That night was Bage’s last night here before embarking on a four month work adventure in southern New Jersey. It was an emotional night, with a stream of guests coming and going. Toasts were made, and everyone was sobbingly assuring each other that she was going to be fine and that she would be home soon. There was a natural separation of adults and youth, and Shayne and I eventually sided with the youth. Everybody was talking about what Bage would be doing, and how she would have tons of money when she came home. Occasionally Shayne and I would drop some advice or give her some information that would make life easier.

Soon enough, the van that would take them to the airport in Sofia arrived, and a very tearful goodbye sent her on her way. It is worth stating that families operate differently here, and going overseas for a few months Is a huge deal. Aside from the fact that Visas are tough to come by, and it’s rather expensive to travel, families seem to be much closer than in the states. Someone leaving for a large chunk of time can be difficult to accept. Especially knowing that a place like America is a very tempting place to decide to stick around and get lost in the cracks forever. I can understand why her parents were so sad, and a little fearful. We did everything we could to comfort them, after Bage’s van faded into the darkness, we stayed up with the parents for a couple hours, drinking wine and talking about life.