Good news for old dogs and dinner for seven

It must be summer - two days in consecutive sunshine - with humidity, unfortunately, but still sunshine. Working to get things together in the morning, we managed to leave the property by noon for errands and a Vet appointment for KC's 'older sister' who is here for a few days with Alex, Allan and Betty. After the obligatory stop at Costco, we moved on to Carnegy's where Eric gave Mira a thorough check-in and drew some blood. On our return home, we received wonderful news - the blood work showed a significant improvement in what had been very low values. She will be with us for a good while yet, we hope. By the time we got the call, the family had arrived for our dinner of beer-can chicken, hodge podge and apricot-peach cake with homemade peach-ginger ice cream. It was a lovely evening on the deck - finally summer seems to have settled in.
The kennel is comfortable. Even with the humidity, the combination of high ceilings, industrial fans and humidifiers keeps the building more comfortable than the house in this weather. KC's friend Ben is back for a week. The reunion was grand! Charlotte is out with the two of them and manages the daily activities of the two boys with her usual firm hand. They like that. Roddi, Ruari, Trebia and Pippa are busy in number three yard and today they welcomed Mickey the Sheltie into their midst. There is little happening at the fruit stand across the road that they don't have an opinion on. Liard departed as Ben arrived. Justice has a new brother and the two arrived for their first week end together. The two bull terriers are star visitors and great, handsome fellows.
The housedogs are delighted with the activity level. They love coming and going with lots going on. Sophie is eating well - always a blessing. They were amazed by the company who brought a dog with them and had her on their deck - novelty became them. Paula is very pregnant - there are degrees of pregnancy you know. London has decided that she isn't pregnant. We await Lori's progress. She is eating well but has a 'pregnant-look' so now you know there are degrees and looks. The Norwich have resigned themselves to a fourth in their group of three so Abigail Australian remains a house dog.

Maybe it's summer - now?

It was a lovely summer day - hot and sunny. Clothes were hung out in honour of the big yellow thing in the sky - and once almost dry, we had a lovely, big shower. Allan, Betty and Alex arrived with Mira. Ken gave her a good trim with Alex acting as his able assistant. The rest of us parked under the spreading chestnut tree. Alex is here at Regalridge for a few days while Al, Betty and Mira have gone to Halifax for a visit with Reg. Tom sorted the house and kennel out after the busy week end. For the first time in July, we were able to eat dinner outside. We enjoyed a bar b que and homemade peach/ginger ice cream - a good night. Then the great phone call from Bob letting us know that he had finally been to the heart specialist after all of his testing and was given a clear bill of health ending a good day.
The kennel was stable with Lucy and Baron looking after the East end, the little white dogs managing the big run with Trebia and Pippa Welsh, Liard and Maggie sharing the perimeter chores and KC and Charlotte supervising number four run and Ken's garden. There was some concrete renewal occurring in Lucy and Baron's area so they had white hat detail, which pleased them mightily. Alex gave the dogs a boost with a good ball game and all were tuckered out by bed time.
The housedogs were less impressed with the heat than we were. There was a lot of sighing as they tried to find spots in the shade that still had good vantage points. They are far more malleable on days like this but a lot less happy. Alex's ball game perked them up considerably. He also learned the parade of dogs routine as Chantelle sent the dogs to the bedroom.
The forecast for Wednesday is for another nice day - hmmm.

The weather is back. Lee spent the day in the city - errands, errands - in the 'thick of fog', returning home to Regalridge humidity and clearer weather. Then a quick dinner enabled a quicker get-away to a meeting in Dartmouth of the ATA show committee. The ATA Specialty is forming up nicely - judges, the venue and prizes are sorted out and planning is well underway. Chantelle returned home after a side trip to visit with Shelagh. Todd Foley sent a new Dog Digest along and Chantelle reported that Shelagh had a great time reviewing it page by page and commenting on the dogs and handlers. She enjoyed her milkshake and her lobster roll and is, I am sure, looking forward to the next visit.

The kennel was busy and Tom was back to help Ken. Hope and Jack left as did KC's friend Ruff and Liard arrived for a short visit. Roddi, Ruari and Trebia managed their yard while Liard looked after the runway around the kennel. Lucy and Baron greeted Chantelle enthusiastically and had a good spin. Nemo repatriated his yard and led Chantelle on a good chase to get him back in. KC and Charlotte played but KC reported that she isn't as much fun as either Ruff or Anjin (Charlotte's kind of bossy). Maggie Standard is settled in her run and glad to be in charge of it - nobody is to interfere with her domain!

The housedogs were happy - Tom was here and Ken was needing supervision so they had their white hats on and their paws pointing. Jessie-R and Scout are back so the dynamic has to be re-established, requiring some concerted barking - who knows why. The parade to Chantelle's room at bedtime looked mighty relieved that all was back to normal.

