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Turning Myself into the Shelter
Dear Frankie,
My mom and dad recently retired and have been talking a lot about selling everything and moving to Maine. A couple of years ago they inherited a big farmhouse and land on a river.
It was a neat place to visit in the summer — but living there is another story. The nearest neighbors are miles away, none of them have kids, and the ride into town takes forty minutes.
I asked my dad what we would do there. He said we could start a family business making maple syrup and growing organic vegetables and herbs.
Should I surrender myself to the local shelter and take my chances on being adopted by a normal urban family?
Shelby
Dear Shelby,
I understand a Maine lifestyle would be a big change: forty minutes from town is no walk in the park.
But look at all the things you will learn to do: tap a tree, read a river, grow, and, even better, eat wholesome food. These are skills for a life well lived.
Ask your parents for a one-year trial of maple syrup and organic gardening before they make any decision. Remind them, one year is not asking for much.
As for the shelter — I’ve been there. The blankets are thin.
Best, Frankie
© 2026 Geneva Woodruff
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