Readiness is not far away

Some years weather is the story as Christmas gallops toward us.  Not this year.  A messy day this week brought slush.  Slush has given way to mud since the ground has yet to freeze.  Charlotte is delighted.  There are seasonal movies to be watched and late nights follow long days.  Still, the tree is trimmed, presents are wrapped (actually more wrapping than bagging this year) and baking has begun in earnest.  As Alex noted, the kitchen looks like a line kitchen in a restaurant.  Adding to the joy of the day, Our Ken began the next phase of the fudge ritual.  On this day, his enthusiasm overtook his thought process.  On to the antique spode plate was poured - something.  Now, Our Ken is a fudge purveyor extraordinaire.  Without thought for a recipe, ingredients are spread about (no orderly cooking for Our Ken when a production is a possibility) and the game is on.  There is pouring and mumbling, sinks are filled with cold water and every wooden spoon in the house is employed.  Finally, the pot hovers over a buttered dish and with a great flourish (a drum is rolling somewhere) the outcome is poured and pronounced.  Well, this year on the antique plate, the pronouncement was an anguished "I've never seen anything like this" statement.  Lee, to this point trying hard to ignore the fudge-event, turned to see something concrete-like hardening on her plate.  And on it went.  That plate set aside, the production again began.  Undaunted, the kitchen remaining in turmoil, Our Ken continued.  Now, Lee was in the process of making 5 dozen Christmas cookies - the Swedish teacakes of her mother's recipe that are time consuming and fussy, employing perfectly chopped walnuts for rolling and homemade blackberry jelly, a thimble and fine shortbread-like dough.  The kitchen is a great room - for Lee.  Not so great for the machinations of the husband and his ability to spread, made even more able when panic follows production.  Pot two was somewhat more annoying than pot one and resulted in only a minor improvement.  There was some hope that this concrete would be able to be removed from the second plate - not the antique that had been eyed by Our Ken as his next victim, but still.  Sarah, ever cheerful, made the terrible error of noting that she 'loves taffy' - perhaps the most positive interpretation of this concoction  that could be given.  For her kind effort, she was sent home with batch two, Ken certain that it would be enjoyed and Alex contemplating how far up the road he would have to go before that offering became a Frisbee.  Lee finally put paid to the confusion and sent everyone out of her domain.  The cookies were completed and puppies were readied for their adventure to see Eric-the-Vet.  Home again, home again and a change of clothes to return to the city to dinner with the youngest son and his great children.  And as those clothes were changed,  a final pot of fudge appeared.  You see, each child (and associated grandchildren) receive Christmas fudge.  And it was going to happen.  So with the aid of the internet (Lee did a little research to explain the difference between hard ball and soft ball stage, augmenting Alex's correct interpretation already proffered) the usually successful fudge appeared and was packaged for the next child.  Christmas is never dull at Regalridge. 

The kennel is ticking along, managed well by Naomi and Moses.  The old Airedales are in residence and settled, knowing exactly where they are and enjoying the activity level. 

And the dogs are delighted with the season's pleasures.  They love the comings and goings of extra people in the house.  They love the kitchen activity.  They love the wrapping and having Lee in the den more than is usual and they love the food that lands on top of their dinners.  The older puppies thought the brief snow period had been set up just for them and took great pleasure in learning the snow plow moves of the older dogs.  Piper is firmly attached to Lee's side, taking every opportunity to note that she is 'special' and in need of all extra available treats.  Abigail is bouncing.   Our Ken is inside more than is usual and is urged to sit in his chair so that little Abigail can join him. 

Dinners have been varied and are increasingly deliberately planned.  Seafood and fish are mentioned regularly and the fresh, local turkey will be collected from the butcher shop across the street.  The pudding is being readied and the hard and lemon sauces will be made.  Cranberries are done.  Sprouts are on the menu and Our Ken's squash has been chosen.  Fiddleheads are a tradition.  Lobster has been settled on for Christmas Eve - another Ken production.  Lee is giving thought to her mother's mocha cakes.  Cherry flips will appear before Sunday.  Sweet breads are made.  June's chocolate is being employed.  Nobody will go hungry.  

Christmas is coming- we have heard a rumour

There is simply too much hurrying and too little ability to keep up with the season's dictates.  That leads to adventures at Regalridge.  Lee has managed to flood the kitchen, simply through inattention.  Ken has had a grooming room flood and water appears to be the theme of this holiday.  bob arrived early one morning and Home Hardware is likely never going to be the same again.  The Ken and Bob Show appeared, re-appeared and showed up again at their doors, only to return with more queries.  There may well have been a Home Hardware person in the kennel holding a wrench, just to get rid of them.  And that's Our Ken in a nutshell - never fix a small job when a large one will do just as well.  It's a wonder the one pipe didn't turn into replumbing the entire building.  There were date squares eaten (Bob's favourite treat) and soup enjoyed - despite Lee's addition of honey that made Bob's eyes widen.  Dawn and Jim were able to join the Regalridge table of Ken, Lee and Chantelle for a prime rib dinner.  Our Ken uses Jimmy as a reason for bring home a prime rib  on a regular basis.  Jimmy humours him and chokes it down.  Shopping is finished.  As with all things Christmas, the case of the disappearing presents has again surfaced.  Small but critical-to-the-success-of-the-day items have been purchased twice.  Other items have been more well mannered and are in the mail or wrapped and ready to be gifted.  Plans are made for visits, lunches and dinners.  A schedule has actually developed and things may yet unfold as they should - not likely, but one can live in hope.  Decorating continues.  Wrapping continues.  Baking continues.  The weather has stayed warm - the only saving grace with all of the shopping required during this season.  The birds are plentiful, though, with a constant flock of Jays and Doves, the two pair of Woodpeckers, three pair of Chickadees and the flocks of Starlings and Grosbeaks.  Phil pheasant is firmly ensconced in residence with his bevy of Philomenas.  The use of the front door must now be judicious.  Our Ken does not allow Phil to be disturbed while partaking of the fare spread under the chestnut tree for his dining pleasure. 

The kennel is ticking along nicely and the seasonal visitors are arriving. 

The house crew love Christmas.  There is a high level of kitchen activity - Piper is thrilled to death.  Lily has gone home to PEI so the competition for Lee's attention has lessened.  Piper waved good by for hours - just to ensure the Rod-mobile didn't take a wrong turn and land back at the gates.  Lily was happy to see her very own people and had lots of stories to share.  Even as she left, she couldn't quite put her paw on where those babies of hers had disappeared and who those critters were in the den.  They looked a little familiar but . . .  Motherhood was a blink of an eye to Miss Lily.   The puppies are a fabulous litter.   Logan is an outstanding dog.  The stars have aligned and with the addition of Lily's most excellent genetics and good looks, this litter is simply lovely.  All love the large stuffed dog that is in the pen with them, offering a gathering spot for snoozes.  Green collar is the high-minded fellow and sleeps on top of the dog at every opportunity.  Red collar keeps them all honest.  Personalities are emerging quickly now. 

Dinner was tortière with Our Ken's potatoes and a lovely chocolate gingerbread.  June delivered several pounds of Rogers chocolate (from the latest visit to the 'other Island') so the season is promising. 

Warm weather and seasonal readiness lists

All is well at Regalridge.  Puppies are growing, Christmas is coming - ready or not - and a cold day has finally arrived.  It is mighty difficult to be in Santa-readiness mode when NS is the hottest spot in Canada with a 19 (that is almost 70 degrees for the Americans among us) degree wake-up  temperature mid-December.  Mud season continues and Charlotte is thrilled to death.  Winter is certainly shorter by the day (even though it has yet to arrive).  We Maritimers feel that November  begins winter, the season lasting until late March.  This year, a month and a half has been taken off and the long autumn is a reality.  Our Ken is fighting the battle of the copper pipes.  Last week, there was an Airedale-friendly little swimming hole - unfortunately in the grooming room but a delight in and of itself as far as Gabe was concerned.  He had a party planned and invitations written by the time the leak was pinned down.  Apparently a tiny hole had managed to appear in a pipe behind the bathtub.  Our Ken moved into management mode and has been switching water on and off as he contemplated the major repair project.  Calling on young Alex, the two determined that step one would be to move the tub - and the fun began.  There is now a tub in the center of the room, a pipe under pressure broken (the pool deepened for a while and Gabe's guest list adjusted to incorporate only long legged terriers) and the management of the room is, well, you can figure that out.  Bob Marshall is coming up to analyze the situation and effect repairs.  Hopefully he will have stopped shaking his head by the time he gets here or he will be treated for ear mites.

The kennel, apart from the construction zone, is well and the dogs happy.  Lola and Kenzie departed with a jaunty wave, having maintained order for three weeks.  There is coming and going for the next week and then the Christmas visitors will settle in. 

The house crew are thriving in the warm weather, enjoying daily ball games with Our Ken and time in front of the fire by late afternoon.  Piper has been penning Christmas lists for all of her friends.  The list is lengthening by the day.  Lily has been taken off of the list.  With Lee in Toronto on the week end, Miss Lily had a grievance.  Deciding to phone Glenda to complain, she found the phone book print small so used Our Ken's glasses for improved clarity.  Needing sustenance prior to actually putting in the numbers, she shared Our Ken's invitation (it was available and on the table) to partake of his hot chocolate.  Finding it not to her taste and knowing that it could be bad for Our Ken, she thoughtfully deposited the cup on the tile floor - who knew cups break!  The late night long distance phone conversation was a tale of woe.  Poor Ken.  It's never easy staying ahead of an Airedale.  The puppies are doing incredibly well.  They are a happy litter and very people oriented.  Weaning has been a smooth transition and food is now on the menu.  There are no dissenters.  There was a visit from the Antigonish folks, with appropriate appreciation for the bright little faces.  The move from whelping room to den is complete and the  indoctrination into the world of CNN and the Weather Channel has begun.  The addition to their lives of a large, stuffed bulldog met with puppy approbation.  All now sleep on top of, next to and occasionally under their new best friend. 

