2011 The Ski Odyssey
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| GDC on the Schlossalm |
We again have had a youngster over here for a week. At the ripe old age of 59 and three-quarters, it was time to give GDC some more preparation for Retirement day. Just as youngsters get the opportunity to experience and endure the disciplines of the work-place for short periods prior to leaving full-time education its equally important that those nearing the end of their working life get an insight into what is in store for them.
Fitness.
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| I cannot see it! |
Its great to report that following last year’s report GDC has made great strides in building his fitness. His right hand dexterity when operating his PDA has improved markedly, he clearly has worked long and hard at perfecting the necessary finger flicks and dabs. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, with the demands of family and work, he was unable spend as much time in the gym working on the remainder of his body. However one fit hand is indeed remarkable progress and does show what he is able to achieve when he puts his mind to it.
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| Strong flavour |
This year’s walk to Schmaranz was completed in pouring rain without complaint but we believe GDC had in mind a devious plan to thumb a ride home from our fellow diners. This does demonstrate a new resourcefulness and the pensioners freebie frame of mind. Anyway, thanks for Organic Beers and Meal, it was great (even though we probably chose the wrong item from the menu this time).
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| GDC in training |
Time-keeping
Again, GDC showed animal cunning and adaptability by visiting in early January, when the days are shorter, rather than March. This enabled him to get an extra hour in bed. In this way he was able to overcome previous time-keeping concerns but one can’t help thinking that this was a little bit devious!
Mobile phones and gadgets
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| Ready for the off on the Stubnerkogel! |
GDC carries his HTC PDA thingy everywhere. As it purports to be a phone, satellite navigation system, web browser and camera it is never far from eye or ear. His concern when he falls skiing is not for life or limb but for the thingy in his pocket. We believe his concerns are misdirected and he should develop the retirees obsession with health matters. I’m afraid that he needs to understand the importance of ailments when interacting socially. ‘I fell and broke my HTC’ doesn’t mean anything to anybody. A spell of gout or pains or possibly an allergy should be simulated; perhaps even development of a rare syndrome should be encouraged.
Alcohol Consumption
GDC is clearly well practiced in this aspect.
Even though alcohol is indeed a necessary and mandatory item for a retiree, a modicum of restraint should be observed in the future. A favoured expression of ‘noch einer’ should perhaps be more often replaced by ‘nein danke’.
This is purely for financial reasons. The beneficial effect of ‘one more’ beer on one’s skiing ability is well proven.
By the way, TW does have a regular habit of hiding the alcohol, it’s not only our young guest who sees the wine bottle whisked away at the end of a meal. Tip: Eat slowly, and ask for seconds!
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GDC leaves the Jagerhutte
(He only had a coffee) |
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| GDC arrives at the Jagerhutte |
Snacking
Clear improvement was seen in this area. No more Mars or Twix! The progression to Cadburys Dairy Milk Chocolate Bars shows that GDC is developing an appreciation of history and the finer things of life.
We still believe that GDC will become a valuable member of the retirement community but he needs to be more realistic in his expectations. Food and drink on demand, easy and flexible transportation, will have to be replaced by discipline, fresh air and exercise.
GDC was again a pleasure to work with and we wish him well for the future. This time, we hid the Visitors Book. His gushing and over the top praise for the chalet girl and the ski guiding last year was a little sycophantic we felt. Anyway, we enjoyed your visit, thanks for meals out and keep up the good work.
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| GDC at Fulseck |
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| Beautiful Bad Hofgastein - mine is a Stiegl |
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| GDC and Berwyn |
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