It has been an up and down week with Lee a little under the weather. The dogs managed the house for a couple of days while Ken and Tom continued The Project. Downstairs the hall is finally complete and almost back together. The stairwell is pretty much done and the upstairs hall is underway - amid paint cans and artwork that has been dispossessed. New oil tanks were added to the property - thanks to Tank Xperts - as The Project expanded. By Friday, Lee was much improved and work was underway to prepare for the busy week end ahead. Soup for the ATA Sanction Matches on Sunday was finished and stored, paperwork was moved forward and income tax organization was begun. Then Saturday arrived - a party day for the women while Ken had the sad task of attending a friend's funeral. He was off early and Chantelle and Lee departed late morning. A group, comprised of long time friends, got together at Margot's for a cooking course. We are very fortunate to have discovered Kelly Taylor's professional life (highly qualified chef) as we enjoyed her friendship after purchasing her Regalridge Airedale. Since food has been a common thread in holding many of our parties we all decided that, provided Kelly was in agreement, we would hire her to offer a one day course at Margot's - this time with a Valentine's theme. There is little question that the neighbours were jolted by the laughter that poured through the walls on this cold Saturday in January. It was an amazing learning experience - Dawn showed us her egg separation trick (who knew!), Chantelle displayed her rare chocolate moving skills, Margaret and Lee sliced grape tomatoes without losing digits and Cheryl ensured they were positioned perfectly on their roasting tray. Margaret offered a 'show and tell' with her garlic machine, while Kelly taught us yet another use for the microplane - Lee Valley rules! We discussed reductions, salts, oils and chocolates, learned how to trim a whole tenderloin (what an art and one that is now manageable) and reconstituted mushrooms while being taught the method of straining the priceless liquid. Of course, the molten cakes were a highlight and aside from Margot's questionable ramekin buttering skills we looked forward to that part of the meal, every one of us with the intention of recreating this dessert at home. Dawn has committed to the bruschetta through the show season and may even try risotto once more since she has gone through the step by step process with Kelly (likening her first attempt to wall paper paste she quickly understood the error of her ways). Wine flowed freely and Crockett and Zeus kept a close eye on the proceedings while Dover occasionally surfaced, wondering where Margot had disappeared. When we sat down at Margot's lovely table, the meal was all we had hoped for. From the sauce to the complex flavours of the risotto, the perfectly prepared asparagus to the molten chocolate cakes with the best ice cream any of us had ever tasted, it was a fabulous experience and one that we hope we may be able to again schedule as winter progresses. We highly recommend Kelly if any of you are thinking of an activity - days don't get a lot better than this.
The dogs are well and keeping warm in the kennel. With the cold has come a reduced activity level. Kirby is content to assist in the daily inside kennel chores and is marching up and down the inside run area supervising the cleaning and replacement of water buckets and the changing of the blankets. Sophie is eating well and enjoying her time in the exercise yard interspersed with time inside watching the kennel activity. Liard has joined us for a few days as has Ruff, both seasoned inhabitants and happy to move along with the routines.
The house dogs are doing well. Patti is happy, eating her potion and keeping everyone in line. Sophie is eating very well (although never from a dish - that simply isn't done) and the little characters are barrelling around telling everyone what is happening and how it might be improved. Einstein is settled for the winter in his bed on Lee's desk - watching the birds eat underneath the chestnut tree and snoozing the days away. Finding Lee unwell for a couple of days was an added bonus in his books as he moved between the upstairs bedroom and his regular perch. It takes very little to keep a cat happy.
And tomorrow is another day . . .
Regalridge Kennel
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
The Walls in the Hall are alive with light and new colour
On Monday it was a 'going off in all directions' day. Lee held the fort while Ken went to the city and Chantelle headed to Windsor. Ken's hunting and gathering resulted in Costco plunder, a good visit with brother Reg and a little help with The Project. Chantelle made it to Windsor and home again without incident. Lee managed the eternal paperwork battle, spending part of the day organizing show pictures into albums - a lot of memories and many smiles in that job - we sure were young once! The sous-project of the day was marmalade. We used to think Cheryl Tissington was such a nice person - 8 pounds of Seville oranges later, Lee is no longer quite so certain. There was a serious tactical error made when she disabused Ken of the notion that Seville oranges were produced only once in any person's lifetime. That worked for two or three years. 4 pounds have now morphed from little round orbs to marmalade fit for a prince - that would be Our Ken. 4 pounds remain - and won't happen tomorrow. You have to get over the work of that first batch before you can face another. Tom move The Project forward, painting the downstairs hall. The colour has changed - yellow is no more and the new cream is fabulous. We all love it and Ken is mighty relieved that he doesn't have to go back to the store for another colour. Neither he nor Tom were convinced that it was going to be a winner when they opened the can.
The kennel moved along with the dogs content to be in and out frequently. It was cold and windy but bright and sunny. Sophie and Kirby are doing well. Kirby needs help eating and is being coaxed with extra tasty bits. Last night, he and Sophie had baked ham. Sophie is making friends with Trebia the Cirneco but really prefers the bum in the air run with Chantelle. Good thing the weather hasn't been terrible.
