We often get so involved in what we want to teach our dogs that we forget to be open to what they can teach us. When Hannah was a puppy to say that she was a challenge is an understatement. She was simply the world's worst puppy. But in being the world's worst puppy, she taught me patience. In my frequent trips outdoors with her in the dead of night and the cold of winter, she helped me discover the beauty of a cold stary night. With the need for me to exercise her her on a daily basis, she taught me the benefits of a routine and added a whole room to my home - my back yard - previously practically unused by me. With her wonder at a blowing leaf or bird overhead, she taught me to appreciate nature, for which I will be eternally grateful. In her insistance to be her own dog, she taught me flexibility and how to negotiate and persevere. When she got sick, she made me realize how deeply I loved her. I was more than middle aged when Hannah came on the scene. It still astounds me how many more facets to my life came with one stubborn, independent little cockapoo. She opened my eyes and my heart, and I thoroughly believe all of the animals who come into our lives have so much to teach us, so much to offer.