December 22, 2004

Steve and Kylie Boyer                                                                                      

Appalachian Chesapeakes        

660 South Street                       

Lykens, Pennsylvania 17048                                                                                                                                          

Dear Steve and Kylie-

Happy Holidays!  I’m sure it’s hard to believe that at this time last year, your house was crawling with puppies.

I want to give you a one-year update on Emerson (”orange“ pup) and the progress that we have made.  I say ”we“ because this year has been a learning experience for both Emerson and I. 

I told you a year-ago, my intentions for a Chessie were likely different than most others that you would talk to about your breeding program, as my hunting is limited to an annual trip to Iowa to hunt pheasant.  My primary objective was to find a dog that I could take with me on mountain bike rides, kayak outings at the river, ventures to the climbing wall, and the occasional backpacking trip.  After talking to you about Shine and Dash, I was confident that I had found the right litter.  One year later, I can proudly say that I did find the right litter.

Emerson is now pushing 80 lbs and filling out.  He is one of the most athletic dogs that I have been around and does not tire.  His temperament is great and he loves to play with people of all ages as well as other dogs.

When Emerson and I go out together, it never fails that somebody stops me to say what a beautiful dog I have, I agree.

As far as training goes, I have done Emerson an injustice by not working with him to his God given potential.  He has never given up on a retrieve and does a wonderful job navigating the rapids of the James River and the heavy cover of Belle Isle.  His obedience is better than average, especially given the fact that I was laid up for a couple of months after I had reconstructive knee surgery.

As you have subsequent litters, please feel free to use me as a reference.  Should you have any potential buyers from the Virginia area, they are welcome to visit Emerson and me in Richmond.

Sincerely,

John D. Weir

(click to enlarge)