Marion L Stapleton Harley Livres

It all begins with a box of duck eggs... and so too does this collection of tales of everyday rural life: in a restored sixteenth century country cottage, the joys of duck rearing and ownership, the mischievous antics of the resident Jack Russells, and a cockerel literally ruling the roost. This engaging and gentle memoir takes readers on a humorous journey through the rural idyll.Purchased in 1991 in the Herefordshire countryside, the cottage, previously unoccupied for four years, presents its own challenges to Marion and her husband as they work to create their perfect rural retreat. As if that wasn't enough, Marion steadily builds a menagerie around her: Cadfael and Cider are loyal canine companions, Russet the rooster a force to be reckoned with, and Moby Duck leads his entourage of feathered friends through endearing anecdotes.Puddles and Pals won't fail to make you smile.

The little case is beside me on the bed, as are my two Jack Russells, who cuddle close, sensing my apprehension. I lift the lid to start my search into secrets of the past.A letter written and dated July 1917, France. WW1 comes alive. An emotional journey has begun...come with me.The renovations of the 16C rural cottage continue. Amidst old oak beams and aged flagstones, the dogs relish climbing scaffolding and leaving dusty paw prints throughout. My little 'Puddles and Pals' flock of ducks is thriving. Their quacks of joy resound as they travel to the orchard daily by trolley.