This past weekend I traveled to Sofia to attend the 1st ever national level of BNES (Bulgarian National English Spelling Bee). Though none of them were my students, three of the top twenty-one students were from Sliven! There was an appreciation dinner the night before and the Bee on Saturday went very well. The winner was not only recognized by the ambassador but he received a trophy and a kindle. The winner came from the Sofia region of the country and there was even a news crew there to interview him when the competition was finished. Us volunteers even had a little fun during the break in the middle of the competition by competing in our own Bulgarian spelling bee which was both fun and nerve-racking. I got 2nd place! All of my photos can be found by clicking on "BNES" in the Links section of my blog. Here are a few of my favorites:
These were a team effort:
The venue was beautiful:
The contestants:
The contestants with the Ambassador:
Not only did I attend the spelling bee but I was able to get to know some of the other volunteers here in country a bit better. There are so many of us here in Bulgaria that I have definitely not talked to everyone nor know all the volunteers here. It was a beautiful weekend!
A summary of the last few days in photos, starting with my train ride to Sofia:
Then my Friday afternoon meal at Veda House (amazing vegetarian food and tea house):
The cats behind the hotel we stayed at:
The creepy Ghostbuster-ish painting in our hotel room:
No Bible? We must not be in the USA anymore:
Popitsa having some fun today:
Have a great week!
Peace, love, literacy, and reckless curiosity.
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