Chantelle's market enjoys another successful year

The days continue mild and dry.  Those wet, cold November rains appear to be MIA this year and we are all relieved.  This was the week of Chantelle's Christmas market so the Toyota left Regalridge for Windsor.  The cross country trek was as lovely as ever with cows still in pastures and properties looking well cared for.  There is little real estate activity - a sign of prosperity in this very rural area.  The market was buzzing and vendors smiling so Chantelle had another successful event well in hand.  There were Christmas gifts purchased and more cranberries.  Wonderful bread from Avon Emporium returned to Regalridge accompanied by local creamed honey.  Bob and Luella met us and lunch at the local pub was a great as ever. 

The kennel has quieted.  Ruari and Finn are thriving although Finn is hearkening back to his hero Capone.  Naomi and Moses are well and happy. 

The house dogs are well.  They held the fort early in the day and enjoyed the yards in the afternoon and evening.  The warm weather supports Airedale play nicely.  The puppies are as happy as puppies can be.  They grin from morning to night, delight in whatever comes their way and can hardly wait to get up to greet each morning.  Bedtime comes early and all that shows are their bellies, turned up to the stove in the den as they snooze the night away without a care in the world. 

Dinner was light after the large lunch.  Lee managed a sandwich while Our Ken ordered bacon and scrambled eggs with parmesan (shared with May), toast and cranberry juice. 

Warm weather and happy dogs

The weather continues to be the news of the week.  It is warm.  Even cool is acceptable at the end of November but this week it is warm and forecast to continue for another few days at least.  The impressive snow of last week is gone and the lawns are green again.  The return of the pheasants has happened with Philomena arriving under the chestnut tree on Sunday afternoon.  And Our Ken is relieved that a second pair of chickadees has arrived to join the rest of the Hants County birds eating at his feeders.  It was a day for the Toyota to go to the city for a quick run (not really) through Costco and on to the Vet clinic for Patti's meds.  /The Costco report is that there are 'thousands of wanderers' in every aisle and they are simply standing with glazed expressions, purposefully impeding Our Ken's progress.  That rumbling heard throughout the city was not thunder . . .  It appears that the unmoving masses not only impeded the forward momentum of the Alpha Male but also had an impact on his shopping skills.  If anyone is in the market for white sugar, there is 40 pounds of it at Regalridge.  Flour, however, is sadly lacking. 

The kennel had a sorting day with Barrett departing at the crack of dawn (or before) and Finn's hero and pal waving good by at suppertime.  Finn is despondent.  Ruari shrugged.  Naomi and Moses are enjoying their turns in the yards and the great weather. 

The house dogs are well and happy.  Piper is urging Lee on to faster wrapping feats, more Christmas preparation and additional food that should be dropping for her dining pleasure.  The puppies are growing and thriving.  They are lovely to look at and fun to be around.  Gabe wags his entire body - no mean feat in an Airedale puppy.  Izzy has the enthusiasm of the young and a look in her eyes that makes you laugh out loud.   Breezy is a bit older and just that much more grown up - responsive and delighting in her younger siblings.  The weather was so mild that even Billy enjoyed the day - sitting on the top step of Jack's run and surveying the back acreage, the river and fields beyond.  Our Billy is a house dog extraordinaire so to see him sunning himself is a rare thing and testament to the perfect weather. 

Dinner was grilled beef tenderloin, baked potatoes, sweet onions and mushrooms.  Our Ken was a happy boy. 

Construction project complete

It was a day for melting and spring puddles.  No need for heavy jackets and Alex was working with Our Ken in his sweater with the sleeves rolled up.  There was a bit of a structural failure as a result of snow build up and the reconstruction took the two men much of the day.  Both seemed satisfied that all was well as the afternoon started to cast shadows.  Having a tall, strong grandson who is handy with a hammer is a good thing.  There was lots of activity as Chantelle landed with Clem and an armful of grooming gear.  Sir Riley departed with a spiffy new look and Baylee had her spa day as well as her ears put up.  She is a beautiful girl - a sister to our Breezy.  June arrived for a nice splash in the puddles with Izzy, Gabe and Breezy.  There is some question as to who was wettest at the end but the verdict was unanimous that it was not the dogs.  Fueling the crowd was Lee's job, taken seriously given the numbers.  And Our Ken walked through the kitchen noting "that poor fellow had a bad night" as Dylan sang It Ain't Me Babe on the Bose. 

The kennel is buzzing.  Barrett and Trebia had a great day in the yard supervising the construction and racing and wooing to support his direction.  Capone and Choppa managed number 3 yard, had some good rolls in the snow and enjoying the great day.  Moses and Naomi had a good day.  Naomi is doing well and seems quite energetic given her advanced years.  Ruari and Finn are bright.  Ruari is taking his meds with a bit less suspicion than on arrival but it must be a different strategy daily - he's a smart one.  Sarah and Lola had a good time in the yard with the snow restricting Sarah's escape plans. 

