In a world where neighbors often remain strangers, the Caraballo family and their neighbor, Paul Callahan, shattered the norm and wrote a new chapter in the book of community connections. Sharaine Caraballo and her husband Wilson found more than just a neighbor in 82-year-old Paul Callahan – they found an “honorary grandpa” and a connection that would enrich their lives in ways they never expected.
An Unexpected Meeting
In March of last year, Wilson began working on the Caraballos’ newly purchased home when he crossed paths with Paul. Little did they know that this seemingly ordinary encounter would be the beginning of a beautiful bond. Paul offered Wilson a ladder to assist with his work, which turned out to be the catalyst for a lasting friendship. From that moment on, the Caraballos and Paul quickly became close.
Finding Family
The passing of Paul’s wife six months prior to the Caraballos’ arrival had left a void in his life. However, the warmth and companionship offered by the Caraballo family became a beacon of light during his time of need. Even Sharaine’s fear of meeting new neighbors dissipated as Paul’s warm welcome assured the Caraballos that they had made the right choice in moving to their new neighborhood.
An Unbreakable Bond
The Caraballos and Paul’s connection grew stronger with each passing day. They now see each other every other day, with Paul being a regular guest at family cookouts and celebrations. This Father’s Day, the Caraballos expressed their gratitude by presenting Paul with a new outfit as a small token of appreciation for his unwavering support and love. The Caraballos affectionately refer to him as “Uncle Paul,” a testament to the familial bond they’ve formed. Sharaine also believes that her family has played an equally important role in Paul’s life. Paul revealed that he was drawn to them because he is a naturally social person who grew up surrounded by children.
Archaeologists Haven’t Found New Elite Housing at Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza, the pre-Columbian city built by the Maya people, is a source of constant fascination to archaeologists. And turns out, media houses too. Recently, a media house claimed that the site has been found to be the home of some unknown elite housing complexes. However, it turns out that these structures aren’t a new discovery. Instead, archaeologists had actually discovered these structures almost a century ago. Let’s dive in to know more.
The Structures
These elite housing residences were discovered in the late 19th and early 20th century by the archaeologists at the site. The names given to them are quite elaborate, like house of the moon and house of the snail. A professor of art history at Auburn University, Cynthia Kristanb-Graham, commented that these structures may have actually served multiple purposes instead of just acting as houses. It may have also been used for religious and political activities. She further added that their residents could have been high-ranking individuals or rulers of Chichen Itza.
Opening to the Public
Even though no new discovery has been made, all has not been lost for history buffs wanting to know more about Chichen Itza. The Mexican National Institute of Anthropology and History ( INAH), which is responsible for this historic site, recently announced that a part of the site would be open to the public later this year for their viewing. The site has been cleaned of overgrowth for the past 30 years by a group of researchers. Conservation work and analysis on the buildings is also underway. Thanks to this conservation work, the public will be able to view this site for the first time. It will also allow for new information to be deduced about the structures. A book by an American archaeologist, Karl Ruppert, who was involved in the excavation of the site, is available.