It was a day full of activity. The men decided to sanitize the kennel - replete with a requirement for a new 'sprayer'. Generally, the addition of this sort of device is the motivation and getting wet and dirty seems all part of the fun. They had lots of fun. Lee was tied to the computer, moving from CKC business to Regalridge paperwork. Paper was flying.
The kennel is ticking along. Barrett departed much to Trebia's disgust. We do hope he finds birds in the city so that he can display his considerable talent to the city folk. Maxifer has moved to the penthouse suite - the only area where his bed fits comfortably! He likes that. And he has a friend. Marco the black dog arrived and the game was on. Maxifer and Marco decided that retrieving 101 should be taught. Now, which was the pupil and which the teacher we aren't quite certain but Max would now more properly be deemed a Mudden Retriever and will see the tub as soon as it dries out. In the interim, he is having a whale of a time.
The house dogs are fine. The party of three are eating the potion and enjoying the special dog treatment. All it takes is the sound of a bean grinder and everyone now congregates in the kitchen. We are pleased to announce with fanfare and booming of cannon (use your imagination) the arrival of two litters in the US (that would be our neighbour to the South) sired by the boys of Regalridge. At Stirling Kennel Clint has been successful in siring a litter of 8 little Airedales. Reports are that the coats are unbelievable in their colour and quality, the ears are lovely and the bone is excellent. The mother of the litter is a very pretty girl so the combination was a strong one with potential for great outcomes. We are delighted that Susan and Shirley are happy with the result. And up the road from that (a couple of hours) Logan has sired a litter of 8 as well. Again, a Stirling girl bred to Logan has produced a nice litter. They are younger so the news so far is that they are healthy and happy and that the mother is doing very well. The oldest of the three litters sired by Atlas is leaving Tom and Jeannie's home now. That hardly seems possible. We have seen the pictures of that litter and it is very high quality. Atlas is justifiably proud.
Dinner was a bit late but welcome. Prime rib steaks were grilled as was lovely asparagus. There were mashed potatoes, onions and mushrooms and Caesar salad. And there was lots of fruit, squares and ice cream for the late night crowd (that would be Our Ken). Lee is off to New Brunswick tomorrow (her Dad has had a difficult diagnosis and has called to have Lee come up for the appointment with the oncologist). The blog will have a hiatus for a few days.
Regalridge Kennel
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
Sunday brought a day of coming and going
It was Sunday, a day of - work. And we did. Chantelle was showing her little dog (and brought home a rosette or two) Tom was off so Ken and Lee were managed by the dogs. It was busy with lots of little catch up activities. Lee worked on Airedale ears (they don't like this time of year - the ears, not the dogs), a little trimming and some CKC business. Our Ken did a yeoman's job in the kennel - started early and worked until late with a few stops to dry himself out. It was an up and down weather day with showers, sun, a lot of cloud, rain and clearing for a beautiful sunset. At the shows, Logan managed a Best In Show, three Group 1's and a Group 2. Anjin and Bella split the points - thinking that was a fair outcome, no doubt. Both looked great, showed as young Airedales show, with enthusiasm and panache and are tributes to their owners.
The kennel is relatively quiet in preparation for the week to come. That gave us time to enjoy Barrett's antics and Maxifer's solid presence. Barrett just slowed down long enough to recognize that ' he is in the country and guess what - there are birds. Hey, Trebia, watch this - I'm a bird dog! And he pointed and set - the little swallows that were buzzing around gathering up bugs for the mother still sitting but now with the babies over the back door of the house. And there Our Barrett the beautiful Gordon Setter stood - tail out, head and paw up - pointing and setting his heart out just to show the little Cirneco love of his life how it's done. He is magnificent on green grass pointing Ken's little pet birds. Then there is Max. He is a one happy Retriever. He is now eating all of his grub with typical sporting dog abandon - leaving a few crumbs just in case Ken could be cajoled into adding a spoonful or three of the good stuff so he could clean it up. He is happy, his tail is wagging full time and at full throttle - a good vacation in Max's perspective. Keegan and Kenzie departed amid waving paws, ready to tell their owner lots of stories about their country vacation.
The house dogs are doing just fine. Poor Dolly is in season so had to move to the kennel late in the day with Ken apologizing and apologizing and apologizing as she went. Piper, Nick and Lori had ears done and looked at Lee as a traitor to the cause all day.
Dinner was late but acceptable. The strawberry salad was again in evidence followed by grilled pork and macaroni and cheese (Lola is not feeling herself and Ken determined that Lee's mac and cheese would be what she needed). Strawberry shortcake followed for Ken and Chantelle (not for Lola). And the week starts . . .
The kennel is relatively quiet in preparation for the week to come. That gave us time to enjoy Barrett's antics and Maxifer's solid presence. Barrett just slowed down long enough to recognize that ' he is in the country and guess what - there are birds. Hey, Trebia, watch this - I'm a bird dog! And he pointed and set - the little swallows that were buzzing around gathering up bugs for the mother still sitting but now with the babies over the back door of the house. And there Our Barrett the beautiful Gordon Setter stood - tail out, head and paw up - pointing and setting his heart out just to show the little Cirneco love of his life how it's done. He is magnificent on green grass pointing Ken's little pet birds. Then there is Max. He is a one happy Retriever. He is now eating all of his grub with typical sporting dog abandon - leaving a few crumbs just in case Ken could be cajoled into adding a spoonful or three of the good stuff so he could clean it up. He is happy, his tail is wagging full time and at full throttle - a good vacation in Max's perspective. Keegan and Kenzie departed amid waving paws, ready to tell their owner lots of stories about their country vacation.
The house dogs are doing just fine. Poor Dolly is in season so had to move to the kennel late in the day with Ken apologizing and apologizing and apologizing as she went. Piper, Nick and Lori had ears done and looked at Lee as a traitor to the cause all day.
Dinner was late but acceptable. The strawberry salad was again in evidence followed by grilled pork and macaroni and cheese (Lola is not feeling herself and Ken determined that Lee's mac and cheese would be what she needed). Strawberry shortcake followed for Ken and Chantelle (not for Lola). And the week starts . . .
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Saturday is behind us
Saturdays are simply interesting. They are not patterned days, not predictable and never the same twice. This was a day of Chantelle being off at a show, Lee having to go for part of the day and Our Ken, yet again, holding the fort. Dogs were done in the house, Lee did potions, sorted all that needed to be sorted, made long suffering Ken a banana-orange bread and hopped in Betsy for a drive to the beautiful Annapolis Valley - a rainy, miserable drive behind farm machinery and transport trucks. Arriving in time to watch the Terrier group, she sat with Bob and Luella who made a surprise visit to take Chantelle to lunch. Bella took the point in the morning and looked as lovely as an Airedale girl can look as she showed Kelly. Logan took the breed. Anjin had a whale of a time and Viola got the ribbon for speediest dog with the greatest ability to kick up her heels. She felt that a worthwhile skill to be acknowledged. Logan went on to a Group 1 under one judge and a Best In Show under the other. In the second show, Viola settled her little heels and pulled off a Group 3 and a Puppy Group, Anjin won the point and Logan repeated his breed and Group 1 win. All had good days. Our Ken managed the property and continued his planting ways. There were a few eventful moments at the show, perhaps topped by Jimmy losing not one but two sandwiches to the ever-watchful Lucas The Opportunist. Dawn was working at the Juniors Provincials and Jimmy made lunch. A moment of inattention garnered Lucas his first chicken sandwich. then Shawn knocked on the door and the second disappeared. Lucas 2 Jimmy 0.
The kennel is moving along. Keegan and Kelsey are playing Airedale games. Barrett and Trebia are playing (well, we aren't really sure what it is they are playing but we can say with certainty that it requires copious amounts of running and that it appears whoever is in the lead is not necessarily the winner). Part of the rulebook seems to entail Barrett flattening Trebia every once in a while - she doesn't seem to mind. Maxifer is enjoying his vacation. He had lots of time in the big exercise yard. His food is of some interest - he likes the good stuff and ignores the most of the rest. Given his ample proportions, a little extra exercise and a little less grub will not be a terrible thing although he has tried to convince Ken that the dry food belongs to somebody else named Max and that he really gets only canned food all of the time and more of it. Our Max is a bit of a manipulator.
Jessie R has moved to the grooming room and notes that the repatriation to the house can't happen too soon. Lee was grilled during the evening about other little dogs sleeping in Chantelle's bedroom. Chantelle may have some explaining to do. Piper greeted Lee's arrival at suppertime in 'hail the conquering hero' fashion. A few hours or a few days away is all the same to Piper.
Dinner for Lee didn't happen - poor Ken had bacon and eggs.
