HUNGRY GERALD

Yes, life in HG/BSK’s homes–a 3,200 square foot artist’s loft in Central Falls, RI, and an oceanfront home on Prince Edward Island, Canada–is comfortable, safe and exhilarating for 95-year-old HG. However, HG (and BSK) miss Vancouver, B.C. HG/BSK owned a beautiful duplex loft there in the Mt. Pleasant neighborhood (fabulous sea, mountain and skyscraper views) and spent many long vacations in the world’s most liveable city. BSK was overjoyed with BSK’s steam shower bathroom and HG lolled happily in HG’s bathroom which featured an oversized soaking tub. HG/BSK biked everywhere—to beaches, the great public market (a wonderland of fresh fruit and vegetables; cheese; bread; French and Italian charcuterie; Asian products; meat; fish; oysters–and much more); museums, galleries, cinemas and restaurants. Ah, those restaurants!! Tojo had superlative sushi and other Japanese dishes; Vij’s had the best Indian food HG/BSK ever tasted. Scores of Chinese, Thai, Cambodian, casual sushi and other Asian eateries—all very good. HG/BSK’s condo building–The Cornerstone–was a short walk to Congee Noodle House on Broadway near Main. HG breakfasted or lunched there daily (sometimes brought home steamed chicken; roast duck and pork; vegetables; noodles and Mapo Tofu for a dinner with wine). HG’s early lunch consisted of shrimp wraps; congee with sliced fish; wonton soup (tastiest ever breakfast or early lunch). So, why did HG leave this scenic and culinary paradise? The answer–Geography. Daughter Lesley Riva and family (husband Massimo, and two daughters –Arianna and  Sofia)  lived in Rhode Island.  Son Jeremy and family (wife Maiko Sakamoto and son Haru and daughter Teru) lived in Brooklyn. It didn’t make sense to be separated by more than 3,000 mile. There was a need for a vacation property on the east coast that could house everyone. So–Goodbye (with tears), Vancouver. Hello, Prince Edward Island (jolly family times for many years and looking forward to this summer).