You probably already know what this term means, but I did not. Last week, BJ and I went to Whistler for a few days of recreation. I skied a day and we snowshoed together a day. While there, we stayed in a nice little lodge/hotel that is described in the promotional material as a “European-style hotel.” We figure this means that the place has no elevator, a not insignificant fact if you are carrying ski gear and you are not staying on the first floor.

On the subject of skiing, the Rotary exchange student staying with us went to Hurricane Ridge to ski with her friends. She had taken a lesson at Stevens Pass a couple of weeks back. Experience is a great teacher as she discovered the stark reality of the difference between a “magic carpet” used by beginning skiers at Stevens Pass and the rope tow at Hurricane Ridge. It is a rude lesson compounding the pain of regular crashes in the snow.

The recent Port Ludlow Performing Arts presentation of “Duetto” was as good as advertised. Bernardo Bermudez and Victoria Robertson demonstrated terrific singing skills, with a wide range of offerings for the appreciative audience. The end of their concert saw them including the Chimacum High School Choir singing “Funiculi, Funicula.” As with most good entertainers today, they spent some time wandering through the audience engaging with individual patrons in one way or another.

Given that Richard Smith and wife Judy were again in the front row, Victoria found it convenient to perch on his lap. Richard immediately put his hand on Judy’s, probably intending to show her that all was OK.

One of the stars of the Broadway show “The Illusionists” is at the Bay Club this Saturday. He is Adam Trent and is described by some (not me) as a cross between Justin Timberlake and David Copperfield. He is said to be one of a new generation of magicians and is sure to provide unusual entertainment for the evening. The show starts at 7:30 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30. I’m not fooling you.

The East Jefferson Rotary Club rose sale is again providing you with an opportunity to beautify your neighborhood, your home and your life. The roses are available in red, pink, yellow and white at $20 per dozen. Contact your favorite Rotarian and order by March 31 to guarantee getting the color you want. After that, you may or may not get the desired color. The roses will be delivered to you or whomever you designate on April 27.

And now for a piece of bad news: You lose an hour this weekend as we all “spring forward” and change our clocks, recognizing Daylight Saving Time.

Finally, here is another piece of Zen sarcasm: “Generally speaking, you aren’t learning much when your lips are moving.”

Love a curmudgeon and have a great week!

(Contact Port Ludlow resident Ned Luce at

nedluce@sbcglobal.net.)