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.