The kennel is moving along. Keegan and Kelsey are playing Airedale games. Barrett and Trebia are playing (well, we aren't really sure what it is they are playing but we can say with certainty that it requires copious amounts of running and that it appears whoever is in the lead is not necessarily the winner). Part of the rulebook seems to entail Barrett flattening Trebia every once in a while - she doesn't seem to mind. Maxifer is enjoying his vacation. He had lots of time in the big exercise yard. His food is of some interest - he likes the good stuff and ignores the most of the rest. Given his ample proportions, a little extra exercise and a little less grub will not be a terrible thing although he has tried to convince Ken that the dry food belongs to somebody else named Max and that he really gets only canned food all of the time and more of it. Our Max is a bit of a manipulator.
Jessie R has moved to the grooming room and notes that the repatriation to the house can't happen too soon. Lee was grilled during the evening about other little dogs sleeping in Chantelle's bedroom. Chantelle may have some explaining to do. Piper greeted Lee's arrival at suppertime in 'hail the conquering hero' fashion. A few hours or a few days away is all the same to Piper.
Dinner for Lee didn't happen - poor Ken had bacon and eggs.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
It was a busy Friday at Camp Regalridge
The week end is coming and hunting and gathering was the order of the day. It is not worthwhile going to Costco until the new stock arrives. We are fruit replete (this is such a nice time of year) and Chantelle who isn't even here this week end was well taken care of. Our Ken's excitement came from with acquisition of a new blade for the manual lawn mower. Then it was on to a gourmet lunch at Harvey's, the bank, drug store and grocery store to top up what Costco couldn't supply and home in time for the CKC business of the day, unloading the full van and finding just the right garden flowers for the center of the table - today peonies and roses. By dark, Our Ken was trying out that new blade on the mower and Lee was managing dogs. It was a full day.
The kennel is a good spot to be. It was a warm day but the inside of the kennel with its vaulted ceilings and fans is always cool. Keegan and Kelsey enjoyed number three yard and split their time between the yard and their double run. Barrett and Trebia were in number four yard most of the day, we think, since all you can see is the blur of their came as they race. Some day we will figure out if there is a winner. Those two don't know enough to come in so we cajoled, coerced and finally cornered them for a break mid-afternoon. And then there was the arrival of Maxifer the Retriever. We have boarded dogs for more than 20 years. We have seen big and small, heavy and thin, fast and slow but we have never seen a dog arrive with as much loot as Mr. Maxifer. This is a big, easy going nor so young fellow who loves the world and everything in it. He is quite apparently the apple of his owner's eye, landing at the gate with a large bed, a radio, a bag of toys, a large supply of food and treats, dishes and an owner who may or may not still be here . . . Remember when you were 13 and your parents were such an embarrassment - Max understands. On their departure, Max happily wandered out to the big yard and had a good explore. He had a conversation with Barrett - that seemed to go well as Barrett explained the ropes.
The house dogs are fine although Nick has a complaint and wonders if someone would send him a stamp. The van departed and the dopey humans forgot him. He had to supervise Tom all day long and his pay cheque is not sufficient to cover all of that work. The rest are fine. Clem waited outside watching for Chantelle's reappearance at the gate until dark. Coming in and shaking her head, she recognized that the girl is lost yet again. Lori and Clem did sleep in Chantelle's bedroom, in jeopardy of falling piles of clothes but none the wiser that there were missing people and dogs - who can tell!
Dinner was impressive. Lovely fresh halibut and scallops were on offer today so we bought both. With corn, new potatoes, tomatoes with basil and goat cheese and a salad of strawberries, new lettuce, sweet onion and strawberries with candied pecans and raspberry cream dressing and a good wine, life wasn't bad at all. And tomorrow is another day
The kennel is a good spot to be. It was a warm day but the inside of the kennel with its vaulted ceilings and fans is always cool. Keegan and Kelsey enjoyed number three yard and split their time between the yard and their double run. Barrett and Trebia were in number four yard most of the day, we think, since all you can see is the blur of their came as they race. Some day we will figure out if there is a winner. Those two don't know enough to come in so we cajoled, coerced and finally cornered them for a break mid-afternoon. And then there was the arrival of Maxifer the Retriever. We have boarded dogs for more than 20 years. We have seen big and small, heavy and thin, fast and slow but we have never seen a dog arrive with as much loot as Mr. Maxifer. This is a big, easy going nor so young fellow who loves the world and everything in it. He is quite apparently the apple of his owner's eye, landing at the gate with a large bed, a radio, a bag of toys, a large supply of food and treats, dishes and an owner who may or may not still be here . . . Remember when you were 13 and your parents were such an embarrassment - Max understands. On their departure, Max happily wandered out to the big yard and had a good explore. He had a conversation with Barrett - that seemed to go well as Barrett explained the ropes.
The house dogs are fine although Nick has a complaint and wonders if someone would send him a stamp. The van departed and the dopey humans forgot him. He had to supervise Tom all day long and his pay cheque is not sufficient to cover all of that work. The rest are fine. Clem waited outside watching for Chantelle's reappearance at the gate until dark. Coming in and shaking her head, she recognized that the girl is lost yet again. Lori and Clem did sleep in Chantelle's bedroom, in jeopardy of falling piles of clothes but none the wiser that there were missing people and dogs - who can tell!
Dinner was impressive. Lovely fresh halibut and scallops were on offer today so we bought both. With corn, new potatoes, tomatoes with basil and goat cheese and a salad of strawberries, new lettuce, sweet onion and strawberries with candied pecans and raspberry cream dressing and a good wine, life wasn't bad at all. And tomorrow is another day
Friday, June 25, 2010
An unusual thursday
It was Thursday - generally not a busy day in our scheme of days. This one was a bit different. Lee had to take Mr Rory to Pictou to meet the wonderfully accommodating Ashley Archibald who repatriated the little guy to his home. Chantelle had trimmed him up and he looked the picture of a very goo show dog as he hopped over a storm grate and on to the big boat. Then it was on to Truro to hunt and gather plants for Our Ken. It would cost about 3/4 of what we paid to buy already made up baskets but what's the fun in that? Our Ken continued in his planting ways through the day, made a plan for his push mower and entertained the dishwasher repair man from Sears. That warranty has been a godsend - Ken's entertainment skills - now that would have been an interesting couple of hours.
The kennel is doing just fine. Keegan and Kelsey Airedales landed and settled in as well as they always do. Helen is well trained, dropped them off with the phone call from the airport and waited until Ken got to the gate to collect the girls. The girls bounced around in the exercise yards, bounded back into their runs, tails wagging. Barrett and Trebia are bonded at the hip. I really don't think Brenda would even know if Trebia went home with him - they wouldn't even need a new bed!
The house dogs are doing great. Nick had the road trip to the ferry and managed to get Lee there and back with his usual efficiency. Viola is trimmed and happy, ready to go to Canning on the week end. Paula had a little tour of the property as a morning exercise routine for Chantelle - Paula 4 Chantelle 0. Scout has packed his little bags and is going for the week end as well - somebody with sense has to be along on the trip. It was a funny weather day with cloud and cool, cloud and hot, sun and hot and sun and cool. Schizophrenic in its' own way.
Dinner was Lee's famous yogurt pancakes, sausage and bacon - Ken's choice. And we are on to Friday . . .
The kennel is doing just fine. Keegan and Kelsey Airedales landed and settled in as well as they always do. Helen is well trained, dropped them off with the phone call from the airport and waited until Ken got to the gate to collect the girls. The girls bounced around in the exercise yards, bounded back into their runs, tails wagging. Barrett and Trebia are bonded at the hip. I really don't think Brenda would even know if Trebia went home with him - they wouldn't even need a new bed!
The house dogs are doing great. Nick had the road trip to the ferry and managed to get Lee there and back with his usual efficiency. Viola is trimmed and happy, ready to go to Canning on the week end. Paula had a little tour of the property as a morning exercise routine for Chantelle - Paula 4 Chantelle 0. Scout has packed his little bags and is going for the week end as well - somebody with sense has to be along on the trip. It was a funny weather day with cloud and cool, cloud and hot, sun and hot and sun and cool. Schizophrenic in its' own way.
Dinner was Lee's famous yogurt pancakes, sausage and bacon - Ken's choice. And we are on to Friday . . .
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Mid week and all is normal at Regalridge
All is well at Regalridge. It was an interesting day with a cool but pleasant morning followed by a cooling period and a downright cold evening. Our Ken worked in the gardens with forays back to the house to warm up. By dinnertime, heavier and heavier jackets were sought with Lee finally suggesting that perhaps it was simply time to come inside. Kelly and Shawn arrived for a Bella grooming session with Chantelle and joined us for dinner. Lee managed to keep things moving in the house, the kennel and the office.
Lucy Welsh departed amid waving paws and a sad Nemo. She promised she would be back soon. Barrett is holding the fort with Trebia, looking after the big yards and playing hard. The two Airedale girls arriving tomorrow will keep things rocking and then the week end brings more to the party.
The house dogs are well. The potion is being eaten with abandon and all are fine. We managed the last breeding for JR last night so now we wait to see whether or not she is pregnant. Nick didn't get his daily drive but will have a trip with Lee tomorrow so will be happy. The rest of the crew enjoyed the cool sunny day, stretched out around the yards with smiles on their Airedale faces.