Dinner was chicken cutlets (pounded nicely with the mallet Christmas gift of several years previous) with fresh green bean and portabellos and riced potatoes.  Date squares and ice cream rounded out the meal.  Date squares are a favourite of Our Ken and Bob so may be on offer for a short time only. 

 

Great weather and Christmas preparations

It was another warm day with cloud but little precipitation.  The weather cannot be faulted this fall.  Have you heard that Christmas is coming?  Our Ken is all about lights.  Like a squirrel, he stores them, admires them, ponders their application and potential.  Some are left (hidden) year round in strategic trees.  And each year, more appear.  One day, there will be a mad rush to apply lights to all vertical outside surfaces - and there are many surfaces at Regalridge.  That day has yet to come so the pondering continues.  Lee is more incremental in her application.  There are additions daily to various rooms.  Each will have a tree by the time it is all over.  On this day, it was the ceramic tree built by Lee's mother and gifted to her decades ago.  It has birds on branches, hearkens to another era and is valued.  A crisis occurred when a short surfaced and Our Ken spent the early evening in repair mode.  All is now well.   The den sports a small tree, a lighted ornament and 'the bear' decked in light and greenery.  The larger tree will appear on the week end and will center the thought processes in the living room.  There are, of course, regular comings and goings as well.  Lee managed to reprise the turkey - it is now the favourite casserole as well as soup-in-the-making   Lily helped.  There was some sorting in preparation for departure on the week end and there was correspondence.  There was also the addition of a new printer to the office.  A daunting task, at best, the mission was accomplished with much angst on Lee's part and a lot of crawling under the desk.  The floor is cleaner for the effort, the clothes may never be wearable again.  But the office is back in operation with a working scanner, fax, printer and copier.  Our Ken had a water event in the kennel - there was muttering, pacing and much looking up in the air.  Gutters appear to be the culprit.  Alex is in for some fun.  It was a quiet day for the birds.  With the warm weather, the pressure on the feeders is relieved somewhat.  Blue Jays abound, the Doves come and go, the Chickadees visit regularly, the Woodpeckers in both varieties are a constant and the Red winged blackbirds are occasionally present.  The pheasants are in residence as are the three crows - this group collegial and fond of the chestnut tree.  The only flock of the day was the Grosbeaks.  This crowd have discovered the window feeder and spent several hours jockeying for position.  One particularly enterprising fellow ate his fill then popped on top of the feeder, guarding his spot until he could stomach more food and in the interim suggesting to all comers that they find another area.  Not a very collegial fellow but magnificent in his bright yellow plumage. 

The kennel is well and bouncing along.  Little Bella is firmly in charge and the Airedales are entertained by her orders - repeatedly given.  Lola in particular is grinning and doing the opposite of Bella's pointing paw, just to get the little one going.  Works every time.  Barrett and his sweater departed.  Trebia is bereft. 

The house crew had a good day.  The turkey event is a busy time with dropping pieces abundantly distributed.  Lily has requested that turkey day occur in PEI on a weekly basis, please.  She is insatiable at this stage, hoping that there will be Lily-food at every turn.  At one point in the day, Lee noticed an Airedale exiting the pantry, a bag of carrots firmly clamped in her jaws and a plan apparently in mind.  It took some considerable discussion to unhinge those jaws and repatriate the carrots - Lily was quite sure Lee could find her own afternoon snack and didn't have to have hers.  She has also discovered that Lee is best managed by laying hard against her heels wherever she stops - fine if Lee remembers Lily is in place and fine if Lee is actually stopped.  A bit more of a challenge if Lee has only slowed and tries to change direction.  Kitchen directional signals will be needed soon.  The puppies started on solid food - a red letter day.  There was some interest but this too will build.  Goat's milk was not as palatable as mom according to this little crew.  They are solidly on their feet now, are trotting happily and the eyes are bright and Airedale-wise.  Piper would like Lily to find her own home - the sooner the better.  This business of trailing around after Lee does not sit well with princess Piper - keeper of all things Lee and not big on sharing.  Lily did look at Piper's bed next to Lee's chair in the den - Piper explained that was not on. 

Dinner included the turkey with a baked potato and fresh asparagus, cranberry et al.  Our Ken was happy.  Life unfolds.

 

Phil has arrived - and so has the snow.

There is seasonal and then there is a bit of overkill.  The forecasters have had a dickens of a time this week.  Weather has not co-operated with their thought processes, models, computers and prognostications.  Snow was forecast - there was none.  No snow was forecast and Our Ken is muttering about snow blowers.  The puppies are filled with shock and awe.  Their world is white.  Even the world's birds are late to the restaurant.  There are hundreds of birds now dining at the several feeders.  The colour is impressive with blues vying with yellows for pre-eminence.  Not to be outdone, the two pair of woodpeckers proudly offer their contrasting black and white with the bright red of the heads of the males adding contrast.  And Our Ken made the major announcement - it is the day of Phil's arrival.  Yes, the pheasant return is now complete; Phil and the Philomenas are in residence for the duration at Regalridge and all is right with the world. 

The kennel ticks along.  Barrett has arrived and Trebia is thrilled to death.  He is telling her all about his plaque - not seeing any evidence of this exalted award of which he seems so proud, Trebia remains unconvinced.  The two Airedales are kicking up their heels and having extensive spins around every area they determine needs their vigilant attention. 

The house crew thrives.  Piper had company.  The truth is, a visitor came to see the dogs and to get a sense of the Welsh.  The facts of the visit eluded Piper.  There was company for lunch as well and Lily spent the entire afternoon counting her puppies, certain that thievery is rampant.  Chantelle arrived for a quick visit at dinnertime.  Virginia and Alex had just barrelled in for dinner.  Looking up over the Dutch door, 'starnger danger' warnings were issued only to change to embarrassed silence when the stranger knew their names.  Rocky just shook his head.  He would never make a mistake like that. 

Dinner was shepherd's pie - and that will be the last we see of that particular dish for a while.  Having hoped that the speed at which the dish had to be eaten on its debut, Lee presented it a second time - in different dishes and with different condiments including the addition of a lovely garlic bread (what more can be done with shepherd's pie!).   Our Ken does not do meals more than once, sighed and settled in for the rerun,  a major concession and one not likely to be repeated without pushback. 

The market, the Cohn and seasonal weather

While the weather is more seasonal, the skies did not support the forecast messy day.  The calendar was full and roller blades were on.  Chantelle's market was in Windsor so the Regalridgemobile was readied, June arrived and it was the trek across the county.  Houses are decorated for Christmas, the roads are bare and it is still a breathtaking view as a vehicle crests Courthouse Hill and the valley spreads out below.  Vendors were in a Christmas mood, the baking was impressive and those great cranberries were on offer.  Our Ken found his favourite cinnamon treats from Doris' Avon Emporium.  And it was on to Windsor's most excellent English pub for lunch. The return trip was uneventful, dinner was made and eaten without ceremony, clothes were upgraded and the little car was off to the city.  Now, a night out in the city is not an every day occurrence so is cause for minor celebration.  However, not being an every day occurrence apparently leaves less of a hologram than it might.  Parking at the Cohn is impossible.  University is in, the Arts Center has no parking itself and the streets are full of cars.  Thousands had arrived before the folks from Belnan.  As a space was finally decided upon, Lee queried Ken on the availability of his cell phone.  The request was to call a cab.  After the concert, there was the usual crowd walking to vehicles.  The crowd thinned as cars were reached.  Lee and Ken had a lovely solitary stroll for the last several blocks . . .  The concert was a Christmas event - Rita MacNeil (a favourite of Our Ken) and Frank Mills.  Tickets had been a birthday gift that was much appreciated.  Frank Mills was fabulous.  His version of 'Piano Man' had the audience almost frantic - not a mean feat given the average age of the audience.   

The kennel is doing well, the visitors are happy with the good weather and access to the big exercise yards.  June's little crew departed, after a warm welcome for their owner.  That is a happy little gang. 

The house crew are not amused by the comings and goings of their people and are protesting.  So used to having someone at their beck and call, the absence of Lee and Ken does not amuse Piper, Dolly and Marilla.  Charlotte found her way to the kennel on the early trip, refusing to come to the house when she was called - rest assured that did not repeat in the evening.  As Lee left the house, Charlotte was ensconced on her favourite new dog bed, rumbling at little Abigail who was lobbying to be allowed to join.  The babies are growing and Lily is spending some time out in the house now.  She enjoys her breaks, her food and the babies - all in equal measure.  The little ones now have open eyes and are getting up on their legs to try their luck at lurching from one side of the area to the other.  Some are steady, others not so much. 

Dinner was shepherd's pie (a quickly eaten meal) and on the return from the city, the cinnamon treats appear to have been broken in to.  The rest of the week is fully scheduled. 

Lots to keep everyone amused in late November

Life is ticking along at Regalridge with little Airedales keeping everyone busy.  Adding to  the baby enjoyment was the annual age update for Lee.  Alicia came to keep a lid on all concerned and the regalridgemobile departed, finding its way to the Wolfville market and some city shopping.  The market is a great one, a real farm market with high quality produce, excellent bread, local specialty meats and some artisan work.  The great find was a wood turner who specializes in cutting boards.  Lee has been pining for a bread board and a board to cover the griddle on the stove top.  Both were commissioned from this enterprising young man whose specialty woods and skills are impressive.  Costco was pillaged (new dog beds were on the list and Charlotte is relieved).  Costco is always interesting and never more so on this day.  Lee turned a corner with  her cart as a rousing rendition of  Happy Birthday started.  Her look of amazement equalled the look of total mortification on the face of a young woman who was being serenaded.  Her brothers had found her shopping in Costco, it seemed.  Lee leaned over and shared the coincidence.  The mortification turned to a huge smile and left both with a story to remember for years to come.  The trip home was followed by a jaunt to Chantelle's for a great party.  That girl can make appetizers that would make a chef envious.  Alicia, armed with her excellent equipment,  found time to shoot some images of the puppies so blog updates are imminent.  The weather has remained warm, even though there was a little rain interspersed with sunny periods.   A change is coming, however, with colder weather to arrive overnight.  The birds are plentiful and numbers are climbing.  Bird seed will be the requested Christmas gift, we fear. 

