"Old Dog Cora" written and illustrated by Consie Powell, is a favorite piece of children's literature around the holidays. The Kindergartners of Nathan Hale School in Schaumburg, Illinois were treated to a magical happening as a "Real Life" Cora visited them at their classroom on December 12, 2006. Cora (aka Hanna Larsen) decked out in the RED HARNESS, pulled the holiday tree into the classroom, much like Cora in the story. Cora also brought her drafting cart filled with fire wood and decorated for the season. As Hanna demonstrated all the pulling techniques shown in the story the children watched in awe, not knowing what to say as the PRETEND story was beginning to become real right before their eyes. Hanna, being a true ambassador of our breed, loved, and greeted all in a genuine "Gentle Giant" manner. A great question and answer activity followed the demonstrations, with the children serenading Hanna at the closure. Not to be outdone by the children's singing Hanna chimed in as well, much to the sheer delight of the children. Hanna, I mean CORA, then retired to her DRESSING ROOM complete with stars on the door, a newfy silhouette, and her name. Inside her dressing room there was bottled water, only nutritious snacks, and a blanket for her to rest. Hanna was then pressed into an encore performance for the second group of Kindergartners. The students presented CORA, with a special stuffie and a bag filled with goodies. Students learn MANY things from books, but a lesson that brings things to real life is one that will never be forgotten.
Thank you Mark, Linda and Hanna for giving my children a memory that will last forever.
Cissy Sullivan |