Dinner was company style with Lee's great Caesar salad, sweet potatoes, asparagus, Greek chicken on the grill (a la Ken) and Eton Mess with Ken's berries. And we are on to another summer day.
Lucy Welsh departed amid waving paws and a sad Nemo. She promised she would be back soon. Barrett is holding the fort with Trebia, looking after the big yards and playing hard. The two Airedale girls arriving tomorrow will keep things rocking and then the week end brings more to the party.
The house dogs are well. The potion is being eaten with abandon and all are fine. We managed the last breeding for JR last night so now we wait to see whether or not she is pregnant. Nick didn't get his daily drive but will have a trip with Lee tomorrow so will be happy. The rest of the crew enjoyed the cool sunny day, stretched out around the yards with smiles on their Airedale faces.
Dinner was company style with Lee's great Caesar salad, sweet potatoes, asparagus, Greek chicken on the grill (a la Ken) and Eton Mess with Ken's berries. And we are on to another summer day.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
The kitchen welcomed Lee and Ken's van that wasn't broken got fixed
All is well at Camp Regalridge. The weather is great. We drink our perfect coffee from our perfect coffee machine out on the new deck, looking over the fields in our river valley and watching the swallow gathering up bugs (let's hear it for the swallow) to feed his wife who is sitting on their nest. Our Ken had a trip to Truro with the van to have the squawking, squeaking back door quieted (under warranty). - WD 40 would have made sense (Tony, what's with that?!). Lee was attached to her computer - the CKC continues to capture most of her time and energy. There was an HKC meeting in the evening so Ken's arrival allowed Chantelle and Lee to depart, returning late and finishing up a breeding for JR. The breedings weren't optimal so time will tell on this one. Laurel is less than three weeks away from her due date and is getting bigger by the day.
The kennel is quieting. Jada the Newf towed Lee down the drive to see her owner and tell her all about her adventures at camp. She is a lovely dog, well bred and mature for her year. Lucy continues to look after Nemo - keeping him on the straight and narrow. Barrett has his little friend in an adjoining run and is happy. His songs have diminished (hers have increased) and he is tired and happy at bedtime. Life is good in the world of the Gordon Setter.
The house dogs are all fine. Patti Clem and May are enjoying the potion and perking along. Well, maybe Clem doesn't perk but she loves her potion and is doing well. Patti is maintaining the schedule of the rest of the dogs and is firmly in charge. Piper and Nick looked after the kitchen and Paula managed the deck on a beautiful summer day. The puppy is growing and enjoys his time outside.
Lee made gingerbread peach muffins with Our John's apple jelly. They worked well as breakfast. Dinner was burgers and Caesar salad. Dessert was a favourite of Ken's - the chocolate shortbread toffee filled squares. All is well and we are on to another lovely day tomorrow.
The kennel is quieting. Jada the Newf towed Lee down the drive to see her owner and tell her all about her adventures at camp. She is a lovely dog, well bred and mature for her year. Lucy continues to look after Nemo - keeping him on the straight and narrow. Barrett has his little friend in an adjoining run and is happy. His songs have diminished (hers have increased) and he is tired and happy at bedtime. Life is good in the world of the Gordon Setter.
The house dogs are all fine. Patti Clem and May are enjoying the potion and perking along. Well, maybe Clem doesn't perk but she loves her potion and is doing well. Patti is maintaining the schedule of the rest of the dogs and is firmly in charge. Piper and Nick looked after the kitchen and Paula managed the deck on a beautiful summer day. The puppy is growing and enjoys his time outside.
Lee made gingerbread peach muffins with Our John's apple jelly. They worked well as breakfast. Dinner was burgers and Caesar salad. Dessert was a favourite of Ken's - the chocolate shortbread toffee filled squares. All is well and we are on to another lovely day tomorrow.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Mondays are always interesting
It was a Monday and Our Ken was madly off in all directions. The Health Board had a meeting and a trip to Truro was in order. "Home by 4 he said" Mmm hmmm He barely had time for dinner before we had to leave for the city for an ATA meeting. There was a little time for gardening and of course the tractor had to make its' pilgrimage around the property. Strawberries continue to find their way to the kitchen from the garden and Ken is mighty proud. Lee worked on the CKC Business Plan and managed to finalize the document summarizing the goal setting for that piece of work.
The kennel is marching along. Lucy is managing Nemo and keeping the old fellow on the straight and narrow. Barrett is singing rock and roll to Trebia and she is learning a few words . . . Jada has settled in. She now tows Chantelle around but does agree to do what is asked of her rather than simply sitting and encouraging Chantelle to 'make me". Laurel is growing into her pregnancy and is broadening at a great rate. Puppies are in the offing. Maggie departed in a flurry of waves and barks. Rory is in residence to bond with Jessie Rachel. He is comfortable and settled quickly. Jessie wants to leave that kennel sometime soon. She will be bred tomorrow.
The house dogs are doing well after the night of thunder storm. Marilla is in charge and has discovered that if she jumps on Lee's dressing table in the bedroom that she can look at herself in the mirror. that offered endless hours of admiration of Marilla by Marilla - she thinks she is 'lookin good'. Little Wills is growing by leaps and bounds. He is steady on his little legs and has found his voice, likes a clean bed and adores his toys. He is learning to enjoy the deck and as long as he has company enjoys the outside. Nick made the trip to the city so is a happy boy. Patti and Clem enjoyed their potions and Patti remains firmly in charge of the yards and happenings - she still has not received the memo telling her that she is sick.
Dinner was chicken wings and roasted potatoes in a lime and spice marinade. No time for dessert but there were signs of late night dessert eating found in the sink this morning. And it is on to another day
The kennel is marching along. Lucy is managing Nemo and keeping the old fellow on the straight and narrow. Barrett is singing rock and roll to Trebia and she is learning a few words . . . Jada has settled in. She now tows Chantelle around but does agree to do what is asked of her rather than simply sitting and encouraging Chantelle to 'make me". Laurel is growing into her pregnancy and is broadening at a great rate. Puppies are in the offing. Maggie departed in a flurry of waves and barks. Rory is in residence to bond with Jessie Rachel. He is comfortable and settled quickly. Jessie wants to leave that kennel sometime soon. She will be bred tomorrow.
The house dogs are doing well after the night of thunder storm. Marilla is in charge and has discovered that if she jumps on Lee's dressing table in the bedroom that she can look at herself in the mirror. that offered endless hours of admiration of Marilla by Marilla - she thinks she is 'lookin good'. Little Wills is growing by leaps and bounds. He is steady on his little legs and has found his voice, likes a clean bed and adores his toys. He is learning to enjoy the deck and as long as he has company enjoys the outside. Nick made the trip to the city so is a happy boy. Patti and Clem enjoyed their potions and Patti remains firmly in charge of the yards and happenings - she still has not received the memo telling her that she is sick.
Dinner was chicken wings and roasted potatoes in a lime and spice marinade. No time for dessert but there were signs of late night dessert eating found in the sink this morning. And it is on to another day
Monday, June 21, 2010
Annapolis to Digby to Weather Warnings.make a full week end
The week end was a lively one. All of us were in residence, more or less, but with some good ins and outs. Jessie Rachel had an early morning trip to the vet for her blood work on Saturday morning and then it was off to the Annapolis Royal farm market for Ken and Lee. Loaded up with bread, plants and a beautiful new pottery butter dish, they were off with Bob and Luella to Digby. The men got lost on the way to the ferry wharf and the Tides restaurant. Luella and Lee were more focused and thus replete with food by the time the little Chev pulled in. Two sheepish men managed to order and join the party, albeit late. What a great spot - overlooking Digby Harbour with boats plying their trade on a beautiful summer day life doesn't get better. Chantelle held the fort and groomed dogs until her arms almost fell off. Sunday was a day to move forward several agendas. Chantelle continued her summer trimming clients, Ken went to the city and Lee sorted the house yet again. Dawn and Jimmy stopped by late in the evening on their way from a rather successful set of shows, bringing home three Bests in Show and dropping off a little Welsh friend for Jessie Rachel.
The kennel is busy with an interesting group of dogs. Amber Airedale arrived from Amherst for a few days and settled in nicely. Kinky came and went with Jack Russell aplomb. Maggie is here and looking after her side of the kennel in little Maggie fashion. Jada the Newfoundland from Cape Breton (think about that) settled in on Saturday. She has a strong sense of herself and her mode of going through the world - on her terms. Chantelle has learned a little about Newfs who decide to go in a direction other than the one the human has in mind - Newf 2 Chantelle 0. Cairo and Rosetta departed amid waving paws. They moved through the process of boarding to the point that we were able to put them out in the exercise yards without incident. Barrett is barreling around,, singing his tunes and communing with Trebia. His muscle tone will be improved at the end of this visit - the chase has been on! Chantelle had a little chase of her own - Nemo went for a toddle around more than one exercise yard - with Chantelle in hot pursuit, around and around and around and around. Ben departed as did Riley Welsh, both trimmed and handsome.
