I have always loved fairy tales, myths, and legends. Except, I was the weird kid who thought it was a tragic ending when the stag or swan or beast turned back into a handsome prince. My love affair with Airedale Terriers is more recent. The first one who took over my life, Henry, arrived in 1990. Since then I've enjoyed both the prince and the beast in my Airedales:-). So when the Bee selected Fairey Tales as the subject for this years quilt I was excited to draw patterns for several blocks, especially Beauty and the Beast, which is my very favorite fairy tale (barring that tragic ending). 

I have been fascinated with dogs all my life - and lived with and loved several different breeds and mutts, but when Henry came into my life I had found my forever breed. I am delighted to participate in the Quilting Bee to help needy Airedales find their forever homes. 

Currently I am owned by Eli (Ch. Brisline's Slam Dunk NJP), who just turned nine. Eli is a champion and has an agility title. This year I went back to brush up on his obedience and plan to go for his CD this Fall. We also started tracking recently. There are so many different things you can do with your Airedale and everything you do together strengthens your bond and keeping them active physically and mentally keeps them young. Eli is one of the happiest, cutest dogs you could ever meet. He is so friendly and outgoing I've literally had people stand in line to pet him at dog shows. Eli was a beast as a puppy - he got into EVERYTHING! Now he's my princely gentleman. 

Eli and I are both owned by four-year-old Lola (Stirling Laughing Out Loud), who is sort of prissy - not a prince, but a princess - appropriate for fairy tales too. Lola earned her registered name because she is so funny. She has the best 'who me' look in the business. Sometimes she reclines like a cat with both her front feet tucked under. Recently Lola decided that in order to get from the landing at the front door to the main floor of the house, she must first go down into the basement, then turn around ago back up both flights of stairs at once. When she wants a treat she looks me in the eyes and opens and closes her mouth. She makes me laugh every day.

Lola and I are training in obedience, agility, and tracking which she does with great style. She keeps me on my toes all right. As the saying goes, 'whatever Lola wants, Lola gets'. Maybe I should have named her something else:-). 

Eli and Lola are very different, but they are both all Airedale and a delight to have in my life. I wish everyone such wonderful companions.