Should you have trouble finding more partners, I for one, would entertain the option of going for 1.5 or even 2 shares. Hey, I pumped $90 into the seemingly bottomless gas tank on the monster truck - and it appears I will have to do it again before Rebecca reappears. Her timing is impeccable. I get a dog and an empty tank of gas … she gets the dog back, with a full tank of gas. Hmmm … Oh, and the Shnoz just got a shingles (vaccine) shot which cost more than one share of whiskey futures! Hey, I’ll risk the pain … besides, I don’t think I had chicken pox as a child - ok, mumps but ...

ANYWAY, the point is, the cost of this rather unique experience, in the grand scheme of life, is really not all that bad cheers//bjp Hi Ragin'! Great to chat last night and delighted to learn that you will be making the trek from The Heart of Kits! I know you are weighed with many responsibilities but to the extent that you are able and want, please feel free to come as early as you'd like and stay for as long as you wish. You will have your own bedroom and a key to the malt cabinet! As I mentioned, appreciate the offer of taking more shares. I should know more by the end of weekend, so will be in touch. Fondestos to you, Ragin', from The Cat Emporium! [Etta and Duke were not amused by Dog List but can barely wait to meet Juno!] Cheers, Il Conduttore

Hi Patrick, All I am trying to ascertain is whether or not you or any one you know has ever sampled (and liked) products from this distillery.For example, I have never tried the single malt from the Pemberton Distillery, but would probably recommend it base on the gin and vodka that I tried (and bought) when I was there. Colin  Hello Colin! I have no vested interest, whatsoever, in any given name. The Burns Street Maltage Aficionados was simply a joke, playing on the Robbie Burns allusion. With respect to your concern about comparisons with other distilleries, I stated, in the original message I sent to you, on November 25th, the following:

Malt Men! I'm keen to take part in this offering. If I can drum up 10 fellow investors, (total 11), cost per share would be around $208, which translates into 4 bottles @$52 per bottle. I am very impressed with Grant's product. Have tasted and purchased each one. Noteworthy Gin doesn't last very long, unfortunately! Since malt has always been what drove him to open distillery in the first instance, I have every confidence that it will be something worth having. Anyway, let me know, the sooner the better, what you think and we'll plan accordingly. Cheers, Patrizzio!

To me, since Grant's malt has not been released, this is in line with what you said about Pemberton. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hello Patrick, what a nice invitation! As it turns out, we are having our own holiday party here on December 10th, so let's plan on being together in the holiday spirit long-distance. Have a wonderful time, I know you will, and a great festive month ahead! Best, Pat Hi Patrizzia and Mr Grizzle! Great that we will be hosting Open Houses on the same day! Hip Hip Hooray! We will probably be leaving Penticton on or about December 15th so imagine we will be in your neck of the woods around the 18th or 19th. Need to be in Tinsel Town by 22nd to collect Chloë from LAX. Will you folks be around or taking the train somewhere?
Fondestos to you, Patrizzia, and to The Grumpoid Winemaker, from The Mistress of The Cat Emporium! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Patrick, In case you don't get enough support for your Gallagher Lake cask, here is a final opportunity to participate in the Victoria Caledonia casks.

Cheers from Belo Horizonte, a bit cool today at 25 degrees, Peter

Hello Belo Horizonte Man! Can hardly wait to hear about all your travel adventures, not to mention drinking some of the many bottles of fabulous Cachaca you will bring back!!! On a much more sombre note what is the mood in Brazil following the terrible plane crash. I just finished watching Narcos and Medellín figures prominently, as you know, I'm sure. Heard, only this evening, that pilot had been warned that plane did not have enough fuel, based on flight plane. He insisted there was and then radioed that craft had run out of fuel shortly before crash occurred!

Thanks for forwarding information on Caledonia but Kevin had already done so. Up to 8 investors and believe I'll have 11 by the end of this weekend. Fondestos to you both. See you soon, I trust. Cheers, Patrizzio!

 

 

 


 

Day 73, Post-Op Last Ditch Archivio Blues: Tuesday, November 29th!

The great thing about getting older is that you don't lose all the other ages you've been. -Madeleine L'Engle, writer (29 Nov 1918-2007)

Blue-winged kookaburra

Photo: Mark Helle

Hi Corinne and Patrick, Thank you once again for a most pleasant and entertaining stay with you in Penticton. All is well here and I am catching up with my emails and paperwork plus still struggling with jet lag. Thanks also for the reading list - looking forward to our holiday in Barbados and finding time to read some of the pile of books I have accumulated since my eye operation. Went to the hospital yesterday and have been prescribed yet more drops every day (now up to eight a day) until we get back in January and then they will decide what, if anything, next. The doctors promise me it is on the mend but it is certainly taking a long time to adjust to the lens implant. Keep telling myself it could be worse since I can still see!

