I took this shot two short days ago.
My journeys have taken me to Ethiopia,
meeting up with my friend Nancy and her family.
Nancy is the blondie standing behind her grandson.Her daughter-in-law Iman is 100% Ethiopian.
She served as the guide & interpreter for this little troope of explorers.
We experienced 1st-hand Ethiopian hospitality from her extended family.
(This loaf of bread was made in our honor!)
Three kisses on the cheek = standard greeting
From her family members = 5 to 7 cheek kisses
Even strangers were extremely hospitable.
We encountered this trait over and over again.
Our travels took us rambling all over the country.
People, again strangers, welcomed us into their homes.
This little boy shared a traditional Ethiopian welcoming song and dance -
Ethiopian children WON MY HEART!
Most of them work incredibly hard.
Ethiopia is one of the poorest African nations.
However, poverty hasn't stopped the smiles and laughter
ever-present in this country.
The girls generally carry the wood for the cooking fires.
The boys herd the goats and cattle. Even very young little guys.
This child had those big ole cows in the palm of his hand with a flute!
The tiny tots get to ride on the backs of their mamas.
(And sometimes on the backs of their next older sibling!)
What a spectacular place!
So grateful for the invitation from Iman and her family.
Too many experiences for one little blog post.
So I'll tuck them under my sleeve and save 'em for later.I'm on my way to Greece in the morning and it's getting late.
5 comments:
You. You. You. Climb DOWN from there!! Don't know you know that too much wonder can boil your eyes out???? How can such a beautiful place allow such terrible poverty? But how can such great privilege bury the greatest and sweetest and most quiet blessings? Send me more. I must see more and more and more. I am amazed. I LOVED the boys' song. I wish there was no violence there - that these things could be lovely and without danger. You = you are the adventurer. I am the home keeper. I wish I had your energy of soul.
WOW!!!!! Arian and I both looked at this, awed by everything you've experienced. We're speechless. We look forward to hearing more!
MOM,
Duane and I are astounded as well. You really saw these things!!!! How Amazing!! I can't wait to see more posts - you've done an amazing job keeping a picture diary of your journey.
Simply Amazing. Duane and I are relieved to see your post (knowing now that you are allright) and amazed at your travels. I can't wait to hear more.
Love,
Duane, Kelty, and Rella
Amen to what all you rkids have said. WOW! I am amazed and can't wait to see more pictures!
Have fun in Greece!
Pictures are amazing. Amazing. But I am so happy you captured the welcome song and the flute. Wow. I'm speechless. Can't wait to talk to both you and Nancy.
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