(left to right) Grandpa Bill, Shawn, Jim, Shelby & Charlotte

In 1993, Jim and Charlotte Farmer decided to stop having babies, and start having dogs...at least that's what they tell those who ask!

Charlotte, who had grown up in a family with dogs, and whose best friend had always been the four footed type, fell in love with this incredible breed over 25 years ago.  Growing up in Newport Beach, California, she loved all water sports and naturally was drawn to a breed which could share her enthusiasm.  Blonde, kind, loving, and athletic...of course the dog had to be a golden retriever!

Dog shows and breeding has been a heritage passed down from Grandma Vivian.  Grandma Vivian, who died when Charlotte's father was only 5, raised and showed Great Danes in Southern California.  She was one of the founding members of the Beverly Hills Kennel Club and active in establishing the sport in the Hollywood/Toluca Lake area.

When Jim met Charlotte...he really didn't know what hit him.  Maybe it was the goofy rescue Irish Setter named Ryan, or maybe it was love. 

Jim, who was born and raised in Kailua, Hawaii, had grown up with the sand, surf, but few pets.  Pets were for outside, and definitely did not do things like sleep in bed with their masters.  It has taken him a while to convert to "the other side". 

Jim and Charlotte were married in 1991.  Along came the babies, Shawn, then Shelby,  and the dogs...and more dogs.  After a back injury and subsequent surgery, Charlotte could no longer participate in strenuous sports activities.  Running, boogy boarding, and competitive sports were out.  After the "violins stopped playing" Charlotte decided to stop feeling sorry for herself, and look at alternatives.

Genetics and family experience kicked in.  Dogs, training, dog shows, all seemed to fill the gap.  Answering an ad in the Honolulu Advertiser, the Farmers bought their first "show quality" golden retriever.  Of course "Chelsea" was more pet than show, but was a wonderful companion and great practice pup.  The Golden Retriever show community was so supportive...advice, helpful suggestions, and constructive criticism all paved the way to "the goal"...to become competitive!

And this is what the silver lining is all about.  God must have known that the trials of chronic pain and limitations of physical disability would pale with the blessings brought by canine competitions. 

We met Cathie Turner from Sunbeam Farms at a dog show...and the rest is history as they say in the movies.  Cathie and Bill Turner have given us wonderful support, not only in the incredible dogs they have sent over, but the friendship, advice, and enthusiasm they have provided through the years.  We consider them part of our extended family, and appreciate the impact they've made in Hawaii with their breeding program.