Andre informs me that he has booked his return to Vancouver on Tuesday April 4th and I might take the opportunity to visit good friends in Singapore around this time. Hope this helps with your planning for your forthcoming trip to Europe. Andre will certainly be in Chabeuil for the entire month of March and to date my diary only has commitments in Brussels on 22nd and 23rd, returning on Friday 24th, so should be around most of the time too. Just let me know when you might be visiting us once your itinerary develops and we will slot you into our diaries accordingly.

Corinne - I hope you enjoyed your visit to Vancouver this past weekend catching up with friends and Chloe. Really sorry we cannot join you for your Open House next month - my thought will be with you - have a fun time. Look forward to hearing from you soon. Take care. Much love, Rosemary XXX

Hi Patrick. Thank you so much for the invitation to your open house. Judi is performing in her Musaic Choir concert that afternoon but once she's back from Summerland we plan to drop in and join the fun. See you then. Kevin & Judi Hi Kevin and Dame Judi! Wonderful that you will join us! It is a drop-in so anytime you arrive is just dandy. We'll be sure to have the red carpet out on the front sidewalk for Dame Judi's royal entrance, accompanied by her malt-swilling paramour! Cheers, Lady Dar's Court Fool, [emphasis on "Fool", according to her Imperiousness!], and Jester Patrizzio!

Time Travel is now possible with Double Air Miles from Trump Hot Air BUFFOONS!

Hi Glory Days Boy! Are you still trying to get Back to the Future so that you can make a U-turn into the Past? Please take Etta and Duke with you and leave them there! Entre Nous, Sally mentioned that you might consider staying there as well but I believe she was kidding! Cheers, affectionately, H.G Wells!  Hi Arv and Clarisse! Looking to regain your lost youth? Cheers, Patrizzio! What a great sign......you can really find them.......see you back there......A & S 

Hi Big Al! Great that you will participate in malt futures. I'll be in touch with group as soon as I've signed up three more investors. If nobody else is forthcoming, I think Ragin' and I will go for 2.5 shares apiece to give the requisite number of investors, based on $208 per share. [Must take issue with your choice of names.  "Burns Street" is of relevance only to you.  "Maltage" is French for malting, that is, the process of malting, and is therefore somewhat confusing.  "Malt Whisky Aficionados" would make more sense.]

Lady Dar returned late this evening, (She had a terrific time, aside for simply deplorable weather! Rain, rain and more heavy, torrential rain, as I need not tell you!), but we don't seem to have had a moment to sit down and make some definite travel plans for our European junket, this coming March. However, we need to do this, obviously for a variety of reasons, but social schedule ahead may well make it difficult. Per esempio, she left at 10:00 am this morning, to drive with a number of friends from Grandmothers For Africa, to participate in a Flash-Mob performance at at shopping mall in Kelowna, in support of World AIDS Day. Then back to Penticton for a similar gig at Cherry Lane, at 1:30 pm.

Yesterday she joined The Flatlanders for their weekly walk and then we met at The Shatford Centre to see The Wrecking Crew, 60's studio musicians in LA! Fabulous documentary, part of monthly documentary series at the Shatford. Available on YouTube and Netflix so you must see it, if you haven't already! Even had whipped cream in my complimentary coffee, along with a delicious peanut butter cookie! Colonel Klink and Double Bass Woman were there as well, spillovers from The Flatlanders. Home to allow Lady Dar to watch The Young and the Useless, avec purring felines on her lap, making up for lost love time!

That evening we hosted bridge and had a great time with Pamela and Spumoni. Pamela brought a fabulous 2012 Stoneboat, (Oliver), Pinotage, 13.9%. [Beforehand, enjoyed a 2015 Township 7 Gewürtztraminer, 12.5%, as a nod to drinkers of whites!] Have never really been a fan of this varietal, developed in South Africa, but this winery's expression is phenomenal. Picked up about four bottles there, when tasting with Flamin' and Sarge, this past Easter, so looking forward to cracking a bottle this weekend. Have the 2013 vintage so curious to see how it compares.

Out for dinner, on Saturday, at the home of  friends, Nancita and Guillermo, just down Burns, a block north of us so we can walk! Farmers' Market, at the Shatford, earlier that morning. Lady Dar wants to buy a Christmas wreath for front door, as well as various vegetables, cheeses, etc. Sunday we are having five for dinner, (Pamela and her husband, Bill; Sandy, [Double Bass Woman], and her husband, Norberto, and Spumoni), so perhaps we can talk about our European junket on Friday evening!

I walked to Community Centre for my React session this afternoon. Lovely, crisp day, so really enjoyed the jaunt. Did a few minuted over an hour of deep water walking. Pleased as punch as I did 21 circuits, (back and forth from drop-off to edge of pool), in just a little over time it took me to do 17 on Tuesday, so believe I am getting stronger and more efficient. On walk home I noticed how much snow there is on the surrounding hills. Realized I'd left my "gripper" at the pool so called Lady Dar, out running errands, and she popped by facility to collect it.

