We had very special visitors this week. Patrick and his partner Kathleen stayed with us and left a gaping hole in our household when they left this morning. They're probably flying right now, remembering the bottle of champagne Kathleen won in a supermarket fruit machine promotion and how well it went with the oysters we had bought that day.
It was a great pleasure to have such intelligent, curious and generous people around us.
Kathleen is a very knowledgeable woman, for whom the English language holds no secrets and reveals many treasures. She's a thoughtful person, always ready to share her experiences and lend a sympathetic ear on any subject. Kathleen nurtures. Thoughts and ideas grow and make sense with her gentle input. She finds beauty in unusual places and can interpret the symbolism locked in all kinds of art from centuries past. She's also a wonderful cook and affectionate companion.
Patrick is very intense and his insights into history are very enriching. The man has so much enthusiasm for a vast range of interests! Photography - the real thing - old fashioned reflex cameras, black & white film, his own darkroom, imparting his expertise with ease and generosity. Astronomy, good quality telescope, the draw of the stars and the Universe - a real passion! Politics... that goes without saying. But Patrick provides a context for his opinions, they are not borne out of petty prejudices or blind allegiance to any school of thought. His opinions rest on very solid ground, after a lot of consideration and after connecting many dots.
Our lives are richer after spending time with this remarkable couple. That's my husband, my eldest son, the kitten and myself. We all have a special compartment in our hearts where Patrick and Kathleen took residence.
Patrick decided the kitten is a bit of a terrorist. Our Pirate is teething and hasn't mastered the art of retracting his claws yet... Our ankles bear the scars of his impulsive behaviour.
For this very lovely, special week, we have to thank Sarah Palin. She brought us together. The woman has the power to divide but (unwittingly) she also (too) has the power to unite.
Having said all that, enjoy yourselves discussing the many topics that cropped up in the last few threads. And raise a glass to Patrick and Kathleen.
Cheers!
(UPDATE - Yes, Patrick and Kathleen are the couple who used to do research for Palin's Deceptions. I didn't make it clear in the post and shouldn't have assumed that evebody would know they were the same people!)
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