The kennel is busy with the pre-holiday crews.  June's little characters are in residence and are in charge - of what we aren't completely certain.  Talea is rolling along and pointing her little paw, assuming others are following her rules.  London shakes her head and knows perfectly well that it is she who is in charge.  Morgan doesn't care.  Lola and Kaleigh are delighted to be on vacation, are enjoying the big yard with Trebia and are playing Airedale games that only sisters know. 

The house crew enjoy Alicia's visits so all is well in their world.  Charlotte will eventually get up from her new bed, we are quite certain.  To this point, however, the head is slightly raised and a 'look' is given any who come near.  Piper sang the annual song to Lee early in the morning and the youngsters joyously joined in with their best voice.  Not having the words down pat, the song was practised a couple more times through the evening.  Our Ken is always slightly less amused than Lee at these excellent renditions. 

Dinner was annual meal fare with fabulous cupcakes to top it off.  Life is good.

All is well at Regalridge

Spring cleaning is complete.  Our Ken finished the walls of the great room and all vestiges of soot have been removed.  The area is certainly ready for the increased light presence that is the holiday season.  Earlier in the week, there was a card meltdown at Home Hardware.  Flustered and out of sorts does not begin to describe the alpha male's state of mind on his return.  Resetting the number and activating the card would be, of course, Lee's role so off it was to the local machine.  Mission accomplished with time added to admire the updated and spiffy new Superstore in the community.  With a village numbering less than 10,000, the area is very well served by two excellent grocery stores.  High quality produce, good meats and a large selection of counter items is surprising given the area's proximity to the city.  Daily specials are in evidence in both stores and on this day it was back ribs - almost at give away prices.  Of course a rack came home.  Christmas was in evidence but not in an overwhelming way.  Alll in all, a pleasant little outing.  As an antidote to polishing and washing, Our Ken diligently fed birds.  There were 16 doves in the cold morning branches, urging their food purveyor to greater speed.  The blue jays were busy and the one window interloper peered into the kitchen on a regular basis.  A chickadee finally joined his big friend and it was a race for the special food in that feeder.   There are now three pair of chickadees, perhaps more than any other year.  The day warmed slowly so the air sparkled with an ice frost all morning - an unusual event. 

The canine crew managed the cleaning process.  Billy actively participated, staying well underfoot as a reminder that he was in charge and well involved.  Piper maintained a presence in the kitchen, assisting Lee with every move made.  Dolly landed on Lee's feet every time a noise was made by the wall crew (Our Ken and Billy alternated between sighs and banging buckets).  Marilla maintained an outdoor presence with Rocky.  Charlotte slept through the whole exercise.  With the ins and outs of the vehicles, by mid-afternoon Alex and Virginia were ushered into number one run for the first time.  The wails and hooting that followed were sounds that Steven King would hear only in his dreams.  Lily and her family are thriving.  The babies are becoming puppies, still lined up with military precision and managed in a similar manner by their exacting mother.  Growth is almost able to be watched. 

Dinner was a favourite - pan fried haddock with fresh asparagus and roast potatoes.  Life unfolds. 

The first heavy frost of the season

There is frost in the air - actual ice crystals with no place to go after having coated all of the trees and the ground.  Early morning is the most beautiful time of day in November in Nova Scotia.  The day was dedicated to the ubiquitous soot.  Our Ken pitched in and spent hours on one side of the space, scrubbing, polishing and muttering in equal measure.  Lee confined herself to the many kitchen surfaces.  The room will be well prepared to accept the Christmas additions soon to come.  The birds are busy as colder weather begins to be a regular occurrence.  Weekly runs to Costco bring large sacks of seed to be distributed under the chestnut tree and among the feeders.  The littlest characters now benefit from the globe feeder and are subsisting on a diet of fruit and nut seed that would be equally interesting in a Christmas cake.  They eat well.   The pheasants are yet to surface but the end of November should turn up those who made it through the preceding seasons.  Gardens have been put to bed, lawn furniture stowed and the glass bird bath emptied.  The November greys are broken only by the occasional rose still bravely blooming next to the kennel and the berries on the holly bushes, red and cheery until the robins find them in February. 

All is well with the Regalridge crew.  Piper and Dolly parked in the kitchen and supervised the cleaning, each with one eye partially open.  No intent expressions - those are kept for important work like dinner preparation.  Dolly was singularly unimpressed by Our Ken's noise level.  He does not clean quietly into the day. She mentioned, repeatedly that any pleasure gained by having him in the house during the day was far outweighed by his noise nuisance factor.   Lily continues to thrive and enjoy her family.  The puppies are growing - in equal proportions wide and long.  Well fed puppies are happy puppies according to Ms Lil.  All have again had their collars enlarged.  The young Airedale girls are having a great first year.  Their ears have been up and are looking lovely, the expressions are delightful and their enthusiasm for life is infectious.  Both have outstanding heads and there is little doubt they will be filled with some vestige of common sense at some point in the future.  Until then, they tear around the big yards, carry whatever they can find to places they are sure only they know and jump for joy when the rumour starts that it is time for a meal. 

Dinner was prime rib revisited.  Not at all a bad thing.   

November and the blog

Yes, it is understood that the blog has been in hiatus.   The pilgrimage to Virginia was true to form and Billy had a wonderful vacation.  The dog with the miles under his paws charmed the South yet again, winning friends and influencing local dogs.  Remus, the little Welsh, welcomed the Regalridgemobile and wagged for a solid three weeks.  There was  the requisite shopping, punctuated with coffee at the 7/11 as votes were cast for our presidential candidate.  Now, that was interesting.  The height of the piles of available red or blue containers depended entirely on the area of the convenience store  - the one located next to the hut advertising Thursday night "Bullets and Beer" had a smaller assortment than most.  It was time to buy Remus' dog license - and in this gated community in which we spend a considerable amount of time annually, the place to buy your license is, of course, at Bill's Gun Shop.  Yes, as odd as it seems to Canadians, they sell fishing, hunting and dog licenses next to high powered rifles and a plethora of handguns and ammunition.  Only in the south.  Sunday at the Jefferson was a weekly ritual, with our regular server offering up endless good champagne to accompany that outstanding afternoon of over-eating.  Our Ken's seven desserts was slightly under his high of nine achieved in the spring.  Linda had three crystal cups of chocolate mousse and was replete.   This year Regalridge was managed by a fabulous young woman.  Alisha has a dog 'outreach' business that includes training, exercise and house sitting.  She is reliable, responsible, and thoroughly delightful, capable of managing the Regalridge crew and assorted additions with ease.  What a terrific addition to our lives and a person highly recommended should such services be needed. 

Settled back into the daily routine, Lily arrived and offered a family of Airedale puppies.  All are well, fat and happy.  Lily is very, very proud.  Logan is the father and the puppies have the potential to be stunners given the parents' pedigrees and great looks.  The weather is finally becoming seasonal and the first hard frost was experienced this week.  Prior to that, the days had been early September-like, with warm to hot afternoons.  Still, the time has changed, daylight is shorter and evenings seem the longest period of each 24 hour cycle.  Some of the winter birds have arrived and Our Ken is handing out seed by the bucketful.  There is a new feeder for small birds and special fruit and nut seed is included in the daily menu.  Chantelle added a window feeder, supposedly for small feathered friends.  The Blue Jays did not get that memo.  One has become very, taken with the kitchen goings on, peering through the window while sitting on this exalted perch and is likely to move in at the first opportunity.   And there are adventures.  On this day, it was the appearance of  a pervasive black covering.  During the early morning stampede, Lee noticed the floor's call for a cleaning.  Somewhat surprised since it had not rained the day before, the mop was brought out for a little early morning exercise.  Three buckets later, and with a dent made in the film, there was a realization that 'something happened'.  On Our Ken's arrival two hours later, a bemused expression crossed that otherwise benign countenance.  The engineer among us had cleaned the oil stove the evening before - with a vacuum cleaner.  In went the soot and out it spewed, apparently.  There is no better avenue for spreading a full oily covering through a very large room than a powerful vacuum - words to live by.  So, hours of cleaning later, a start has been made.  There is no worry about filling time for the coming week.

The kennel is quiet and that is a good thing.

The house crew are well and impressed by Our Ken's prowess in motivating all of this great room activity.  Their paltry attempts of tearing apart the orthopedic bed and working as a team to spread chips of memory foam through the entire area look pitiful by comparison. 

Dinner has ranged from pan fried haddock to chicken wings with the lovely blue cheese dip; sirloin from the favourite butcher across the road to pot roast (first of the season); burger night to prime rib.  There have been multi-tiered carrot cakes (Our Ken had an annual celebration) and pumpkin pies, cranberry muffins and banana breads.  Cream of onion and tomato-basil soup have graced the table.   Apple crisp from brother Reg's apples and homemade bread have made appearances on Regalridge plates and platters.  And there is a strong rumour circulating that Christmas is coming. 

Rain is forecast for the week end

It is a wet early fall day.  The news is filled with the launch of the Bluenose schooner.  Pictured on the Canadian dime, this is a major event and has drawn thousands to our UNESCO heritage town on the south shore.  Tide is high in a little more than an hour and the lovely vessel is poised to make her debut.  That's news in this little province.  It was a full day at Regalridge as well.  There was paperwork to complete, outside jobs to take on since this was to be the last of the warm sunny days for the next while and sorting to accomplish with the move of furniture complete.  Pictures were rehung and walls washed.  Concrete was poured by the alpha male and paint brushes were wielded.  Einstein has a new perch on the back of the living room sofa, an adequate spot from which to observe activity on the east side of the house and especially provenant for vicariously hunting birds. 