Must way as I'm charged with making a salad. Lady Dar is unable to get up as she is weighed down by adoring cats. I cannot believe that she has managed to hook them on soaps! Fondestos to you, Malt Glass Gazer, and Marilyn. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Pics: Shatford film with Flatlanders, (Double Bass Woman, {Sandy plays with a guitarist at various gigs at local wineries}, on left, and Colonel Klink, hike leader for many of our outings!), and Whipped-Cream Woman with some of the treats! Love Fest upon return from Vancouver! Bridge table. Duke's bidding was better than mine so The Sisterhood insisted he play in my place while I served drinks! Stoneboat Pinotage. Santa, (Naramata Pamela), brought this as an early Christmas present for Mrs Claus and it has become her favourite Xmas tipple! Cat blanket blues! 
       
Dear Patrick, those feline friends make wonderful companions on those cold winter nights!  Glad to hear you are back on track! xxx 

Hi Birthday Planner! Hope your Mother's health has improved and that all goes well with birthday plans. Fondestos to you, Jean, and to John. Cheers, Patrizzio!

 
Hey Parsifal! Thanks for the clarification as the intent was certainly lost on me. CC PS Let me know when you need more bridge prizes, however unless you can wait until the New Year you will have to come and pick them up. No way do I go to the post office this time of year!  Hi Wagner! Your "Parsifal" allusion is certainly lost on me! As Belafonte sang, "It was clear as mud but it covered the ground/The confusion made me head go round!" Always need more bridge prizes but perhaps we'll collect them on way back from Tinsel Town, after Christmas when we'll need to sell them to cover the cost of stay in the US! Fondestos to you, Champagne, and our O Susannah. Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Your cats seem to be very interested in books. They must be taking after their owners. See you again last week, and really looking forward to it. Best regards,

remilf. Hi Remilf! This name is lost on me! Etta is a bookworm but Duke favours card games, bridge in particular! Just like their owners, as you said! Lady Dar returned next Tuesday. Fondestos to you, Filmer, and our Sally. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi D, Just got this email from Joie!!! Never to late to order more wine/bubbly!!! ;) XX Hi Money-Bags! Great idea but just another reason to move here and join some wine clubs! Until then, I plan to sell Etta and Duke for a case of Joie bubbly. Fondestos, Love and Cheers, Dad!On way home, Cora led

Patreiçio, Although I like cats, and I am looking forward to meeting Duke & Etta, I must pass this important information on (about Dogs). The reality is, cats are fundamentally narcissistic little creatures. Dogs on the other hand, are great companions. Here are some reasons why …1. The later you are, the more excited your dog is to see you. 2. Dogs don’t notice if you call them by another dog’s name. 3. Dogs like it if you leave a lot of things on the floor. 4. A dog’s parents never visit. 5. Dogs agree that you have to raise your voice to get your point across. 6. Dogs like to do their snooping outside rather than in your desk or wallet. 7. You never have to wait for a dog, they’re ready to go, 24/7. 8. Dogs find you amusing when you’re drunk. 9. Dogs like to go hunting and fishing and hiking. 10. A dog will not wake you up in the middle of the night to ask, “If I died, would you get another dog?” 11. If a dog has babies you can put an ad in the paper and give hem away. 12. A dog will let you put a studded collar on it without calling you a pervert. 13. If a dog smells another dog on you they don’t go mad. They just think it’s interesting. 14 Dogs like to ride in the back of pick-up trucks. 15. If a dog leaves, it won’t take half your stuff And, most revealing , …Try locking your dog and your wife in the trunk of your car for a couple of hours. See who is happier to see you when you let them out!

Message from Tony…..Hike Thursday 1 December Hello Thursday hikers This week Kilian, Tony and Henry will explore a route from Deer Ridge to the peaks of Cartwright and wander back down by a different way. Meet at HH 0840 or Summerland IGA 0900. See you then Tony

  

Day 72, Post-Op Lady Dar's Clothes-Closet Blues: Monday, November 28th!

Language is a form of human reason, which has its internal logic of which man knows nothing. -Claude Levi-Strauss, anthropologist (1908-2009) 

Photo: Alex Turton

One law for the lion and ox is oppression. -William Blake, poet, engraver, and painter (28 Nov 1757-1827) 

Hello Patricio and your hot pussies! (Did you find them on a Russian web site?) Thanks very much for the kind invitation. Would that we were free to hop in the car and head up Burns Street to drink Red Truck Ale with you and your lovely wife. Sadly, I will at that time be on Sidney Island managing the control of the evil Fallow Deer. (As was said on South Park, "if we don't shoot them, they will die.") Best wishes to you and The Fair Madame, With manly hugs and formal Christmas greetings to follow, Ross ps: I hope your hip is healing well.  

