Pax is officially retired from the Conformation Ring, and although I have said Thank You many times I wanted to let you know how much you have taught me and Pax.  You have known since day one that Pax had a week rear and yet you encouraged me to learn how to show him to the best of my ability.  You taught me how to show off Pax's best features and how not to shine a light on his worst features.  Something that is much easier to understand than to do.  Pax was a shy, skittish, uncertain dog and with your help I developed confidence in myself which he felt "down the leash" so he became more secure in himself.  Most of all you taught me to just have fun with my dog.  You taught me that there is no such thing as a "small brag" anything that you and your dog accomplish as a team is something to be proud of. You encouraged me to know more about my breed, to learn structure, others.  These are things that I shall NEVER stop doing.  These are all things that I hope to one day be able to encourage in others through example and conversation.  Your encouragement has led me to Ring Stewarding.  That world has opened up my eyes to look at the structure of all breeds.  To ask questions about the similarities and differences from both breeders and Judges.  To want to learn more and therefore be more involved in the "Dog World". Your knowledge of Obedience, Rally, Hunting and overall dog training has made me want to be a better owner to my dog.  You encouraged me to be a "team" with my dog and we have worked on the "back end" titles. Pax has even started Herding classes.  We did the Herding Instinct Test and Pax was amazing.  Watching the "light bulb" come on in Pax's head and seeing him in his element was breathtaking. I am sure that there are times when you feel as if there are not enough good things or good people in the dog world to keep you in the game, but I wanted, no I NEED to tell you that you are definitely one of the GOOD people and things about the crazy sport/hobby that I love. Without people like you willing to Mentor the Newbies like me what will become of this sport.  I hope to one day be able to give back a small amount that you have given me. Thank you again for EVERYTHING. Karen and AKC and Int'l CH Casablanca's Prince of Peace, CGC, RN "Pax"