The kennel is quiet and the girls in season are doing their best to keep up the charade of concerned visitors.  Sarah is particularly helpful and encourages Marguerite.  Lori is embarrassed.  Scooter joins in when not balancing the ball on her nose - it is hard to bark and balance simultaneously.  Trebia bounces and barks, the better to push out that hound sound. 

The house crew are trying out the leather furniture.  Dolly has perfected the chair - hopping in and leaning back until the foot rest is engaged and the rocking stops.  With a sigh she then circles and plants herself, head on the arm and eyes closing.  Ken is again relegated to the couch.  Marilla has bounced up and off several times, not entirely sure that the lovely leather is an improvement over her couch of preference that disappeared from under her nose.  Charlotte is content to engage her dog bed and Piper holds all furniture in little regard, preferring the kitchen with its more central vantage points.  Billy is ignoring the change in the room, trying hard to maintain his composure as he attempts to follow his usual patterns, only to find a chair blocking his way. 

Meals included a lovely tomato basil soup, a roast chicken with roast potatoes and Our Ken's apple pie.  Life goes on. 

Hi ho!  Life is occasionally a little too busy at Regalridge.  Occasionally something slips.  The blog became subject to that slippage and is now back.  With dog shows, post-show visitors, puppies departing and the various committees and boards that take up inhabitants' time, not to mention time spent with the dogs, there were too few hours for a month.  Things are now caught up; the return to normal welcomed.  The weather has been interesting.  Lots of rain followed the summer drought.  Lots of rain sat on top of hard baked ground - and sat, and sat.  Still, the surface is sodden while digging down a bit offers powder.  It will take a while for the tables to rebalance and in the interim, more rain is forecast.  The apple crop is stellar as is the squash.  Tomatoes are abundant.  Flowers are again blooming, having taken a hiatus during the dry weather.  There are roses everywhere and finally dahlias are showing their colour rather than simply copious amounts of leaf.  Tony's 'taliban tree' is shedding its nuts and leaves are developing colour.  A trip to PEI last week end showed that the Island is shutting down for the season.  Fall has arrived.  There are moose appearing in school yards in Halifax (a first) and on roads in NB (not really news).  Cool mornings welcome the dogs and Jack has requested a coat. 

The kennel is quiet as is usual for the early fall.   There are girls in season and boys putting an exclamation point on the situation.  This, too, shall pass. 

The house crew bade farewell to Patti Labour Day week end.  Our old friend had a wonderful life, lived it long and well and maintained order amid the chaos for well over a decade and a half.  Life is not the same.  Piper, Marilla and Dolly are contemplating top dog status (Charlotte demurs) but each feels that it may be a lot of work for little gain.  Piper has all she can do managing Lee, noting that she already has a full time position with good pay and plenty of responsibility.  Marilla notes that taking on a job could cut into her play time - that would not sit well with Marilla.  Dolly is considering the job most seriously.  She likes life as it now sits but is Patti's sister and does have the ability to manage the unruly youngsters.  There is new furniture in the den and Dolly has taken up a position in the lovely leather chair, sorting out quickly that if the chair is tipped back far enough to allow the foot rest to elevate, the rocking stops and sleep can be had.  This, too, adds an excellent and elevated vantage point form which to supervise indoor activity. 

Part of the activity level late August and early September is the wrestling of the crops into submission.  There is applesauce and tomato chow, a plenitude of jams and jellies and pickled peaches.  There have been apple pies and baked apples, blueberry pies and jam.  Tomato and blue cheese soup has become a staple and is frozen for winter days.  Squash is only just starting.  Dinner was fresh haddock (Lee was in the city so found the fish truck) with squash, potatoes and fried green tomatoes.  Our Ken had apple pie.  All is well.

Another hot day

All is well in the world of Regalridge.  It is moving week for Chantelle, the week of the Atlantic Terrier Association Specialty Show, the week of the Halifax Kennel Club largest show in the region and Our Ken has meetings, meetings, meetings.  Bob is in residence, working on fencing for Chantelle's new home and organizing the activity.  There was  a morning trip to Chantelle's so that Lee and Bob could get the lay of the land.  It is a great house and perfect for one person.  With its apple trees and outbuildings, bright and airy rooms and great charm, it seems to have been made especially for Chantelle.  Her neighbours have checked in and given her the once over so all is well in Dutch Settlement.   Alex and Sarah are keeping everything and everyone somewhat centered and Sarah has been given special duties relating to Bob and rest.  She takes them seriously.  Bob likens her to the Sergeant Major.  Sarah would like that.  The garage is the center of activity.  When the heat gets the better of everyone, there is rest.  A process has been developed to paint with efficiency and it appears that Alex does much of the work with a LOT of supervisors, including the dogs.  Good thing he can take life in his stride and finds these 'seasoned' men amusing.  Lee is moving among a million tasks including the delegation this week of Billy's trimming.  That is less than amusing to Lee.  Billy is amazed.  There are 5 - 7 for all meals and the regular organization questions surrounding the shows.  Sleep comes easily to all.

The kennel is busy and Chantelle's little crew are adding to the excitement.  They will enjoy getting to know the new house and all decisions are being made with the little crew in mind.  Barrett departed with a jaunty wave as did the Tollers.  Poe is holding the fort in his area. 

The house crew are delighted to have Bob in residence.  A new victim to sit on, rub against, share a mouthful of water with and generally keep in line is always appreciated.  Gabe, the mechanic, found something wrong with Bob's windshield wiper and, being the helpful young fellow he is, took removed it for inspection.  Apparently it did not pass muster.  Bob went to the garage.  Wipers are Gabe's specialty - ask Alex, or Ken.  Patti had a Sarah bath and clean up and feels a million times better.  Sarah has her eye on Scooter next.  Trebia had a spin, a period in the house, watched Wheel of Fortune with Bob and repaired to the kennel.  The baby puppies are growing and enjoying life.  They are soon to be tattooed and have vaccinations.  That is hard to believe. 

Dinner was grilled salmon with scalloped potatoes, fresh corn and a lovely salad with fresh berries, glazed nuts and feta.  Blueberry pie was finished up and all is well  

 

A busy Friday with an even higher than usual activity level

All is well in NS - well, relatively, at least.  There is no rain and none on the horizon.   Long, sunny summer days with highs in the high 20's and cool nights.  Everyone but Our Ken is happy.  The summer painting project is in full swing with Alex and Sarah wielding brushes and rollers with abandon.  With Alex's eye for aesthetics and Sarah's 'can do' attitude, there is even relief of the white with the odd blue accent.  What a difference.  Even the dogs are impressed.  Patti is supervising closely, white hat firmly in place.  Sarah is not to be left alone for more than a moment.  Chantelle landed for a painting party and shellacked pickets, mollifying Our Ken but making the entire Rona employee pool shake its collective head.  Next come primer.  This will be a long lasting, well planned fence.  Bob and Our Ken will see to that.  Engineering math is coming into play.  And Chantelle's move is now scheduled for Tuesday of this week.  That will keep everyone entertained.  On this day, there were six for lunch and then it was off to Cape Breton for Dawn, Chantelle and the boys.  There is a 50/50 chance they will make it in anything close to a pattern anyone else would follow.   Keep in mind, this is the duo that found Pictou en route from Elmsdale to NB. 

The kennel is busy with folks fitting in a last trip before school goes back in session.  Boarders abound and Sarah is happy.  While Ms Charlie departed, Mr Charlie is keeping her company and well occupied.  Barrett is in residence, keeping Trebia company and crooning his tunes.  Maxifer is happy and well - looking after number two yard.  Poe arrived and is contemplating life in his own way.  Fern arrived and settled in.  Ken's report - she is a lovely dog and a testament to Fraser and Marilla. And speaking of lovely dogs, Chantelle's crew are in residence muttering loudly that somebody is going to pay for this indignity.   Scout is almost at a loss of words, having checked and re-checked to assure himself that she did, indeed, take that rotten puppy and not him. 

The house crew are a bit put off by the painting project.  It is disturbing their revolving door approach to enjoyment of summer.  The plan (put together by Dolly, Marilla, Lori and Charlotte) is to go out to check the perimeter of the property, bark at the coming and going of the fruit stand (if you can't find anything of more interest to speak about) and then return to the air conditioning to cool off your belly (how your belly got hot is anyone's guess).  The lack of access to the walk coming to the back door is putting a wrench in the works.  And painting of the railings and pickets on the deck itself simply put paid to the normal comings and goings.  There was a sorting of the guard, with some agreeing that to be outside is worth confinement in number one yard (still accessible to fruit stand views, shade and playable).  Others demurred and preferred full time air conditioning.  In the midst of it all, Lee and Ken corralled Charlotte and marched her to the grooming room.  Half a Charlotte walked out several hours later. 

It was a day of sorting.  And the first victim was the box of wild blueberries.  There is blueberry jam to be taken to the cold room and a blueberry pie is resting comfortably.  Dinner brought the great lemon-garlic-sun dried tomato chicken, grilled to perfection; augmented by Ken's potatoes and fresh corn on the cob.  The pie lived up to expectation.  And we are on to the week end. 

A summer day with lots of activity

The weather is holding - hot and dry.  The ferns are growing like weeds, the hosta are happy.  That's about it.  The apples are small and numerous.  The blackberries continue to arrive in the kitchen.  One batch of jam has resulted.  Another is likely to appear.  There is lots of coming and going at the gate, in the yards and particularly in the kitchen.  With upcoming shows, Lee's schedule is tight.  All is falling into place and last minute items are working through the system.  Painting projects are the order of the day, with Our Ken determining on an hour by hour basis which area is of most interest.   Alex is flexible and able to bend with his grandfather's whims.  That is indeed a good thing.  The older puppies are most interested in this painting project and are voicing their encouragement when rollers are in their vicinity.  Patti is concerned only when Sarah is involved, donning her white hat and keeping a close eye on Sarah's progress - progress that appears to include painting herself as well as the closest fence.  She's pretty darned cute with her dark tan and white speckles, stripes, spots and splotches.  June was in residence for work with Gabe and Alex.  Both are doing well on the leads and are benefiting from their tutelage. 