And we are on to Tuesday and the arrival of Ken's brother and family for a few days.

The yellow spot in the sky appeared

It was a July day - warm, sunny and simply great weather. We all gave a sigh of relief. There was lots going on but also time to sit under the chestnut tree and enjoy the day. Ken gardened a little, continuing to plant his forest at the fence in the front yard. We made iced tea from scratch - both varieties since Ken likes sweet and Lee 'unsweet'. There were maple scones for breakfast and open faced sandwiches under the tree for lunch. Drinks for dinner under the spreading chestnut - can you see a theme?!
The kennel was busy but the dogs were quiet, enjoying the weather as much as we did. Max left, his long Dane legs carrying him along beside his owner with apparent delight. Jack and Holly departed early with a booking for next week end and lots of wags and woofs out the gate. Pete and Hope enjoyed the Bernese and all had a good run before the puppy left. Lucy and Baron spent the day in the big yard or big runs and enjoyed the coming and going. Ruari is still amazed by the Great Dane and sized him up at every opportunity. KC and Ruff managed number 4 run. They are great buddies and thoroughly enjoy each others' company.
Lori managed the kitchen with Lee and the Norwich, Abigail and Paula spent much of the day on the back deck, delighted with the warm weather. Nick helped with kitchen chores and Billy looked after the yard. Lola and Laurel had a wonderful game of chase early in the morning, wearing off young Airedale energy and kicking up heels right over those heads. All were happy to come in for dinner and there were lots of sighs of content as they snoozed before their evening ins and outs.
The news from Fredericton was that Jessie-R does not like hot weather - who can blame her since it was the first hot day of her life - and Logan eked out a Group 2 behind a local favourite. Chantelle was breaking down the tent when we last spoke and we live in hope that she will find her way home on Monday without incident. Ken's brother Allan is now in the Region so KC will be leaving soon. He has enjoyed his vacation but will be delighted to see Al and Betty, we're sure. The week ahead is shaping up - there will be lots to do before Lee leaves on Friday (please don't mention that to either Ken or Piper).

Of lamb, gardens and, of course, dogs

It was a dog-day and there were showers. There's news. The girls did well in NB. Logan again won the Group, this time under Sandra Goose-Allan. Jessie-R had a very good time in the ring, didn't get a rosette but did learn new tricks for Chantelle's amusement.
The kennel is rocking and Ken is a bit weary without Chantelle,Tom or Kelsey here. We worked inside the house because it was too wet to do much else until late afternoon.
Bailey the Golden was collected by Fay and wagged her way out the gate. Maggy the old Standard Poodle arrived and settle in as did Lucy and Baron among a flurry of barking at old friends well met. Max decided that his family is old news and that Ken is his newest and best friend. As only a Dane can, he met Ken in number three yard, bowed graciously and then gave him a good rubbing with that big head. Max is now happy. Holly has discovered the big yard (she was a reluctant convert) and now claims it as her own. Jack urges her on as she barrels around chasing whatever it is Bernese chase in their minds when there is nothing moving in the area. Pete and Hope take over with Pete bouncing and Holly carefully following. All are eating well. Roddi, Ruari and Trebia are exercising to their own drum. The bold little Westie has decided that he is, indeed, a big dog and looked Max over very carefully to see if he might be a worthy opponent. KC and Ruff are managing number four run and they have become great pals.
The housedogs are going about their business. Watching the yard yesterday morning, Patti was grumpily working to collect all of the toys that had been shared with the other dogs and carrying each one back to her lair under the trees. She was quite apparently underwhelmed to have had them distributed so heaven help anyone who tries to find something to play with tomorrow. Lori is firmly ensconced in the kitchen and seems to think she is pregnant. She is quiet, has that maternal look in her eyes and can't get enough to eat. Paula is as broad as a barn and getting broader by the day. Those puppies are either going to be plenteous or huge. Charlotte is teaching Ken how to play 'Here Kitty, Kitty'. She sits at the end of the walk leading up to the back door at breakfast or dinner time and when Ken goes out to get her, walks deliberately away looking back over her shoulder every few steps. As he increases his pace, so does she. He begins calling her as he would the other dogs, then gets more firm and that deteriorates to cajoling and finally pleading. Sometimes she comes in, sometimes she doesn't. That's our Charlotte.
John and Cathy were here last night for dinner and John (god love him) fixed both printers so we are back in business. It was a good meal of summer fare - bar b qued leg of lamb, hodge podge, white sangria (peaches, cherries and plums), toffee cake and homemade cherry/almond ice cream with Jack Daniels. Clem assisted in clean up as did Piper and an occasional Norwich. The day ended as we walked a tour of the property looking at the solar lights among the gardens and realizing just how beautiful Ken has the property developed. And another day ends.

