Things we'll miss...Things we're happy to see

So we are back home and thinking about our amazing time in Ethiopia! We are so lucky to have been able to experience this incredible culture for two months. At times yes we missed home, but we knew that this was an important opportunity, and tried to take full advantage of the time there.

THINGS that we will MISS:

THE PEOPLE: The genuine attitudes of the Ethiopians, yes life is often hard and it is a struggle for them, but they are real and appreciate what they DO have in life. We enjoyed watching friends hold hands and looking out for each other when crossing the street. The true sense of community around every corner. We could learn from their positive attitude and ability to focus on what is truly important in life. We will miss the beautiful people of this country who welcomed us with open arms.

A man at Korah who made these beautiful rugs

The beautiful people of Korah

People walking down from Entoto Mountain

THE COFFEE: The smell, the ambiance, the taste, the conversation....everything

Each coffee ceremony was special and delicious in its own way,
we cherished each one!

Kaldi's was the best coffee shop we've ever been too, we never knew what "our regular" drink was
because Baby would order it "Ethiopian Style" and in Amharic...but it was yummy!!!

A coffee ceremony amongst the staff, they are so wonderful and often invited us to join.

THE FOOD: Not just the fabulous Ethiopian food, but also the organic vegetables and fruits, the Italian and Indian food, there are so many wonderful places to eat there!

Delicious fruits and vegetables, all organic!

Serenade, an amazing mediterranean restaurant

Sangum, Fabulous Indian Food

Yod Abyssinia, Traditional Ethiopian Food

Of course homemade dinners are food for the tummy and an experience for the heart and sould

THE HISTORY: There is history everywhere you turn. Ethiopia was the birth place of civilization and so the history is truly incredible and extensive. We enjoyed visiting the churches, museums, and more! We look forward to continuing our education about Ethiopia's history and current events.

Menelik's First Palace on Entoto Mountain

Outside Selassie's first Palace, now Addis Ababa University. The Italians built this stairway while they occupied Selassie's palace to represent each year of Mussolini's rein. However when Selassie returned, instead of tearing down the statue, he just place the Lion of Judah on top.

During the rein of Selassie, at the Red Terror Museum

In memory of all the innocent ones who lost their lives at the hand of the Derg. At first I had a problem with taking pictures here but the man came up and said, "Please take more pictures, our history and story must be told."

THE LIVESTOCK: Although at times it was hard to see some animals living in such harsh conditions, it was interesting to see goats, donkeys and horses walking around freely. On a couple of occasions there were two horses in the middle of the road who just wouldn't budge, so everyone just drove around them.

One of the many neighborhood donkeys, this one came around the guest house quite alot.

Camels, Donkeys, whatever you need!

Everyone and everything shares the road

This was a bit odd, this is at a round-about

AHHHH.....A sight for sore eyes.....HOME

OUR HOME: To be able to sleep in our own bed and with our own pillow is so inviting and comforting. There is truly no bed better than your own.


LOTS OF GREEN & OUR GARDEN: The green landscape in Oregon and the beautiful colors in our garden (which has been neglected), Mawerdi loves all the vibrant colors in Oregon. Not only does her name mean "flower", but she truly loves flowers and nature.

OUR FAMILY: We love being able to call our family at anytime, and within around the same TIMEZONE! Of course it is always nice to be able to see all the people you love.

Our first family photo home, Mawerdi's big night out

Her debut was at Kelly's graduation, our best friend and cousin

Mawerdi's Auntie has been waiting to see her!

Three generations, Grandma was happy to see her girl again

Mawerdi and her cousin are already good friends

REFLECTIONS

We had an amazing two months in Ethiopia as a family. We would be fibbing to say that everyday was perfect or easy, but the majority of the days were simply incredible. Remember, this is a developing nation half way across the world, so sometimes there aren't those usual conveniences for first time parents. Even the days that were challenging ended with a smile, and a family of three. We really enjoyed traveling around to see as much of Ethiopia as possible, while still being with our girl. So many  places, filled with history and meaning. Each day brought a new experience and unforgettable memory. For us it was important to experience her culture this long to truly try to get an authentic feeling or understanding, and education of Ethiopia. There were certain days and experiences that have truly changed our lives forever. One thing is certain, not only did we return with our daughter but we returned with precious experiences, some that have changed our lives forever.

One day we took the Post Office kids to lunch at Sishu, they have best burgers EVER! These kids have tried to turned their lives around through attending school and setting goals in life. They were excited, and we were honored to meet these boys.

On the balcony at our guest home, an early morning. Everyday was another incredible adventure.

We will never forget the opportunity the time this allowed us to get to know Mawerdi, the things that make her happy...among the list...dancing to Bob Marley

 We visited a real Tukul near Sodere, it was amazing craftsmanship.

As we told our friends in Ethiopia, Ethiopia will always have a special place in our heart and home.

"Don't wait until everything is just right. It will never be perfect. There will always be challenges, obstacles and less than perfect conditions. So what. Get started now. With each step you take, you will grow stronger and stronger, more and more skilled, more and more self-confident and more and more successful.”

 Mark Victor Hansen"