The housedogs are well. Most were content to view the nice weather from the inside, recognizing that cold and wind can accompany bright and sunny when it says January on the calendar. All were interested in the painting project and there will no doubt be variegated Airedales before the painting is complete. Sophie ate late with her garlic cheese finger and meat pie served on the kitchen floor after dinner. That was her preference and heaven knows we are not allowed to second guess Her Majesty. Patti took her potion regularly and looked after Regalridge in Patti-fashion. Charlotte led Tom a merry chase all day long - and laughed as he tried to convince/cajole/encourage/outsmart her. That's Our Charlotte. Clint was trimmed in readiness for the ATA Sanction Match this week end.
Dinner was an inter-marmalade affair with baked ham, potato scallop and peas being served as marmalade bubbled away on the stove, being checked every 10 minutes for the gel moment. It happened between courses so bottling occurred between ham and mince pie. And it was off to bed - ready for another day . . .
The kennel moved along with the dogs content to be in and out frequently. It was cold and windy but bright and sunny. Sophie and Kirby are doing well. Kirby needs help eating and is being coaxed with extra tasty bits. Last night, he and Sophie had baked ham. Sophie is making friends with Trebia the Cirneco but really prefers the bum in the air run with Chantelle. Good thing the weather hasn't been terrible.
The housedogs are well. Most were content to view the nice weather from the inside, recognizing that cold and wind can accompany bright and sunny when it says January on the calendar. All were interested in the painting project and there will no doubt be variegated Airedales before the painting is complete. Sophie ate late with her garlic cheese finger and meat pie served on the kitchen floor after dinner. That was her preference and heaven knows we are not allowed to second guess Her Majesty. Patti took her potion regularly and looked after Regalridge in Patti-fashion. Charlotte led Tom a merry chase all day long - and laughed as he tried to convince/cajole/encourage/outsmart her. That's Our Charlotte. Clint was trimmed in readiness for the ATA Sanction Match this week end.
Dinner was an inter-marmalade affair with baked ham, potato scallop and peas being served as marmalade bubbled away on the stove, being checked every 10 minutes for the gel moment. It happened between courses so bottling occurred between ham and mince pie. And it was off to bed - ready for another day . . .
Monday, January 25, 2010
Football Sunday and the project continues
It was a cool day and the dogs were in and out, drawn by the sun but not delighted with their cold feet and ears. Chantelle spent the day in the grooming room with her list of ups and downs on the tables. Ken's project continues and paint is slowly being applied to ceilings through the house. The hall and bedroom have benefited thus far and there is hope that the walls may be next. A coffee cake kept Lee busy in the morning and football drew everyone by late afternoon. Dinner was had between football games so Sunday rolled along much the way it does everywhere.
Sophie and Kirby are doing well in the kennel. Sophie has returned to playing "Here Kitty Kitty" with Chantelle. Lori has been trying to teach her to go directly from the exercise yard to your own open run door. She herds Sophie up the path to the gate and keeps her in front of her so there are no second thoughts. The gate from the yard to the kennel runs is opened and the expectation is that you go to your run and get your meal or a treat. Sophie is less motivated by food than by the potential for a game so tries to do an end run to get out of formation and entice Chantelle to a good chase. Last night she won - 2 more points for Sophie. Kirby is eating and managing his run.
The house dogs are well. Patti is doing fine -eating well and taking her potion. Sophie is enjoying her control of when and what she will approve as edible and is eating better than she has in several months. This day it was mac and cheese, a garlic cheese finger, meat pie and dog biscuits. The little dogs were out a fair bit. It was a sunny day and although cold, the southern exposure of the deck is warm with the reflected heat of the house so May, Abigail, Abigail, Viola and Paula sunbathed.
Dinner was quick and easy. Roasted vegetables, roast pork and mince pie or chocolate mousse, depending on your preference. Earlier in the day, we had a lovely cranberry and roasted pecan coffeecake. We aren't suffering
Sophie and Kirby are doing well in the kennel. Sophie has returned to playing "Here Kitty Kitty" with Chantelle. Lori has been trying to teach her to go directly from the exercise yard to your own open run door. She herds Sophie up the path to the gate and keeps her in front of her so there are no second thoughts. The gate from the yard to the kennel runs is opened and the expectation is that you go to your run and get your meal or a treat. Sophie is less motivated by food than by the potential for a game so tries to do an end run to get out of formation and entice Chantelle to a good chase. Last night she won - 2 more points for Sophie. Kirby is eating and managing his run.
The house dogs are well. Patti is doing fine -eating well and taking her potion. Sophie is enjoying her control of when and what she will approve as edible and is eating better than she has in several months. This day it was mac and cheese, a garlic cheese finger, meat pie and dog biscuits. The little dogs were out a fair bit. It was a sunny day and although cold, the southern exposure of the deck is warm with the reflected heat of the house so May, Abigail, Abigail, Viola and Paula sunbathed.
Dinner was quick and easy. Roasted vegetables, roast pork and mince pie or chocolate mousse, depending on your preference. Earlier in the day, we had a lovely cranberry and roasted pecan coffeecake. We aren't suffering
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Food and dogs - life is good
The week end has arrived and the schedule adjusts accordingly. Ken is immersed in "The Project" and we analyze daily whether there is more paint on him or on the surfaces on which he is working. Dawn and Jim were here for dinner so had the full benefit of the upside down house. Chantelle worked on dogs - Viola and Georgie suffered under her ministrations as they move toward show readiness. Clem had a touch up and others are lined up for tomorrow. Lee's day was in the kitchen with a break to rejig the main computer.