The Rosettes have take pride of place in NB

Guess what - it rained. The local meteorologist did an analysis of rain days in July. So far there have been six days without rain or showers. No surprise to the populace! The big news is from the show. In the pouring rain, Dawn and Jimmy's Airedale, Logan, took the Group and little Jessie Rachel was Group 2 from the classes. Chantelle is justifiably proud of her little protege. There was good competition despite the weather and all seem to be having a great time. Those rosettes always make that a little easier.
The day was busy with lots of coming and going in the kennel. Before nine, the first two arrivals were at the gate. Holly the Bernese and Jack the Am Staff mix landed and signed in with ease. Holly is a bit tentative at her young age but Jack is delighted to be here and settled in to his yard with apparent delight. They were followed closely by Pete and Hope. Hope, the senior Collie, is arthritic and we had a long chat with her owners about the benefits of supplements that have worked so well for us with our geriatric community. Pete, the substantial combination of lots of wonderful breeds, is a great fellow and happy to be here. Anjin departed but not before having his ears put back up. I suspect his owners are being treated to his full repertoire of new tricks! Ruff, a favourite Golden boarder, arrived with his dining card filled out and his meds accompanying him. Yard four welcomed Ruff and Bailey Goldens along with KC who took the turn over with typical Airedale aplomb. His educating days have now morphed into elder care and he seems to think that is ok, too. Roddi, Ruari and Trebia ran run number three and everyone in the world should be able to watch a rotund Westie trying to overtake a young Cirneco. It is worth the price of admission. Brandi is managing the perimeter of the kennel runs and has become very sociable. Her eating has gone from "I don't think so" to "Where have you been and why isn't my food here yet" so all is well in Brandi's world. Max the blue Great Dane puppy arrived and settled in to the double run for a short stay. He is comfortable on his Regalridge blanket and has taken his first spin in the yard. Ken repeats every time he thinks of Max that 'he's a huge Dane' - a major statement given that I had a Dane when Ken and I met who became the apple of Ken's eye. Finally, little Pippa landed at dinner time and completed the kennel day. She is a great little Welsh who lives with a wonderful family in Halifax. Nobody wanted to be out a whole lot last night in the wind and rain. It really did seem a late August day.
The housedogs finally seem to be saying enough with this weather as well. Working with the kitchen crew, they seemed to multiply under my feet as the day went on. Ken brought in lovely lettuce and spinach so we dined on Regalridge side dishes accompanied by lovely haddock and new potatoes - we may have rain but we also have wonderful access to fish and seafood. An article was written at the request of one of the breed clubs for their national newsletter and that tied up the day. We look forward to Chantelle's show news tomorrow - she was great and called with a play by play on Friday and made it almost like being there. With luck their weather will improve in that open field in beautiful downtown Jemseg.

Chantelle's big Adventure

And she's off! Chantelle packed the new little car and left in a flurry of waving paws (Clem is disgusted not to be in the vehicle and refused to wave) on her way to Fredericton with a planned side trip to visit with Shelagh. The visit was great and Chantelle reported that Shelagh's verbal progress was amazing. She hadn't been to see her in a couple of months so is a good barometer. The departure was early and she made it to Tatamagouche without incident. And the adventure began . . . Chantelle is famous for her lack of directional ability - that translates to 'she can get lost in a paper bag'. Rather than remembering Ken's admonishment to stay on the Sunrise Trail to Amherst, Chantelle opted to listen to the GPS. That took her somewhere no reasonable person had gone before. Turning up a side road, she was met eventually with a dirt road; continuing on, she encountered what was little more than a cow path and finally connected to another dirt road with power lines (that one looked good to her so you can imagine what the cow path was like). Eventually we got a call mid-afternoon that she had found Moncton (that would be six hours after she left for what should have been a three and a half hour trip to that point). She did eventually make it to her rented cottage and with only one mishap found her way to the show site as well. Now, how she could possibly have gone to Fredericton when the show site is on the same road the cottage is on and Fredericton is on the opposite side of a very large river is beyond even my imagination but hope springs eternal that now that she has found the show site once she will be able to repeat that feat with fewer adventures. Ken and Lee manned Regalridge and had a good day with the dogs and the property. Ken planted new shrubs to further his goal of living in a forest and Lee looked after the house.
The kennel is stable and the dogs are happy. Old Brandi is in charge of her environment and harbours no intruders. Roddi and Ruari are running number three run and love their vacation home. They are convinced that the Cirneco is something Warren ordered just for their benefit and hope that she will go home with them. She races around the perimeter of their yard, leaping over them like a gazelle and with the two little white blurs in hot pursuit. She does about 6 laps for their 1/2 but they are positive they are winning the race. KC and Anjin now are doing 'boy things' in number four run. Winnie departed (with a hoarse yodel) with the boys waving her on her way. Ancient Bailey Golden arrived last night. Bailey has been with us for over a decade off and on and settles in happily. She loves other dogs and will be delighted with her options for the next few days.
The housedogs were happy supervising the people. Nick was a bit torn between the house and the yard but the rest settled happily into their routines. And now for the news. Abigail Australian made her way to the house. She found her way in and has become 'one of the Norwich' in the kitchen and the den. Shelagh will be pleased.