The house dogs are happy and well.  Patti had a nice day with Sarah in residence.  Piper enjoyed the day in the kitchen as did the Norwich.  Abigail had a trim and was not amused.  The star of her 'beloved older sister'  (Chantelle) plummeted.  Clem snoozed the day away - on the biggest bed much to Patti's annoyance.  Jessie's little prince is growing and at the point that when the whelping room door is opened, his little face pops up over the edge of the whelping box.  And Jessie is already teaching him Agility tricks.   Jessie sits on the little bed in the whelping box and the little prince sits up proud and straight parallel to his mother looking straight ahead.  It is adorable. 

Meals were frequent.  There were scones with red and green rock sugar in honour of the season.  Then a tomato soup from Our Ken's garden tomatoes, with fresh parm and bacon.  There was fresh bread and lots of coffee.  And dinner was lamb so all was well in Our Ken's world. 

Good weather and a new project

The weather has returned to it's clement state and the snow is melting.  Given that the ground had not frozen, the melting may be a bit slower than might have been expected.  Forecast show double digit days early next week with the potential for 10 on the week end as well.  It has been a sunny and mild November, almost making up for the wet and cool summer.  Thank goodness for the hiatus in France where weather seems always to be perfect.  The melting snow on the roof of the kennel brought surprises.  The overhang on the East side requires immediate attention so the van meandered off to the welcoming arms of Rona.  Alex is setting aside his studies to come out and give Our Ken a hand with the repair project.  There was a continuation of the Christmas wrapping project and another foray into the storage room for the glass tree that shines in the kitchen throughout the season. 

The kennel is busy.  This has been the theme in recent years with folks visiting before Christmas and returning home for the season.   Naomi and Moses are in residence and settled.  Capine and Chopper have welcomed them.  Finn is amazed at all of the ankles that are trotting past his eye level.    Barrett arrived with a song for Trebia.  The little Cirneco does not like snow so it took Barrett's Woo Woo Woo encouragement to lure her out for the chase.  Once there, all was well and the game was on.   Little Bella departed with a wave and Lola is considering her options.  Ruari and Finn have a little estate built in their pen with blankets, beds and sundry comforts.  All is well in their world.  Baylee Airedale arrived for a spa day and ear treatment.  She is stunning.  A sister of Breezy, she is a strapping girl with a head that breeders die to produce.  What a lovely Marguerite puppy and what a great job her owners are doing with her. 

The house dogs are conflicted.  There is snow so it is wet play but warm weather and sun lures them outside.  Then there is the fire, dog beds and sun coming through the great room windows.  Choices, choices.  Patti opts to sleep as long as the correct bed is available to her.  Charlotte delights in seconding that particular bed, to torture Patti as much as because she watns it.  The little Norwich enjoy one of their little couches and Piper shadows Lee.    Marilla and Dolly are restless - it is hunting season and the gunshots are unsettling for these two in particular.  Breezy has graduated to the big Airedale pack and is tickled with her upgrade.  Still, there is the draw of teh playing puppies and her part in the young Airedale games so the occasional foray into the puppy pen seems somehow necessary to her mental well being.  Gabe and Izzy are growing and thriving.  They are the sweetest pair of Airedale puppies in a long while - totally taken with each other, never a cross word and with perpetually wagging tails. 

Dinner was on the grill - burgers and oven fried potatoes.  The accompanimant was an interesting decision.  Our Ken was offered potato chips or fries.  "Whatever is easiest' was the response.  Lee headed to the pantry for the chips only to hear "I guess that would be the fries".  Now, consider - opening a chip bag or preparing potatoes, adding the herbs, roasting and finding condiments.  Yup, Our Ken must have wrestled a mighty recalcitrant chip bag at soem point in his life to have determined that fries are easier than those challenging potato chips.  Dessert was a cupcake, divided, from Margot's birthday party for Lee.  Having missed a day or two of blog, the party has missed mention.  Our great friend Margot has a birthday celebration for Lee each year - oddly, always at about this time.  This year it was (at Lee's choosing) gourment pizza and cupcakes.  What a spread!  From carbonar to Greek and several kinds in between, champagne (Lee's drink of choice at any occasion) and a tiered plate of candle laden amazing cupcakes.  Life doesn't get a lot better than an evening with friends and the perfect food groups.

Record snow after a week of warm weather

It sure is white.  Snow started early in the day and stayed late.  Some hours it snowed heavily enough that the flakes were in sheets and accumulation  darned impressive.  The NS long spring appears to be over.  Early on the puppies were impressed but even their enthusiasm waned as the drifts took over the play spaces.  Our Ken moved among buildings on the property, having serious discussion with the new snow blower about its lot in life, with the kennel dogs about their luck in being in a lovely warm building and with his birds who appeared ready to move into the kitchen to wait out the weather.  Both woodpeckers worked hard at the suet cake, the jays settled in at the feeders and refused to budge, the doves watched balefully from their tree branches and the chickadees were buffeted constantly.  Feed aplenty was provided.  Early morning it was pointed out that milk was in short supply and it might be wise to walk over to the market - well, that didn't happen.  By the time Our Ken meandered across the road, the market alarm was set.  After a good chinwag with Billy the Butcher, Our Ken returned with meat and sans milk.  That occasioned a trip to the village at the apex of the storm, returning victorious (forgetting it was a trip that didn't have to be made had the saunter to  the market occurred on a more timely basis).  Victory is such a subjective noun.  There was wrapping in the kitchen and another household was finished.  Fudge appeared mid-afternoon and that finished up the Calgary box so to the post office it will go. 