The kennel is in summer mode - with the boarding dogs enjoying the big exercise yards and hot days.  During the middle parts of the day, they are happy to be in their cool runs.  Early morning and evening, the yards are the preferred playgrounds, with Maxifer keeping track of his area, Bella in charge of hers until her departure and the others moving through available spaces.  Barrett is due and Trebia is thrilled.  Charlie Airedale is enjoying Sarah Airedale's company.  She approves of him. 

Lola's puppies are doing very well.  They are growing, eating well and enjoying the kitchen deck.  Learning the ins and outs of the outdoors is a major leap for baby puppies and this litter is taking the change in circumstances in their stride.  They trot along for a period, play with their new toys and then pile together for naps in the shade.  All is well in their world.  The older two puppies are enjoying life in their big yard and developing a routine.  Patti is eating well and keeping an eye on Sarah when she is in residence.  Piper is relaxed now that Lee is home and life has returned to normal.  Marilla, relieved of the thunder storm worry, is enjoying her evenings and has toys at the ready to share with Ken in the early morning.  He particularly enjoys the large yellow duck as it, and Marilla, join him once Lee goes downstairs. 

Lunch supported many.  There was a fresh bacon, asiago and tomato fritatta, salad with plum dressing, feta and glazed nuts, sourdough rye from the German bakery and ice cream bars.  Dinner included pork shop sausages, sauerkraut, sweet onions and Ken's freshly dug potatoes with apple pie for dessert.  All is well in everyone's world. 

Summer continues hot and dry

There was a slight change on the week end.  The Regalridgemobile departed the property without a dog.  It was on to Digby County for a week end with Bob and Luella sans canines.  Of course, there were dogs aplenty on arrival, with Rascal and Daisy delighted to see company at the lake house.  Chantelle managed property, puppies and all things in between, finding a bit of a disconnect in having Lee and Ken at her house and her with all of her dogs at Regalridge.  The south end of the province is beautiful and never more so than in August.  There are loons, geese and ducks on the lake in great abundance.  Days are long and mornings early.  There are lots of people from all over the globe, enjoying the bounty of the area.  Scallops are plentiful and markets are overflowing with produce.  Saturdays bring the Annapolis market - a favourite of the Regalridge family - with its European breads and fabulous pottery and linens.  Lee found yet another hand woven Swiss tablecloth and supplemented this with scarves and the ubiquitous bread.  Our Ken was found with bags muttering 'Christmas' to anyone who would listen.  There were a few odd stares.  Bob found a Coonhound trolling for attention and remained stationary for quite a while.  This was his first major outing since the hip surgery and he acquitted himself well.  A new restaurant was pronounced a success and it was back to the lake for the duration.  The weather was perfect and the vintage single malt the perfect counterpoint to the laconic setting.  The return home brought the staples for the fencing project now in its infancy.  Chantelle gave in to the water on a rock torture and called the new landlords (in the midst of their packing) and she and Ken ran off to Dutch Settlement for a tour of the property and a planning session.   Our Ken has approved the new abode, turning over in his mind the picket requirement to build a solid fence for the wayward Welsh and single Airedale. 

The kennel was busy.  Chantelle took it all in stride, playing kong with the older puppies and sitting with the babies in her lap.  There was grooming aplenty, with Abigail sporting a new and impressive summer haircut.  At her double digit age, she still resembles a puppy and all who meet her are charmed.  Charlie Airedale is in residence and delighted to see his old friends.  He and Penny bonded and had a great Airedale play in the big yards.  Bella Sheltie is taking charge - an unusual Sheltie mannerism and one that is startling to behold.  Chantelle's Welsh were in residence in the kennel, much to Scout's disgust.  The likelihood of this slight being overlooked is remote and the possibility of his hearing that Billy spent the night in Chantelle's room doesn't even bear thinking about. 

Piper was not amused that Lee had again managed to leave the property.  She may not be Chantelle's favourite canine.  There were thunder storms to keep things perking along and Chantelle discovered the joy and efficacy of the thunder shirts.  They are amazingly effective for the middle aged Airedales.  Virginia and Alex were taught to chase and return the kong.  The results were mixed - the chase easily outweighing the return.  The babies are growing rapidly and Lola has returned home to Helen and Kenzie.  The five little ones are eating well - no hold outs in this crowd.  They are a collegial crowd, enjoying people and other puppies equally. 

Dinner was a new production.  Accompanying the fresh beans and potatoes from the Valley markets was a marinated lemon chicken.  It was well received by the Alpha Male.

The road to Halifax is long with many a winding turn

The weather is unchanged.  Not unusual for us, there is humidity.  It is August.  But this long stretch fo humidity and heat is uncommon.  The lack of rain is simply annoying.  There is a forecast change for the week end.  Time will tell.   Piper has requested upstairs air conditioning.  She has been advised that this too shall pass.  Lee spent the day chasing her taillights back and forth to the city - three times.  There was a three hour dentist appointment - altogether now - OHHHHH.  This was followed by a trip to the Vet for Abigail and collection of Patti's pills.  And then back for an evening meeting.  The Toyota paid its dues.  Our Ken held the fort, ably assisted by Alex.  From unpublished reports, there was painting, KC was trimmed, there was mowing and everyone is exhausted.  Entries for dog shows were organized and delivered.  Chantelle has found a great house, 10 minutes from Regalridge and perfectly suited to her needs and her dogs.  Life does seem to unfold as it should, given time.  So there is a move in everyone's future. 

The kennel is well and happy.  Bella Sheltie is now in charge.  Lily Lab pup is becoming more Sheltie-like by the moment.  Scottie Shih-Tzu is holding down the Shih-Tzu summer position.   KC Airedale is content to watch all of the activity and had a good spin with Sarah and Trebia.  KC had his usual coat and offered it up happily to Our Ken's ministrations. 

The house crew are well and content.  The air conditioning is much enjoyed in their den.  Patti doesn't move from the cool orthopedic bed and Our Ken has now positioned a fan to ensure she receives maximum benefit.  The star continues to shine.  Piper greeted each of Lee's appearances with solid whacks on the back of her legs.  Unamused  by her person's absences, it mattered not that there were three other people to cater to her whims.  Lola tells stories of her puppies, her ability to care from them from a distance and her thoughts that have turned to her 'real life'.  She is certain that Helen's business is going to go into receivership without her management and notes that Kenzie is not at all responsible.  She is homeward bound soon.  The puppies are thriving, moving easily into the den and soon will be introduced to the deck.  The older two are growing quickly and are enjoying their summer.  Virginia has finally come to terms with stairs - thanks largely to the education provided by Alex and Sarah. 

Dinner was a quick meal of lamb chops, potatoes, tomato and blue cheese casserole and fresh new carrots.  There appeared to have been blueberry-lemon cake for dessert.  And on we go.

The heat remains in NS

Cactus may be the gardener's next foray.  An entire bed is being developed with perennials.  Annuals will soon be a thing of the past from Our Ken's perspective, too water-dependent.  And the forecaster on the evening news simply says, with the grace to look miserable, "more of the same for tomorrow".  Humidity in August is the norm.  The long term dry conditions, not so much.  Lee had appointments in the city.  And McDonald's saved the day.  Stopping through the drive through for the requisite beverage for the trek, the wallet was reached for, only to come up wanting.   Having taken it out early in the day, it rested comfortably on Lee's desk.  Scraping up a few dollars from the ever-able handbag, a package of chicken nuggets was taken back to Ken as Lee whistled through the house, collecting the errant credit cards and money then scooting into the city, hoping to stay under the radar - literally.   The appointments were followed by a Costco run.  Christmas paper and decorations abound.  And a roll of paper came home, not needed, not on the list, not even chosen as Lee recalls the trip.  That darned stuff simply leaps into the cart on its own. Our Ken held the fort, made a mess in the kitchen and complained to the dogs since there were no people to nod sagely in agreement.  Chantelle, it was reported, surfaced and departed without chatting with the Alpha Male.  And he had a list of Chantelle questions at the ready.  That girl is nobody's fool. 

The kennel is ticking along nicely.  Bella Sheltie is a real favourite, keeping track of Lily the Lab and teaching her the ropes.   We reckon Lily will be herding soon and retrieving will be a thing of the past.   The little Shih Tzu, Scottie, is settled and Bella Shih Tzu is making him welcome as only little Bella can.  Sarah is pining for company and has heard a rumour that Penny is coming to visit. 

Lola is now spending time with the rest of the Airedales as her family is acclimating to the den.  They are learning to eat puppy food, considering it a poor substitute for Mom but approving the goat's milk formula.  It is a sturdy litter, uniform in size and temperament to this stage.  The house crew have welcomed Lola into their midst with true Regalridge hospitality.  She is back among friends.  Piper gave Lee a good whack across the leg on her return from the city, noting that permission had not been requested to leave the property.   Gotta love Piper.  Patti is well and eating up a storm.  Ken's grilled burgers are the favourite offering at the moment. 

  Dinner was lovely grilled salmon steaks, potatoes and green and yellow beans, blueberry lemon pound cake and a little wine.  Life ticks along.

