Our departure from Bariloche coincided with the end of the summer/fall semester of school, so there were festivities and going away parties for the kids at school that made leaving a emotional and memorable occasion for us. We were so grateful for the commitment and affection that Annalise' and Hans' teachers showed to them--as well as for the close friendships with many of their classmates. In the picture above with Annalise are Wara, Mechu, Maria, and Dianela. We miss you!
These pictures were taken during the school celebration of the Argentine Independence Week.
Hans, celebrating with his 6th grade classmates. Sitting across from Hans is Camilo, a dear friend whose family moved from Colombia to Bariloche so his mother could pursue her PhD. in nuclear physics.
Going away photos with their sweetheart grammar teachers, Augustina...
...and Adriana.
A few days before we left, Lola had a birthday celebration where we were able to raise a glass to her and say goodbye to many friends from the neighborhood.
Around the same time, Uncle Wilbur back in Vermont was having a big birthday of his own.
On the day of our departure, Hernan and brother Orlando brought us to the airport and gave us a cheerful send-off.
After saying many goodbyes during the last several days, the kids were in good spirits, anticipating returning to see their friends back home in Montana. It was an amazing year of adventure, challenging schoolwork, many friendships, and special time spent together as a family that is increasingly precious.
I was perhaps the happiest of all to be boarding an airplane, instead of driving our car back to Ecuador solo to sell in the country of origin. We made an eleventh hour sale to a fellow in Bariloche who would use the car for parts (or some other purpose about which we agreed not ask any questions). Phew!
Ahh, beautiful Bariloche. Our community of friends there was small and dear to our hearts. When we think back, remembering our friends there, we feel like emigrants from a homeland, leaving behind cherished friends whom we may not see for years to come. We are heartened to know that the character of the people there, their beautiful smiles, and the grandeur of their landscapes will ensure they are always content as time marches on.
