Tom Nelson
Carol was my 3rd grade teacher in 1972 at Park Forest Elementary School in State College. I can see her as I write this, in her polyester lavender pant suit with a white ruffle collar and her signature sea foam green eye shadow. She was a wonderful teacher and there was a moment that has stayed with me for the past 50 years. Her husband was a local police officer and one morning his cruiser pulled up to our class room door. He proceeded to bring a dog into our class room, a beagle type I think. Carol had the dog next to her and began playing the piano (I think) and singing a song which the dog evidently knew the words to. They began to sing and howl in unison with the greatest joy on both of their faces. At this moment I realized it was OK to truly love an animal. Seems silly now, and our family had dogs and cats while growing up. But this was different, she LOVED her dog. I have never forgotten that moment and I'm so sad I was never able to find her and share the impact it has had on my life. I have spent my entire adult life with wildlife and dogs and cats. I have had the pleasure of loving wolves, a coyote, a cougar, foxes of many species, Egyptian fruit bat named Rodney Dangerfield, 32 cats and 9 dogs etc. etc. My wife passed away in 2015 and at this point I have 2- turkey vultures, a red tailed hawk and a 29 year old eagle named, Col. Morgan after the Memphis Belle Pilot of ww2. Every day I spend time with him and often bury my face in his chest feathers while messaging his back-my happy place! So often I think of Mrs. Urquhart as I LOVE my eagle. I hope life was good you and that you had much joy. You gave me so much by your example.
With Gratitude!
Thoms Nelson
Mt. Bethel, Pa