Hot days, meetings and city happenings

Another hot and dry day in the NS desert.  Our Ken is not amused.  There is lots to keep everyone busy, in spite of the heat.  Maintenance jobs are waiting patiently; painting of fencing is an on-going delight that awaits anyone who remains stationary and is in Ken's sight line.  He appears to be giving passing thought to fixing a paintbrush to Gabe's tail.  This, too, shall pass.  Lee manages to barely keep a lid on her activities, scheduling meetings, managing dogs and maintaining warp speed activity in the kitchen.  Piper is having a little difficulty parking on her feet but gives it a go at every opportunity.  There is peach jam on the counter - a nod to the season and sandwiched between paperwork and a meeting.  There was a great ATA show committee meeting with good friends and lots accomplished.  For those in the area, the bi-annual Specialty Show for terriers will be at Exhibition Park on August 31.  There is lots schedule including all-terrier Obedience (yes - Obedience) and Rally as well as the Conformation show and Junior handling.  Then it was on to the Keg for dinner.  That was the first time in decades that the Regalridge people had enjoyed the Keg.  It was a great meal courtesy of Logan's wins and gift cards.  There didn't appear  to be any 'doggy bags' going home to the Tufts' residence so Logan may not be amused.  Fortunately there was no bacon served so Lexi may be more forgiving.  Now, country folk are not often in the city proper, unless for specific appointments.  As a corner was turned, the car that passed sported a man with a buffalo head - we are not city people.  In the country, buffalo heads are not a common sight in the back seat of cars.  Parking rituals were also observed.  There was the challenge of finding a spot, sorting out the process of yet one more underground, unmanned lot and finding a space.  Better still was the leaving routine.  It took Dawn and Jimmy considerable time and some additional exercise to get out, including a walk around their van as it sat behind the barrier and next to the recalcitrant exit machine.  There is some question about what was actually happening but the barrier keeping the line of cars hostage was unbroken when the Toyota's turn came so apparently Jimmy didn't have to have a physical altercation with the stationary object - or if he did, he lost. 

The kennel ticks along.  The resident Cocker Spaniel departed, to the waves of his pals the Lab puppy and the old Lab.  It had been a sporting dog party in yard three.  Little Maggie is in residence and greeted Little Bella.  Now, Bella is in charge of everything so the appearance of another little critter next to her was not amusing.  She is considering her options and has advised Little Maggie that she is in charge, that her orders are to be followed and that her rules must remain unbroken.  Little Maggie is pondering this edict - since she was here first and has stayed here for many years.  Amy departed and Sarah is disconsolate.  That was the best friend she has found in her time in residence at Regalridge.  Amy felt the same way.  Linda and Charles may have some thinking to do.  Trebia awaits Barrett's return and is quite certain she can hear him singing his way north. 

The house dogs are well and happy.  Patti is thriving, enjoying her days on her favourite bed and moving in and out to keep an eye on the youngsters.  Piper was not amused that Ken and Lee had a meeting and dinner out.  Her displeasure could be measured by the number of times she whacked Lee on the leg on re-entrance.  The older puppies are well and happy, although little Virginia still pines for her kitchen deck.  Alex (who loved her deck chair) seems to have made her feelings known.  The chair that had been on the kitchen deck has magically appeared in the puppy run . . .  When her wand appears, there will be a better understanding of that feat.  Abigail has been a little under the weather with a tummy upset but is on the mend and has Ken firmly in tow, dancing to her whims. 

And dinner was at the Keg. 

Hot days, air conditioning and happy dogs

No water fell from the sky.  Our Ken pouted.  Mowing is not a daily chore as is the wont with regular rainfalls.  Our Ken does not consider that a bonus.  Projects continue.  Even without mowing, the tractor is pressed into service.  On this day there was a usual hiccup of detritus wrapped around the mower blade, taking the morning to repair.  One step forward, two back.  Weeds like the dry conditions and are removed regularly.  Learning to love weeds would be a great thing, in Lee's opinion.  Our Ken demurs.  There was paper moving on the desk and runs back and forth to the village.  Our Ken had a yen for haddock for dinner.  His fish monger was among the missing, a crisis in Ken's life.  That meant a mission for Lee, scouring grocery stores for a replacement.  And vehicles were filled with gas in advance of a major price hike. 

Sarah and Amy have bonded.  Airedale games abound and Amy's addition is perhaps Sarah's favourite ever.  The two girls really enjoy the other's company.   Bella Sheltie, Bailey Spaniel and Lily Lab had a great play.  All are great dogs, easy going and well settled.  With their collegiality, all are enjoying the company of the others and are playing well.  Little Bella is managing the kennel as is her wont - keeping order and torturing Sarah.  Trebia misses Barrett. 

The house crew are thriving.  Patti is returned to her old and garrulous self.  Orders are given, especially to Piper and Marilla who circle like sharks as Patti eats her meals on her bed, perched soundly and in charge of her fiefdom.  Jack is thoroughly enjoying the warm summer days, keeping track of activity on the property from his outside yard.  Chantelle added Viola and Clem to the mix so Jack had company.  She is one of the few he actually enjoys.  Clem managed the property from behind her eyelids, getting up for a wander every now and then.  The older puppies (Alex and Virginia) are doing well, Virginia somewhat more interested in her food but still pining for her deck off of the kitchen.   Alex, more tractable and equanable, is enjoying the new and larger run.  Lola continues to manage her family very nicely, shares her thoughts freely and has a schedule that must be followed.  The puppies are solid on their feet, are enjoying their new freedom and will begin a weaning process this week end.  That will be interesting given their great care by Lola and their well filled tummies.  As yet, there are no teeth so Lola remains solicitous. 

Dinner included pan fried haddock, divided so that Sarah could enjoy her fish in Chex crumbs (gluten free).  That worked.  Potatoes, Hants County corn, yellow and green beans accompanied the main course.  Rice pudding followed (with sorbet on the side for some).  Our Ken approved. 

All is well in the NS countryside.  Well, except for the arid conditions and Our Ken's grumbles.  There was a visit from the Calgarians just before they headed to the airport.  Adventures continued - the flight was delayed several hours after the airport arrival was achieved.  Toronto pilots of Air Canada strike again.  There was coming and going and the male among us trotted off to Truro for a tour of his new hospital.  Dutifully reporting, the initial reaction is highly positive, calling the building state of the art and impressive in its forward looking construction, aesthetics and sensibilities.  The new chief of staff is an impressive fellow so there is hope that the staffing of the facility will benefit from his background.  There is a little gardening occurring - watering strategically, analysis of offerings and much head shaking.  Berry bushes are offering up their yields and the birds are happy.  The flocking is starting so there will be migration occurring now that August is here.  These flocks manage to clean the little berries quickly.  Local cantaloupe is on offer and Our Ken is making short work of one of his favourite fruits.  Early apples have also arrived at the fruit stand. 

The kennel is buzzing.  The old Spaniel is in residence and settled nicely.  Barrett is packing his bags and singing parting songs to Trebia - there seems to be a military bent to the latest - something about an old kit bag - Trebia thinks he is a little nuts but lovable.  Amy is packed and ready to rumble.  The Sheltie has arrived for a stay and is considering options.  Little Bella is dolign out orders and advice in equal measure, much to Sarah's amusement.  The new Labrador is happy to be among friends and is assessing the potential of the exercise yards. 

The house crew is well and happy.  It was a hot day so much time was enjoyed in the air conditioning, followed by romps outside as the weather cooled through the evening.  The babies are up, trotting around with eyes opened.  Lola continues to feed them well and all are 'substantial'.  Weaning is scheduled to begin on the week end.   Ms Lola has regained her girlish figure and has upped her demands for food, treats and attention.  All is well in her world, provided she has staff to meet her needs.  The older two puppies are growing and learning to enjoy their new digs.  Virginia is a bit less tractable and spends much time on the top step, nose pointing to the house and her former deck.  Alex is more accepting and enjoys the freedom of the larger area, the little house that offers space to snooze in the shade and the additional activity offered by the older Airedales who check on the little ones now and then.  Having misplaced Lee on the week end, Piper now sits on her feet as often as is possible, causing some degree of difficulty but ensuring those feet don't go anywhere without due notice being given.  Patti is well, enjoying the cool house and the occasional spin in the yard.  Her Ancientness is happy with the service and with the food on offer. 

Dinner was late (the hospital tour was at dinnertime) and offered up by the local pizza shop.  The old girl was thrilled - pizza is a food group in Patti's lexicon. 

Heavy mist but no water

Arid conditions continue to be the order of the day.  Our Ken is not amused.  The weather gods are toying with the gardener among us, offering up rains on the coast, the Bay Of Fundy and worst of all, in Digby, enabling Bob to gloat.  Blackberries apparently enjoy dry conditions.  The word of the day is that the crop is doing well.  There will be jelly.  The Olympics have become a bit of a sorry affair, with officiating/politics taking precedence over sport.  Having become a bit jaded, there is diminishing interest and increased acceptance of CNN.  Lee has returned from Newfoundland, the well run Avalon shows and the great exhibitors.  Listening to the judges, there is certainly a strong commentary surrounding the pleasant shows with great people. 

The kennel ticks along.  The Schenk crew returned home, with waves and barks.  That settles the building.  Barrett is singing his songs to Trebia - much to everyone's enjoyment.  And the week end will again be busy.  Bella is in residence so rules are not a problem.  Bailey the Spaniel is taking life in stride.  It is the week of the 'B'.  Rounding out the crew is Amy Airedale, here for a spa treatment and a few days of exercise at Regalridge.  Sarah keeps a close eye on all.

The house crew are well and perhaps the only inhabitants happy with the weather.  Charlotte notes that with the misty, foggy days, the digging is superb.  Gabe agrees and points to the speed that can be achieved on softer ground, allowing him to almost catch Clint on the straightaway.  Piper shrugs and settles on Lee's feet.  Patti is improving by the day, stronger and happy to enjoy the air conditioning, with short spins up and down the yard to ensure all is going according to her plan.  Lola and her babies are thriving.  The little ones are up on their feet, trotting around the whelping room and enjoying the new found ambulatory experience.  The eyes are bright and there will soon be food in their future.  By the week end, they should be ready to begin the transition to the den.  The older two puppies are making a transition to crates, are playing in a new yard and are growing into lovely young Airedales. 

Meals are returning to normal after Lee's absence and Ken's efforts, supported by Chantelle.  There were fresh scallops for dinner with hodge podge.  Rice pudding rounded out the menu (Gourmet recipe that is perhaps more labour intensive than is really necessary).  All is well. 

