I purchased my first chow "Kimi" in January of 1979. I had seen my first chow just 6 months earlier. I had always been intrigued with "big cats", and was convinced that one day I would have a pet lion.
When I got "Kimi", that was my fulfillment of the big cat desire! I took "Kimi" everywhere; obedience school, socializing, etc.. One day I bought the big Chow book, and found out there was another "world" in showing dogs. I've always loved competitive challenge, (I used to be a pro water skier, and competed in many tournaments). I found out about fun matches and started going to every one I could. I soon found out that my precious "Kimi" was not the quality of a show dog, losing gracefully. But she was still my precious pet, and she lived with me until her time, at 10 years of age. I now was setting my goal of finding a show dog.
Soon I ventured out and bought 2 show males, which I showed to championship: Ch Claymont's First Noel of Barjo, a group winner, (a Melody Saint Noel son) and Ch Cedar Creek's Samson of Barjo. By now I was truly addicted, and wanted to go to every show -everywhere! My first major was soon thereafter, in Texas, I was so embarrassed to go up to the front of the line to get my winner's ribbon, I'm sure I cried of embarrassment! I attended my first National Specialty in Phoenix in 1980. I got third place and cried as I was so happy! That was long, long ago. I have now bred several dozen Champions, in a limited breeding program, had the Number One and Supreme Chow, and the Number One bitch 2001, Number 4 chow, won the 1990 National, and have attended every National Specialty since 1980, along with winning many BIS and BISS. One famous dog I bred, was Ch Barjo's Notorious OFA ROM, who is on his way to being the top producer of all time. "Tory" was also the youngest chow to date to win a Specialty, at 6 mo's. and 2 days of age.
I have also traveled worldwide, showing in about 49 states, as well as several foreign countries. I now have a small hobby kennel, with about 8 chows. I breed 1 litter a year. I have helped with Chow rescue, and am truly appreciative of all who help in this endeavor. I am committed to the betterment of the breed, and strive for perfection. I love to show dogs, and have handled a great many to their championship, as well as handling many other breeds. I dabbled in Newfies for a while, breeding several champions, as well as having Pomeranians and Bichon Frise. My whole life evolves around my dogs and my love for Chows is unmeasurable.
My hobbies are arts and crafts, I have made many unique designs on clothing. I now do artwork on my computer, and design logos, business cards, etc. I love to be creative in everything I do. I also love to go out to eat, love gourmet food, and very spicy food. I am also a good cook! I love to go shopping, especially open air and flea markets, as well as garage sales. I love to be social and entertain, and go out dancing on occasion. I love water sports, swimming, snorkling, boating, etc. I love to play scrabble, attend pro football games, and people watch. I love to travel and be on the go. I collect Chinese Foo dogs, chow art, memorabilia, and clothes! I enjoy getting e-mail from friends and future acquaintances, about the breed, or just to chat!! |