Hi Deer Hunter! Great to hear from you although terribly disappointed that you won't be able to join us! Of course I knew it was a long-shot, [With a CIA high-powered, telescopic-sight mounted, full metal jacket clipped, semi-automatic Fallow Deer Destroyer!], but one never knows! Must away as I will be spending more time, (up to 80 minutes now!), on stationary bike. Thanks for best wishes on rehab as well as, in anticipation, Christmas wishes! Same to you, Mike Vronsky/Robert De Niro! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio

If I read this right Greg and Clare must becoming to BC. Hi Beach Boy!
How's life in palm tree land? Great to hear from you, between surfing and drinking cocktails with tiny umbrellas! Playing any bridge? Yes, as far as I know, Claire and Gregory plan to visit to ride in GranFondo. Don't know anything else, in terms of length of trip, etc. Fondestos to one and all. Cheers, Patrizzio! Headed home after 19 days. Back to reality. Trust with plenty of Duty-Free hootch to smooth re-entry! I wish you a safe and soft landing! Cheers, Rizzo!

To our supporters and friends of the Writers Fest, Many of you would have worked with Ann McDonell in her capacity as Director of Marketing and Development for the Vancouver Writers Fest over the past 15 years. In 2016 Ann took a leave to spend some time in New Zealand. We wanted to let you know that after her sabbatical is up Ann will not be returning to the Writers Fest. That job has been permanently divided into two - Andrew Forshner will be responsible for development and Zoe Grams of ZG Communications will be responsible for marketing and publicity. We are very grateful to Ann for her long service and her great contribution to making the Vancouver Writers Fest what it is today. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact either of us. Warm wishes, Nicole and Hal

Hi! Well it is 2 a.m. and I seem to be up so I thought I would write. How are you and your feline companions coping on your own?  Probably feeding the darlings Foie Gras to sooth their souls as they purr blissfully with contentment.  Speaking of Foie Gras we were out tonight and had just that for dinner along with Cedar Plank Salmon followed by Chocolate truffles.  Drinking and chocolate equals over stimulation and the Melatonin still is not working.  Oh dear!

We were out celebrating; first we have a dog sitter as I have told you, Zoe who was looking after the hounds.  Not that they need looking after, but tonight Zoe had to learn to give Tess her seizure medications and then put them to bed which worked like a charm.  Secondly, I am finally finished organizing the big Birthday event for my Mom after ten months.  Oh my gosh!  One would say, really!!  But true, always a little crazy to say the least.  Mom is not doing well, has had pneumonia for a couple of months and now deteriating fast, I will be surprised if she makes it to her birthday, here’s hoping!

Are you walking yet?  It sounds like you are doing lots of physio which is wonderful and being the crazed cyclist that you continually setting new goals which is good!

We are off on Friday and temps. In Wpg. will be hovering at -5.  I am super organized and have everything in place.  Siblings, cousins fly in Friday night, minimal amount Of setting up the hall, tablecloths, wine glasses & red napkins, will be done by my brother & son, I just need to put out the Reserved table signs, etc. then and we all plan to meet for dinner at the Forks.  Sat. red balloons & catering co. arrive at 10 a.m. Cakes arrive at 11 a.m. and guests arrive at 11:30.  As I am doing the MC-ing plan to start at 12:30. Recognizing first my Mom, then all the Performing Artists, Directors & Conductors, Family & letters from the Queen & Governor General, John had them framed for Mom.  There will be 135 guests. 

Flow of the Concert will run smoothly; even have my accordionist who plans on wearing a tuxedo as he will be doing a fair share of the entertaining in between costume changes of the dancers, orchestra and singers. Catering co. has been superb, appetizers on the table at noon, with Wpg. Rye bread & a variety of cheeses. After the concert dinner at 2:15 will be served, perogies & cabbage rolls on the table, turkey, etc. served.  John put together 500 slides of family which will be viewed as guests enjoy their delicious Ukrainian food.

Folk group “The Three Blind Mice” will perform after dinner, then I will read my story, then “Happy Birthday” then serving of the four tiered chocolate cake with chocolate Gnache filling, white icing and Red roses.  Whilst family serves the cake, Mike the accordionist will wander amongst the guests playing his tunes. The event will end around five or six, everyone will head back to the ‘Forks” where we plan to have our dinner at the Beach Comber around 8 pm.  

Sunday heading to the Zoo.  They have a new restaurant in the

Polar Bear Tundra.  Fifteen ft. glass walls that expand to about 150 ft as polar bears come right up to the window whilst you eat. Then dinner at 7:30 at the “Inn at the Forks” where we are all staying.  Monday home….Yeh!!!  Not to shabby, I must admit.  I certainly did my share of organizing, actually I thoroughly enjoyed it as I felt it was an excellent way of keeping the mind fit especially at 72, Oh dear!  Time is moving just too fast.

