River Song and Chef Bruce Duff

     On the scales of delight and satisfaction a visit to RiverSong ranks at the apex.

     John and Susan Pries, the owners of this paradisaical sanctuary along the Conestogo River have been gracious in welcoming Miriam and me several times. And everyone else is welcome too.

     Where else can you go to be greeted by a very accessible Osprey family? Mom was there as usual.

     And it won't be long before the kids are ready to strike out on their own.

     It has given us hours of pleasure to watch these birds almost from the first day they arrived back from the south.
     John is a consummate naturalist who has recorded 131 species of birds at RiverSong, to say nothing of Snapping Turtles and Midland Painted Turtles, Milk Snakes and Red-bellied Snakes, Eastern Garter Snakes, American Toads, Leopard, Chorus, and Green Frogs, Bullfrogs and Spring Peepers. What would a riverside property be without Muskrats? Deer visit and Groundhogs and Raccoons find a home there. Meadow Voles and Deermice seek food and shelter. And we haven't even mentioned butterflies and moths, dragonflies and damselflies, coleoptera, hymenoptera, hemiptera and diptera -  the list goes on. A wide range of trees populate the property, wildflowers thrive in abundance, ferns in profusion.
     For the avid birder, or for the most casual of budding naturalists, a bird sightings list is provided with a field guide and binoculars for those who don't have their own.

     Local artists are able to display their work which is offered for sale.

     Most of us arrive by car, but some choose a more ecologically friendly alternative.

     Last year, John and Susan, decided to retire from the catering side of the business, while retaining their residence at RiverSong, and the commercial operation was transferred to Chef Bruce Duff.

     I am sure that Bruce could not have imagined that soon after starting his venture the pandemic would essentially shut down his business. He has persevered, however, and now that patio service is permitted, is doing well, serving a range of delicious food.

     In addition to the permanent menu, daily offerings are available.

     On a hot summer's day, what could be more appealing than homemade ice cream?

     The patio is very appealing.

     At present Bruce is offering patio dining only (and takeout) but when the cold weather arrives he has ample room inside to accommodate his clientèle, while scrupulously maintaining the mandated distance requirements.

     It bears pointing out that anyone eating at RiverSong is free to roam the property and take advantage of the becalming, soothing atmosphere of this tranquil spot.

    It is just the antidote for frazzled nerves caused by the pace of modern society, or angst generated by COVID-19. This is the place to put your phone away and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty that is RiverSong.

     Patrons come for many reasons. Some just to enjoy excellent food at reasonable prices, but many I have no doubt have earmarked RiverSong as their favourite lunch venue for all the reasons described above.
     And there are goodies to take home too.

     Perhaps we will see you on the patio soon.

     Before heading out to RiverSong feel free to contact John (john.h.pries@gmail.com) to see whether he is available to give you a tour of the property, or contact me and I will organize an outing for you and accompany you to interpret the wildlife if you wish.
     In difficult times such as we are going through now, it behooves each one of us to support local businesses, which will continue to be the lifeblood of our communities. Chef Duff will appreciate your support and you will discover a truly pleasurable corner of this wonderful landscape we call home.