The kennel dogs were happy to sleep the storm through.  Capone and Chopper are short coated and dislike the cold and wet.  Their trips outside were truncated.  Ruari and Finn were amazed by the snows - it would be Finn's first encounter and once he noticed that Capone didn't like it, he didn't like it either.  Little Bella also encountered her first snow and thought it great fun until it was higher than she is.  That put paid to snow worship.  The Airedales were happy to be inside. 

The Regalridge house dogs were bedded by the fire and weren't moving.  Patti and Charlotte claimed the big beds, Piper attached to Lee, the Norwich settled on one dog couch and Marilla took the real couch.  Dolly had her leather chair and all snoozed happily.  Rocky and Billy interchanged - one crated and the other looking for food or assisting Lee in the kitchen, all depending on your perspective.  The puppies played in the snow by times but began to find it alarming as their pen disappeared.  Jack found a use for the birds since there was a regular path shovelled on his deck.  Jessie followed in his footsteps. 

Meals were snow day meals.  There was homemade chicken soup at lunch.  Lee spent much of the day making a sweet dough that was a carrier for her marmalade and cranberries.  A cider glaze topped the swirled treats hearkening everyone back to Paris breakfasts.  Dinner was pan fried haddock with potato/onion/mushroom, turnip and string beans.  Our Ken approved. 

Cold days herald a changing season

Cold but pleasant with some sun heralded another November day.  The usual November rains are yet to land and with the high water tables from our wet summer, that isn't a huge issue.  This was a day of meetings for Our Ken so off to Truro he goes, taking Betsy for a spin to charge her new battery.  Lee managed to look after the kennel, the house and everything in between, perhaps a bit more quietly and with less panache than Our Ken offers but still adding some capability.  Some Christmas sorting occurs each day and groupings of gifts are lined to be wrapped and passed out at strategic moments. 

The kennel is fine.  Chopper and Capone are happy as clams - always a good thing with two boarders from one home.  Capone is the 'in charge- kind of guy and Chopper backs him up, going in and out at his will.  She does not have the North American woman's sensibilities with respect to following a step behind.  Ruari and Finn are well.  Finn is separated only to eat his meals and Ruari is glad for the company except at meal time.  Pills are being taken happily - cheese seems to be the purveyor of choice.  Their big run is suitable for the two little guys, with several blankets, a bed and their regular paraphernalia.  Again, Ruari is in charge of this pair but Finn is in charge in his mind.  He continues to gaze soulfully at Capone, certain that Heather would agree to add just one more white dog to the household but that Warren might be a stumbling block.  Ever pragmatic, he seems to think Chopper can deal for herself.  Little Bella is having a great vacation - particularly enjoying hopping in and out between her inside and outside run when the door is opened.  She takes it as a high jump, even though she is now tall enough to take it more easily.  Watching her little feet launch from a distance back and sail over the doorway is good for a smile several times a day. 

The house crew are settled.  With the colder weather, there is a sense that all should be inside in front of the fire most of the time.  There are a few raised eyebrows at the fact that dog bed covers are being washed so beds are at a premium through the day.  The evening situation was grim according to Patti.  Two beds were not in play and Charlotte had claimed the big bed early on.  That left the couch (a favourite of the Norwich and of Lori) for Patti.  She upended the Norwich and claimed the little couch but glared at Charlotte the rest of the evening - to no avail since Charlotte lives on her own planet and is oblivious to the wants and needs of the rest of the crew.  There has been no mention of the snow forecast for tomorrow.  That will be received with various and sundry thoughts ranging from delight (puppies) to disgust (Patti and Charlotte).

Dinner was late - Our Ken arrived home after 8.  Lasagne from Vito's in Moncton was on offer with garlic bread and salad.  That worked.  And it is on to another day

Cold weather has arrived

Bright cold days are better than rain and cold so we'll claim this one.  And Our Ken continued his winterization of the property.  With a forecast for a cold night, the hoses were turned off, the window project assessed - and re-assessed (but not moved forward it seems) and outdoor clean up in full swing.  There was a sorting and cleaning of the great room with treasures unearthed that thrilled the Airedales. Lee managed to make a successful foray through the growing paper pile and also to add some forward momentum to the Christmas list.  Wrapping is happening and some thought being given to trimming.  American thanksgiving is this week, after all.  By early afternoon the kitchen was filled.  Alex and Sarah were here as was June.  June has taken on the task of lead training the youngest members of the Regalridge Airedale crew and is making great progress.  The puppies are enjoying the attention and are teaching June many Airedale puppy tricks, in case she was not remembering properly.  Coffee and cranberry bread fueled conversation.  Piper joined in and approved while May circled the table ensuring everyone was properly corralled.  Dinner was followed by the Pittsburgh hockey game - ensuring Mr Crosby acquitted himself in proper Nova Scotian style - he did. 