The house dogs have a complaint. We are getting Southern weather and thunder storms spring up to accompany the hot days. Several of the Airedales do not like thunder. At all. In any way. So it is leashes on and encouraging words all around during the light show. Last night was impressive. We were on the fringe of the storm - it appeared to be at its' height over Elmsdale - but wow was it a wild one. The Norwich and Welsh take it in stride, of course.
Dinner was a spring event. Grilled lamb chops from the farm up the road, asparagus, potatoes and strawberry shortcake with berries from the garden. Life is good and with the aftermath of the storm having its' impact on the dogs, it should be a quiet start to the week.
The kennel is busy with an interesting group of dogs. Amber Airedale arrived from Amherst for a few days and settled in nicely. Kinky came and went with Jack Russell aplomb. Maggie is here and looking after her side of the kennel in little Maggie fashion. Jada the Newfoundland from Cape Breton (think about that) settled in on Saturday. She has a strong sense of herself and her mode of going through the world - on her terms. Chantelle has learned a little about Newfs who decide to go in a direction other than the one the human has in mind - Newf 2 Chantelle 0. Cairo and Rosetta departed amid waving paws. They moved through the process of boarding to the point that we were able to put them out in the exercise yards without incident. Barrett is barreling around,, singing his tunes and communing with Trebia. His muscle tone will be improved at the end of this visit - the chase has been on! Chantelle had a little chase of her own - Nemo went for a toddle around more than one exercise yard - with Chantelle in hot pursuit, around and around and around and around. Ben departed as did Riley Welsh, both trimmed and handsome.
The house dogs have a complaint. We are getting Southern weather and thunder storms spring up to accompany the hot days. Several of the Airedales do not like thunder. At all. In any way. So it is leashes on and encouraging words all around during the light show. Last night was impressive. We were on the fringe of the storm - it appeared to be at its' height over Elmsdale - but wow was it a wild one. The Norwich and Welsh take it in stride, of course.
Dinner was a spring event. Grilled lamb chops from the farm up the road, asparagus, potatoes and strawberry shortcake with berries from the garden. Life is good and with the aftermath of the storm having its' impact on the dogs, it should be a quiet start to the week.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Company for dinner
It was Thursday - and an interesting one it was. Lee was sent hunting and gathering and came home with a full vehicle. Little Jessie Rachel went to the vet for a progesterone test - not liking the blood loss much but liking the attention. Asking for an immediate appointment always takes with it treats for the ever willing staff. This day it was strawberry muffins with berries from the garden. Ken had these high on his list and looked like a little person who had lost a favourite toy as the muffins went out the door. Then it was on to Costco where the peaches are in residence - and lovely they are. And on to Valleyfield for dog food and bird seed. And home to make dinner for seven. Mid-morning Lee's cousin David called to say that his sister Diane is in town. Come to dinner was Lee's reply not thinking that she would be in the city until mid-afternoon. That occasioned a flurry of activity in the kitchen - to the delight of the Norwich - until late evening.
The kennel is well positioned. Trebia is out of season so Barrett is delighted. The two raced around their yard with grins on their faces as big as the great outdoors. Cairo and Rosetta have moved to the double run, are eating, taking their meds and doing fine. Ben is well. He is on stress leave here at the kennel so is being kept quiet and handling the vacation well. Lucy loves her Nemo and is caring for him in a big way. She has a hammock bed like his now.
The house dogs managed during another day of showers and clearing. All was well in their world since Ken was in residence so there was lots of supervision required of them. Lee's coming and going was of interest. That meant that there were escorts needed back and forth to the gates, supervision in the kitchen, meet and greet of company and clean up supervision. Extra bones were warranted at bedtime.
And it was a company dinner. Chantelle made her famous appetizers and they were great. We moved on to Caesar salad (with Lee's special dressing and croutons), a baked ham with a brown sugar glaze, potato scallop in a cheese sauce, asparagus and Eton Mess for dessert followed by the very impressive coffee - the coffee maker is entertainment itself.
The kennel is well positioned. Trebia is out of season so Barrett is delighted. The two raced around their yard with grins on their faces as big as the great outdoors. Cairo and Rosetta have moved to the double run, are eating, taking their meds and doing fine. Ben is well. He is on stress leave here at the kennel so is being kept quiet and handling the vacation well. Lucy loves her Nemo and is caring for him in a big way. She has a hammock bed like his now.
The house dogs managed during another day of showers and clearing. All was well in their world since Ken was in residence so there was lots of supervision required of them. Lee's coming and going was of interest. That meant that there were escorts needed back and forth to the gates, supervision in the kitchen, meet and greet of company and clean up supervision. Extra bones were warranted at bedtime.
And it was a company dinner. Chantelle made her famous appetizers and they were great. We moved on to Caesar salad (with Lee's special dressing and croutons), a baked ham with a brown sugar glaze, potato scallop in a cheese sauce, asparagus and Eton Mess for dessert followed by the very impressive coffee - the coffee maker is entertainment itself.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Mid-week is a good positioning point
Mid week yet again and lots to do. Chantelle was in the Valley for work and managed to call to gloat about stopping at Pearl's in Paradise which actually isn't in Paradise so always a conundrum. Ken had an appointment in the city so was off and running at daybreak. That left Lee to do dogs. Good thing Tom was here by 8:00. Ken was home by mid-afternoon after a side trip to go hunting and gathering. Yet more batteries appear to have been needed - are there a lot of homes in the world that have a full cupboard simply for batteries? Dawn and Jimmy arrived for a visit late in the afternoon. Ken was delighted to have Jimmy's assistance at the grill. There was considerable interest in the gardens and, of course, the requisite drive of the tractor after dark to its' home. And then there was late evening with many calls from Chantelle's office because the building alarm was malfunctioning. We got the message - over and over and over.
The kennel is fine. Lola departed at a gallop, happy to see her owners early in the day. That offered the opportunity to move Kiro (Cairo) and her pal to the double run. They did well side by side and seem equally happy to be together as their owners had asked. Both are eating and love their biscuits at bedtime. Lucy continues to manage Nemo's life. He enjoys not having to think for himself. she is getting one of the outside hammock beds and approves of that. Dina departed at noon - looking forward to motherhood and checking every blade of grass on her way to Carole's new vehicle. Barrett is galloping by himself since his buddy is still in season. His repertoire has definitely expanded, as has Trebia's. We are being lobbied that perhaps a Gordon-Cirneco cross . . . Or maybe not. Laurel continues her pregnancy - due mid-July. Summer puppies are fun and we very much look forward to her offering.
Logan's girlfriend in the US has reported that there are at least nine puppies imminent in Massachusetts. We have pictures of Atlas' puppies - they are impressive and the Clint litter has very much pleased Susan and Shirley so all boys are producing well. The house crew are doing well. Piper had a good day managing the kitchen where Lee was active. Nick supported Piper's presence. Clem moved in for the later afternoon and through the dinner hour - always a pleasure since she manges to position herself at the optimal spot to be stepped over and around every time you move.
Dinner worked well. There was a beer can chicken, beet greens, new potatoes, carrots and Lee's rhubarb pie. No hungry souls left the table.
The kennel is fine. Lola departed at a gallop, happy to see her owners early in the day. That offered the opportunity to move Kiro (Cairo) and her pal to the double run. They did well side by side and seem equally happy to be together as their owners had asked. Both are eating and love their biscuits at bedtime. Lucy continues to manage Nemo's life. He enjoys not having to think for himself. she is getting one of the outside hammock beds and approves of that. Dina departed at noon - looking forward to motherhood and checking every blade of grass on her way to Carole's new vehicle. Barrett is galloping by himself since his buddy is still in season. His repertoire has definitely expanded, as has Trebia's. We are being lobbied that perhaps a Gordon-Cirneco cross . . . Or maybe not. Laurel continues her pregnancy - due mid-July. Summer puppies are fun and we very much look forward to her offering.
Logan's girlfriend in the US has reported that there are at least nine puppies imminent in Massachusetts. We have pictures of Atlas' puppies - they are impressive and the Clint litter has very much pleased Susan and Shirley so all boys are producing well. The house crew are doing well. Piper had a good day managing the kitchen where Lee was active. Nick supported Piper's presence. Clem moved in for the later afternoon and through the dinner hour - always a pleasure since she manges to position herself at the optimal spot to be stepped over and around every time you move.
Dinner worked well. There was a beer can chicken, beet greens, new potatoes, carrots and Lee's rhubarb pie. No hungry souls left the table.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Tuesdays with Ken
The week is going a little too quickly. Starting it on Tuesday doesn't help. That was a fun filled day of Lee tied to the computer pulling together the CKC's communication requirements after a week of Board meetings and of Ken putting his gardens in shape while managing the busy kennel. Lee was in charge of house dogs - and they looked askance as she moved among them only to depart for the office at a moment's notice. The phone was busy - a combination of catching up and moving forward. Chantelle walked out the door with a suitcase for a business trip, leaving poor Clementine to sit at the gate until dark. Ken's lights were fully on throughout his gardens before she could bring herself to come in. Then it was positioning herself in front of the door to the hall so taht she could be first up the stairs, certain that Chantelle must be in the bedroom, sick and pining for Clem's attention. Scout - well, we mentioned to him that he was sleeping downstairs - he has no idea that anyone is missing - loyalty is perhaps not his middle name.