Already planning what I will do next and plan to paint portraits of my Dalmatians and try to get back into painting  full time.  Plus I have to get back to my book that I was writing, Benson was narrating.  I don’t read fiction, yet here I am writing fiction. No maybe it is a biography which I enjoy reading & with the dogs narrating it seemed to come to life I really started to believe it was true. A little mad indeed!  Time is running out, Oh dear!!

Exciting week, obsessed with reading everything on the Trumpster, the con man manipulating fifty seven million people. States are in trouble, I strongly believe that Putin had his way manipulating the ballots being so close as they were.  We will all know soon enough as the recount begins in three states. Talk to you when we get back.Love, Jean

Hi Jean! Great to hear from you although distressed to learn that your dear Mom has been suffering from pneumonia! Can only hope her strength will allow her to enjoy the truly wonderful birthday you've put an ocean of love and time into organizing. Yes, I've been walking for more than two months now. Up to 80 minutes, per session, on stationary bike, so can hardly wait to be back in the road bike saddle in a couple of weeks, but probably not until we are in Tinsel Town. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Sandee and Arv! Did you know that Lady Dar and I were both at the airport, [our first date!], in Wheatland, near Rivers, near Brandon, in November, 1951, I think, when Princess Elizabeth, Duchess of Edinburgh, and the Duke of Edinburgh, were there on their royal tour of Canada! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Wild Bill! Almost as good as The Ten Commandments! Cheers, Patrizzio!

The daughter of my sister Glenna's friend spotted these photos posted at the Crescentwood Community Club, here in Winnipeg. I believe Crescentwood, River Heights and either William Ostler or Sir John Franklin Community Clubs are now amalgamated to save on business administration costs. Anyway, At least 20% of the people in this photograph have now since passed away. 2 of them played in the NHL For the record, during practice Bob Winograd, to the right of me in the photo, ripped off 2 of my fingernails with his powerful shot. I remember ducking one that would have taken my head off. We won and they lost and that's what's important, right? Love your cats. 

Hi Glory Days! Fabulous snaps! Was that Springsteen song about you? Funnily enough, in my Playground Hockey Glory Days, Isaac Brock beat Crescentwood in the final of the Christmas Knock-out Tournament, played at the Winniepg Arena, at the time. We went on to beat Grand Forks, there, in January, I think. Back in the finals of the Playround A Division, that same season, we lost to River Heights in the last minutes of the Third Period with a slap-shot, from the blue line, by Brian Stevenson. [I believe his older brother was a goalie on one of Father David Bauer's Olympic teams.] Hung up my skates after that to eventually become a Tour de France super-star! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Patrizio! Thanks for the mini-reviews on new movies. We’re still trying make it out of the office to see Dr. Strange, however wouldn’t mind seeing Allied also. Would love all the references to Casablanca and that time in history. Yes, also a lot of catching up to do with what’s on tv and the rest of the goings on at Pitchford chateaux.

Even though I am highly allergic to cats I love the pictures. I know how much both our kids are attached to them. Jeremy has yet to leave for the East Coast (any day now) but he is also having to include arrangements to fly with “Butter” the cat. Look forward to another stay with you and/or Lady Dar anytime at our place. All the best, Charlie! Hi Patrick and Corinne! Sadly Susan and I are unable to make the soiree, but thanks for the invite. We will definitely finally see you this Spring/Summer in between all our (and your) other worldly journeys. All the best during this festive season! Charlie & Susan Hi Carlos! Great to hear from you although terribly disappointed that you won't be able to join us! Of course I knew it was a long-shot but one never knows! You must be in cahoots with The Penguin as she can't make it either!Thanks for Christmas wishes. Same to you and my favourite, O Susannah! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Kitten pics please Hi Chloë and The Sisterhood! If I didn't have to spend so much time with your overly demanding kittens I'd have time enough to send along more snaps! Received the paw on the lips treatment from Duke this morning at 7:15 am so am looking forward to having Lady Dar back, if only for the fact that she will be her target once she's home! While I have  preparing their breakfast these last few days, Duke insists on wrapping his paws around one leg or another, and not without using his needle-like nails! Once they'd eaten they dashed outside to supervise the collection of the garbage and the yard waste, standing on the table, observing through the lattice work on the fence.One of the tasks I'd set for myself today included putting up another bar of hooks against end wall of closet so that Imelda can hang her designer purses up, instead of piling them atop her 1,000 pairs of designer shoes!!! While I was doing this both Etta and Duke were in and out of the closet, Etta trying to climb on the second shelf, towards the end. Duke, of course, sat on the top storage tub and insisted on pawing every tool I used, wanting to flick every screw I needed, onto the carpet. Bit difficult to install anything when you are under constant attack! every time I needed to return to garage for something I was accompanied by a thundering herd who would them proceed to chew the maples or else climb inside the cabinets!