The kennel is settled into a routine.  Capone and Chopper are managing the West Side with Capone truly in charge.  Finn has determined that trading Ruari in for Capone is a true option and is considering how this might happen without Warren being the wiser.  They are both terriers after all and to Finn one terrier is much like another - APBT/Westie - not much difference in Finn's eye but what a hero he could have and how improved could be his swagger with Capone at his side!  Ruari simply shakes his Westie head and rolls his eyes.  Our Ken has managed to keep Sarah within the confines of the new paddock - much to her disgust and to Our Ken's delight.  Jimmy can pat himself on the back - at least so far.  Trebia doesn't care as long as she has company.  Little Bella is holding forth from her number one position on the East Side and Lola continues to stand amazed at the number of rules and the energy Bella devotes to explaining them. 

The house dogs are fine but a bit ticked that the dog bed covers have been washed.  In Patti's opinion, that is neither necessary nor an improvement.  Now they have to be beat once again into submission, rolled on to get a proper smell and otherwise pummelled and poked prior to being able to rest comfortably.  |People do get in the way of a dog's life, it seems.  Abigail, as always,  enjoyed her time with grandson  Alex and Piper turned to mush as she visited with Sarah.  Jessie continues to enjoy her puppy and the Airedale puppies are thriving under June's ministrations.  Breezy's ears are settling in nicely and she is turning into a lovely adolescent Airedale.  Gabe and Izzy/Dory are simply having a wonderful life. 

Dinner was chicken pot pie - last week's attempt at this local favourite was thwarted by Marilla.  Who knew it was also an Airedale favourite!  And life goes on

It bordered on hot in NS today - smiles all around

It has been a warm and sunny November day - so uncommon for NS in late fall and shortening the short days of our usual rains.  The sorting and straightening of the property, the organizing of winter infrastructure and the management of the dogs is made easier when outer garments are at a minimum, gloves unnecessary and there is nary a boot in sight.  Our Ken is as content as Our Ken gets with weather and his trail can be tracked by the tools remaining strategically in place throughout the acreage.   Have you seen my . . . is heard from throughout the property.  Lee managed a bit more paper and looked after Regalridge as Ken found his way to the city with Chantelle for an ATA meeting. 

The kennel is busy for September with the regular complement of visitors.  Capone and Chopper are having a great time in the big yards and Capone is firmly in charge of the West Side.  Ruari and Finn, at the opposite end in the suite, are in awe of the big guys they are sharing the space with and Finn is pretty sure that Capone would make a great addition to their home - he a bit less sure that Chopper needs to accompany him but will reserve final judgement for a few more days.  Capone fits the theme of  'white dog' so would be an interesting addition and one Warren would find a new challenge.  Ruari demurs.  Little Bella remains ensconced on the East facing side, is small but mighty and the foil for Lola who feels somehow that little thing should not have the power she seems to possess.  Sarah hasn't managed an escape in days and is frustrated by Our Ken's sharp eye and consistent management - knowing Our Ken, this too shall pass. 

The house dogs are well.  With only Lee in residence much of the day, it was a settling of the Airedales that occurred.  The puppies had a good play while the adults found beds and refused to stay outside.  The television was on, the beds were soft and all were interested in the musings of the new Premier of Alberta as told to Peter Mansbridge.  She has no idea that an Airedale audience held in thrall is a huge accomplishment.  Breezy had her ears taken down for a week or so and all is well to this point.  She is a delightful puppy, bright and happy with a devotion to the adults that is touching.  The younger Airedales are just outstanding - incredible conformation, full of a joy for life and tickled with all the world has on offer.  Jessie's one little puppy is growing and has had his one month birthday.  Time flies.  Jessie notes that he is getting bigger - we are uncertain whether she recognizes that being broader than he is long may not be a goal that all concur is a good thing.  She is not ready, yet, to have him separated from her so another week in the whelping room seems to be best for all. 

Dinner was a winter meal of spaghetti (highly praised by Our Ken), garlic bread and a light fruit dessert.  And it is on to the week ahead. 

Warm sunny days in November are a true blessing

Life continues at Regalridge with a week of sunny days, warm weather and happy dogs.  Without a line on Our Ken, it is impossible to predict his whereabouts, his timing or his movements on the property.  The mantra is 'so much to get done' and it seems to be recounted each time that flash of orange vest makes its way through the hall.  Rumour has it that Phil was here to pick up some unused shingles (do you suppose the roofing project is truly done?!) and that the garage sorting is underway.  The Toyota made its way in country fashion for its inspection.  That entails Our Ken driving 'up the road' to Leblanc's, Mr Leblanc driving him home and then bringing the car back with Our Ken returning him to his house.  It is an interesting process but one that occurs not infrequently.  You have to love country living.  Lee has moved on to Christmas mode.  Wrapping is underway with Calgary now complete to join the Woodstock check list.  Shopping is almost complete.  Today the Christmas Tree dishes were unpacked and brought into play with the filing of the  Noritake flowers until spring.  And, no. the Spode doesn't stay out until spring (although that might tickle Lee) there is a winter plaid that brightens the table until the snowdrops appear under the oak tree.  Finally there was the wrestle with the new heated bedding purchased by Our Ken, of course.  A long, long time later, no success has been had by Lee so the engineer among us will have to come to the rescue. 

