Sunday

In the clouds.

Today was our last day in Ethiopia, until I receive US Embassy clearance to bring Gemechu to the United States. We left the northern mountainous region around 9:15 and drove thru the clouds to the Monastery. It was a beautiful and very holy place; we witnessed both a funeral and wedding ceremony during our 2-hour visit. We took a tour with a well-spoken guide. Before we were allowed entry, we had to review the lists of requirements to the actual monastery and cave… no menstruating women, no intercourse for either a man or woman in the last 48 hours, no photography. Then we were allowed to enter sans shoes and view the interior, it was beautiful, well preserved and obviously a prize possession to the Ethiopians. Men and women were separated inside and a curtain was placed to block the woman’s view of the altar.

Monastery

We then trekked up a very rocky and steep incline to view the cave. The elevation was so high it was difficult to climb. Many people were making this trek to the top….an ill man was partially carried to the cave to bath in the holy waters at the peak. Inside a small cave at the top, a monk prayed and holy water flowed. Many Ethiopians collected the holy water and carried back down the incline….indeed a treacherous task.

Rocky Climb

We left the monastery and heading to a traditional lunch in a restaurant with a beautiful view. Along the way we saw a honey farm, which was also home to hundreds of monkeys. Ethiopians have a very potent drink made from fermented honey called Taj- we tried Taj and we referred to it as the ‘crazy orange drink’, because it could sneak up and get ya really quick.

Bees & Monkeys

Addis Ababa from the mountain.

We then headed back to Addis, a beautiful drive with gorgeous views of the city. Since the new family had not yet met their son, we were lucky enough to tag along for an additional orphanage visit. I must state that it is a true privilege to witness this first meeting between parent and child. We were so fortunate to witness all the families first meetings and it was a gift. It is a comfort to know how much the caregivers love these children. When we arrive, some of the caregivers stop in to witness the family visit and to share in the happiness. I gave and received many hugs and kisses today. As I was playing with my little guy today, he was batting at my face…. the caregiver in the room looked right at Gemechu and said “oh no no no Gemechu no hit mama’s face”… then she proceeded to make him giggle aloud….leaving is tough, I cried all the way back to the hotel, but I know he could not be in better hands, unless they were mine.

Gemechu