Finally managed to finish attaching hook bar and I hope it will be a useful improvement! Gave them dinner then and had a bit of peace and quiet while I made my own salad and heated up some stew. Finished last two episode of Narcos and had a black cat nestled on my knees, on a folded blanket, purring so loudly I had to increase the volume!  Did a few dishes and then watched next episode of Low Winter Sun before brushing and flossing, Duke right beside me. Tonight he pawed the brush and did a partial parrot, standing, gopher-like, one paw on my shoulder, the other on the lip of the medicine cabinet, admiring himself in the mirror!

Etta was nowhere to be seen but when I returned to the office to start this message she arrived and there was all sorts of tussling going on. Didn't pay much attention until I heard the tell-tale sound the paint-platform makes when they step on it such that it tips. Turned around to see the two of them fighting on the top of the step-ladder. Miss Etta even climbed onto the fourth shelf up so I knew I needed to move the ladder, otherwise I had visions of all the ornaments and such being knocked or pulled down.

Next victim was my camel-pack, hanging on hooks behind the door. Some of the straps hang don and they love to claw them. Fine but they managed to pull the door into the pictures hanging beside the bed and I was worried they might damage them somehow. decided to put it in the closet so when I made to do so Duke followed and proceeded to leap into the large bag containing my old desktop! I think I'll let them cool their heels in the crawl space tonight!

Now they are fighting on the tea trolley, Etta perched atop the silver chest while Duke is trying to dislodge her, popping up from one side or another! Her tail is really swishing so she's not happy. She just escaped to the towel on top of the mirror to groom herself for the night. Managed to catch a flurry of wrestling there. Didn't last long as I think/hope fighting is winding down, although Duke is strategizing from beneath the ladder! Must away as I'm sleepy now. Much Love and cheers, Dad/Patrizzio! Pics: End of a yawn! Stepladder/shelving blues! At rest!
 
Hi Patrizzio, I thought I might be leaving early then returning for Christmas..then leaving again but staying until after the holidays was the smarter decision. Your open house sounds wonderful. I'd love to come and hopefully Tanner and Brittany can make it too. Aside from drinks...can I brink something to share as well...food wise? Thanks very much for the invite. P.S. I look forward to meeting your room mates. I'd bring my chihuahua but she'd be outsized...and outnumbered. Judi Skinner.

Hi Judi! Wonderful that you will join us! It is a drop-in so anytime you arrive is just dandy. Do hope Tanner and Brittany, (girlfriend?), can come as well. We'll be sure to have the red carpet out on the front sidewalk for your royal entrance, Etta and Duke escorting you into house!

Thank you for your kind and generous offer to bring something to share. Much appreciated, indeed. If you have a favourite appetizer or a dessert of some kind that would be lovely. If the kittens don't start behaving we'll be serving cat's paws dipped in white chocolate! Cheers, Lady Dar's Court Fool, [emphasis on "Fool", according to her Imperiousness!], and Jester Patrizzio! Pics: I'm doing a bit of organizing in my office so needed a stepladder. This is the result! At rest!

Sorry to be so slow to reply but have been very distracted lately. When I finally checked my calendar I find we have committed to another event. My loss!, Colleen Hi Colleen This is a drop in so you can anytime before or after your other event Cheers Corinne Hi Colonel Klink! Let me echo Lady Dar's sentiments. At any rate you need to spend some time with out felines.  We'll be sure to have the red carpet out on the front sidewalk for your military entrance, Etta and Duke escorting you into house, crossed paws overhead! Certainly hope to see you as I've missed listening to your barked orders! Cheers, Patrizzio! 

Hey Patrizio, Thanks for the email to Janet (probably meant to send to me) Just following up to make sure you have shared your thoughts with the real Janet, alias The Penguin. Or perhaps you have already started on the spirits? Please feel free to invite me over BEFORE you start thinking about burning $$ bills. It might be worth a trip into your neck of the woods just for that. CC

Hi CC Rider! I used "Janet" intentionally, as she mentioned that she was still miffed you hadn't insisted on her taking any bridge prizes! Wanted to prick your conscience!!! Don't worry about me burning any large denomination bills as Lady Dar incinerates cash as if it grew on trees! With respect to spirits, in fact, I haven't touched a drop since Lady Dar has been away. Not need as no stress! Cats are keen for you to visit so hurry up. Quite talking and put your petrol to work! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi! Everyon The Xmas festivities have begun and we will be hosting our annual Xmas Open House on FRIDAY, DEC. 16th @ 6:00 pm till ?????? 

We would like to invite all of you to drop by for some Xmas cheer, a bite to eat, a drink & enjoy some fun & laughter with friends.

If you would like to contribute an appetizer or dessert, that would be great!!

We look forward to seeing you in a few weeks!! Cheers!! Mary Lee & Paul

 
 

  

Day 71, Post-Op Office Clean-up Ultimatum Blues: Sunday, November 27th!

