In Tribute and Memoriam to "April" Ch. Shomberg's Snowy River JH, CGC (Ch. Riverside's Country Legend CD x Ch. Oaklore's Katja Von Shomberg) Owned and loved by Leesy McDonnell of Snowy River GSPs January 22, 2004 "The world is a bit more still tonight... The sounds of a heart in pain fall quiet and yet I know it to be real. As tears fall gently on your sweet face, I kiss you away..."home" again,  Knowing that you'll wait for me as always  And knowing more that life is forever changed without you here beside me The world is a bit more still tonight... And my heart's pain soars to heaven and back again."   ~ S. Dattilio 2004 Dearest April, Beautiful spirit -- beloved by your mom and the many whose lives you touched. You are and will always be dearly missed. You will be remembered forever for your regal bearing, because you were "the Queen" and let no one ever forget it. Your clown-like antics were always enjoyed and no one ever escaped a stolen kiss -- just because you could.  You brought laughter and smiles as you lay upside down on that newly upholstered sofa -- almost grinning as if to encourage the attention. What indescribable joy and pride you gave to all of us as you moved around the ring at the National Specialty in Colorado in '94. It was "your ring" that day and no one could ever deny it -- or you. The wonderful win was only a part of the thrill. It was holding you, watching you and following as you made it happen. Dreams came true that day because of you! Remembering and re-living the moments still brings chills and won't be lost to time's passing. It is carved in our hearts and our minds forever. April, you are so undeniably special and you'll always hold a piece of our hearts for all that you gave to us and the breed you represented so admirably. Your legacy is seen all around us and in every day a special moment will be yours. From this time and place you have gone to play in God's yard where no doubt you'll be whole, at peace and wonderfully happy. Be well and watch at Heaven's gate, for those who love and miss you will come back at journey's end to once again hold you and delight in your special stolen kisses. God keep you close until we meet again.  -- from "your other mom."  click on any image to enlarge it in a new window. See The Main Gallery Page or, click here to see other tributes. April at 8 weeks old.   April at 5 weeks old and she was anything but camera shy.   April, taking Best of Winners at the Hunterdon Hills KC, 1994, under breeder/judge Frank Washabaugh, who gave her the National Specialty win in Denver, Colorado in 1994. April is pictured here finishing her championship.   A study in thought.... as once again April poses for a lovely portrait that later graced still another calendar.   Harrisburg Kennel Club show in April of 1994. April wins her first points for a 4pt. major by going Best of Breed over an entry of 50 from the classes that day under respected judge Jane Borders. She was just shy of her first birthday and it was a wonderful thrill !!     April, future National Specialty winner, pictured here on the lounge chair at 8 weeks and soon learned how easily she could displace people who chose to sit in "her spot". This picture later was used on the GSP Rescue calendar and she rather enjoyed her new status as a "calendar girl."    April is an extraordinary athlete and her prowess isn't limited to the show ring. She ably handles agility and obedience courses and has a great time doing it.   April winning the prized Elizabeth Keegan Memorial Award at the Eastern GSP Specialty show in 1994 for Best in Sweepstakes.  It was made all the more special by Ann & Bob doing the presentation to Leesy and me in their daughter's memory.     Leesy with April, winning her new Junior Hunter!   April, taking Best Of Brood Bitch, under breeder/judge Frank Washabaugh. Also, Ch. Snowy River Hop Skip & Jump ("Sydney"), and Ch. Snowy River Piece of the Rock ("Ayers"), at the Mason Dixon GSP Club Specialty Show, 1998.