Oh lord, don't let the rains come down

It rained - and Ken was happy. Men are different creatures. He stands by his resolve that we needed a good rain - the last month was a whole lot of cloud and showers but no real soaking rain according to the gardener in the family. Well, he got his rain - and humidity that would stop a train. Awful weather! And for the swallow story. We have had swallows who return to Regalridge for generations. Families of baby swallows have been born in a nest (first conveniently on our back deck over a light fixture) and in the past decade in a nest over our back door. Last year, the pair returned but as spring progressed, the male was returning without his mate. 'Buddy', named by Ken, has returned to the perch over the back door for the entire season for the past two years. He is a solitary little sentry in the evenings and through the night, working on the property through the day and settling on the door sill next to the empty nest at night. The news this week is that he has returned with a friend. For the past three nights, Buddy and his friend have settled in together and it looks like it may be a long term relationship. Let's hear it for the swallows!!!
We went to Tatamagouche today for our weekly pilgrimage to see Shelagh, 2 lobster rolls and a chocolate milkshake accompanying us. She watched me walk into the dining room and said - "your jacket is too dark", and I knew it would be a good visit. Once we arrive, she can't get out of that common area fast enough. We wheeled her back to her room (her space of choice) and had a great visit. Her speech is definitely improving slowly and even the staff are now commenting on it. We look forward to the return of the therapist. We have raised enough money for one, and possibly two, more sessions and continue to work at fund raising. The window is very obviously now open in her brain to rebuild the lost pathways for speech and we are trying to make the best of it at this critical juncture. Her favourite story was of Heather's granddaughter showing the Australian and winning the Terrier Group at the ATA Sanction Match. I couldn't remember Heather's dogs' names and after much thought and head scratching, Shelagh triumphantly beat me to the recall and shouted Tigger! Boy, was she proud of that achievement. Laughed at me for the rest of the visit, telling me her brain was better than mine - and she's likely right. Language remains an issue and we are understanding full phrases followed by paragraphs of mixed syllables but there is progress and that is wonderful.
We were home in time to fix dinner (scallops were for sale on the side of the road - only in NS, I suspect).
The kennel was ably manged by Tom and all was well. Old Brandi is marching to her own drum and settled in comfortably. Roddi and Ruari were fascinated watching Abigail tunnelling out (at least in her mind) from the big yard, cheering her on in her efforts and laughing at her behind those little white paws. Winnie has taught Anjin all she has to teach and will leave on Thursday so Anjin will be passed over to KC alone for his last few days. With any luck, KC can settle him back down a bit before his owners return. The kennel will be filling on the week end, Tom is away and Chantelle is leaving - what will we do?!
The housedogs didn't much like the rains coming down. There was a potential for thunder showers (those would actually have been welcomed given the humidity) but they didn't come. Sophie had a great day - ate everything in sight and played outside to her heart's content. Piper was angry that we were away without her so a bit put off by the day in general. Nick went with us so he was chuffed and Billy was happy because Nick was gone. Clem is worried because Chantelle is packing suitcases and Scout and Jessie got new haircuts yet again.
And the world turns . . .

The return of the clouds

Cloud and showers - our weather was back. Then a tease late afternoon and we had a sunny evening. Through the day, we worked on the office readying it for the flooring project ahead. There were lots of 'finds'. Ken gardened and Tom painted - the fencing is shaping up nicely and looks startlingly white against the lushness of the green. Ken announces that he bought a hedge trimmer yesterday and that he got a haircut. Haircuts for men in the metropolis of Elmsdale are an interesting adventure. From Ken's perspective, there are generally too many people in line so he drives back and forth for several days until he can simply walk in and sit in the 'big chair' without have to socialize. Then there are the days that the shop is closed - he seems to try each of those days as well so when he actually comes back shorn and showing off, it is truly cause for inspection. Chantelle also has new hair in preparation for her adventure this coming week end. Dinner was a quick chicken bar b que in preparation for a meeting here last night. There was lots of laughter in the living room until well into the evening.
The kennel is ticking along. Brandi the elderly Beagle arrived and settled in. Roddi and Ruri welcomed their new acquaintance while KC, Anjin and Winnie determined that it was 'another hound'. The Airedales are really enjoying each other. The diversity in their backgrounds helps that along, I suspect, with the puppy keeping the older male and female from taking themselves too seriously. Roddi and Ruari are firmly in charge of the west yard ably assisted by Abigail and Trebia. Roddi is pretty certain his legs are lengthening as he tries to keep up with the Cirneco. Ruari urges them on.
The housedogs had a great day. Ken and Tom were coming and going with gardening and painting supplies under the careful supervision of Piper, Patti, Sophie, Charlotte, Lori, Dolly, Billy and Atlas. Nick was too busy helping in the kitchen - he can't be everywhere! The Norwich and Paula looked after the den and the dog beds, making certain they didn't get away by ensuring one was on each bed throughout the day.

