There were 2 boys named James (about 5 or 6) and Ivan (about 3 or 4) that were absent yesterday because they were attending their mother’s funeral! This was the saddest story but I was so glad to give them OCC care packages that we had saved for absent students. They slowly enjoyed the “sweeties” with brown somber eyes. I got out the little football that was in one of their packages and played catch with them. I got James to smile and Ivan to laugh. I hope the toys can be a good distraction. James has to take care of his little brother and no one is in charge of them. It’s absolutely heart-breaking!