Staying Grounded

   Very sad today about the horrific air crash in Iran. Lots of Canadians on board so many grieving families here. I only hope it turns out to have been an accident (or an accidental missile as the P.M. is proposing). I am worried things will escalate in the Middle East.

   I think the time has come for me to forego any more overseas flights. I have been thinking about this for some time (my last overseas trip was to Greece in October, 2018). There are plenty of places to visit in North America and I have always enjoyed rail travel. Time to get out the brochures and see what's available.

All Wined Up

   It was a very chilly day, -10C, but I spent the afternoon with 10 like-minded friends sampling wines, nibbling food and setting the world to rights.

    These are not the actual wines as they have been consigned to the recycling bin.

     It was the monthly meeting of the Probus Wine Tasters club and Elizabeth and I were co-hosts at her house. We served 2 whites, a zinfandel and 2 reds in a blind tasting. When the scores were totted up the wines all scored very closely together but this was because people either loved or disliked them. For instance, the Zinfandel had a high score of 42 (out of 50) and a low score of 17. So an average of 34. It's lots of fun and we grew more and more mellow as the afternoon progressed. Following delicious desserts and coffee we all trundled home and I, for one, won't need a meal this evening.

Ready for another tasting.

A Good Read

    

This title was on our reading list for the book club and I was reluctant to start it. But now that I have, I can't put it down. What a fascinating life she has led, quite inspirational. Do try to get hold of a copy - it is well worth the effort.

Into the New Year

   I have had a pleasant three days of doing almost nothing after the business of the holidays. I did get a few cleaning chores completed but not close to the routine I was taught to adhere to. Before the New Year, all dust and cobwebs had to be brushed out the door. Lots of cobwebs in my basement.

   I have read a lot, worked on a jigsaw puzzle and had a few long walks. The weather has been quite mild (today +7C) so it was pleasant to be out walking the ravines. Also today saw the return to Friday pickleball and I put in a couple of hours of intense physical activity at the community centre. Next week it is back to a busy social calendar and a more healthy eating regime. The chocolates are all gone!