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5 years have passed.

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H (45) Joaquin Uriel "Jack" Castañeda (starletinwaiting)
W (42) Constance Phoebe "Connie" Skinner (Laura B.)

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S (17) Boaz Emmanuel "Bo" Castañeda (RowenaRavenclaw)
D (14) Salomé Deborah "Sally" Castañeda (molly)
S (11) Ezekiel Hosea "Zeke" Castañeda (Wordsmith)
D (7) Miriam Estrella "Mimi" Castañeda (TheRobinBird13)
D (5) Magdalena Vera "Maggie" Castañeda (Princess_Shireen)
S (1)

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FN: a Spanish name with a positive meaning
MN: ends in el
LN: Castañeda

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Jack's ranch has grown modestly, with new irrigation systems allowing for a small orchard of fruit trees. He is especially close to Bo, who now works alongside him daily. Though Jack remains a man of few words, his actions - whether guiding Bo through a difficult decision or showing Mimi how to care for a new calf - speak volumes about commitment to his family.

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The post-Civil War period has brought an influx of settlers, and Connie has worked tirelessly to accommodate the growing number of students. In 1866, Connie organised a fundraising drive to build a larger schoolhouse. She balances her work with the demands of raising six children.

Bo is on the cusp of adulthood, taking on more responsibilities at the ranch and becoming a trusted partner to Jack. He's already considering ways to modernize the ranch to ensure its long-term success.

Sally has grown into an outspoken and ambitious young woman who excels in academics and dreams of becoming a teacher like her mother. Sally is also deeply interested in the world beyond their ranch, often reading newspapers and questioning visitors about life in other parts of the country. She's particularly close to Mimi, often acting as a mentor and confidante for her younger sister.

Zeke helps on the ranch and at the school, where he assists younger students with their lessons. He's taken to raising a pair of orphaned lambs, which he cares for with patience and devotion. His gentle nature makes him a favourite among the younger children at the school, though he sometimes struggles with self-confidence.

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Mimi is known for her vivid storytelling and artistic talent, often drawing pictures of the ranch, the school, and her family. She is curious about everything, constantly asking questions and exploring the world around her. She has a special bond with Sally, who encourages her creativity, and Zeke, who shares her love of animals.

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Maggie is a quiet and observant child who often surprises her family with her insightful comments. She is happiest when spending time with her mother at the school.

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Another baby boy was born in 1867. With children ranging from a teenager on the brink of adulthood to a one-year-old just learning to walk, the Castañeda household is a lively, busy place.

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masculine list: https://www.behindthename.com/pnl/191050/124079
feminine list: https://www.behindthename.com/pnl/191050/124080