The housedogs are happy. It was cold so there were more ins and outs than on more clement days. Sophie, of course, would stay out all day with Charlotte if we didn't put our feet down on their preference for wide open spaces. Piper managed the kitchen with Nick as her stalwart back up. The little dogs sat on Lee's feet as she chopped, hoping for fall out and occasionally rewarded. Tom dropped by to collect some of the stainless steel Standard Metals crates for a welding update. Lots of activity and lots of little jobs finished.
The kennel is quiet and working along well. Kirby has oriented himself and is moving in and out nicely. He is eating and has settled - at his very advanced age, we watch him closely and are pleased with his management of his area. Sophie is settling in to the routine and now comes through the gate on her own, runs to her outside door and stands and barks at it to be let in. She is fully acclimated and hasn't missed a meal.
Lunch was a quiche with the cheddar and chive biscuits. A mince pie was made for our Ken and all was well in his world. Dinner was a lively affair. A lovely baked ham was accompanied by one of Ken's squash (there are benefits of that cold basement) and a great potato scallop with thyme and cheese. Dessert was from this month's Bon Appetit - the chocolate mousse with ganache, a port reduction (incredible) and creme fraiche - with lattes all around. We didn't suffer through this meal. And we are off to bed in anticipation of another full day.
The housedogs are happy. It was cold so there were more ins and outs than on more clement days. Sophie, of course, would stay out all day with Charlotte if we didn't put our feet down on their preference for wide open spaces. Piper managed the kitchen with Nick as her stalwart back up. The little dogs sat on Lee's feet as she chopped, hoping for fall out and occasionally rewarded. Tom dropped by to collect some of the stainless steel Standard Metals crates for a welding update. Lots of activity and lots of little jobs finished.
The kennel is quiet and working along well. Kirby has oriented himself and is moving in and out nicely. He is eating and has settled - at his very advanced age, we watch him closely and are pleased with his management of his area. Sophie is settling in to the routine and now comes through the gate on her own, runs to her outside door and stands and barks at it to be let in. She is fully acclimated and hasn't missed a meal.
Lunch was a quiche with the cheddar and chive biscuits. A mince pie was made for our Ken and all was well in his world. Dinner was a lively affair. A lovely baked ham was accompanied by one of Ken's squash (there are benefits of that cold basement) and a great potato scallop with thyme and cheese. Dessert was from this month's Bon Appetit - the chocolate mousse with ganache, a port reduction (incredible) and creme fraiche - with lattes all around. We didn't suffer through this meal. And we are off to bed in anticipation of another full day.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Painting is underway - and It's Christmas once again
It was a good day in the neighbourhood. The painting project continues - primarily making a huge and splendid mess all through the house. Ken is doing ceilings - and it seems any ceiling will do. Drop cloths, paint cans, brushes and edgers abound; ladders and plastic sheets are at every turn and there isn't much question what the project is this year. Sure will be nice to get paint on a wall - so far ceilings and baseboards seem all consuming. The dogs are interested in the comings and goings and are enjoying the opportunity to wander down the hall now and then. Einstein is less amused and is keeping a close eye on the high ground. Paperwork and the CKC consumed the rest of the day with time added for meals and the phone. Chantelle had her Agility class last night and returned singing Welsh praises. Scout was off lead and is a star. He loves the speed of the event, the jumps are fun and bonding with Chantelle is a natural so he is in his element. To finish the evening - Christmas came. Chantelle arrived and doled out gifts and Lee and Ken were amazed. From personalized calendars, Nick at the Beach tiles and an incredible blanket with images from 25 years ago to today, it was an amazing evening.
The kennel is quiet and ticking along. Sophie, Lori and Trebia are manning the big yard and all is safe in Belnan. It was a cold day given what we have had lately so there were more requests to come in and to thaw before going back out to verify the status of the neighbourhood. Patti and Sophie are doing well - Sophie with her breakfast of mac and cheese, bacon wrapped meatloaf and a mouthful of dog food chaser all served a la carte on the kitchen floor is thriving. Patti is taking her potion and running Regalridge. Girls rule!
Dinner was our Friday night special - this week pizza and garlic fingers - Sophie likes those and they are a good start to her breakfast routine for the week. And tomorrow is another day.
The kennel is quiet and ticking along. Sophie, Lori and Trebia are manning the big yard and all is safe in Belnan. It was a cold day given what we have had lately so there were more requests to come in and to thaw before going back out to verify the status of the neighbourhood. Patti and Sophie are doing well - Sophie with her breakfast of mac and cheese, bacon wrapped meatloaf and a mouthful of dog food chaser all served a la carte on the kitchen floor is thriving. Patti is taking her potion and running Regalridge. Girls rule!
Dinner was our Friday night special - this week pizza and garlic fingers - Sophie likes those and they are a good start to her breakfast routine for the week. And tomorrow is another day.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Shovels, Paint and Good Food - it's winter at its' best
Life is rolling along and January is winding down. Ken spent an hour pushing a shovel around the yard clearing the powder that had fallen and giving himself a sense of winter. The house chugged along, the kitchen stayed busy and all was well in the dogs' world. Sophie enjoyed her meal of homemade mac and cheese, meatloaf and finally some Pro Plan salmon based food. She is thriving, running around the yard and encouraging us to play her chase games. Always our athlete, at her very advanced age she continues to run balls up and down the yard, outplaying the young dogs. Patti is enjoying the potion, Ken is diligent in his ministrations and to this point nobody has told her she is sick. Ken had a foray to the village and painted the hall ceiling on his return. That leaves the hall ready to be finished - another step along in the 2010 project.
