There was a brief hiatus in the rains

Well, Our Ken continues to wear a sweatshirt and down filled vest much of his waking hours.  There was a period late morning and early afternoon when the vest was divested (haven't you always wanted to say that?).  There were periods of sun - not many but at least we are assured it is still up there.  It was a day of gardening for Our Ken.  The tractor was busy, there was dirt moved and perhaps a few seeds planted.  The squash is up and spreading - some hope for something in the fall.  The azalea is magnificent and the chestnut tree resplendent in its candles.  Interestingly, this year the many bees who work so hard when the tree is in bloom are resting in the eyebrows of the house at night rather than return to their hives.  That has never happened before that we can remember.  And there are fewer bees than is normally the case.  In past years the buzz from the tree would have been audible to Chantelle in Kennercook.  This year it is much, much quieter.  Lee continued with the battle of the paper, making some progress and in the process likely making more work. 

The kennel is just fine.  Pictures of Buzz the rescue Airedale were sent to Maureen to be posted on Aire Canada's site.  He will be a fellow that will have to be placed carefully but if anyone is up to that challenge, it is our dedicated Maureen.  She understands the breed so well and is so devoted.  We are all fortunate to have her as 'one of us'.    Old Bailey is thriving, managing Felicia and Our Ken and in charge of her space in grand dame fashion.  Only the old girls are that adamant and that capable of furthering their objectives.  They are to be admired.  Barret departed with a wave and final song to Trebia.  She will rest until his next visit.  Rumour has it that those ears have places to go this week end.  That will be interesting to watch.  Riley Welsh arrived mid-afternoon for a short visit and spa treatment.  Chantelle will manage that little activity - she thinks the world of Riley so it will be a good day for both. 

Felicia was managed by Patti through the day.  Patti is much improved, is enjoying life on her meds and has a new spring in her step.  That is a great relief to all of us.  Felicia took her to the kennel for a spa day of her own and we notice a new collar is being sported.  It is hilarious to watch Patti with Felicia.  She is certain that this wonderful young woman is her puppy, follows her everywhere and has her eye on the bathroom door just in case . . .  Felicia humours her and the two manage the property, with certainty in Patti's mind that Felicia would fall flat on her face without her sage Airedale counsel.  The rest are fine.  Piper is watching Lee closely because Marguerite would like to make Lee her exclusive person.  Marguerite's sense of humour appeals to Lee so there is a small window there.  Interestingly, she does not have her eye on Our Ken for that purpose but does consider him an ever present potential victim, living to torture him at any and every opportunity.  Her antics are a little more predictable to Lee than to Our Ken.  Marguerite likes that.  On this day, it was 'give Ken a little exercise' with a routine that included a race around the table, some sternly exasperated "Marguerite Come" lines, followed by pleading "Marguerite Come", followed  by hands being thrown in the air and marching out the door.  Lee then suggested to Marguerite that it might be time to go see the family.  She acquiesced, of course.  Perhaps a good thing Our Ken missed that. 

Meals were adequate.  Poor Chantelle was a bit behind on the blog and arrived for cranberry scones - a couple of days late.  A lemon-thyme bread was in the oven but not quite ready.  Perhaps another day.  Dinner included tenderloin, portobellos, vidalias, baked potatoes and fresh asparagus with parm.  A good evening.  And we look forward to a busy week end . . .