The kennel is rocking and rolling. Lola the Mastiff is becoming a Regalridge dog just as she is packing her large suitcases to leave. Arriving as a less than secure and highly suspicious young Mastiff, she has settled to the point that we can pat her, cajole her and offer her the affection she is seeking during this 'fear period' of her adolescence. That is a strong statement for her and one that bodes well for her temperament into adulthood. Lucy Welsh continues to look after old Nemo - nobody has mentioned to Lucy that she too is old - who is duly appreciative. Cairo and her pal are settling in, concerned with the change in their lifestyle but accepting of food and biscuits. They will move to Lola's large run as soon as she leaves. Cairo is receiving her meds twice a day and taking them without question. Dina the Airedale is looking forward to going home - she has advised Lola that she will be first at the gate so not to get any ideas. Barrett is now firmly convinced that we have all lost our minds. He has tried every song in his repertoire, knows that we understand that the love of his life is just around the corner and cannot for the life of him sort out why they are being held apart. He is now quoting Shakespeare - we laugh.
The house dogs are fine. Patti is eating well, Clem is annoyed that Chantelle is once again lost, Scout is completely confused by her absence and little Viola is taking it all in her stride. Piper has returned to managing Lee and Nick is helping. Charlotte still has a sore front foot but Billy's is improving. Little Will is now a big boy and has decided that crunchy food is a whole lot better than that soaked stuff - proof positive that Chantelle is a horrible cook!
Dinner was lovely - grilled salmon steaks, new potatoes and baked tomatoes with feta and basil. We aren't suffering but ken is desperately hoping that the rhubarb that he has gathered in the garden and the strawberries that have found their way to the kitchen might be transformed into something dessert-like tomorrow . . .
The kennel is rocking and rolling. Lola the Mastiff is becoming a Regalridge dog just as she is packing her large suitcases to leave. Arriving as a less than secure and highly suspicious young Mastiff, she has settled to the point that we can pat her, cajole her and offer her the affection she is seeking during this 'fear period' of her adolescence. That is a strong statement for her and one that bodes well for her temperament into adulthood. Lucy Welsh continues to look after old Nemo - nobody has mentioned to Lucy that she too is old - who is duly appreciative. Cairo and her pal are settling in, concerned with the change in their lifestyle but accepting of food and biscuits. They will move to Lola's large run as soon as she leaves. Cairo is receiving her meds twice a day and taking them without question. Dina the Airedale is looking forward to going home - she has advised Lola that she will be first at the gate so not to get any ideas. Barrett is now firmly convinced that we have all lost our minds. He has tried every song in his repertoire, knows that we understand that the love of his life is just around the corner and cannot for the life of him sort out why they are being held apart. He is now quoting Shakespeare - we laugh.
The house dogs are fine. Patti is eating well, Clem is annoyed that Chantelle is once again lost, Scout is completely confused by her absence and little Viola is taking it all in her stride. Piper has returned to managing Lee and Nick is helping. Charlotte still has a sore front foot but Billy's is improving. Little Will is now a big boy and has decided that crunchy food is a whole lot better than that soaked stuff - proof positive that Chantelle is a horrible cook!
Dinner was lovely - grilled salmon steaks, new potatoes and baked tomatoes with feta and basil. We aren't suffering but ken is desperately hoping that the rhubarb that he has gathered in the garden and the strawberries that have found their way to the kitchen might be transformed into something dessert-like tomorrow . . .
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Lee is home and the blog is back
Guess what - Lee is back and the blog is too. Chantelle and Ken have been in overdrive keeping things going during a busy week. Between dogs and gardening, Ken managed to fit in a number of health board meetings and a few hunting and gathering trips. Nick fit himself in whenever he could and managed to get a few trips out of the deal. Marilla was repatriated to Regalridge and has fit herself back in with Marilla style - toys in mouth and happy to perform her wake up call regime of jumping on the bed and stuffing that toy in anyone's mouth that happens to be available.
The kennel is hopping. A week away means there were unreported comings and goings. Ceilidh Wheaten is as cute as can be and had a little lamb-like appearance that everyone found 'enchanting'. She came and went with ease and is a tribute to her owners as well as to Rose Rodgers breeding. Ben the Airedale is here for a vacation. He is doing well, has a big dog bed and is settled in nicely. Lola has settled and is accepting us with better grace. She now looks to be patted, has the perimeter of the kennel as her domain and enjoy her dog bones. Barrett is not amused. Trebia is in season so his playmate is confined to quarters. He calls to her and she responds - it is quite pitiful. Barrett notes in his song that this is his girlfriend, remember, and that Cirneco-Gordon Setter combinations would be a thing to behold. A lovely concept and his owner supports the idea, the outcome and would keep all of the offspring, just ask her! Laurel is pregnant and we will finally have Regalridge Airedale puppies. It has been forever since an Airedale litter so we are all excited. Lucy the little Welsh is here and looking after Nemo. They are best friends. Lucy takes care of him, walks beside him every step of the way to the big yard and then shepherds him around. He has absolutely no independence with Miss Lucy and he loves it. Jessie Rachel is in the kennel in season and is underwhelmed. Dina is visiting from NB and is enjoying her Nova Scotia vacation. Cairo and Rosetta have arrived and settled in. Rosetta is a Shepherd and Egypt is the little sidekick. They have settled easily (not always the case for a Shepherd since they are so very bonded to their families) and are enjoying their beds. Both were happy to see the dog biscuit routine at bedtime and gave a thumbs up with encouragement to continue that process.
The house dogs are well, not amused by the litany of thunder storms but all in all doing well. Patti is eating her potion, is bright and happy. The Norwich welcomed Lee home with a game of come and get me late in the evening. Scout had a good agility week - Chantelle, maybe not so much. Piper is hoping that Marilla is leaving soon. Paula continues to supervise Viola. Jack is happy to have Paula and Viola in his yard. Paula supervises the boys as well, of course. Scout finds that odd. Little Willie Airedale puppy is learning 'stuff'. He hollers to go outside for the bathroom, hollers for food and hollers to come inside when he wants to come in. That works well with Chantelle. Not so much for Ken.
Food was Chantelle's purview - Pogos were on the menu one night. There is relief that Lee is home.
The kennel is hopping. A week away means there were unreported comings and goings. Ceilidh Wheaten is as cute as can be and had a little lamb-like appearance that everyone found 'enchanting'. She came and went with ease and is a tribute to her owners as well as to Rose Rodgers breeding. Ben the Airedale is here for a vacation. He is doing well, has a big dog bed and is settled in nicely. Lola has settled and is accepting us with better grace. She now looks to be patted, has the perimeter of the kennel as her domain and enjoy her dog bones. Barrett is not amused. Trebia is in season so his playmate is confined to quarters. He calls to her and she responds - it is quite pitiful. Barrett notes in his song that this is his girlfriend, remember, and that Cirneco-Gordon Setter combinations would be a thing to behold. A lovely concept and his owner supports the idea, the outcome and would keep all of the offspring, just ask her! Laurel is pregnant and we will finally have Regalridge Airedale puppies. It has been forever since an Airedale litter so we are all excited. Lucy the little Welsh is here and looking after Nemo. They are best friends. Lucy takes care of him, walks beside him every step of the way to the big yard and then shepherds him around. He has absolutely no independence with Miss Lucy and he loves it. Jessie Rachel is in the kennel in season and is underwhelmed. Dina is visiting from NB and is enjoying her Nova Scotia vacation. Cairo and Rosetta have arrived and settled in. Rosetta is a Shepherd and Egypt is the little sidekick. They have settled easily (not always the case for a Shepherd since they are so very bonded to their families) and are enjoying their beds. Both were happy to see the dog biscuit routine at bedtime and gave a thumbs up with encouragement to continue that process.
The house dogs are well, not amused by the litany of thunder storms but all in all doing well. Patti is eating her potion, is bright and happy. The Norwich welcomed Lee home with a game of come and get me late in the evening. Scout had a good agility week - Chantelle, maybe not so much. Piper is hoping that Marilla is leaving soon. Paula continues to supervise Viola. Jack is happy to have Paula and Viola in his yard. Paula supervises the boys as well, of course. Scout finds that odd. Little Willie Airedale puppy is learning 'stuff'. He hollers to go outside for the bathroom, hollers for food and hollers to come inside when he wants to come in. That works well with Chantelle. Not so much for Ken.
Food was Chantelle's purview - Pogos were on the menu one night. There is relief that Lee is home.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Sunday and it is still raining - ark plans anyone?