The kennel is reasonably busy.  Chopper and Capone are in residence and well mannered.  Capone shares his thoughts on most comings and goings, keeping everyone up to date on the happenings on the West Side (of the building).  Ruari and Finn are in awe of the big dogs down the hall, Finn echoing Capone's vocal stylings just to see if he can sound anywhere near as impressive.  Ruari shakes his head.  Bella is managing the East Side, urging Lola to keep up as she heralds the day, the noon hour, the afternoon, the dinner hour, the evening bell and all in between.  Sarah is confined to barracks and allowed out in the big yards only under Our Ken's direct supervision.  That has taken away her construction ability and she is plotting revenge on Our Ken.  It will be an interesting week.  Trebia awaits Sarah's plot as sidekick-in-residence. 

The house crew are themselves.  Patti is thriving and Little May is enjoying her grilled burgers interspersed with asiago topped senior food (occasionally palatable but other times only fit to have the topping licked off).  Billy and Rocky have come to a reasonable understanding and one or the other can be loose in the den to enjoy the pleasures of the kitchen.  Both love to help Lee, particularly sensitive to the dropping of any and all food that needs immediately and with dispatch to be cleaned.  Of course, the Norwich have to be trod on to accomplish that work but the Airedale boys simply ignore that little set of obstacles in their zeal to be helpful. 

Dinner heralded the Christmas season with a splash.  There was grilled rib steak, mushrooms and caramelized onion, turnip and string beans, baked potatoes and brownies with ice cream and caramel sauce.  And tomorrow is coming. 

Great Novemer weather shortens the on coming winter

Life moves along at Regalridge.  Our Ken keeps busy with the dogs and Lee battles paper while rustling Airedales in the kitchen.  Christmas is surrounding the kennel with everything from Sirius radio to every television commercial extolling the virtues of the season.  Our Ken has his nose in the Lee Valley catalogue and while there may be something in it that he is not desperately in need of, it doesn't seem that way as he circles, circles, circles.  And according to the television,  life cannot not be considered a success without a new Kia - who knew? - well, maybe Tony  but he was keeping it a secret.  And speaking of Tony - there is a less well kept secret and a rumour that Miss Avalon is now Princess Champion Avalon-In-Charge-Of-Everything.  Wonderful news.  Our Ken continues to cultivate - this time his winter birds.  There are Blue Jays in double digits, Mourning Doves that are tilting toward the hundreds and two Chickadees.  The Woodpeckers have returned in two sizes and Linda's gift to Ken of a bird bath is proudly displayed under the naked chestnut tree.  The squirrels are in residence, of course, and the battles between the little rodents and the Jays are a sight to behold.  The sides are well matched so it is never a given as to outcome.  Occasionally the Crows reinforce the Jays, leaving the battles somewhat lop sided but even more amusing.  A bag of corn from the market across the road has proven wildly popular - there is no doubt a winter load of corn to be delivered soon.  And post-Paris, the report on the scythe is that Our Ken knows not how he has survived this long without this handy curved weapon.  The gardens have, apparently, benefited greatly. 

Little Bella is managing her side of the kennel with little-Bella aplomb.  Nobody is stepping out of line.  Sarah is sulking and Lola is considering her options.  Trebia would like to know what we have done with her boyfriend.  Capone and Chopper arrived with their special diets and biog smiles.  They are in splendid isolation on the west side of the building and are enjoying their palatial digs.  Ruari and Finn arrived - accompanied by their older brother who declined the opportunity to stay with them for the three weeks.  Perhaps if Warren had sent along his food?  Both are settled, Ruari with his yogourt augmented by Ken's cheese to mask his meds.  Good thing his Terrierness is easily convinced. 

The house dogs are well.  Little May carries on, fueled by Our Ken's grilled burgers - this week lean ground beef from the market.  there is an occasional foray into a dish of dog food if adequately jazzed up with grated Asiago.  Abigail watches these machinations with a jaundiced eye.  The two Laurel puppies are adorable.  Gabe (named by Our Andie) is one of the most impressive male puppies we have had and is a true personality.  There is a ready glint in his eye, a wagging tail and a slapping paw, urging us on to better games.  Izzy (Andie again), his sainted sister, is the smartest of the three puppies and an absolute delight.  Her tail is never down, even with its impressive length.  They are the best of friends and let others into their pack with the acknowledgement that it is a privilege.  Breezy is the elder statesman of the puppy crowd, teaches the younger ones all she learns and continues her education in the company of Marguerite - likely an error on our part!  She is the voice of enthusiasm and immediacy.  When a Breezy moment occurs, all are aware - she lets her thoughts be known and expects remediation - then.  She is the morning alarm, the dinner bell and the harbinger of bedtime.  And somehow she has managed to occupy two crates - one is her 'eating crate', requiring its occupant to run in and out of its door until food appears.  Her enthusiasm is second only to her vocal entreaties.  There is a leap into the crate, a swing and turn, a moment of an enquiring look and head sticking out of the open door then a bound out, all to be repeated until food appears.  Would that we all had that combination of energy, determination and assurance that our wishes would always be acceded to. 