Sun was the order of the day

It was a lovely day. There was no rain; there were no showers and the clouds were not threatening. The forecast for the rest of the week tells us that normalcy will return. We saw the sun today. That's it.

Bob and Luella were here so the women went shopping while the men trimmed trees. There is a marginal change in the tropical look of the property and a barn-sized pile of brush in the back field. The Marshalls departed with a car full of dogs and pickets mid-afternoon. Ken brought in the first of the spinach crop and dinner made it as far as dessert. In honour of Andie's visit (Andie left Sunday to Patti's dismay) we went across the road for ice cream for dessert. The line was long - the entire community was celebrating our first, and perhaps only, summer day.
The kennel was busy. Along with the departure of Daisy, Ellie-the-birthday-girl and Rascal, Dakota and Nutmeg left as did Buddy the Beagle. Lori returned to the house and marched herself up to Chantelle's bedroom where a bed was waiting. The little white dogs caroused in their yard with Marguerite and Laurel Airedales in the adjoining space urging them on. Kc, Anjin and Winnie managed the East side yard. Anjin can now howl like a fog horn courtesy of Winnie's tutelage. He is very proud and Winnie gazes at him fondly as he tips that head back and lets loose. Those howls have been sitting dormant for a while and it sure seems to feel good to get rid of them.

The housedogs loved this great day too. They relaxed in the shade and watched the tree trimming operation with amusement. Men climbing ladders and felling limbs are something Airedales supervise from a distance. Patti misses Andi and sleeps at the door of Chantelle's room with her nose sticking under it in the hope that we simply have misplaced her child. Jessie-Rachel is getting ready for her trip with Chantelle to NB this week and is looking great. Scout pointed out that he needs a haircut too because anywhere that little twerp is going, he is going to have to go to look out for her. Clementine is not going to be amused to see those car tail lights on Thursday. We will be fishing her away from the gates many times a day until the new car returns and Clem's world rights itself.

The week is filling with meetings and the trip to Tatamagouche. We have raised more money for Shelagh's speech therapy in the past week. The ATA had a Sanction Match and Dawn took on the job of holding a 50/50 draw. Coupled with additional monies from the grooming seminar and a donation, we have enough for at least one more session and potentially two. The work being done has certainly been a bonus for Shelagh's capabilities and with assistance and consistency, the therapist is optimistic that her speech will significantly improve.

The tall ships departed yesterday with a parade of sail, bringing back memories of the first visit of the tall ships to Halifax where we were very involved with the organization and the hosting of the armada. Ken was head of the Coast Guard and we were on a ship in the harbour to take the salute on that occasion. It truly was magnificent and a wonderful experience that has stayed with us for decades.

Summertime - and the living is easy

The weather cleared. That has to be the big news. We actually saw sun by late afternoon and our spirits improved. With all of us here, dogs coming and going and a summer bar b que in the offing, we managed to keep busy. Chantelle surfaced occasionally from the kennel where hair was flying and dogs were spiffed up at a great rate. Ken decided to clear a path through the detritus of the flooring project and Lee manned the kitchen with the Norwich as sous chefs-in-residence. Andie moved among the program areas landing with a remote in her hand after each foray off of the chair or bed.
There was a boarder exodus with Reese, Kinky and Kirby waving good bye and the Marshall family arriving to fill those spaces. Ellie arrived in time to celebrate her 11th birthday with her Regalridge family and Rascal and Daisy (woof woof woof) are in attendance. Pedicures were doled out by Chantelle and even Billy managed to get a couple of minutes on the table. Young Darby was here from PEI, had a new haircut and looks fabulous. What a handsome little pup he is. The little white dogs managed their yard through the day, as did KC with Anjin as back up and now Winnie. Winnie's contribution to little Anjin's education is to teach him how to perform the "Airedale howl". Anjin's owners will be pleased! Buddy, Dakota, Nutmeg, Trebia and Abigail played with great delight through the afternoon. Roddi and Ruari then took over with Trebia and Abby staying so that they had playmates (the preference of the little white dogs who get bored by each other on occasion).
The housedogs were busy doing housedog 'stuff'. Patti kept a close eye on her puppy - Andie - and was not amused when she was out of her sight. Nick was in and out as the weather improved and shirked his kitchen chores on occasion. Piper was torn between Andie and Lee. Once Bob and Luella arrived, all was well with the housedogs. They love Auntie Lou and
Uncle Bob and have all sorts of stories to tell them as soon as they drive on to the property.
We had nine for a steak and hodge podge dinner with peach blueberry dessert. Margaret, Dawn and Jim joined us and lots of laughter ensued. The great plus was moving lawn furniture under the chestnut tree for shade - finally!
Perhaps summer has finally arrived.

