Some of my earliest, most joyous moments were spent in front of the television while dawn broke over a mid-winter sky. The local news was playing on the television, but that was not what held my attention. At the absolute lowest point of the screen was a small stripe across which would flash the names of all schools in Eastern Massachusetts closed for that day. There were always three options into which my young and already spiritually filled mind would classify the results for Norfolk Public Schools. Heaven, or all classes canceled, meant a day of sledding, popcorn, hot chocolate and whatever was playing on TNT at noon. Purgatory, or 1-2 hour delay, meant that yes we would still suffer through school but at least not quite as much; plus I could sleep in for another hour. However, more often then not I would not read my school's name across the screen, meaning that we were absolutely the only students in all of New England forced to unjustly attend school on what should be a snow day. I have thought often of these ancient feelings when I see our own children's faces light up in the event of a school cancellation. Classes have been canceled this year for a wide variety of reasons (earthquakes, presidential coups, unruly rivers), and as upset as I am in forfeiting an opportunity to enrich these young, impressionable minds, “snow” days are often an opportunity to spend time with the kids outside of school, which is never a bad thing.
Lots of craziness going on in the Farm around this time of year, when the new volunteers hop into the fray and use up all the clothes lines. We have been especially lucky with this new class coming in, as they bring with them some amazing Spanish skills and more enthusiasm than previously thought possible. Allow me to run down the line of departments as we all begin our transition for the upcoming year.
The incomparable social work team has added Sheena and Francesca. Whether it's searching for houseparents, handing out consequences, covering houses or just spending time and making their houses feel loved, I am positive that they will follow the example that Annie has left for them and Sara will continue in her new role as leader of all things social work.
In the clinic the motto is “if it ain't broke, don't fix it” as Beth continues all of her sterling work in helping our neighbors suffering from infirmities and reaching out to preach healthy living habits. Jenny leaves behind a lasting legacy and looks forward to a future as bright as the California skyline.
The lovely Jennie Maria will be venturing along with another one of our new volunteers Sayda to the golden city of Ceiba. There she will have the always exciting and never boring task of caring for our oldest boys. The innumerable tasks of treasury will fall upon the shoulders of young Alisha, who has already shown a strong ability to care for our souls and our finances.
Laura, who has given an incredible amount of her time and love both to our neighbors (who absolutely adore her) and to us at the school when asked to help, will also be moving on. Kristina has already made her presence felt at women's group and other opportunities to integrate herself with our neighboring community.
Our own personal Lebron James is still absolutely working out of his mind to improve the Farm in whatever way possible. From days spent fixing power lines in driving rainstorms to putting up a fence that will improve security to spending time in work hours with our lovely children to dealing with some of the frustrations that come with working in this kind of environment. On top of all that, Nate has found himself in the spotlight recently, putting in a guest interview at nationally syndicated Cartalk of National Public Radio. I believe it will air around Halloween weekend so be sure to check it out. His enormous shoes will be filled by our beloved Ted, who has already shown the fortitude and enthusiasm essential for a director of maintenance.
Finally, an era comes to an end as two of my beloved jefas step down from their thrones and join us mortals once again. Although Liz has passed on her sub-director duties to Peter she is still aiding in whatever way she can: covering houses, baking cookies and generally being the jolliest gluten-free person I know. In addition, Mrs. Conroy has passed the torch of the school onto the fiery red-headed Elizabeth Quinn, as she and Chris spend their last few weeks at the school gracing us all with their presence. In all seriousness, these two have helped me out in more ways than I could possibly list and all of my best moments here at the farm have been spent in their company. You guys mean the world to me and the place won't be the same without you. Ryan, Kate and Erin will keep on rocking in the primary while Keenan joins the big leagues, also known as the Colegio. I look forward to the fun-filled office nights of planning, music and conversing like only someone up at 1am on a school night can.
Finally, I would like to give lots of hugs to our dear friend Lizzy. We all love and miss you more than I can describe in a rambling, nonsensical letter. You're the best.
Anyways that's all I got for now. This is Dan O'Shea saying take care, God bless and don't let the man get you down.
Lots of craziness going on in the Farm around this time of year, when the new volunteers hop into the fray and use up all the clothes lines. We have been especially lucky with this new class coming in, as they bring with them some amazing Spanish skills and more enthusiasm than previously thought possible. Allow me to run down the line of departments as we all begin our transition for the upcoming year.
The incomparable social work team has added Sheena and Francesca. Whether it's searching for houseparents, handing out consequences, covering houses or just spending time and making their houses feel loved, I am positive that they will follow the example that Annie has left for them and Sara will continue in her new role as leader of all things social work.
In the clinic the motto is “if it ain't broke, don't fix it” as Beth continues all of her sterling work in helping our neighbors suffering from infirmities and reaching out to preach healthy living habits. Jenny leaves behind a lasting legacy and looks forward to a future as bright as the California skyline.
The lovely Jennie Maria will be venturing along with another one of our new volunteers Sayda to the golden city of Ceiba. There she will have the always exciting and never boring task of caring for our oldest boys. The innumerable tasks of treasury will fall upon the shoulders of young Alisha, who has already shown a strong ability to care for our souls and our finances.
Laura, who has given an incredible amount of her time and love both to our neighbors (who absolutely adore her) and to us at the school when asked to help, will also be moving on. Kristina has already made her presence felt at women's group and other opportunities to integrate herself with our neighboring community.
Our own personal Lebron James is still absolutely working out of his mind to improve the Farm in whatever way possible. From days spent fixing power lines in driving rainstorms to putting up a fence that will improve security to spending time in work hours with our lovely children to dealing with some of the frustrations that come with working in this kind of environment. On top of all that, Nate has found himself in the spotlight recently, putting in a guest interview at nationally syndicated Cartalk of National Public Radio. I believe it will air around Halloween weekend so be sure to check it out. His enormous shoes will be filled by our beloved Ted, who has already shown the fortitude and enthusiasm essential for a director of maintenance.
Finally, an era comes to an end as two of my beloved jefas step down from their thrones and join us mortals once again. Although Liz has passed on her sub-director duties to Peter she is still aiding in whatever way she can: covering houses, baking cookies and generally being the jolliest gluten-free person I know. In addition, Mrs. Conroy has passed the torch of the school onto the fiery red-headed Elizabeth Quinn, as she and Chris spend their last few weeks at the school gracing us all with their presence. In all seriousness, these two have helped me out in more ways than I could possibly list and all of my best moments here at the farm have been spent in their company. You guys mean the world to me and the place won't be the same without you. Ryan, Kate and Erin will keep on rocking in the primary while Keenan joins the big leagues, also known as the Colegio. I look forward to the fun-filled office nights of planning, music and conversing like only someone up at 1am on a school night can.
Finally, I would like to give lots of hugs to our dear friend Lizzy. We all love and miss you more than I can describe in a rambling, nonsensical letter. You're the best.
Anyways that's all I got for now. This is Dan O'Shea saying take care, God bless and don't let the man get you down.
Dan O'Shea
Dan - What's up with the eyes? Anyway your update is very well written and beautiful. Though I miss you everyday I am so proud of what you are doing for the children on the Farm. You are a wonderful son and most of all an outstanding human being. I love you - Mom
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