I’ve been talking a big game about my sister Mary’s departure for Peace Corps service in Senegal for two months now. Like, I’ve been completely nonchalant and all, “This will be so exciting for you.”

Then last night, she came over to say goodbye and collect her Project Runway prize. First there were just a few decent, appropriate, and composed little tears leaking out. Then, a few more. Then some slightly unattractive blubbering and frantic wiping of the face. And finally, some noisy undignified sobbing after she went out to her car.

This will be a long two years, for sure; but lucky for all of us, she now has a blog. It's a small consolation.