Sunday continued in the way of all busy, wet week end days. We had a short visit from folks who were considering their next dog (we have no available puppies so that is a good time to research) but spent the lion's share of the day between the kennel and the house sorting dogs through on yet another inclement day. With the rains and wet weather, Ken got to the point late in the afternoon that he decided to power wash the runs and runways. That was a job and Our Ken managed to have just about the same amount of water on him as would have been used elsewhere.
Darryl has his complaint written and wanted to know if we could put a stamp on it. This rain has got to stop. Lola managed to be out in the big yard last night. That was an adventure. At one point she was wearing her slip lead as a belt and thinking she looked pretty darned appealing. Naomi and Moses are looking after life in their own way. Naomi has actually mellowed and allows dogs to walk past her run, as long as they walk looking straight ahead. Moses - well, he is Moses. Bella returned from Lunenburg another point to the good and will be with us until Shawn and Kelly return from Newfoundland. Poe is ddoing fine and has his schedule. Trebia went out with Laurel and then out with Bella. Viola and Nemo had a spin through yard four - Nemo no longer does the stairs so is carried up at the end of his adventure. Kaizer and Marlin departed amid waving paws and a great owner - not married, likes dogs, lives close - give you any ideas Tony?
The house dogs are fine but bored and a bit agitated as a result of the wet weather. Piper is focused on kitchen chores as is Nick who has appropriated the Norwich bed. Abigail has decided that is just fine with her since it gives her a victim - and that little 10 pound Norwich tortures Nick to death. Jack and Jessie enjoy their updated yard but not the weather. the latest addition is a covered porch for them to stay out of the elements - Jack says his crate does just fine in that regard and going outside is not all it is cracked up to be. Einstein has now bonded with Marguerite - much to Marguerite's amazement. And Wee Willy is growing. He now toddles around the kitchen - is supervised by Patti and is bonded to Abigail who is about his height. His blue bear had to be washed today and the bunny replacement was a minor success. Mr Bear will be back tomorrow.
There was cooking going on in the kitchen. Bread was made for Ken and cinnamon rolls were finished from a bread batter recipe. Dinner was left overs - a rare treat - so various iterations of chicken were presented as well as the pasta with brown butter sauce from the night before. A lemon-cream cheese crisp finished the meal for Ken and Chantalle and we are on to another day . . .
Darryl has his complaint written and wanted to know if we could put a stamp on it. This rain has got to stop. Lola managed to be out in the big yard last night. That was an adventure. At one point she was wearing her slip lead as a belt and thinking she looked pretty darned appealing. Naomi and Moses are looking after life in their own way. Naomi has actually mellowed and allows dogs to walk past her run, as long as they walk looking straight ahead. Moses - well, he is Moses. Bella returned from Lunenburg another point to the good and will be with us until Shawn and Kelly return from Newfoundland. Poe is ddoing fine and has his schedule. Trebia went out with Laurel and then out with Bella. Viola and Nemo had a spin through yard four - Nemo no longer does the stairs so is carried up at the end of his adventure. Kaizer and Marlin departed amid waving paws and a great owner - not married, likes dogs, lives close - give you any ideas Tony?
The house dogs are fine but bored and a bit agitated as a result of the wet weather. Piper is focused on kitchen chores as is Nick who has appropriated the Norwich bed. Abigail has decided that is just fine with her since it gives her a victim - and that little 10 pound Norwich tortures Nick to death. Jack and Jessie enjoy their updated yard but not the weather. the latest addition is a covered porch for them to stay out of the elements - Jack says his crate does just fine in that regard and going outside is not all it is cracked up to be. Einstein has now bonded with Marguerite - much to Marguerite's amazement. And Wee Willy is growing. He now toddles around the kitchen - is supervised by Patti and is bonded to Abigail who is about his height. His blue bear had to be washed today and the bunny replacement was a minor success. Mr Bear will be back tomorrow.
There was cooking going on in the kitchen. Bread was made for Ken and cinnamon rolls were finished from a bread batter recipe. Dinner was left overs - a rare treat - so various iterations of chicken were presented as well as the pasta with brown butter sauce from the night before. A lemon-cream cheese crisp finished the meal for Ken and Chantalle and we are on to another day . . .
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Saturday and a full kennel
Saturday mimicked a lot of other Saturdays - busy with lots of dogs. Our Ken was focused on gardening - often in the pouring rain. There was the requisite thunder shower late afternoon, just to jazz things up a bit so excitement prevailed. The morning was relatively pleasant (balmy if you compare it to the afternoon monsoon) and Ken dug and planted. Herbs made their way into pots in readiness for the summer round of recipes. Then there was an all hands on deck inspection of the gardens - as far as Lee could tell, she was inspecting dirt - with a lot of sage nodding of heads and Ken waxing eloquent (well, ok, he said a couple of words without prompting) on the subject of new versus old strawberry plants and the future of crops in general. The tractor made a good many passes through the front yard and there was some activity at the gate where the flower garden has expanded to fill the space available to it.
The kennel is ticking along. Kaizer and Melanie are settled in - and Ken has learned that Melanie (who was initially Kaizer until it was discovered that he is a she) is not amused when Kaizer of the wagging tail and smiling face is put out in the exercise area rather than being next to her. Darryl feels that Lola has potential as a playmate but we are working on Lola. This is her first boarding experience, she is a bit confused by the whole business and has made it to the point of exercising along the perimeter of the outside runs. She is as big as a house and still growing and at an age where change is tough for her to assimilate. Ken has made her a project so the two worked in tandem in that perimeter area. Lola has now determined that Ken may be her friend, and that Lee must be her not-friend and should darned well stay away from both her and Ken. Lee is taking that thought under advisement. She and Darryl are pretty sure this turn of affairs should be short lived. Naomi and Moses are star boarders and shake their heads at the shenanigans with the new boarders. Tippy, on the other hand, has decided that there had been good potential for a dust up but that the best has passed so has turned from facing out to keep an eye on all that happens to turning his back on the world. Now, you can't turn your back completely because you just can't tell 100% that things have deteriorated to the point that it is once again routine so he lays, giving you his back for effect, but with that black head turned, one ear cocked and an eye open 'just in case'. Out Tippy is nothing if not an opportunist. He is eating well - doubtless storing his energy for any untoward outbursts that may require his attention. Darryl is next to him and finds Tippy endlessly fascinating - how long can a dog maintain that attitude instead of playing is Darryl's conundrum.
The house dogs are well, wet and weather intolerant. The stove had to be put on to dry them out by dinnertime. Patti has her suitcase packed and is ready to leave for any clime that offers a guarantee of a thunder storm-less environment. She does not feel that this continued banging and crashing in the sky is necessary nor is it healthy. Convinced of her plan to depart are Dolly, Nick and maybe Piper. Clem missed it - there are advantages to losing those senses. Wee Willy is eating quite well now - still prefers goat's milk to dog food but it is gaining in cachet. He still spends the night with his Mom and Marguerite still feels that is the right place for him to be. Jack would like the world to know that he has a new bed, a new blanket and that life is improved - improved to the point that it is very hard to leave that luxury to go outside, especially when Jessie is the companion. Laurel is doing well and Our Ken is for the first time somewhat hopeful that there could be puppies in that tummy.
Dinner was a counterpoint to the Belmont Stakes. A rare meal in front of the television, it included chicken margarita, spinach and fusilli with a brown butter sauce, sundried tomatoes, black olives, basil and feta. Fruit was all that could be managed for dessert. Earlier in the day, there were strawberry muffins to accompany coffee break.
The kennel is ticking along. Kaizer and Melanie are settled in - and Ken has learned that Melanie (who was initially Kaizer until it was discovered that he is a she) is not amused when Kaizer of the wagging tail and smiling face is put out in the exercise area rather than being next to her. Darryl feels that Lola has potential as a playmate but we are working on Lola. This is her first boarding experience, she is a bit confused by the whole business and has made it to the point of exercising along the perimeter of the outside runs. She is as big as a house and still growing and at an age where change is tough for her to assimilate. Ken has made her a project so the two worked in tandem in that perimeter area. Lola has now determined that Ken may be her friend, and that Lee must be her not-friend and should darned well stay away from both her and Ken. Lee is taking that thought under advisement. She and Darryl are pretty sure this turn of affairs should be short lived. Naomi and Moses are star boarders and shake their heads at the shenanigans with the new boarders. Tippy, on the other hand, has decided that there had been good potential for a dust up but that the best has passed so has turned from facing out to keep an eye on all that happens to turning his back on the world. Now, you can't turn your back completely because you just can't tell 100% that things have deteriorated to the point that it is once again routine so he lays, giving you his back for effect, but with that black head turned, one ear cocked and an eye open 'just in case'. Out Tippy is nothing if not an opportunist. He is eating well - doubtless storing his energy for any untoward outbursts that may require his attention. Darryl is next to him and finds Tippy endlessly fascinating - how long can a dog maintain that attitude instead of playing is Darryl's conundrum.