The kennel is ticking along. Bandit departed among a flurry of waving paws. His owners had been to the Bahamas and had a great trip - Bandit felt his was equally fun so we're sure stories were shared into the night. Sophie is having a great time, enjoying her pal Lori and playing Chantelle games. Chantelle thought going to collect her would be easy every evening so went to the kennel in her slippers. Sophie analyzed the new situation, planted herself behind a little snow area and encouraged Chantelle to 'come and get me'. Sophie 2 Chantelle 0! Advice is given that Sophie's owners should be shopping for a suitable gift for Chantelle . . . Laurel went home with Kelly and looked decidedly relieved if a little confused with teh comings and goings.
Meals were winter inspired and great. Lunch was a lovely tomato and meat soup that appears on the table only in the winter. We thoroughly enjoyed it and then looked forward to the great pot roast that was to be dinner. A lovely burgundy built the last layer of flavour and the Hants county carrots and rutabaga paired nicely with Ken's potatoes and a fork tender piece of meat that had yielded nicely to the broth. Life was good in the Regalridge kitchen and set us up well for what tomorrow will bring.
The kennel is ticking along. Bandit departed among a flurry of waving paws. His owners had been to the Bahamas and had a great trip - Bandit felt his was equally fun so we're sure stories were shared into the night. Sophie is having a great time, enjoying her pal Lori and playing Chantelle games. Chantelle thought going to collect her would be easy every evening so went to the kennel in her slippers. Sophie analyzed the new situation, planted herself behind a little snow area and encouraged Chantelle to 'come and get me'. Sophie 2 Chantelle 0! Advice is given that Sophie's owners should be shopping for a suitable gift for Chantelle . . . Laurel went home with Kelly and looked decidedly relieved if a little confused with teh comings and goings.
Meals were winter inspired and great. Lunch was a lovely tomato and meat soup that appears on the table only in the winter. We thoroughly enjoyed it and then looked forward to the great pot roast that was to be dinner. A lovely burgundy built the last layer of flavour and the Hants county carrots and rutabaga paired nicely with Ken's potatoes and a fork tender piece of meat that had yielded nicely to the broth. Life was good in the Regalridge kitchen and set us up well for what tomorrow will bring.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Another no-storm day in spite of the schools being closed
All is well at Camp Regalridge. The weather is fine - it's winter after all - the dogs are happy and the house is warm. Our health is good and spring is only two months away. It was a day to go to the city for errands and a visit with our great veterinarian. Laurel turns out to be in the midst of a false pregnancy and is wondering where exactly her family has disappeared because she is ready to go home and give all of this breeding stuff some thought. We will now pin our hopes on Lori and the future for Laurel. Costco offered up its' riches. It is interesting to see the difference in the foodstuffs that Costco carries by season. The meat case this week is chock a block filled with blade roasts for pot roast, the tastings are of the wonderful Jumping Bean coffee from Newfoundland (yes, Kelly, I did stock up), the dogs beds were therapeutic rather than lovely and the focus at the door was televisions (Superbowl, anyone?). Superstore then offered up the remaining items on the list and we were home with a full van (partly offset by the chair and fabric yet to be taken to the upholsterer).
The dogs are happy. Patti is enjoying her potion, the rest are playing in the yards and enjoying the snowbank that Tom built them - how he managed that with the few flakes we have received in January I have no idea but the young Airedales climb it like little goats, standing on top and surveying their domain. We had a little incident with Piper - she was sound asleep, the Australian-who-thinks-she-is-a-Norwich decided she had to go from there to here and jumping over the sleeping Airedale was the solution. Her jump was better in theory than in practice and her back feet landed on the head of the sleeping Airedale. Piper woke with a roar that a lion would applaud, jumped in the air and landed in the jaws of a Welsh who did not approve Piper's response to her friend the Australian-who-thinks-she-is-a-Welsh. Piper spent the rest of the day in Lee's lap reinforcing her thought that life is not fair!
Sophie the boarding Airedale is now immersed in Regalridge routine. She loves the big yard, is not missing a meal, loves her bed from home and does the ins and outs with aplomb. Bandit is out in yard three and does well. He has a good coat and likes to explore, letting us know when it is time to come in. He also is eating well and hasn't missed a meal. Laurel on the other hand is ready to go home - asap in her view.
Dinner was chicken pie - a nice winter meal. Fruit and cookies finished us up for the evening. It was a storm forecast that fizzled and we are glad of that. Bob and Luella received the full brunt of the storm - not needed in the banana belt of NS since their snowbanks are already 10 feet high. And tomorrow will be . . . another day.
The dogs are happy. Patti is enjoying her potion, the rest are playing in the yards and enjoying the snowbank that Tom built them - how he managed that with the few flakes we have received in January I have no idea but the young Airedales climb it like little goats, standing on top and surveying their domain. We had a little incident with Piper - she was sound asleep, the Australian-who-thinks-she-is-a-Norwich decided she had to go from there to here and jumping over the sleeping Airedale was the solution. Her jump was better in theory than in practice and her back feet landed on the head of the sleeping Airedale. Piper woke with a roar that a lion would applaud, jumped in the air and landed in the jaws of a Welsh who did not approve Piper's response to her friend the Australian-who-thinks-she-is-a-Welsh. Piper spent the rest of the day in Lee's lap reinforcing her thought that life is not fair!
