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 (www.egrc.org and www.grca.org) 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 dogs; certified therapy dogs and excellent companions. For the local club, I served as a Board member, newsletter editor, website designer, columnist, Show Chair and headed multiple committees. For the national club, I was Assistant Editor for the GRNews, chair of the nominating committee, a member of the Public Education Committee and currently serve as the Conformation Assistant Editor. 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.