The house dogs are well, wet and weather intolerant. The stove had to be put on to dry them out by dinnertime. Patti has her suitcase packed and is ready to leave for any clime that offers a guarantee of a thunder storm-less environment. She does not feel that this continued banging and crashing in the sky is necessary nor is it healthy. Convinced of her plan to depart are Dolly, Nick and maybe Piper. Clem missed it - there are advantages to losing those senses. Wee Willy is eating quite well now - still prefers goat's milk to dog food but it is gaining in cachet. He still spends the night with his Mom and Marguerite still feels that is the right place for him to be. Jack would like the world to know that he has a new bed, a new blanket and that life is improved - improved to the point that it is very hard to leave that luxury to go outside, especially when Jessie is the companion. Laurel is doing well and Our Ken is for the first time somewhat hopeful that there could be puppies in that tummy.
Dinner was a counterpoint to the Belmont Stakes. A rare meal in front of the television, it included chicken margarita, spinach and fusilli with a brown butter sauce, sundried tomatoes, black olives, basil and feta. Fruit was all that could be managed for dessert. Earlier in the day, there were strawberry muffins to accompany coffee break.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
A busy weekend is ahead
Friday saw Our Ken in hunting and gathering mode and Lee firmly fixed in her office chair. Costco offered up its' wares, flax seed was found and The Brick was explored (an interesting foray for Our Ken). Tom worked on the revitalization of the bottom gate. It needed a 'swing change' he was heard to comment and that requirement seemed to require many power tools, a bit of mild cussing and several trips to the candy dish. It appears that success was had - but who really knows except Our Ken and Tom. Paper and phones were the order of the day in Lee's world. The Truckers' Safety Association is nearer a strategic plan than was the case earlier in the week, the CKC has its' weekly Bulletin and research continued in both areas. The weather was iffy - overcast much of the day and cool. The sun did manage to show itself late in the afternoon and the candles on the chestnut tree glowed pink, reflecting the water on the leaves and calling all bees in NS to party.
The kennel is busy. Sir Tippy arrived and settled into his Tippy palace. Hunkered down into his puffy bed, the gleam in his eyes says it all. Poe is settled and looking after his area - delighted with the activity level. Naomi and Moses are doing well - perky and happy wagging Airedale tails. Like Poe, Naomi loves the heightened activity and is keen to keep up with all that is happening. Kaiser and Melanie are doing particularly well for first time visitors. Kaiser has that 'escape at all costs' thought in his mind but the thrill seems to be in the escape act, not to go anywhere. He is a pleasant fellow and just has that 'let the games begin' thought process. Lola arrived late in the day. Lola is not a little girl. While not as tall as our record setting Dane or our long and lean Wolfhound, this Mastiff is going to be a mighty impressive lady as she grows into herself. There is little question of the antecedent of the term massive when looking at this giant breed. The Bullmastiff pales in comparison. Darryl is the happiest of the crew and gets the Mr Congeniality badge - but then, Darryl is always the happiest of any crew and congeniality is his middle name. He enjoys absolutely everything that comes his way - from biscuits to pats to walks to his exercise yard. He has his eye on Lola (she's hard to miss) and she may be his new playmate. . He is a perfect companion to break new boarders in.
The house dogs are thriving. A good ball game for Atlas, Clint and Charlotte at 10 o'clock led to three tired puppies late in the evening. Charlotte with her short legs can outrun the boys but for her the thrill is in the chase. Atlas, on the other hand, is the catch the prey and bring it home type so returns the ball to Lee every time. Clint has the corral the sucker mentality and herds the object being thrown and all dogs chasing, circling them and taking three steps to their one while carrying another toy in his mouth. Games are fascinating things at Regalridge. Piper helped in the house much of the day while Nick went hunting and gathering with Ken. Patti and Clem are potion replete and May and Abigail share the little bit that they receive. Piper now insists on licking the spoon. Wee Willie (Marguerite's puppy) is growing now, steady on his little legs and bright with inquisitive expressions. He has now found his voice and is exploring its' depths on occasion. Marguerite comes running when that occurs - and shakes her head when she realizes he is just practicing. He is a very cute puppy.
Dinner was spring fare - fresh haddock, new potatoes and asparagus with a new lemon dessert. Our plans for Lunenburg were, sadly, not to be so Ken and Lee are home for the week end.
The kennel is busy. Sir Tippy arrived and settled into his Tippy palace. Hunkered down into his puffy bed, the gleam in his eyes says it all. Poe is settled and looking after his area - delighted with the activity level. Naomi and Moses are doing well - perky and happy wagging Airedale tails. Like Poe, Naomi loves the heightened activity and is keen to keep up with all that is happening. Kaiser and Melanie are doing particularly well for first time visitors. Kaiser has that 'escape at all costs' thought in his mind but the thrill seems to be in the escape act, not to go anywhere. He is a pleasant fellow and just has that 'let the games begin' thought process. Lola arrived late in the day. Lola is not a little girl. While not as tall as our record setting Dane or our long and lean Wolfhound, this Mastiff is going to be a mighty impressive lady as she grows into herself. There is little question of the antecedent of the term massive when looking at this giant breed. The Bullmastiff pales in comparison. Darryl is the happiest of the crew and gets the Mr Congeniality badge - but then, Darryl is always the happiest of any crew and congeniality is his middle name. He enjoys absolutely everything that comes his way - from biscuits to pats to walks to his exercise yard. He has his eye on Lola (she's hard to miss) and she may be his new playmate. . He is a perfect companion to break new boarders in.
The house dogs are thriving. A good ball game for Atlas, Clint and Charlotte at 10 o'clock led to three tired puppies late in the evening. Charlotte with her short legs can outrun the boys but for her the thrill is in the chase. Atlas, on the other hand, is the catch the prey and bring it home type so returns the ball to Lee every time. Clint has the corral the sucker mentality and herds the object being thrown and all dogs chasing, circling them and taking three steps to their one while carrying another toy in his mouth. Games are fascinating things at Regalridge. Piper helped in the house much of the day while Nick went hunting and gathering with Ken. Patti and Clem are potion replete and May and Abigail share the little bit that they receive. Piper now insists on licking the spoon. Wee Willie (Marguerite's puppy) is growing now, steady on his little legs and bright with inquisitive expressions. He has now found his voice and is exploring its' depths on occasion. Marguerite comes running when that occurs - and shakes her head when she realizes he is just practicing. He is a very cute puppy.
Dinner was spring fare - fresh haddock, new potatoes and asparagus with a new lemon dessert. Our plans for Lunenburg were, sadly, not to be so Ken and Lee are home for the week end.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Busy and wet was the order of the day
It was a cloudy and damp day followed by rains that came in torrents. And it was cold. Winter has finally arrived. Our Ken has moved from the man who was worried about the land blowing away to the person watching his seeds get washed out of the ground. Thunder showers that were thrown in just added a bit of excitement to an otherwise mildly inclement day. Lee was off of the property - working with the NS Truckers' Safety Association as they developed their Strategic Plan. Chantelle was working with her contractors as they finalized her new office space (after the move). It is Lunenburg Kennel Club week end and one of our favourites. The shows are wonderful, the Club members among the best around, the food from the local bus outstanding and our friends are in attendance in number. Unfortunately, the folks who were coming to look after the house and dogs weren't able to come so Lee and Ken are very disappointed that things couldn't be organized and they unable to go.
The kennel is filling for the June rush. Darryl is happy to be on vacation. He is playing with the birds flying over head and delighted to be able to get out into the exercise yard between showers. Moses and Naomi are looking after the Airedale contingent on the West side of the kennel. Naomi is tuned up and in full voice. Poe is aging gracefully and managing to find his version of fun each day. Two new visitors have been added late in the day - both an amalgam and both interested in their new digs.
The house dogs are managing, They were underwhelmed that Lee was away and that Ken was digging in the dirt when they weren't allowed to be out with him at every opportunity.Patti was thoroughly unhappy with the weather - in particular the light show and the noise - and made Ken and Lee certain that they were aware of her thoughts on the matter - for several hours.
Dinner was chicken pot pie - more than adequate on a wet and cold June evening.
The kennel is filling for the June rush. Darryl is happy to be on vacation. He is playing with the birds flying over head and delighted to be able to get out into the exercise yard between showers. Moses and Naomi are looking after the Airedale contingent on the West side of the kennel. Naomi is tuned up and in full voice. Poe is aging gracefully and managing to find his version of fun each day. Two new visitors have been added late in the day - both an amalgam and both interested in their new digs.
The house dogs are managing, They were underwhelmed that Lee was away and that Ken was digging in the dirt when they weren't allowed to be out with him at every opportunity.Patti was thoroughly unhappy with the weather - in particular the light show and the noise - and made Ken and Lee certain that they were aware of her thoughts on the matter - for several hours.
