“I like your style…you don’t take yourself too seriously.” It was a great compliment about my blog, especially as it came from Mr. W, who is not only our Ange Guardian in this village (who, along with his companion, the lovely Ms. L are responsible for our renting this house) but he is also one of the original Mad Men who rocked out the advertising world of Manhattan in real-time.
His words gave me the inner yep to go ahead with this post, one that several of you have been asking for…and you know who you are. While there will be a second part to my previous post, this qualifies as well for it is just about…the puppers. Parfois, je ne veux pas prendre la tête…simple photos et mots…et c’est très bien comme ça…
So, as to that title? Eh non…et beh oui. Ben and Kipling are so very different in many, many ways. Don’t be fooled by Kipling’s sweet demeanour, he can be one tough customer. We have had a surprisingly difficult time with him since we have moved here. This previously abandoned dog has a new territory to conquer and claim it he has. He continues to challenge all that cross his path. We have had to be more vigilant than I have ever experienced with a dog. But…after a few hard incidents, I think, I hope that he is beginning to trust the here of Home.
Ben, however, is everyone’s friend. He is unbelievably smart, wise even – with lessons that we can all learn from – and gets along with anyone and their complicated dogs…
…such as Kipling.
Who could resist that face? He is great company and a good friend.
But here is the interesting thing. Each one has slowly – and I do mean slowly – had his effect on the other. Kipling has made Ben a little more daring, a dash more masculine “dog” while Ben has certainly calmed Kipling and show him the importance of using manners and charm to get what you want..
And while they still don’t play together as I had initially hoped, they are definitely now a team (shown above at the airport where they were my Official Welcoming Committee). They lay closer together and somehow communicate without a sign passing between them – whether it is the moment to convince me to feed them or take them out. It is amazing to watch. So while they remain uniquely different, in their connection and affection they express for us, they are two of a kind.
Have a wonderful weekend. Today is Remi’s birthday…
…and we are all enjoying it quietly. C’est ça la grande luxe…
Happy Birthday Honey, I love you and our doggies do too.
Happy birthday to Remi!!! This calls for some cake!! And those are the two most beautiful doggies I've ever seen in my entire life 🙂
Michel, we were very very lucky! Somehow the storms passed up and over us. Were you hit in Sablet??
As for the dogs, I think that Ben wanted to play in the beginning but quickly understood that Kip doesn't really know what play is… 🙁
Oh trust me, he works hard to keep his balance too Silke! Isn't your birthday soon? Did I miss it? I am terrible about remembering birthdays…
And yes, I think it is perfectly said – why the furry two get along as well as they do. For sure, bringing an adult male into the family was a challenge. I had my heart set on getting a girl puppy originally but as you know, there was no way that we could leave Kip at the refuge.
Bisous…
Like your post. Surprised that they don't play together. Does one or the other try to play with the other but one is just not interested? Our experience with two dogs over lots of years is one usually wants to play but not the other. I hope you are staying dry. Have a great day.
I remember one of your posts some time ago when your sister commented, that the issue of your blog was life itself. (the post was about a book you recommended…)
Life is sometimes simple sometimes sophisticated or even complicated. And simple is always welcome! And hey your dogs are truly sophisticated. (: I was anyway quite surprised how two adult males get along so well with each other. Maybe due to Bens wisdom and Kiplings need for reassurance they complement one another. And in the end of course because of your care.
Et bonne anniversaire à Remi après coup! Une autre Balance.
He seems to be the kind of Libra who is always well balanced, whereas I feel more like one who is trying to keep the balance (;
We were missing the tales of your 'tails'! Lovely photos and to Remi, wishes for a lovely day and year ahead!
Lovely to spend quality time with the puppers. And special birthday wishes to Remi.
Ohhhh – sweet puppers!!! Of course, I have met Ben – a sweet boy with the most soulful eyes! And I'm hoping that the country has the same soothing effect on Kipling as it has had on Lucy! I know they bring you so much happiness (mine, too) – where would we be without the unconditional love of our puppers??? Thanks for this post – they're like my little nephews that I don't get to see often enough! And that pic of Ben with the green dragon in his mouth? Best. Pic. Ever.
Also – Happy Birthday, Remi!!! I hope it was a wonderful day with some rest and relaxation with Heather, the puppers, and good food!
Sweet Pups!!! I have been thinking of you with all the rain…I hope you have avoided the worst of the flooding!
Happy Birthday Remi!
May your year be full of fantastic discoveries