Ch. Rice Creek's Cumulo Nimbus SH
"Storm"

(DC Chaparral XLO Rater XL Lent MH x Ch. Chaparral Rad Aclee Clearcut CD, SH)
OFA-Good, Whelped October 27, 1997

Photo taken by Bruce Keiser

Storm was a product of our "C" litter - a repeat breeding of our Abbey to Rater, which produced so many lovely puppies.  I liked Storm's head and attitude from the get go - in the whelping box.  I knew she was going to be something special.

I recall sitting on the kitchen floor agonizing if I should give this pup up; she had the head I so loved, but another pup had the front I needed.  I also knew Paul and Karen just LOVED her.  I figured I'd had my time with Abbey, and someone else deserved to have a fun ride with Abbey's daughter, which they have had.

Well, we had the chance to see Storm quite a bit those first few years - as she was here for training off and on.  She was trained by Joe and our assistant trainer at the time, Chad Hines.  I believe Joe put the first SH leg on her, then Chad, but KAREN is the one who had to FINISH the job!!!  It was really great seeing Karen handle her to her Senior Hunter title!!

I've had many memorable experiences at Gordon events, and Abbey's win at the 1992 National Specialty was one of them.  However, Storm and Karen's win at the Michigan Specialty when Storm won over 41 quality bitches - now THAT topped them all.  Sitting on the sidelines watching it happen and supporting Karen throughout - it was a very special time shared with a puppy buyer and now very good friend.  I greatly appreciate the many opportunities I get to look into Abbey's face - through her daughter, Storm.  Abbey's gone, but all I have to do is go to Karen's house to see her again through Storm.

Photo courtesy of Downey

The goal of many breeders is to improve the line with each breeding.  I truly believe that we accomplished that with Storm.