Dinner was a regional affair.  There was fresh salmon in steak form, pan fried to perfection and very tasty.  Local potatoes were riced and accompanied local turnip and Our Ken's squash.  Brownies were available in abundance and fresh local pears are fabulous here in the fall.  A nice Riesling helped everything.  And life goes on

Improved weather heralds mid-November days

All is well at Regalridge.  With Tom in residence and Chantelle with her hands full in the kennel, Tom was convinced that viewing Airedales in the rings in NB was to be a good day's entertainment.  Given that he had just climbed out of his vehicle after a 12 + hour drive, he was a good sport and cheerfully drove the several hours back to Moncton.  It was a pleasure to watch the Airedales in Moncton.  All acquitted themselves well, all looked great and all owners looked darned proud of Logan, Bella and Avalon.  Logan went on to a group placing, adding to his point standing as Canada's number one Airedale and one of the country's top Terriers.  Not to be outdone, word was received that professional handler Darrell Cole piloted Ch Regalridge Henry the Navigator to a Group first in his native province. Of course, the distraction of handling a strong that included a Pekingese with the attendant grooming  would have distracted even this most seasoned of handlers so it is understandable that greater wins were not to be for the Prince. Email was received from the far West with a great image of Mr Simon guarding the West Coast beaches with Airedale style and grace.  And from the East Coast, an acrylic painting of Piper in PEI hanging in the Confederation Gallery as part of a new exhibit.   Post-show the Regalridge crew moved on to Jean's for an early dinner with Tom and then it was on to Belnan. The remainder of the evening was spent going over puppies on the table, setting ears and enjoying the dogs.  Chantelle (bless her) had left a happy family of fed and exercised dogs so all was quickly put to bed. 

The kennel is reasonably busy.  Miss Ginger was packed and ready to leave with Tom at his earliest convenience although she was somewaht concerned that it could mean missing a meal and while she does care deeply for him, there are practical considerations to be taken into account.  Sir Tip has his side of the kennel firmly in his grasp, is sitting atop his palace and enjoying the view.  His little foot is tapping, though, with an eye on the calendar and an expectation that his family will surface before Ginger departs  since an Airedale should never be able to one up a JRT.  Charlie Airedale shakes his head as he surveys all of the angst around him.  His sole preoccupation is having a good time and there is nothing better than to have a few other Airedales in a yard to chase and with whom he can play Airedale games.  Sarah likes Charlie and will be sad to see him leave.  Little Bella is working herself up to rule her domain.  Ginger thought she might be an interesting acquaintance and roared down for a little visit outside Bella's outside run.  Bella said hello - with a leap and snap - as Ginger's beard and wagging tail got a little too close.  Apparently there are perimeter rules in the little one's rulebook.  The Schenk crowd is settled nicely.  A bit quieter than usual, all seem to be somewhat more reflective than is usual. 

The house dogs are well and happy.  Piper was not thrilled to realize that Lee was leaving for the day but was delighted to see her return.   Many of the rest missed the fact that anyone was gone - they had Chantelle to torture after all.  Dover is settled nicely with the other two Norwich and sorting out her environs quite nicely.  Considering her advanced age, she is doing remarkably well.  After the rains of the previous day, the bright sun made up for the cold winds of November so there were few complaints from the house dogs as they found sheltered areas in which to play the Airedale games. 

Dinner in Moncton was varied and good  with the seafood chowder proclaimed the top pick by both tom and Our Ken.  Jimmy kept Ken company with dessert and all was well in Our Ken's world. 

November brings warm weather

It has been a busy week.  Lee found her way to Moncton for meetings on the week end, spoke on various topics on several occasions for the CKC and found her way back to Regalridge by Sunday night (late).  Our Ken held the fort ably assisted by Chantelle who was in residence through the days with her revolving gate of grooming friends.  It is the time of year to put the gardens to bed, to sort out the yards in preparation for winter and to batten the proverbial hatches.  The dogs are, of course, ably assisting the outdoor projects, white hats poised and polished.  And it was on to Monday, the day of Our Ken's move to yet another decade of a great life.  Lee had organized a little get together and as icing on the cake, Reg flew home form Calgary.  There were 25 for dinner with a brother, sister-in-law, children, grand children and friends in great supply.  Ken was delighted with the party, with the phone calls received through the evening from those who were unable to be here in person and with the celebration of this rite of passage.  Then it was on to Toronto for Lee with a return home late Thursday night.  Flights to and from Halifax are full with no available seats on planes.  The economy seems to be strong based on the activity level of the airports.  June made a trip out to work with the puppies.  Great progress has been made due to her ministrations and little Airedale feet are now comfortably walking forward on show leads, enjoying her support and attention.   Weather has been fabulous - sunny and warm so few complaints are heard as everyone takes advantage of these days before the onset of the usual cold, wet November days common to the East Coast. 