Sophie the boarding Airedale is now immersed in Regalridge routine. She loves the big yard, is not missing a meal, loves her bed from home and does the ins and outs with aplomb. Bandit is out in yard three and does well. He has a good coat and likes to explore, letting us know when it is time to come in. He also is eating well and hasn't missed a meal. Laurel on the other hand is ready to go home - asap in her view.
Dinner was chicken pie - a nice winter meal. Fruit and cookies finished us up for the evening. It was a storm forecast that fizzled and we are glad of that. Bob and Luella received the full brunt of the storm - not needed in the banana belt of NS since their snowbanks are already 10 feet high. And tomorrow will be . . . another day.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Margolians offered up its' riches while Ken kept the world safe for health care in NS
It was a good day at Regalridge. The birds were active at the feeders, the dogs played outside much of the day and Einstein hunted from the office window. Coffee flowed as paperwork was finished and the painting project progressed. Accent walls seem to be the first to be targeted along with trim so rooms are in partial new wardrobes and Lee was written off the dining room once again. Ken attended a Health Board meeting in Truro, a pleasant surprise since the strike had been looming. Now, going to Truro is an event for our Ken and this trip was no exception. He saw his friends at Blaikies and gave some consideration to the new Town and Country in the showroom. Then it was a sortie to Margolians where he found a little gift for Pennsylvania that will be packaged and mailed to follow the box that went earlier in the week to welcome the black and tan chicks soon to arrive. We heard from Linda that Maggie has taken her 'potion' a la Patti and seems to feel it will work in her world as well. That is wonderful news. Maggie's bladder cancer is inoperable so any system support will be of use to her. Patti is thriving under Ken's ministrations so we hope for the best for our Maggie who has now survived 14 months with this terrible diagnosis.
The housedogs are doing well. Atlas is delighted with Lori, his new girlfriend, and is willing to be in the kennel for the first time in his young life. He is such a gentleman that the breeding game was a real question in our minds for him but he has managed to learn the process and we hope that Lori may be having puppies in March. Laurel is back with us and will go to Carnegy's Vet Hospital for a check to confirm the number of puppies we are anticipating will join us this week. Kelly and Shawn are as excited as we are so we hope for a lovely litter.
The kennel is ticking along. Bandit has settled in well and seems to enjoy the routine. He and Trebia have bonded. Sophie is bouncing along, eating well and marching to her own drum. She is a delight and we are enjoying her antics. Her playmate is being bred so she is spending some time with young Marguerite as Lori is being kept a bit more quiet at this stage.
With Ken's meeting, dinner was fashionably late - a meal of roasted vegetables, stuffed roast pork and lovely wine furnished by Chantelle. Fruit for dessert was all that could be managed - it was too darned late for anything else. And we are on to tomorrow - a trip to the city is always good.
The housedogs are doing well. Atlas is delighted with Lori, his new girlfriend, and is willing to be in the kennel for the first time in his young life. He is such a gentleman that the breeding game was a real question in our minds for him but he has managed to learn the process and we hope that Lori may be having puppies in March. Laurel is back with us and will go to Carnegy's Vet Hospital for a check to confirm the number of puppies we are anticipating will join us this week. Kelly and Shawn are as excited as we are so we hope for a lovely litter.
The kennel is ticking along. Bandit has settled in well and seems to enjoy the routine. He and Trebia have bonded. Sophie is bouncing along, eating well and marching to her own drum. She is a delight and we are enjoying her antics. Her playmate is being bred so she is spending some time with young Marguerite as Lori is being kept a bit more quiet at this stage.
With Ken's meeting, dinner was fashionably late - a meal of roasted vegetables, stuffed roast pork and lovely wine furnished by Chantelle. Fruit for dessert was all that could be managed - it was too darned late for anything else. And we are on to tomorrow - a trip to the city is always good.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
We're back
Laptops are interesting beasts. The one that died had with me a love/hate relationship. It felt me far below its' capabilities and was probably absolutely correct. I, on the other hand, was dependent upon it and counted it among my allies if not a friend. Now it is gone to the happy laptop home in the sky (or the office depending on your perspective) and it's replacement has filled its' spot with a similar attitude. My entire day was spent getting this new challenge wrestled to the ground but perseverance, time, John and a drink (not necessarily in that order) brought Regalridge back into the blogosphere.
All is well here with the housedogs eating, playing and enjoying the mild January that has blessed Nova Scotia. Old Sophie has a new routine - all food must be placed directly on the floor for her consideration. As she mulls over the offering of the morning, the other dogs pace, gaze longingly and compare their breakfast to Sophie's daily changed feasts. All was accepted on this day so Sophie had roast stuffed pork tenderloin, sweet and sour chicken thigh, turkey breast and cottage cheese - the latter an interesting thought since it was not in a bowl! Patti continues to take Budwig's protocol and is enjoying her life, managing the yard with her usual aplomb, running at full tilt and smiling as only Patti can smile as she urges us on to greater feats to please her. Piper is Piper and has learned the Virginia game of find the Pupperoni. Whatever possessed Lee to start that search game is a mystery but Piper expects to play every night and paces the very large bedroom until the game is on. Many are in varied grooming stages in preparation for the show season and Scout is thriving as he learns the Agility rulebook (Chantelle is somewhat behind him in that process but we are quite certain she will catch up).
