What a wonderful weekend we had, and yes, I was in heaven amongst well over a hundred basenjis! Although the weather was not cooperating as nicely as it should have, the warm and caring hosts of the Evergreen Basenji Club were making it a really pleasant time for everyone. The big treat for me was getting a chance to meet the African basenjis and to talk to those who made the trek over to Africa to bring them back. Sharron's super delightful Ms. Wheat was a star! Her colouring is quite magnificent and she has a very splendid demeanor about her. She definitely likes the attention! I also spoke to both James and Brian about their little stars as well. James wants to make another trip next year. If my bones could take what theirs went through just getting to some of these places I would consider it myself. Brian had a lovely book put together of the trip - it was great to see the dogs they encountered and hear why they chose the ones they did.
Saturday was lots of judging, and there were certainly some very pretty and handsome dogs there. It was also lovely to see young handlers with their dogs - nice to know there are up and coming handlers and breeders.
After judging on Saturday, there was a superb bar-b-que hosted by the club. I would say most all of the basenji people were there - it was a great turnout, and despite some nasty weather, everyone stayed warm under the cover of the barn, ate well, enjoyed the company and had fun bidding on auction items near the end of the evening. I had my eyes on a gorgeous framed photograph of an African boy and his basenji, but alas, I had run out of american money and someone outbid me. sigh
I must thank all the hosts and particularly Sharron Hurlbut who so kindly prepped a couple of bbq meals for my hubby and I as we met a minor health emergency and arrived at the bbq a little late. Sharron is the most warm and caring person you could ever meet. All the rescues who ever come under her care are the luckiest dogs ever. She is all about the breed and what is best for them.
So my final words - I will be back next year. It was a wonderful show! I need to unpack and get my camera out and download the pictures I took - I'll post them here.
