Dear Freire Friends-
A year ago today I was in Jamaica with Joe, Shirley, Maria, Myunghee, and Suhun celebrating Joe's birthday. Since it was his special day, we decided to cook him the finest Italian dinner ever- spaghetti's Jamaican style! We had such a great time that evening, and I will never forget how much we laughed! Joe, Maria, Suhun and Myunghee played cards all night, while Shirley and I watched Dallas the entire time! Joe would get up once in a while to grab a glass of Jamaican TING, because we couldn't find Canada Dry Ginger ale in Jamaica! Joe would then wonder over to where Shirley and I were watching TV and break out into the greatest Jock Ewing imitation I had ever heard! We laughed, oh we laughed.

The following day Maria, Myunghee, and Suhun returned home and I was alone with Joe and Shirley. We spent hours on the beach, just floating around in the water while chatting about everything- from basketball, to critical pedagogy, to rock and roll! And the stories he told…what can I say.
If I could go back in time, I would love to relive those memorable moments in Jamaica. My only wish would be for December 19th to be just an ordinary day. Instead, it was a day that I will never forget, because I lost a dear friend and my mentor.
Joe, although you are no longer with us, I know your spirit surrounds each person whose life you touched. Thank you for all your love, laughter, and support over the years.  
I love and miss you so much. 

Wish you were here so I could say happy birthday.
Love,
Your Italian Daughter Giuliana