The kennel is quite quiet. Young Sophie Airedale is thriving, greatly enjoys the big yard and has, until yesterday, spent her days with Lori Airedale. The two are fast friends and have developed Airedale games that show the ingenuity, zest for life and abilities of our great breed. Trebia is out with Bandit and the two have maintained their exercise programs as well. All are eating and thriving - Sophie has enjoyed her pork tenderloins and is looking forward to bar b qued burgers tonight. She is eating well and coming and going with the routine of the kennel - at her own pace and with her own decision-making in evidence but relatively compliant given her breed and upbringing!
Dinners have been a mix in the past couple of weeks. It was scallop newburg last night with potatoes and fresh green beans with almonds followed by a wonderful birthday cake that Chantelle was a beneficiary of at her office. We have developed a love for Romanian cuisine as a result of Chantelle's co-worker's wonderful cooking skills - the cakes were a highlight. And we are on to another day ...
All is well here with the housedogs eating, playing and enjoying the mild January that has blessed Nova Scotia. Old Sophie has a new routine - all food must be placed directly on the floor for her consideration. As she mulls over the offering of the morning, the other dogs pace, gaze longingly and compare their breakfast to Sophie's daily changed feasts. All was accepted on this day so Sophie had roast stuffed pork tenderloin, sweet and sour chicken thigh, turkey breast and cottage cheese - the latter an interesting thought since it was not in a bowl! Patti continues to take Budwig's protocol and is enjoying her life, managing the yard with her usual aplomb, running at full tilt and smiling as only Patti can smile as she urges us on to greater feats to please her. Piper is Piper and has learned the Virginia game of find the Pupperoni. Whatever possessed Lee to start that search game is a mystery but Piper expects to play every night and paces the very large bedroom until the game is on. Many are in varied grooming stages in preparation for the show season and Scout is thriving as he learns the Agility rulebook (Chantelle is somewhat behind him in that process but we are quite certain she will catch up).
The kennel is quite quiet. Young Sophie Airedale is thriving, greatly enjoys the big yard and has, until yesterday, spent her days with Lori Airedale. The two are fast friends and have developed Airedale games that show the ingenuity, zest for life and abilities of our great breed. Trebia is out with Bandit and the two have maintained their exercise programs as well. All are eating and thriving - Sophie has enjoyed her pork tenderloins and is looking forward to bar b qued burgers tonight. She is eating well and coming and going with the routine of the kennel - at her own pace and with her own decision-making in evidence but relatively compliant given her breed and upbringing!
Dinners have been a mix in the past couple of weeks. It was scallop newburg last night with potatoes and fresh green beans with almonds followed by a wonderful birthday cake that Chantelle was a beneficiary of at her office. We have developed a love for Romanian cuisine as a result of Chantelle's co-worker's wonderful cooking skills - the cakes were a highlight. And we are on to another day ...
Monday, January 11, 2010
Week end activity id January's norm
Why is it that 'retired' folks are still controlled by week ends? Why, because other folks are still in the regular work force of course! So Sunday was a travel day with trips to Boutilier's Point for lunch and then to Bedford for a visit before returning home to a house of new dogs - Chantelle received a new set of clippers for Christmas and is making good use of them. It was a true January day from a weather standpoint - overcast and grey, damp but not truly cold, with bare roads and easy driving.
The kennel is reasonably quiet. Lori is almost ready to be bred and with London Norwich also in season the girls are telling stories and keeping each other company. Sophie Airedale is doing well in her new circumstances, hasn't missed a meal and is re-learning the kennel routine. She thoroughly enjoys the exercise yard and prefers to spend much of her day running with Trebia or Lori. Returning to her kennel run is still not her favourite activity, even with the lure of dinner or bedtime treats but the other dogs are encouraging her to get with the program. With the quiet period in the kennel, inside updates are the order of the day. The interior has been painted and freshened up (as was the stone cat - our Tom felt it needed an update) and the house is on the list for another 'project'.
The housedogs are doing well - Patti and Sophie are eating and enjoying their days so all is well at Regalridge. Sophie at her very advanced age decided that 6:00 in the morning would be a good time for Lee to play ball with her so with a grin and a kick of those Airedale feet, she was off through the yard rather than come in for breakfast. The Airedale bum in the air and front down is a trademark stance and Sophie epitomized all things Airedale as she encouraged Lee (in slippers and without any outerwear) to play chase and to throw that ball! She forgets she is 16. Piper is sporting one of Chantelle's new haircuts and is justly proud of that and her bath. She is playing the tracking game at bedtime now and is settled back in to her usual routine. Nick went on the trips so he is content in his knowledge that he is the most important dog at Regalridge (in his mind) and Clem looked after the kitchen in Lee's absence, finding the most central of locations to thwart any forward momentum being achieved by any of the other residents.
Dinner was a catch as catch can affair after a large lunch. Homemade soup and bread were sufficient for most and more than required for others. And another week starts . . .