Dinner was chicken pot pie - more than adequate on a wet and cold June evening.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Schedules, paper and fiddleheads - life is gearing up
It was a Tuesday so there were scheduled items on everyone's list. We try to avoid that Mondays and Fridays but the three middle days are free game. There were conference calls, telephone calls and lots of back and forth. It was a day tied to the office for Lee - paper is now almost over her head and we know she is 'in residence' only by the sound of the keyboard. Ken was a frustrated gardener much of the day - the rains came down, Oh lord, did the rains ever come down. Those seeds that were in the ground have been well and truly watered and anything that wasn't tied down blew around the property. The winds were high, the rains were constant and wet weather gear was the order of the day. Chantelle was in her new digs in Elmsdale, managing her covey of contractors and property management folk. That was followed by a lighting down at Regalridge and then off to Agility. It was inside due to the weather so Scout did just fine.
The kennel is always a different place when the weather is bad. The dogs are in their indoor outdoor runs without their usual access to the exercise yards, except as the rains let up. Then it is a race to cycle everyone through before the next deluge. Darryl thought the racing around was a great game - the rest are not so certain. Lacey left during a break in the weather early in the day. She is always so delighted to see John that it makes all of us laugh because she is equally delighted to see us when we open the door in the morning. Lacey simply loves people with all her heart and soul. Naomi and Moses are settled in comfortably and were not at all concerned with the bad weather. They simply settled into their runs and snoozed happily. Naomi decided that even her ever present yodel could be given a rest given the bad weather. Poe was in and out of his connecting door through the day, checking to see if the rains had let up and he could go for a spin. He loves the big yards and was not terribly impressed that weather alone was keeping him in a run. The forecast is for clearing so his fortunes will change soon.
The house dogs are totally underwhelmed by this rain business. How can they keep an eye on Ken - he might be doing something fun and here they are confined to quarters! Deciding that getting drenched was preferable to missing anything that might be happening, there was a lot of lobbying to go outside. That was followed by even more lobbying to come back in. Even the little swallows spent much of the day on or next to the nest rather than being grounded with soaked feathers.
Dinner was a quick pizza. Lee was in the midst of blanching fiddle heads so that suited her just fine. Ken suffered through his least favourite night of the week and Chantelle quickly ate and tucked Scout under her arms, loaded her other appendages with purses and bags and marched off to do agility battle. Ten minutes later, a pitiful voice asked "can you bring me some keys?" We still haven't figured out how she juggled all of that stuff, got out the gate, locked it behind her and THEN found out that she had locked herself out, didn't have keys and was stuck. It is a rare day that she has her phone and has it charged. The gods were with her on that one. Lee finished her conference call at 10 or so, Ken had settled in to rest his eyes in front of the television and Chantelle had returned with her parade up the stairs to bed. And we are on to another day . . .
The kennel is always a different place when the weather is bad. The dogs are in their indoor outdoor runs without their usual access to the exercise yards, except as the rains let up. Then it is a race to cycle everyone through before the next deluge. Darryl thought the racing around was a great game - the rest are not so certain. Lacey left during a break in the weather early in the day. She is always so delighted to see John that it makes all of us laugh because she is equally delighted to see us when we open the door in the morning. Lacey simply loves people with all her heart and soul. Naomi and Moses are settled in comfortably and were not at all concerned with the bad weather. They simply settled into their runs and snoozed happily. Naomi decided that even her ever present yodel could be given a rest given the bad weather. Poe was in and out of his connecting door through the day, checking to see if the rains had let up and he could go for a spin. He loves the big yards and was not terribly impressed that weather alone was keeping him in a run. The forecast is for clearing so his fortunes will change soon.
The house dogs are totally underwhelmed by this rain business. How can they keep an eye on Ken - he might be doing something fun and here they are confined to quarters! Deciding that getting drenched was preferable to missing anything that might be happening, there was a lot of lobbying to go outside. That was followed by even more lobbying to come back in. Even the little swallows spent much of the day on or next to the nest rather than being grounded with soaked feathers.
Dinner was a quick pizza. Lee was in the midst of blanching fiddle heads so that suited her just fine. Ken suffered through his least favourite night of the week and Chantelle quickly ate and tucked Scout under her arms, loaded her other appendages with purses and bags and marched off to do agility battle. Ten minutes later, a pitiful voice asked "can you bring me some keys?" We still haven't figured out how she juggled all of that stuff, got out the gate, locked it behind her and THEN found out that she had locked herself out, didn't have keys and was stuck. It is a rare day that she has her phone and has it charged. The gods were with her on that one. Lee finished her conference call at 10 or so, Ken had settled in to rest his eyes in front of the television and Chantelle had returned with her parade up the stairs to bed. And we are on to another day . . .
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
The kennel is filling and the week starts
All is well at Regalridge. It was a bright and windy day that became cold by. The dogs don't mind that sort of weather and although our Ken was not amused by the gusts, and eventually by having to light the stove in the den, the Airedales applauded his efforts. There was gardening through the day, digging in dirt and planting in advance of the forecast rain for tomorrow. Blossoms are out on the chestnut tree and the buzz has started. Every bumble bee within flying range visits when this tree is in bloom - it is a busy and beautiful sight and sound. To complete the picture, Phil and Philomena visited through the morning, that pheasant colouring on Phil contrasting beautifully with the candles on the spreading chestnut tree. Lee continued to work her way through the hundreds of emails from the CKC workload - looking up occasionally to wave or trot to the kitchen to make a meal. Einstein is enjoying her attentions and supervises all work at the desk as he hunts the crows from his bed in the window. The hummingbird feeder is now at work and on the opposite side of the house, the swallows have taken up residence on the eaves over the back door. That's it for the lights at night so we will stumble for the next month as Mrs Swallow incubates the eggs. As progress is made, we will take our lives into our hands going in and out while the swallows swoop around our ears.
The kennel is ticking along with the addition today of Moses and Naomi, both of whom are doing well, and Poe who hasn't been with us for a while. None of the three is young any longer and all know exactly where they are and what is required of them. The two Airedales sped to their exercise area with alacrity and checked all of their favourite places. Poe was a bit more stately in his surveys - but no less exacting in his expectations. Darryl shook his head at the new recruits, deciding that none were likely to be a lot of fun for a Bernese cum Airedale. He has his eye on Lola, considering her play potential rating to be high. We will accommodate that tomorrow before the rains come. Lacey is firmly in charge of her space and is packing to leave tomorrow.
The house dogs are thriving. Patti has recovered from thunder storm alert and settled back into ball chasing and management of the front yard. Charlotte is bright and active with that Charlotte-gleam that makes her Charlotte. Her ability to turn her back and go into her zone is something that legends can be built on - the other dogs hold her talents in high regard. Nick has managed the kitchen well and Marguerite is sorting out her feelings about being repatriated to the yard and house but being separated through the day from the little prince. The baby Airedale is bright and becoming more accepting of his changed circumstances. He is eating some food (not just drinking the goat's milk from it and wailing for more) and coming to terms with the sporadic visits of his Mom. They are still in the whelping room at night so the bonding continues as do his lessons that only Marguerite can teach him. He adores his blue bear and his tiger - those will accompany him to his new home. Laurel is thinking about her ultrasound that should happen next week if all goes well.
Dinner was a mixed affair. Ken grilled salmon steaks and a tomato and blue cheese salad for the adults among us while the youngster decided that chicken parm was in her future so raided the pantry fridge. We all agreed on risotto with asparagus and lemon cake for dessert. The evening included a dark drive on the tractor for Ken, the kennel management for Chantelle and more email for Lee. And it is on to another day
The kennel is ticking along with the addition today of Moses and Naomi, both of whom are doing well, and Poe who hasn't been with us for a while. None of the three is young any longer and all know exactly where they are and what is required of them. The two Airedales sped to their exercise area with alacrity and checked all of their favourite places. Poe was a bit more stately in his surveys - but no less exacting in his expectations. Darryl shook his head at the new recruits, deciding that none were likely to be a lot of fun for a Bernese cum Airedale. He has his eye on Lola, considering her play potential rating to be high. We will accommodate that tomorrow before the rains come. Lacey is firmly in charge of her space and is packing to leave tomorrow.
The house dogs are thriving. Patti has recovered from thunder storm alert and settled back into ball chasing and management of the front yard. Charlotte is bright and active with that Charlotte-gleam that makes her Charlotte. Her ability to turn her back and go into her zone is something that legends can be built on - the other dogs hold her talents in high regard. Nick has managed the kitchen well and Marguerite is sorting out her feelings about being repatriated to the yard and house but being separated through the day from the little prince. The baby Airedale is bright and becoming more accepting of his changed circumstances. He is eating some food (not just drinking the goat's milk from it and wailing for more) and coming to terms with the sporadic visits of his Mom. They are still in the whelping room at night so the bonding continues as do his lessons that only Marguerite can teach him. He adores his blue bear and his tiger - those will accompany him to his new home. Laurel is thinking about her ultrasound that should happen next week if all goes well.
Dinner was a mixed affair. Ken grilled salmon steaks and a tomato and blue cheese salad for the adults among us while the youngster decided that chicken parm was in her future so raided the pantry fridge. We all agreed on risotto with asparagus and lemon cake for dessert. The evening included a dark drive on the tractor for Ken, the kennel management for Chantelle and more email for Lee. And it is on to another day
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