Rain

There was rain.  That's news in the NS desert.  The rain barrels were filled; the flowers perked; Our Ken is marginally satisfied.  With any luck, there will be more rain in the days to come.  The Regalridgemobile departed the property for an excursion to Denmark.  Furniture will be delivered in due course.  Our Ken chose a red leather chair - anyone surprised?  And it is identical to the chair in which he currently rests his eyes.  That poor piece of furniture was purchased 12 years ago and owes nothing.  Still, the worry of the hour as Denmark faded was 'what will we do with the navy chair?'.  Sometimes 'tis best to remain silent.   The rest of the acquisition will pale in comparison to the red.  ?That will keep Our Ken happy.  A visit to Denmark would not be complete without a stop at the Pork Shop.  Home came the vehicle, passing the NS Steam museum and the Grist Mill, replete with sausage, mustards, brochettes and sauerkraut. 

The kennel ticks along and all is well.  The little Schenk crowd is perking - enough said.  It was a wet day so the parties were somewhat less enthusiastic than has been the norm.  Barrett is enjoying his vacation, crooning to Trebia who delights in his songs.  She is absolutely certain that nobody but her hears his dulcet tones.  Add to that the counterpoint of Margarets' Welsh and Margots' Norwich  . . .Scooter pales in comparison. 

The babies are growing like little weeds and Lola is expressing her satisfaction.  Patting herself on the back, she preens as the babies are admired.  There is the beginning of sound from the little ones, the eyes are opening and soon they will be up on those sturdy little legs.  Progress.  It is about two weeks to the weaning stage.  Given their girth, it is not anticipated that weaning will be a major challenge.  The two older puppies are thriving, enjoying the attention they demand and doing well.  Their deck is their castle, toys are everywhere and both are finding their voices.  Games are being played that only the two understand.  Patti continues to improve, eating dog food for Sarah when all other offerings stop.  Dinner was her package of Cesar, meds, a grilled hamburger and a dish of dry dog food.  It is an amazing recovery for the ancient one. 

Dinner was a summer pleasure.  The pork brochettes were grilled; there was local valley corn, picked this morning.  A tomato and blue cheese casserole was added to the new potatoes finished on the grill.  Life is good. 

Great weather followed a little precipitation

Our Ken is marginally happier, and so is everyone in NS.  When Our Ken is unhappy, the impact is widespread.  There was a little rain.  While it was only a half hour late evening (it remains light through mid-evening at this latitude), the impact was felt throughout the property.  The cistern half filled, the rain barrels filled and smiles abound.  Well, maybe not smiles, exactly.  It is Ken after all.  An early morning wander with Lola offered up raspberries on the bushes.  Life is good.  The blueberries didn't thrive in the dry conditions so raspberries are a real find.  The roses are a bit perkier and the hosta are sending up their flowers.  Even the apples on the trees seemed to fill out a bit.  Lee was sent on a mission to the city while Our Ken sorted kennel work and gardened. 

The kennel is well and happy.  There was a turn over on this day with the Schenk crew bidding all a fond farewell.  Ken notes how very well behaved and what a nice little dog Dylan the Welsh is - note, Dylan's last name does not begin with SCH . . . 

The house crew is well and enjoying the lovely weather.  While it was warm, it was not scorching so outdoor pursuits were at the top of the lists.  Charlotte can now speak Mandarin and Piper is taking classes.  Patti continues to show improvement.  Her meals are being polished off, she is enjoying everything that is on offer and is now wandering several times a day, without constant supervision.  After such a very difficult two days, she has rebounded remarkably.  The babies are thriving and happy.  It is hard to believe that they are two weeks old.  All are uniform in size, all cluster together (no loner in this crowd, as yet) and Lola rules with a kind hand.  This will be a week when eyes open so progress will be even more evident.  Having summer litters is unusual for this house and these two have been greatly enjoyed.  The older two puppies of Marguerite and Clint's litter are having a whale of a time and will soon move to the older puppy exercise area between the house and the kennel.  They are lovely little characters. 

It was a day of early kitchen activity.  There are fabulous fruits on offer so blueberry muffins with lemon glaze and lemon sugar topping landed on the kitchen table for breakfast.   At the same time, the hummingbird was at the kitchen window requesting improved fare so her syrup was replaced.  Lunch was on the road for Lee and required every dish in the house be used for Our Ken - what he had is a mystery but it certainly required extensive preparation.  As drinks were being consumed during the newscast, Our Ken queried dinner.  And Lee replied with a raised eyebrow.  It had been a busy day and nothing had been planned or readied.  This is the point where a food caterer would be a wonderful thing.  There were Pork Shop sausages available - always a good start.  The grill was fired up and a peach was peeled.  While sausage and peaches were grilled, a plum vinaigrette was put together.  A salad of greens with grilled peaches, blue cheese and glazed walnuts, plus the plum vinaigrette accompanied the sausages and a fresh tomato fritatta (garlic and parm).  It worked.    

Dry weather does not support good gardening

Dry weather and unhappy gardeners.  That sums up July in Nova Scotia.  There has been rain surrounding Regalridge, sometimes as close as 5 km distant, but little has fallen on Regalridge gardens.  Apples are on the orchard trees but growing is slow.  Berries are not maturing and vegetables are non-existant.  Our Ken is not amused.  There is muttering about irrigation and long contemplation of the rain gutter solution that has not yielded great returns.  Some bushes have manged to persevere, offering their yields early.  August flowers are blooming while the July roses languish.  Little mowing has been required.  Even the dogs are annoyed.  The hard earth is no fun for digging and Piper's quest to learn Mandarin is thwarted by the difficulty in digging further into the impressive tunnels.  On the odd day that there has been a shower, it's all hands on deck to get the paws going.  Charlotte, Piper and Lori appear at the door in mud-caked legs and mouths - why your muzzle is necessary to dig is a mystery.  Chantelle continues to have her adventures, bringing Our Ken into the fun along the way.  This week it was the breaking of the key in the lock, as evenign turned to night in Kennetcook.  No doubt this will be a fond memory as she dreams up the next antic. The Olympics are occupying the residents, along with many other Canadians.  Great television.

The kennel is bouncing along - the Schenk dogs are in residence so the decibel level is elevated.  Crockett and Zeus are learning maintentance skills as Our Ken works on the outside kennel panels.  Crockett, in particular, finds this activity fascinating.  conversely, Wee Margaret finds the movement of large objects troublesome and best viewed with only your little Welsh head sticking out the door, with retreat only a heartbeat away.  Her partner in crime is backing her up - from inside.  Zeus rests on his laurels, occasoinally urging Crockett to pay closer attention in case these skills are needed in the city in future.  The favourite Boxer is in residence and is enjoying the big back runs and the dry weather.  He is a lovely fellow, happy to comply with any direction and willing to go along with the routine of the day provided lots of pats are on offer. 

The house crew enjoy the air conditioning and the sun, in equal measure.   Patti has had a hard week, but after a day that seemed to say the end was near, has rebounded in Patti-fashion.  She is now back up on her feet and able to have her wander around the yard, is eating again and feeling better.  It is understood that days with the great old girl are numbered but what a great old age she has enjoyed.  Puppies are growing and thriving.  Lola's litter is now two weeks old, fat and happy.  Their collars have again been enlarged and all are doing well.  Atlas was in residence for a grooming and enjoyed stories of his children as Chantelle turned him into a show dog yet again.  There was trimming of little dogs, as well.  Our Ken had a list that Lee and Chantelle acquiesced to.  Jack had a pedicure that turned into a full body overhaul.  He looks better and is able to motor up his stairway with speed after the hair removal, enjoying his newfound high gear.  The little Welsh is having a great summer, finding comfort in his yard, its shade and warmth and its toys.  Abigail also had an update - less amused than Jack by the sorting out of her coat.  She grew that hair and darned well wanted to keep it.  There is muttering about Chantelle and what will be done when she sleeps . . .

Dinners have had a summer theme.  There has been lots of lobster, lots of fresh scallops and haddock; the grill has been busy and fresh vegetables from the county find their way to the table each evening.  Our Ken is happy.

Adventures abound

The weather was disappointing.  Rains were forecast.  And in fact, the weather was inclement but rather than water falling in copious amounts there was drizzle.   Apparently our Ken's rain dances were only partially notable.  Conversely, there were engineering marvels constructed to catch the water that didn't fall.  There were trips to Rona, ladders and barrels, brackets and gutters (although the two were not in sync) and duct tape.  Now, that's a good day.  Alex just shakes his head, commenting that the person who next climbs to replace those incorrect brackets is going to have a bath.  Alex, of course, will be that person.  And it was on to lunch with the Calgarians at Bitars.  All were impressed.  It is a comfortable little spot and the food is always better than adequate.  Chantelle dropped by, joining the table for dinner and the routine then settled in for closing.  Closing is late during these warm evenings.  And at the time Linda generally touches base, the phone rang only to have Chantelle's sad little voice offer that her key had broken in the lock of her house.  Ken to the rescue.  Now, this rescue involved a bucket with a gathering of assorted tools, a stool, the requisite number of flashlights. two jackets and a handful of candy.  Having retired from Cirque du soleil (not), Our Ken vaulted the fence, removed obstructions and found that the key at Regalridge does not open  the back door.  This then allowed his next circus trick and in he went, feet following head.  All is well.  And the adventures continue.

The kennel ticks along.  There are the usual comings and goings with all settled in nicely. 

Miss Lola has a litter of five puppies - three boys - and is doing extremely well.  She loves her family, is a perfect house guest and the plump little newcomers are thriving.  Marguerite's puppies remaining at Regalridge are growing and learning Airedale tricks.  The larger puppy has now learned to climb into chairs on the deck and poses in her puppy grandeur.  The little character has learned to bail out of the pen, at will, and is as bright as a new penny.  The house crew are happy and well.  Piper continues to mourn the loss of the cone of power but is resigned to its demise.  The moisture that did arrive softened the top layer of earth so digging has resumed, the excavation of the Airedale holes again becoming a major project.  All are involved and all have dirt covered feet and beards - why digging with your face is fun is a real mystery. 