Matches, Rain and Perspective

If you can't find a dog show, a sanction match does nicely. We packed two vehicles and headed to Fetch in Dartmouth. Brenda's facility is wonderful and offered the ATA the opportunity to hold not only a Conformation Sanction Match but also Rally and Obedience Sanction Trials. We filled for both Trials, had an excellent turnout and were amazed that the Rally folks went ahead outside in a downpour (I'm sure it had nothing to do with my telling Judge Brenda that the sun was surely going to shine in the afternoon . . .). There were lots of nice puppies and our little Airedales acquitted themselves beautifully. Anjin was a star and marched around with Chantelle as though he had always been a show dog. The babies had a good time, again as a result of Chantelle's tutelage and the judge gave the nod to Georgie in the end who was piloted around the ring by granddaughter Andie. Because I was ring stewarding, our dogs could not compete but did have a great time from early morning to late afternoon. Ken had to stay home and man Regalridge due to a staff shortage here. That is never a good thing but he managed without a grumble. Dinner was bar be qued chicken, corn on the cob and potatoes then blueberry squares and ice cream much to Andie's delight.
The kennel is full and the dogs are partying. They truly are the only sentient beings oblivious to the miserable weather. Did I mention that it poured rain again yesterday! Between showers the boarding dogs were out in their big yards. Roddi and Ruari simply said the digging is a lot better when the ground is soft - you gotta love old little white dogs. Trebia and Nemo agreed with KC and KC and Reese that rain doesn't slow you down if you run fast enough the drops miss you. Dakota and Nutmeg are sporting dogs - they work rain or shine so just shake off the drops and keep going. Winnie the older Airedale was less amused by the weather, sensible girl that she is. Buddy Beagle reports that the smells are different after every rain so it works for him. Kinky the Jack Russell has no idea that it is raining. Guess we could learn from them if we weren't so disgusted with this weather. The forecast is simply for another week of more of the same.
The housedogs are a little more of our persuasion. The old dogs find that the weather interferes with their ball games - that could be because Regalridge people won't stand outside endlessly in bad weather and throw balls.
In the afternoon, Ken had a visit from Atlas' sister from Ontario who was visiting in the area. He reports that she is a lovely girl - no surprise given Atlas' nature.
We are looking forward to a Regalridge summer dinner Sunday - can't wait any longer for good weather.

The Kennel is full and the activity level is high

Friday is fill up day - vehicles and kennels. The gates were a turnstile as dogs arrived for the week end. Kirby landed followed by Reese. Then at the 11th hour we welcomed Buddy, Dakota and Nutmeg. Greetings in the kennel were effusive. KC was delighted to see Reese and Anjin couldn't believe his luck in the country - two big Airedales to torture. How much better can life get?! Reese is a pro now and checks runs on his way through to find his best buddies. Kirby is at his home away from home. There is nothing he hasn't figured out and he manages his portion of the routine with Welsh aplomb. He is in the big yard with Abby Aussie and the two do well together. Abby has become the Wal-Mart greeter and gets along with everyone. Buddy arrived for his first stay and settled in quickly. Following on his heels were Nutmeg and Dakota, dropped off by their grandparents for their annual visit. Nutmeg was the youth of the yard as we let the three latest arrivals out for their spin. Following their arrival, Andie granddaughter arrived and the dogs perked. Ball games were the order of the evening. Andie played with them all and they were tickled. Dakota took a great shine to Andie and the two bonded. Buddy checked the yard thoroughly and we are now certain aliens have not landed according to the hound nose. Nutmeg, the youth of this threesome, exercised happily. Roddi and Ruari had to act as photographer's assistant. Chantelle took shots of one yard from their yard - and Chantelle was told in no uncertain terms that it was 'a white dog moment'. Trebia and Nemo had a great time with Andie as well.

The housedogs were even more delighted to see Miss Andie. Patti did backflips to have her 'puppy' here and the ballgames began. Piper was equally thrilled and really would like a child of her own. Then puppies were put on leads and worked - Anjin is a star due, of course, to being in a home where he is the center of all activity. Our puppies are playing catch up. Georgie is a natural. Clint needs work.