The kennel has been moving forward easily.  Miss ginger is packing her bags, having heard that Tom has finally found a map that will bring him  to NS.  The humming of America the Beautiful is heard throughout the kennel.  The Terriers of Schenkville are in residence for a few days - Dover happily bonding with Abigail and May and the others settled nicely in the kennel.  Lucy is in residence and sharing her thoughts.  Little Bella has settled in and is in charge in her own mind.  Sir Tip and his palace have migrated to Regalridge and Ken has dubbed him Toothy  - a little fellow full of his own self and with significant opinions about just about any topic.  He, too, must watch a great deal of BBC or CNN at home and feels free to share that knowledge with all who will listen in hi unassuming and targeted way. 

The house crew are well ands happy.  Piper was tickled to see Lee's suitcase enter the house and very unhappy to see it leave, mirroring Our Ken's feelings exactly.  May is doing much better, has her food preferences firmly fixed and seems to have rebounded significantly.  Every day is a blessing.  The puppies are thriving.  Their eyes are gleaming, their tails always in motion and the world is their oyster. 

Beyond the birthday party, meals have been concocted by Our Ken - enough said. 

Fall is a lovely season in Nova Scotia

The wonderful weather continues and outdoor chores remain a pleasure.  Bulbs are being put into peat moss, gardens tidied and painting continues.  Jonathan is hard at work putting the finishing touches on the miles of picket fence in and around the Regalridge compound.  Our Ken has to be lassoed and hauled in for any reason that requires his presence.  Heralding his interest in a meal, he is then gone once again, not to reappear for hours, again noting that he is hungry and seeming surprised at the fact.  Dawn was here for a visit with Logan and an assignation with Sarah.  Sarah was herself but that didn't deter Mr Logan who had started to woo hoo in his crate as they passed the Superstore.  By the time the Regalridge gates were reached, there was all out cacophony in the Tuftmobile.  Christmas wrapping was begun since there will be many and various absences over the next couple of months.  Woodstock is complete and Lee has her eye on Alberta.  Much shopping has occurred over the year so adding paper, tags and bows remains.  The builder was here (of course) to replace a window pane that didn't survive the initial install and to install a recalcitrant door.  The turkey will soon be ordered. 

The kennel is ticking along.  Bailey departed with a wag and promise to return soon.  Charlie Airedale is in residence and enjoying the company of Lola and Sarah.  He does love a harem.  Reinforcements are planned for the week end.

The house crew is happy.  Everyone is home, the routine is fixed and the weather clement.  Piper is happily looking out the window at the warm and sunny days - she prefers that to looking out the window at rain but, of course, spends virtually no time outside regardless of what she sees.  May and Abigail are enjoying their beds and spreading their joy of life around by taking the bed immediately before an Airedale touches down in the same spot.  As always, the tolerant Airedale moves on.  The only thing that would improve their circumstances would be for their beloved older sister to be in residence so they could assist her in carrying her parade upstairs.  Jessie is doing just fine with her precious puppy.  He rolls and occasionally shares his thoughts.  Jessie has him on a sheepskin mat and pulls it around the whelping box - an improvement over picking him up in her mouth to move him where she feels he should be at any given time.  Mid-evening Lee happened upon the CBC documentary 1 Day.  What a fabulous piece of journalism.  Holding the Regalridge imagination and attention for the remainder of the evening, it is a highly recommended piece.  In the course of the program, there was a short rendition from Newfoundland perhaps of Oh Canada on oboe and clarinet.  Very well played, it was particularly enjoyed by the baby Airedales.  The sounds that came out of them as they emulated the oboe were beyond anything heard from an Airedale in the Regalridge decades of breeding.  The older dogs didn't bat an eye.  The people in residence were highly amused and entertained. 

Dinner was grilled beef tenderloin, potatoes, asparagus, mushrooms and sweet onion.  There were poached blueberries over ice cream and meringue with a caramel sauce.  A caramel apple liquor helped wash everything down nicely.  And we move on . . .

The year's best weather

The weather is, in a word, perfect.  Warm, sunny and a great extension of a fall that somewhat made up for the wet summer.  Jonathan is painting up a storm with Our Ken keeping a close eye on all activity.  The Airedale girls are considering racing stripes, craning their necks to see what the men are up to.  Our Ken is putting his gardens to bed, sorting stems from bulbs, banking beds and putting the property in order.  The odd squash continues to be discovered and there were even tomatoes proudly displayed yet again.  Lobbying for fried green tomatoes is at an all time high and may just have to be acquiesced to soon.  There was a Newfoundland phone call placed to catch up on all things Eastern and continued tries to Massachusetts - still no power in Monson and wondering Canadians who cannot imagine that the efficient Americans can't fix a little power outage over a five day period.  Susan's usual effective ability to express her opinion must be waning.  And the weekly spin through the property took place this morning with Trebia proudly treeing the resident squirrel.  Her next move was to climb the tree - a dismal failure but full of enthusiasm and 'yes I can-ness'.  Mr squirrel encouraged her attempts with a trilling vocal medley, percussion provided by his snapping tail.  Our Ken came to collect her, spoiling the family fun. 