Dinner was lovely salmon steaks with potatoes and fresh corn scallop followed by Costco's sorbets in natural cups.  Our Ken had pineapple in pineapple, Chantelle mango in and orange shell and Lee pina colada in a coconut.  Our Ken was less than amused finding this a poor excuse for the ice cream that he thought was in his future. 

Birds abound

There are days at Regalridge that are less than predictable - well, perhaps that would be most days - but some are definitely outside the norm.  From a weather perspective, there are no complaints except for the gardener among us.  Water from the skies is definitely needed.  Still, these long, warm days and evenings are reminiscent of summers from our childhoods.  In the case of those long ago days, our memories may be coloured.  This year, though, it is a fabulous NS summer.  The dogs approve, equally, of the morning sun, the afternoon air conditioning and the cool evenings.  And there is entertainment overhead.  Flight school is underway.  The swallows are educators extraordinaire.  Day one begins early with the little ones (there are five) taking wing, lined up on the power line running from the garage to the kennel.  Adults swoop and pose for the edification of the babies.  Then it is the turn of the fledglings, who improve with each practice flight.  An hour later, all are lined up and the adults are feeding the tired and hungry youngsters.  Then flight practice again - and on it goes.  Attempts at walking in that area of the yard are just silly.  And to continue in our avian ways, Chantelle phoned.  "I have a project for Ken" came through the phone wires.  Lee remained silent, knowing that no good was going to come from this conversation.  A short time later, the little green car appeared in the driveway.  Out came the travel crate and in came another bird - this time an injured yellow bellied sapsucker.  A beautiful bird, this youngster appeared to be completely disoriented and unable to do more than stagger about.  Enter Our Ken.  The electric lawnmower came out - odd, Lee thought, and a little mowing was done, the bag removed and the lightbulb went on.  Our Ken was building habitat.  Given time, no doubt trees would have been cut down . . .  Within minutes, a dog run had been transformed to Sapsucker heaven.  Lee was pressed into service, making sugar water and offering up a suet cake.  The little fellow had a drink and a bite to eat while a strategy session happened.  Wildlife rescue was phoned, agreed to take the bird and transport was planned.  Lee found the puppy carrier and collected Chantelle for her transgression.  Then it was off to the city for transport to the avian hospital.  There are few dull moments at Regalridge.

The kennel is ticking along.  Comings and goings are regular.  Perhaps the most interesting arrival was Ruff the Golden.  A phone call presaging his appointment included the sad statement that there was a difficulty being experienced in packing, everything was in the driveway and another attempt was needed.  Well, the result showed that the call had been an understatement.  Ruff was nowhere to be seen, only emerging after a front door was opened and the load shifted.  Keep in mind, Ruff is a Golden Retriever . . . 

The house crew are well and happy.  Piper's cone of power has been removed, much to her dismay.  Perhaps the Airedales are a bit unusual but both Charlotte and Piper had the pleasure of wearing the Elizabethan collar after surgery.  And both throoughly enjoyed the power this imparted.  The removal of the contraption early on this lovely morning would have been cause for celebration for other dogs.  Not so Miss Piper.  Her tail drooped, her head went down and the pitiful eyes were put on.  She loved that cone! 

Dinner was grilled strip loin with the usual accompaniments and Lee's oatmeal cookies.  There had been Merk's coffee cake (built earlier by Lee) for breakfast and a lovely lunch so all was well in Our Ken's world. 

Summer, travel, adventure - a full four days

The weather is perhaps the most consistent stretch of perfect days that can be remembered.  There have been a few showers, keeping gardens from being too dry, many long sunny days and long cool evenings.  Consistency in NS weather is uncommon so this is being enjoyed by all. There was a quick trip to Maine for an overnight stay in Bangor and a short visit with Lee's brother.  Billy thoroughly enjoyed the trip - landing on the bed in one flying leap from the door and flinging pillows in all directions as is his wont.  The mad scramble by the humans particularly delights him as Pillows are caught and the Airedale is repatriated to the floor. The Regalridgemobile then found its way home to a busy house and a Piper adventure.  Wednesday brought sorting and organizing in anticipation of a visit by friends from NYC.  Thursday was the airport collection and a surprise quick visit with Cathy Prothro - lots of laughs and a potential for accommodation for Chantelle.  The birds keep everyone on their toes with the hummingbirds busy at the feeder, the red winged blackbirds vying for treats with the squirrels, the juncos enjoying the shade of the feeders and the blue jays trying to move them along.  The doves are ubiquitous and their cooing is a day and evening underline to all outside activity.  Our Ken gardens with a purpose, still putting in plants and eyeing areas for expansion potential.  The fruit stand overflows with local produce - it is a great time of year. 

The kennel is busy with comings and goings - short stays for many of the dogs and indicative of the economy.  Pippa is thriving, keeping an eye on the activity level and enjoying her big yards.  Raggs, the friend of all, departed to a flourish of farewells from the Airedales.  They do love the Old English. 

There has been a high level of activity as puppies are readied to go to their new homes.  Reports and pictures are being returned and all is well.  The remainder of the litter seems to have a great deal more space as each little one meets its new family.  Piper managed to open her incision during the short period Ken and Lee were away.  That was a challenge, with Alex and Sarah rising to the occasion and our great Veterinarian returning to his clinic to repair Piper's adventure, adding the 'cone of power' to her head.  Tim was here at the time, collecting his puppy, Bentley, and managed this adventure with a calm Western hand.  God bless that man!  Alex's explanation included the fact that 'Tim is awesome'.  We concur.  And what stories he will have of the Regalridge experience.  That is likely the largest adventure to have been had when collecting a puppy.  Let's hope it is never exceeded.  New toys materialized from Maine with the hit being the set of rings for Charlotte.  She is delighted, spending her days with the rings firmly planted in one paw as she snoozes or carried triumphantly as she moves from one spot to another.  This will be the only outdoor 'season' for Jack.  He delights in his run on these long days, moving under the steps to the cool shade and ground when it gets hot and to the shade of the apple trees if it is simply warm.  The open areas beckon as Ken gardens and Jack wears his white hat to supervise.  Trebia is enjoying the engineering marvels being designed to keep her in her yard. Alex is muttering about cement as he discusses design strategies.

Dinner was a NS staple - haddock in panko, risotto with fresh peas, fresh yellow beans and either peach-raspberry pie with homemade strawberry ice cream or Guyanese rum cake with hard sauce.  Well, perhaps not a NS staple after all but a darned good meal. 

Perfect weather

All is well in Belnan.  The weather is summer-perfect with warm, sunny days, rain at dinnertime and the odd thunder rumble that allows the thunder shirts to do their jobs.  The fruit stand is offering up the best of Hants County and Our Ken has a daily opportunity to go hunting and gathering.  Now, that is not always offering exactly the result that is anticipated but can be interesting.  On this day, he and Betsy the PT Cruiser set off for bottles (remember his flat of strawberries) and ice cream sandwiches (it was just that kind of day).  Now, Our Ken doesnt' love ice cream sandwiches so home again, home again he came - with butter (?) and his favourite ice cream bars courtesy of Hagen Daz.  And off he went again, with a flea in his ear.  There are now jam jars and ice cream sandwiches, although the latter are of a lesser quality than the aforementioned ice cream bars. . .   And then there was the pronouncement.  'I like Sobeys better than Superstore- there is always somebody to help you find what you are looking for'.  Lee will warn Sobey's that a personal shopper at the door might be a wise investment if they don't want their other shoppers (who Ken has determined might be employees) pressed into service.   Paper was the order of the day as puppies are readied for their departures.  Lee did look up from the desk at one point but only to consider the butter offering.  That was an odd one. 

The kennel is buzzing - well, Mason sort of shrieks - but the rest buzz.  Sarah and Raggs are bonded and delighted - each with the other.  Daisy and Jessie Rachel are resigned to their fate.  Dahlia is here for a first visit and is doing very well.  Generally the dogs that have started life in shelters are good boarders, having learned the ways of kennel life.  They are pleasantly surprised that country boarding offers them large exercise yards with running room so the step up is welcomed.  Dahlia is no exception.  Brunswick departed with a wave of his tail and a lope to the gate.  Pippa is holding the fort for the Welsh on the boarders' side of the kennel, joining Mason in Welsh greetings to all who pass by.  Clem is spending some time in the center room of the kennel, finding that a more comfortable venue than the den and an easier in and out.  Ken gives her opportunities to make his life more interesting.  On this day, the grooming room door was left open.  And so were the phone lines.  You see, Clem doesn't see well in her ancientness but that doesn't slow her down much.  She apparently wandered over to the phone in the kennel and opened the speaker phone line.  Lee appreciated her ability to keep the house quiet during dinner.  Then it was the search and test game, upstairs and downstairs, the kennel and the house, over and over, until finally the grooming room was considered.  Another good game for the humans.  Two points for Clem

The house crew continue their demanding ways during this lovely summer.  One decides it is too hot outside so all gather at the gate to come into the air conditioning.  Then another decides that it might have cooled off so all gather at the door to return to the yard.  Nope, it's still too hot so back the crowd comes.  There is some serious consideration being given a word with the airport to source their revolving door.   The puppies are growing by leaps and bounds.  The day stayed pleasantly warm until noon so it was a full half day on the deck, offering up lots of puppy games and lunch on the patio.  Now, outside dining was a new occasion.  The majority were not amused and recalcitrant.  The meal moved inside where it was cleaned up with gusto.  This crew have their own minds.  Marilla and Dolly sported their thunder shirts through the evening.  And the rest of the household breathed a sigh of relief. 

Dinner was roast beef with new potatoes, a tomato salad and the first of the new peas.  Ken had an ice cream bar.   Life goes on.