The kennel is reasonably quiet. Lori is almost ready to be bred and with London Norwich also in season the girls are telling stories and keeping each other company. Sophie Airedale is doing well in her new circumstances, hasn't missed a meal and is re-learning the kennel routine. She thoroughly enjoys the exercise yard and prefers to spend much of her day running with Trebia or Lori. Returning to her kennel run is still not her favourite activity, even with the lure of dinner or bedtime treats but the other dogs are encouraging her to get with the program. With the quiet period in the kennel, inside updates are the order of the day. The interior has been painted and freshened up (as was the stone cat - our Tom felt it needed an update) and the house is on the list for another 'project'.
The housedogs are doing well - Patti and Sophie are eating and enjoying their days so all is well at Regalridge. Sophie at her very advanced age decided that 6:00 in the morning would be a good time for Lee to play ball with her so with a grin and a kick of those Airedale feet, she was off through the yard rather than come in for breakfast. The Airedale bum in the air and front down is a trademark stance and Sophie epitomized all things Airedale as she encouraged Lee (in slippers and without any outerwear) to play chase and to throw that ball! She forgets she is 16. Piper is sporting one of Chantelle's new haircuts and is justly proud of that and her bath. She is playing the tracking game at bedtime now and is settled back in to her usual routine. Nick went on the trips so he is content in his knowledge that he is the most important dog at Regalridge (in his mind) and Clem looked after the kitchen in Lee's absence, finding the most central of locations to thwart any forward momentum being achieved by any of the other residents.
Dinner was a catch as catch can affair after a large lunch. Homemade soup and bread were sufficient for most and more than required for others. And another week starts . . .
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Post-Christmas activities
All is well this week at Regalridge. It has been a week of warm weather, no snow except a fine ground cover and lots of activity. There were meetings attended, trips to the city for errands and acquisitions, visits with Reg in Rockingham and the pilgrimage to Tatamagouche to see Shelagh. Shelagh is doing reasonable well - she tires in the speech department the longer we stay but does very much enjoy the company and wants to know unequivocally when we will be back. This trip she was the recipient of a turkey enchilada with Spanish rice, plum pudding, truffles, pomegranate-apple sparkling juice, strawberry jam, cd's and a book on tape. The world was pretty well covered this trip. All items were received with appreciation. We continue to explore the potential for her computer to be moved to the facility.
The dogs are well this week. Lori and London are in season so are keeping Sophie Airedale company in the kennel. Neither is particularly impressed with her circumstances but lots of exercise keeps things in perspective. Sophie and Patti are eating and Patti is taking her potion with good humour. To date, there have been no relapses, her smiles continue to be infectious and she runs the length of the property with lots of energy so we are hopeful that the potion is helping. Piper seems to have reverted to her own ways once again with the departure of the Little Prince. Laurel is showing all signs of being pregnant so we hope for Nick puppies by the third week of the month. Chantelle has started Agility classes with Scout - an interesting decision and one to be watched. Scout will likely be fine. We worry about Chantelle, though!
The kennel has quieted down after the holiday rush. The little white dogs departed as did the two Airedales. Sophie Airedale has joined us for a winter stay as her family leaves for 'down under'. Sophie is smart and quickly remembered the routine. She exercises in yard number four and has quickly made it her own. She and Lori had it for Airedale games early in the evening, Chantelle took Lori in early and then called Sophie who determined that her name meant "let the games begin". Chantelle was butted, circled and out manoeuvred. Resigning with dignity, she retreated to the kennel for a leash. Returned to the exercise yard, she once again called Sophie, who obediently laid down, had the leash put over her head and unceremoniously flipped over on her back. Without question, Sophie won the first skirmish - we await a rematch and hope for the best for Chantelle.
Dinners have been a mixture ranging from filet with portobello mushrooms to fresh haddock; from turkey enchiladas to meatloaf and everything in between. Birthday cake, plum pudding fruitcake and Christmas cookies are still on offer and the new coffee maker is working as hard as any other machine in the house. The local cows applaud us as we drive past - content in the knowledge that lattes support the milk industry in a big way.
And we are on to a busy end to teh week end.
The dogs are well this week. Lori and London are in season so are keeping Sophie Airedale company in the kennel. Neither is particularly impressed with her circumstances but lots of exercise keeps things in perspective. Sophie and Patti are eating and Patti is taking her potion with good humour. To date, there have been no relapses, her smiles continue to be infectious and she runs the length of the property with lots of energy so we are hopeful that the potion is helping. Piper seems to have reverted to her own ways once again with the departure of the Little Prince. Laurel is showing all signs of being pregnant so we hope for Nick puppies by the third week of the month. Chantelle has started Agility classes with Scout - an interesting decision and one to be watched. Scout will likely be fine. We worry about Chantelle, though!
The kennel has quieted down after the holiday rush. The little white dogs departed as did the two Airedales. Sophie Airedale has joined us for a winter stay as her family leaves for 'down under'. Sophie is smart and quickly remembered the routine. She exercises in yard number four and has quickly made it her own. She and Lori had it for Airedale games early in the evening, Chantelle took Lori in early and then called Sophie who determined that her name meant "let the games begin". Chantelle was butted, circled and out manoeuvred. Resigning with dignity, she retreated to the kennel for a leash. Returned to the exercise yard, she once again called Sophie, who obediently laid down, had the leash put over her head and unceremoniously flipped over on her back. Without question, Sophie won the first skirmish - we await a rematch and hope for the best for Chantelle.
