About Us
Beginnings
I was that kid who brought home all the stray animals in the neighborhood, but I especially loved dogs. As an adult, I purchased my first Golden Retriever in 1986, and he changed my life. He was a guardian for my two sons and a great friend to me. Smart, outgoing and sweet, Rocky may not have been the most beautiful dog in the world, but he opened my eyes to the wonders of Golden Retrievers.
Getting Serious
For the next 10 years, while I was busy raising kids, I started to learn more about dogs and dog shows. My first attempts at purchasing a show-quality puppy were not successful, but the experiences helped me understand just how difficult it is to breed a really great dog. I joined the local and national Golden clubs and found the dogs that would change the rest of my life. "Quest" (CH. Boitano's Band on the Run to Abelard, OS) and "Summer" (Am/Can CH. Balmoral's Hot Legs at Abelard, OD) became my first champions. I was hooked. My life and Golden Retrievers became forever entwined.
Never Stop Growing
After more than 30 years, I am still learning. I have bred American, Canadian and UKC champions; dogs with hunting, obedience and agility titles; both Outstanding Sires and Outstanding Dams; Show Dog Hall of Fame recipients; certified therapy dogs and excellent companions. Although I have chosen to no longer be associated with the Evergreen Golden Retriever Club, I was a member for more than 25 years. I served the dogs and my fellow Golden lovers in several different positions on the Board of Directors, as the newsletter editor, website designer, columnist for the national magazine, show chair for several specialties, and chaired too many committees to count. I paid my dues, that's for sure! I am still an active member of the Golden Retriever Club of America and was assistant editor for the GRNews, chair of the nominating committee, a member of the Public Education Committee and a regular columnist for "Conformation Conversation." Still, not a day goes by when I don't learn something new. I am so grateful to the people and dogs who have enriched my life and hope you find the same joy in your canine bonds.