We spent part of the day at Shelagh's yesterday. The initial clean out has been performed by a company specializing in this activity. What a difference they have made. And progress is being made to make permanent arrangements for several more of her dogs. Shelagh's friend Rosemary has purchased a Wheaten so another is well homed.

Lee had a meeting- now there's a surprise - and Navigator Nick accompanied her to the city. The Halifax Kennel Club is sponsoring an event for Responsible Dog Ownership week. On September 20 there will be a 'Dog and Family Day' at Shubie Park. From Canine Good Neighbour evaluations through games organized by Chantelle and Dawn, it will be a great day for dogs. There will be four weeks of CGN training (one evening a week) at Fetch inc. in Dartmouth so why not sign up and get your dog's CGNeighbour accreditation?

Late night saw Andie and Ken jostling for control of the remote. And another day ended.

A Dinner Party in the City the day the Tall Ships arrive

Dinner was in the city last night and dessert came from Regalridge. That meant a day in the kitchen after Ken chose the dessert du jour - a brownie bottomed raspberry cheesecake with chocolate covered strawberries. The fruitstand across the road offered up beautiful strawberries so life was good. Piper and Nick supervised the creation of the confection and the Norwich applauded the progress. Patti said life was good because Kelsey came to dog sit through the evening and Nick was happy since he accompanied the people to Margot's - his navigation skills are legendary! It was a great party with all of the requisite components - interesting people, great food and plenty of laughter. The Ross's had arrived from Scotland - the excuse for the party - and all were well (although who that tall young man is that accompanied them will remain a mystery and what happened to Archie?).
The city is abuzz with the arrival of the tall ships - let's hope the weather co-operates for the hordes of folks arriving. This coupled with a Kiss concert will make the city a destination for the last part of July.
The kennel moved along smoothly with Tom and Ken keeping an eye on the yards as the dogs played through the day. It was cool (so what else is new) and cloudy and the dogs were delighted. KC and Anjin managed the big yard next to the vegetable garden and are proud of themselves. Anjin has now learned about gardening, farming and birding as he trots around behind KC. The little white R-dogs are in charge of their yard and welcome Abigail and Trebia as special visitors.
Final touches were put on the front picket fence, another project done. And time remained to buy a couple of cedars to be added to the front yard gardens. The next project involves resurfacing fences and then the new floor in the office will happen.

Guess what - we had a summer day! Even having to drive to the city couldn't take away the pleasure of warm sun from morning to late evening.

Lee spent the day at the Vet's looking after Regalridge vaccinations and helping a couple of other folks with procedures that needed another set of eyes. On to Costco to spend the requisite amount of money regardless of the items you go through the door to buy (the fruit is incredible this week), to the bank, local shopping and home in time to make a lovely fish dinner (the joy of living in the middle of the Atlantic). Puppies were worked with on the front lawn and we enjoyed the gardens - fully in bloom. Ken's roses are magnificent at the moment as are the lilies. Ken and Tom finished the fencing in the great weather and then gardened through late evening. We need a rope and a bell on him at this time of year to get him in from outside. Don't expect him to return phone calls before 10 at night. Chantelle worked locally so was home at a good time and spent the evening lead training the little Airedales. Lola was underwhelmed, Clint has posing down to a science but the whole walk on a lead experience is less consistent while Georgie loves it all and kicks up her heels at every opportunity. Anjin, of course, lives with a family so takes all of this in his stride and is ready to be a show dog already!

The boarding dogs had a great day. They spent much of it out in the big yards, enjoying the great weather and keeping an eye on the farmer next door as he moved cows around and drove his tractor. KC has decided he would like a tractor and has convinced Anjin that he needs one too. They have asked that one be put on their Christmas lists. Roddi and Ruari mentioned that a new sister just like Abigail or even Trebia would do them just fine - no tractor necessary.

The housedogs are thriving. Nick is managing the kitchen with Piper and both seem to have divided the space to their mutual understanding. The Norwich circle them like little herding dogs - particularly at meal times. London continues to expand and we will have an x-ray next week to see what we can see in her belly. Paula is still refusing to eat anything but treats - she is definitely pregnant so Welsh are in our future in August.

We are getting dogs ready for the Sanction Match on the week end and Anjin in included in the mix so he will be trimmed up this week as well. The Match is being put on by the Atlantic Terrier Association and will be lots of fun for puppies and humans alike. Cathy Prothro has enlisted Aaron to bar b que so food and friends will be in abundance on Saturday at Fetch.

The news has been disseminated

Our first day back was catch up time. A million phone calls were returned with news exchanged across North America. Tom had finished the fireplace tiles and the floor was done so a living room had to be recreated. What a change and what a great room it has become. As we sat down before dinner to review the day thus far, we all were tickled with this project. Since phase two of flooring was over, Ken and Tom headed outdoors and tackled the front of the property fencing project. They made amazing progress and have much of the front finished. In a moment when Tom had to find a lost something, Ken even managed to plant one of his ferns!

