Ruby (2008-2024)

RIP “Ruby” – the Malamute Wolf-Dog! (2007-2024)

Despite her size and strength – Ruby was gentle with children and other pets – despite being more than able to defend herself if the need ever arose. We shared many long and meandering walks through the hills and dales of the Devonshire countryside over the years. Once, whilst in a local forest Ruby jumped into the river and disappeared deep into the murky depths. she eventually re-emerged and scrambled unscathed up the bank – all for a Jaffa Cake! Another time she jumped through an (open) upstairs window and walked around on the roof for about an hour – be fore Gee finally managed to entice her up the roof tiles and back in! People travelling on a local double-decker bus were watching the spectacle as the bus drove past!

Buckfast Abbey - Rule of St Benedict!

Buckfast Abbey: The Magnificent Waterwheel! (4.4.2024)

The time of the day and season of the year was defined by the cycles associated with monastic life – with monastic life guided by the various Rules which guided the daily activities of the monks and nuns. Lay-people – or “Oblates” – also followed these rules – which permitted Roman Catholic spirituality to permeate English society. After its abolition – the Church of England was formed – which would eventually represent the capitalistic ideas of the new post-Catholic elites. As a consequence, it was only during the early 20th century that Buckfast Abbey was permitted to be re-built and for a population of monks to once again inhabit its interior.