The kennel is just fine.  Old Bailey has whipped Jonathan into shape, ensuring that he understands her routine, her requirements and her proclivities.  Charlie is in residence from Moncton and happy to be reunited with Lola.  Sarah has joined that combination and all are happily playing Airedale games in the big yards. 

The house crew is thriving.  And it was a day of Lee putting the dogs out and the men letting them in - often within seconds.  The Airedales think that is a delightful game, offering the opportunity to mill at the door, bark their orders and inclinations and then be rewarded by doing it all again - and again, and again.  Had there been an auction site for spare males, both Ken and Jonathan would have been on it by mid-morning. 

Dinner was geared to May.  Our Ken grilled burgers.  There were oven potatoes and lots of 'fixins'.  That seems to work once every couple of weeks.  And it will be back to cooking for Lee . . .

Indian summer has arrived

Regalridge is back to normal.  Lee and Ken are returned home from the sunny south, Chantelle is repatriated to Kennetcook and all is well. |Today's forecast is 12 degrees (mid-fifties for our American audience) and sunny.  Indian summer is in full swing.   There were many adventures in Virginia.  Wicked was finishing a run at the Richmond theatre so Ken, Lee and Linda managed to find orchestra seats for the last performance.  It was a fabulous production with that beautiful old building a perfect backdrop for its special effects.  In direct contrast to the smooth touring company, an evening was spent at the Gospel Chicken House.  From the Chicken House band (replete with brass section and percussion that included a washboard and a metal tub with what appeared to be a broom handle and perhaps confederate flag) to the Carter family it was a more than memorable southern experience.  Special mention must be made of the NS connection.  Linda is a great friend of the chicken House co-ordinator and driving force.  She was aware that there were NS visitors and on that evening the Nova Scotians happened to be the folks from the longest distance so were honoured with a round of applause that Lee may one day recover from.  Prior to that, however, one of the brothers in the band loped over to shake our hands and extol the virtues of the fair province.  He had returned that day from Halifax and a cruise.  There were perhaps 200 people in attendance - what were the chances of that.  On the return to the north, at the end of October, the dahlias were still blooming, tomatoes were still alive on the vines and no heavy frost had yet occurred, a highly unusual occurrence for NS in late October.  With the advent of November, the frost did arrive and the flowers have now gone for another season but a few that were cut are still bright in the kitchen vases.  And on a more startling note, there has been a dreadful storm in New England that has devastated Hartford and area.  Our friends have had no power for four days and counting.  This would be challenging enough but it is compounded by the fact that this is the same area so heavily ravaged by the summer's tornado.  Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone for the best possible outcome. 

The kennel is quiet and settled.  Ginger is in residence from Hartford, here for an assignation with Logan.  With the travel situation, it was determined that a little repacking would facilitate Ginger's voyage so there were lots of trips to the city and progesterone testing supported her breeding last evening.  Wonderful news on reproduction.  Our Vet has now developed a relationship that allows for testing to be carried out 6 days a week and, if blood is ready before 10 am, same day results.  Life has moved forward in a quantum leap.  Sarah is watching this process with some interest.  Perhaps she will agree to being a bit more amenable in 2012.  Old Bailey is here for a few days, settled in and providing direction.  Trebia waved farewell to Barrett earlier in the week and is settling herself for a period of Barrett-lessness. 

The house crew are sorry that Chantelle is gone- after all, it is always a party with Chantelle in residence.  But like children being moved from a diet of candy to balanced meals, they have responded to the return of the adults.  Piper and Lori are back in the house.  Dolly has been to see Dr Carnegy, has been spayed and is feeling fabulous two days later.  She did return ( 8 hours later) from the clinic as a new dog and had to be validated by every dog in the house before acceptance of her august presence could be provided.  Margot and Margaret were in charge of little May for the trip duration.  May thrived under the city-folk care, learned that she loves veal patties and other delicacies and came home with a little extra weight.  Since that time, her appetite has improved and the little Norwich that perhaps was leaving us is returned.  She now runs, is eating much better and is much brighter.  Whatever time we have left with her is to be time with a good quality of life for another while and everyone is relieved.  Margot has worked miracles.  Jessie has had her litter of one puppy - a boy.  He is a well cared for little fellow and appears to believe that square is a lovely look for a Welsh.  Jessie is very proud.  There are two Airedale puppies still in residence from Laurel's litter - beautiful puppies, now well trimmed by Our Ken and impressive.  Perhaps most impressive of all, they are housebroken.

Dinner was a celebration of Logan's most recent Best In Show in PEI.  There was champagne to support Dawn's arrival and a decent meal of grilled chicken, riced potatoes, squash from the garden, asparagus and a dessert of pears poached in a vanilla syrup over vanilla ice cream and meringue with a caramel sauce.  There is none left.  And we look froward to the day