A man too busy to take care of his health is like a mechanic too busy to take care of his tools. -Spanish proverb

Open House: This is going to be a fantastic event! I wish I lived closer!!! Will be thinking of you from Sun Peaks :). Have a lovely time with all your friends and family! Take Care, Ariane ��������

Hi Ariane! Sorry you won't be able to join us! Of course I knew it was a long-shot but one never knows!  Fondestos to one and all. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Thanks for the invite Patrick. We regret that we will not be able to make the trek over treacherous mountain passes this year. Have a great party and we'll hope to see you soon. Cheers....Paul & Joan [OK - count me in. Apologies for not responding sooner. Cheers....Paul] Hi Paolo! Sorry you won't be able to join us! Of course I knew it was a long-shot but one never knows! Thanks for letting me know about malt offering. Glad you are part of The Consortium but not nearly as pushy as some. I thought that being in charge of VRC's Doubles teams was headache enough!

I note that in the contract it says the hooch will be bottled at cask strength.  Do they have any approximation of what this might be? Also, what will the label be?  I suggest that as a group, the 11 of us find a mutually acceptable name.  Something with class - perhaps the Burn's Whisky Aficionados. 

As El Jefe I would amend name to The Burns Street Maltage Aficionados! Cheers, Patrizzio! Cheers, Patrizzio! Tummler, count me in. W Hi Giorgio!  Good Monday Morning! Trust your recovery from a wild weekend is proceedingl as it should! Cheers, Il Conduttore!

I am interested, but would like to know if you are going for option one or option two. Colin Hi Colin! Delighted to learn you are in, or potentially so! I think most people will want the 3.5 year version but, at this point, I'm open to what group might want. With you and me there are five interested investors so far. If you know anyone else who might be keen, please pass along information. I'm still waiting to hear back from two or three other friends so I'm hoping to reach the "magic" number of 11 in the not too, too distant future. Let me know what you think and we'll plan accordingly. Cheers, Patrizzio!
 

Hi Patrice, Lol!.. unfortunately although it's satirical it really isn't that far off! Sorry for the lag in responding to the last email and after finally catching up on it I really enjoyed the Tony Onley paintings. I did not know that he was in Pentiction and I agree it must be fascinating to see some of the landscapes you are now familiar with and which are timeless.

Construction is progressing well and I started the replacement of the decrepit front stairs which were definitely a liability and at the end of their life. Of course before doing so I had to go under the porch and Jack it up and put a beam underneath to support it as the whole thing was sagging in the center due some extremely shoddy workmanship. I got it all shored up and done properly so can install the new stairs today. I also got the rotten front lower deck rebuilt and laid the new plywood which will be the new front room floor as well as framed in the front wall which will be a copy of the current wall/door /window scenario but 4 feet further out. I am hoping to have these to things complete and pull out of here with a trailer load of debris on Tuesday morning so crossing fingers it all goes well today and tomorrow.

Jeremy and Lil are here helping me and are a real pleasure to have around, especially with Jeremy's gourmet cooking abilities!. I have been spoiled in that regard!!. They really enjoy being here as well and I like having the company and a helping hand when and where I need it. I ran out of work over at the new place for a while but had them doing a short day at the old place cleaning and polishing. and will do more of the same today. I explained that I didn't have too much work for them and they were ok with just relaxing and going for walks with Sally as well so working out perfectly.
 

Jim came for a visit last night and we had a great time reminiscing about stuff and the kids and him had lots to talk about as they were there for a year and had some problems with certain people and made the decision to leave and consider their options. Jim was also there for about two years and knew a lot of the same people so they had plenty to talk about.

I just received an email from my new neighbour to the south of the new place. He has concerns about what I am building as he sees that I plan on having a deck out front and is worried about his privacy and the possibility of unruly renters causing a disturbance. I need to write back to reassure him that he need not woory as we will be filtering out undesirables and having a dialogue with him constucting some kind of privacy screening to ensure he has privacy and in fact will be much better than what he alreadty has in place. I knew something was up as i spoke to him briefly about maybe removing some brnches to let some light through the trees and he dismissed it quickly citing privacy concerns. I knew he wasn't on the same page and planned on addressing it again at some point but seeing as he wrote me I will elaborate on my plans to put him at ease. I will forward you a copy for your reading pleasure. Give my love to Corriandre, Etta and Duke and we'll talk soon

Hi Big Al! Great to hear that you have been able to accomplish so much of the work you wanted to do! Hip Hip Hooray! However, while I thought that you were living a dog's life, eating cold beans out of a can, I see that you are ensconced in and dining at a 5☆ restaurant! Every picture tells a story! Thanks for the wonderful visual evidence. For my part, I'm quite enjoying the peace and solitude, [Although not quite "peace" and "solitude" with the rambunctious felines!], of being able to do whatever I want, whenever I want! Of course, Lady Dar would say that that is what I do anyway!!!