Dinners have been a mixture ranging from filet with portobello mushrooms to fresh haddock; from turkey enchiladas to meatloaf and everything in between. Birthday cake, plum pudding fruitcake and Christmas cookies are still on offer and the new coffee maker is working as hard as any other machine in the house. The local cows applaud us as we drive past - content in the knowledge that lattes support the milk industry in a big way.
And we are on to a busy end to teh week end.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Storm Watch - So far a fizzle
All is well and we await the storm. Digby has been blessed with about 25 cm so far and is awaiting another forty. We saw a flake but it might have been sawdust from the hole the Great Dane is making in the kennel so we aren't certain we have had any weather at all so far. The pundits are touting gloom and doom storms for all but our Ken says they are just not accurate and we know our Ken is the oracle of all things storm. The pheasants are back in numbers with four now spending much of their day under the chestnut tree outside the office window - so it must be winter in spite of the fact that the grass is still green.
The kennel is busy and all is well. Ruari continues to be the clean up man and will not come in until all others have been locked down for the night. He is thorough and precise in his positioning and takes no quarter in asserting his role and its' importance. He is somewhat undone by Chantelle who simply puts a leash on him and marches him around to his bed - that's just cheating! Roddi is eating well, on his haunches waving as only Roddi can and as Chantelle notes "If that dog is unwell, nobody has given him the memo". The two Labs are enjoying each other's company and play in their exercise yard by the hour. The Great Dane watches from his vantage point over the top of the fence (keep in mind that it is five feet high) but the combination of those ungainly legs and Great Dane enthusiasm keep him ensconced in his own area. It was cold through the day so he was in and out to the yards to keep him warm but as it warmed through the evening, he decided that any port in a storm would do and had a play with Chantelle (who was knocked about and chased by the grinning mega-dog). Keegan, Kenzie and Fiddler are having a wonderful time together and are playing every Airedale game imaginable in yard number 4. Lori came in season and had to be led to the kennel after dinner. That was not a positive move in her books since Chantelle was only just home and she was only just back in the bedroom in her rightful place. Brewster is Brewster and is still managing the perimeters and the runways in Corgi-fashion.
The house crew is doing just fine. Patti is thriving on her potion and she and Sophie have Ken trained to supplement with Costco tortiere for their dining pleasure. He has also bar b qued hamburgers so they have an alternate supply if their whims don't lead to meat pie. The rest suffer along with chicken gravy, vegetables and whatever else comes their way. None seem the worse for wear. We lived through the reintegration of Scout, Clem and Jessie-Rachael as Chantelle moved back in - Clem is glad to be home, the Welsh a little less so since their freedoms have been curtailed. Patti is delighted to have Chatelle back in residence and when invited to go upstairs with the parade offered her biggest grin in weeks. All is right with her world. Sleeping in Ken and Lee's room was apparently a poor substitute.
New Year's dinner is developed by Our Ken so we had a lovely prime rib roast, potatoes from the garden, roasted carrots and parsnips with onion in a brown sugar glaze, gravy, fruitcake (with marzipan and icing - courtesy of Ken's mother's recipe), Christmas ice cream, cherries jubilee and chocolate squares. It worked. And it's back to storm watch . . .
The kennel is busy and all is well. Ruari continues to be the clean up man and will not come in until all others have been locked down for the night. He is thorough and precise in his positioning and takes no quarter in asserting his role and its' importance. He is somewhat undone by Chantelle who simply puts a leash on him and marches him around to his bed - that's just cheating! Roddi is eating well, on his haunches waving as only Roddi can and as Chantelle notes "If that dog is unwell, nobody has given him the memo". The two Labs are enjoying each other's company and play in their exercise yard by the hour. The Great Dane watches from his vantage point over the top of the fence (keep in mind that it is five feet high) but the combination of those ungainly legs and Great Dane enthusiasm keep him ensconced in his own area. It was cold through the day so he was in and out to the yards to keep him warm but as it warmed through the evening, he decided that any port in a storm would do and had a play with Chantelle (who was knocked about and chased by the grinning mega-dog). Keegan, Kenzie and Fiddler are having a wonderful time together and are playing every Airedale game imaginable in yard number 4. Lori came in season and had to be led to the kennel after dinner. That was not a positive move in her books since Chantelle was only just home and she was only just back in the bedroom in her rightful place. Brewster is Brewster and is still managing the perimeters and the runways in Corgi-fashion.
The house crew is doing just fine. Patti is thriving on her potion and she and Sophie have Ken trained to supplement with Costco tortiere for their dining pleasure. He has also bar b qued hamburgers so they have an alternate supply if their whims don't lead to meat pie. The rest suffer along with chicken gravy, vegetables and whatever else comes their way. None seem the worse for wear. We lived through the reintegration of Scout, Clem and Jessie-Rachael as Chantelle moved back in - Clem is glad to be home, the Welsh a little less so since their freedoms have been curtailed. Patti is delighted to have Chatelle back in residence and when invited to go upstairs with the parade offered her biggest grin in weeks. All is right with her world. Sleeping in Ken and Lee's room was apparently a poor substitute.
New Year's dinner is developed by Our Ken so we had a lovely prime rib roast, potatoes from the garden, roasted carrots and parsnips with onion in a brown sugar glaze, gravy, fruitcake (with marzipan and icing - courtesy of Ken's mother's recipe), Christmas ice cream, cherries jubilee and chocolate squares. It worked. And it's back to storm watch . . .
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