Sunday 2 November 2014

A near perfect park experience


We arrive at Duthie Park shortly after sun-up.

It is the unrushed weekend.

First encounter is with a Weimeraner, his harness being held firmly by an anxious owner. I steer clear and focus on leaf sniffing.

The brown-skinned runner flashes past. We see him circuiting the park every morning. Gail admires his lithe movement.

Next we meet more regulars, deaf Sheila and her blind and diabetic wee schnauzer Sadie. They are walking round with Ida, whose indeterminate-breed sheepdog Trixie sniffs Gail's treat pocket. Sheila comments on Gail being out without a jacket in November. We are invited to admire Sadie's new haircut, which is smart but I fear might give Gail 'ideas'.

A passing border terrier, a newcomer, rolls over on his back immediately I approach. His owner laughs, and says his dog needs to "man up".

We are lapped by the brown-skinned runner.

Further round, both Gail and I are attracted by the sight of a pretty, fine-boned and fluffy grey pup, about the same height as me. OK, I'll admit, I am more attracted by her smell. We learn she is a Bedlington/whippet mix. Oh she smells nice. I am accused of getting frisky and my lead is clamped on until she is a safe distance away.

As we reach the park gates, I spot my Goldendoodle pal and race over to say hello. His owner notes that the incident with Jake has not made me fearful at all. Gail tells her I was a bit more growly with other dogs for a week or two but now seem back to normal.

The runner passes us one more time. Gail resists the urge to stop him to ask how many times he circuits the park each morning and instead gazes back in appreciation as his handsome athletic form rapidly recedes.

Walking home along the street we meet paper delivery girl Arizono with her border collie. The collie sports a tasteful tartan neckerchief. Arizona wears a tiger-striped onesie. The cartoony outfit cannot hide a sad face. This girl from a troubled home was fostered by Corinne, a kind lady living four doors down from Gail. Corinne died of a brain tumour earlier this year. Gail says hello to Arizona who for once looks up and acknowledges the greeting and even smiles, briefly.

22 comments:

  1. you had the most interesting walk.....no one ever stops and chat with us :(

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  2. that was a super walk through the park. your met a Weimeraner? was it a girl? if please ask for her phone number when you see her again :o) Have a super sunday, Bertie! btw: I agree it could lead your Gail to "ideas" to see pups with new haircuts...

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  3. Just the sort of walks I enjoys!
    Have a great weekend Bertie
    Loves and licky kisses
    Princess Leah xxx

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  4. Nice stroll through the park there Bertie and mighty pleased you are back to your old self. Have a serene and easy Sunday.
    Best wishes Molly

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  5. So nice to see you out and about on such a great day!!!

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  6. A fabulous walk, Bertie; and you are looking exceedingly handsome this morning!

    -Bart, Ruby and Otto

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  7. Sounds like both you and your Mama had some nice eye candy to look at!!
    Smileys!
    Dory, Jakey, Arty & Bilbo

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  8. Hari Om
    Bertie lad, having recently walked the park with you, I felt I was with you on this walk; what a fun time you had. BedlingtonxWhippet? Very pretty I am sure but goodness me, you...frisky? She most definitely MUST have smelled special!

    You may not be the only one, by the sounds of things... and perhaps one or two more of us could have been equally appreciative of The Runner, had there been a reverse-angle shot provided...just sayin'... ;~>

    Hugs and wags, YAM-aunty xxx

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  9. It sounds like you had a great time! My dogs would love to join you.

    Sure hope you guys will join us for NaNoWoofMo! We could use some extra writers to help tell our story!

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  10. That was a perfect walk. You got to catch up with loads of friends and Gail was treated to some eye candy!

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  11. Bertie I love the picture of you standing in the leaves...they look exactly like to golden leaves we have falling in our yard. That is truly a beautiful park you and Gail have for walking..such brilliant sunshine too. You are wise to stay clear of other pups for a while....
    Hugs madi your bfff

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  12. Thanks for sharing your walk with us!!

    Your Pals,

    Murphy & Stanley

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  13. What a great walk on a beautiful sunny morning!

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  14. looks like a lovely walk
    retro rover

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  15. Sure sounds like a fun walk. The park is beautiful. Maybe that man was flirting with you
    Snorts,
    Lily & Edward

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  16. That sounds like a perfect park experience! Quiet outdoor time is the best - love reading about everyone out on walkies (and runs!).

    Love and wags,
    Tootsie

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  17. That sounds and looks like it was the perfect experience. Beautiful pictures!

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  18. Sounds like the perfect fall day, especially meeting the cute girl dogs :)
    Wyatt

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