Everybody needs an attraction to get them into something. Love of the breed isn't enough. The reason is, the majority of people that love the breed, are not fanciers of the breed. They are "only" lovers. These people are the people who love and adore the Shepherd, but "only" own them as friends and companions. I would consider people like you on the list, and myself, lovers and fanciers. People who [wish] to show. People who breed champions. People who want to increase the longevity of the breed (which I honestly think has gone a bit south, in favor of breeding younger "super stars" rather than waiting). I mention all the time that many times I end up with a sour taste in my mouth, and I wonder why I keep on. It's because I am not a lover of the breed, but a lover and fancier of it. If any of you are in the midwest (especially Wisconsin), and you see a black girl at an all breed show with no lead in her hand, come say hello, because I'm more than happy to help you out, whether it is holding a dog, or taking in an "extra" for you. And I'm definitely happy just to talk to you, and learn anything I can In a message dated 12/16/2005 10:21:50 AM Central Standard Time, Pinehillgsds@xxxxxxx writes: You don't have to wait for "attractions". - Jackie Marcato Shepherds Where it's about function, not flash ============================================================================ POST is Copyrighted 2005. All material remains the property of the original author and of GSD Communication, Inc. NO REPRODUCTIONS or FORWARDS of any kind are permitted without prior permission of the original author AND of the Showgsd-l Management. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. ALL PERSONS ARE ON NOTICE THAT THE FORWARDING, REPRODUCTION OR USE IN ANY MANNER OF ANY MATERIAL WHICH APPEARS ON SHOWGSD-L WITHOUT THE EXPRESS PERMISSION OF ALL PARTIES TO THE POST AND THE LIST MANAGEMENT IS EXPRESSLY FORBIDDEN, AND IS A VIOLATION OF LAW. VIOLATORS OF THIS PROHIBITION WILL BE PROSECUTED. For assistance, please contact the List Management at admin@xxxxxxxxxxxx VISIT OUR WEBSITE - http://www.showgsd.org ============================================================================