The gardens are astonishing as a result of the rain. We have poppies the size of dinner plates and lilies that are taking over their gardens. Roses are everywhere in shades ranging from yellow to deep pink and everything in between.

The kennel is busy and the visitors are enjoying their summer vacation. KC is ruling one run and his buddies are assisting. Anjin the Airedale puppy is his new apprentice - learning new games and taking on more responsibility as KC teaches him the ropes. Roddi and Ruari are directing operations from their perch and there isn't a square inch of their yard that has not been explored. Abby and Trebia are well muscled and encouraging old Nemo to run with them. Lori and Hailey are ready to return to the house. The time will come soon.

The housedogs are back to their normal weekday routine and had a good day supervising Ken and Tom in the construction project. Nick managed the kitchen all day, content to view the comings and goings from a good vantage point next to the table from whence all good things fall. the Norwich rolled around the great room, moving from bed to bed and occasionally agreeing with Tom that they could go out on the deck to bark at the birds.

We are quite certain London is pregnant so Norwich puppies could be the order of the day at the end of the month. Paula also seems to be in the motherly way so Welsh puppies could arrive mid-August. The nurseries will be full if Lori has conceived and we are looking forward to a busy late summer and early fall.

Terrier judging, scenic travel and more

Thursday was a travel day to New Brunswick. Built into the 6 hour drive was a detour to Tatamagouche to visit with Shelagh, deliver the obligatory milkshake and shore up sagging spirits. The staff noted that it had been a hard week for her and that a visit always goes a long way to settling her anxiety. The drive in July is beautiful and the area full of things to do so if you are contemplating a day trip, why not consider Tatamagouche and drop by to visit The Willow Lodge for a few minutes.
And on we went to Woodstock. Dad enjoyed the visit tremendously, even though Billy wasn't with us.

And on we went to Quebec. It had been a couple of years since we had driven to Quebec and the roads through NB have now been completed. It is a pleasure to drive as far as Edmundston and a challenge from there on. There is lots of road construction and lots of traffic - a recipe for frustration. We had left NB early for the four hour drive to take the Riviere-du-Loup ferry to Saint Simeon and then on to Baie St Paul on the scenic route. Baie St Paul is incredibly beautiful and a 'must see' on any trip to the area. It is an artists' community in the Charlevoix Region. There are galleries on every street, countless boutiques, restaurants and bistros and lots and lots and lots and lots of shopping - did I mention we shopped?! The Club had reserved rooms for all of us who were judging at an Inn - Les Estampilles - on the hill overlooking the town and the Bay. The proprietors were accommodating, the rooms comfortable and the food of high quality. The local fromageries offered up their daily cheeses and every restaurant boasts local fare. There seemed to be a mix of languages spoken so don't be concerned that you could not make your way in English. The dogs at the Show were of good quality and the exhibitors pleasant. The judging panel was great and lots of good conversation and discussion was the order of the day.

The return home was through Quebec City rather than the ferry - perhaps not the wisest decision. The road construction was everywhere and traffic was dreadful. We managed to get to Woodstock by ten pm, unload the car and tell Dad our tales. Driving home, we again detoured to visit with Shelagh and arrived for a late dinner at Regalridge.

All was well with the boarding community. Reese was here to play with Ben and KC. The Nangreaves circus came and went 'en famille' (Danu's patience is unlimited, we have learned). Roddi and Ruari and Abigail played in their yard, with the insertion of Trebia when she wasn't keeping old Nemo company. Anjin arrived for his vacation and has bonded with KC. Max had a great time with Trebia becoming his hero - he wants to go fast like her, if only his legs would accompany him! Riley came for a trim and had a good spin in the yard with Jessie-Rachel. They discovered a good hole and enlarged it just for the joy of watching dirt fly.

The Regalridge house crew were busy enjoying the nice weather. There were ball games galore, lots of games of chase and hide and seek. Fast food restaurants locally saw a boon in business and Chantelle will be surprised to again see vegetables now that we are back. Paula Welsh is focused on her delicate condition and certain she is pregnant. Lori has been bred for the last time and will be repatriated to the house with Hailey by the end of the week. Piper was thrilled to see us back - there was word that she didn't go to the bedroom every night and her feelings were badly bruised. Einstein was a little less effusive in his greetings - he managed to stay one step ahead of Chantelle, bonding in the bedroom with Billy at about 4 every morning by sitting on top of Billy's crate and wagging his cat tail just to say 'hi'. That crate can really move when Billy jumps up and down!

Ken has inspected his gardens and will be in them early, I expect. He found two ferns to be added to the front area and is keen to have them planted.