Back to Nature

Last week Rick and I joined my friend Betsy and we took a field trip with the kids to the Crowley Nature Museum. There was a guided nature walk for kids so they could become "wildlife detectives". He talked with them about fossils, bones and animal tracks then we set out on an adventure. We looked at tracks on the ground and talked about what might have left them, we saw a Bald Eagle flying to a nest, sand hill cranes, egrets, lizards, insects, and kept a keen eye out for other critters (hard to spot with three boys running ahead). He was great with the kids and the adults had fun too but for me it was a moment to reminisce about my past.

I attended a wedding there once a few years ago but had not been on the property since I was in Jr High. My Jr. High agriculture teacher and one of the people most responsible for who I am today was the Late Bill Crowley. His family has owned the property for generations. He was the type of teacher (and parent) who inspired and challenged you, never settling for less than your very best, always there to guide you in the right direction. He was respected by everyone and as he taught me about animals, horticulture, and science he also taught me how to speak in public, how to be a leader and gave me enough self confidence to last three lifetimes. When I was a Senior in High school he filled in for my father on a very important day and the accolades he gave will be with me forever. He died 23 years ago in a plane crash on the way to Tallahassee while preparing to retire from a lifetime of teaching.

So while Reece and Rick got back to nature I got in touch with my past. It's the kind of place that you just want to linger at. Most visitors think its "Old Florida" but I know the reason is that the spirit of a wonderful man is at home there. I hope someday my boys will have a teacher as good as him and I hope that I can strive to parent the way he did.

Thanks Mr. Crowley

If you want to visit www.crowleymuseumnaturectr.org