In fact, I did make a start on "re-ordering" my office. Started by taking all the clothes, basically T-shirts and sweaters, which I had in the closet, on a shelf above entrance to crawl space, to re-locate them to the top shelves in Lady Dar's Olympic-size walk-in! Even picked up a nifty 4.5' step ladder at Rona that afternoon, regularly about $60 but on Black Friday Sale for
Must away if I'm to accomplish what I said I was planning to do. Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

PS: Are you interested in the malt offering? No big deal but I'd like to know so that I can plan accordingly. What about Paul? Thanks. Pics: Felines at rest! 

You have tasted (I hope) the various versions.  Is 3.5 yrs. enough aging?   What is the minimum for single malt Scotch? Colin Hi Patrick, I note that in the contract it says the hooch will be bottled at cask strength. Do they have any approximation of what this might be?
Also, what will the label be? I suggest that as a group, the 11 of us find a mutually acceptable name. Something with class - perhaps the Burn's Whisky Aficionados. Colin

Hi Colin! No, I have not tasted any malt from Dubh Glas but I have had some of Shelter Point's 3.5 year old and was very impressed. I await my four bottles, supposed to be delivered before Christmas! According to Wikipedia, "Single Malt Scotch Whisky" must be made exclusively from malted barley (although the addition of E150A caramel colouring is allowed), must be distilled using pot stills at a single distillery, and must be aged for at least three years in oak casks of a capacity not exceeding 700 litres (150 imperial gallons; 180 US gallons)."

I will ask Grant what strength he plans for release and if there is any choice. There was a fair bit of flexibility with release from Shelter Point. Investors decided upon 62%. So far, for Dubh Glas, everyone, (7), seems to be leaning towards release after 3.5 years. Being the most accommodating of organizers I'm open to the popular vote, a la Donald! Perhaps you could undertake to poll investors and and analyze search results if/when we have all the investors required. Of course, I'll forward names/email addresses, etc. Have attached the label the group approved from Shelter Point, as an example. Again, I'll ask Grant about this aspect of release and will be in touch as soon as I have answers to these questions/details. Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Grant! Trust you are well. Have a couple of questions from some investors, (7, as of this writing), so here they are: What strength is planned for release and is there any choice? There was a fair bit of flexibility with release from Shelter Point. Investors decided upon 62%. So far, everyone seems to be leaning towards release after 3.5 years. Again, what would be the cost(s) for a longer maturation period(s)? Lastly, is there a choice regarding label? Not a big deal, as far as I'm concerned, but just curious. Have attached the label from Shelter Point the group approved, as an example. Let me know, when you've a moment in what I imagine is an incredibly busy life! All the best. Cheers, Patrizzio! Not interested Patrick but thank you Hi Glasgow! Great to hear from you about malt. Knew it was probably a long-shot but one never knows! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Tummler's Tipple. Tummler's Schmaltz. Hoping for 60% plus, of course. W

Patrizzio's Porch Climber! Cora Lee's Chain Cleaner! Duke's Drink/Etta's Juice! As Leonard said, "Why not ask for more?" 65% and up, up, up! Cheers, Il Conduttore! Must take issue with your choice of names.  "Burns Street" is of relevance only to you. "Maltage" is French for malting, that is, the process of malting, and is therefore somewhat confusing.  "Malt Whisky Aficionados" would make more sense.

Hi Patrizzio, it was a real pleasure to meet you as well. We had a lot of fun and always seem to learn something new...which is the whole idea of course.At this time I'm not prepared to invest in a keg but I will always be happy to help taste the product as it matures. lol. I still plan to leave for Cabo, Mexico in the new year so I have lots going on. I may be living on tacos for awhile but I'll have lots of great stories and hope to learn more about the International world..wine, whiskey...whatever. Have a great Christmas and New Years we we don't meet up before I go. Judi Skinner. Hi Judi! Sorry you won't be an investor but we'll certainly invite you and Tanner to any tastings! I thought you were off to Mexico in December, sometime, but since not until 2017, please come to our Open House! Cheers, Patrizzio!

Sounds like a fabulous, not to miss event. Sadly, I have a previous engagement and will have to decline the invitation. Thrilled to be on the invite list however!  Hope you and The fabulous Lady Dar have a wonderful holiday season. �� Big hugs to you both, Janet Hi Janet! Great to hear from you although terribly disappointed that you won't be able to join us! Of course I knew it was a long-shot but one never knows! Thanks for Christmas wishes. Same to you, Janet, and Gladys Knight and the Pips! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!

Hi Pat and Corinne, Thanks for the invite. We'd love to come, but unfortunately it won't work this year. However, we'll join you in spirit and wish you have very merry time with everyone. Ruth Hi Little White! Lovely to hear from you. Thanks so much for Christmas wishes. Same to you, my Darling, the Grumpster and all at the Squamish Waldorf! Fondestos and Cheers, Patrizzio!