Day 3

On Tuesday we went to the National Museum, which was really interesting. I was amazed that there were so many things that were so ancient that were just behind ropes, not enclosed in glass, etc. It once again goes to show the respect that Ethiopian people have for things, that it's not really needed....although I am sure there are probably some issues with preservation, etc. We saw "Lucy", and lots of artwork, artifacts and robes and crowns from various Emporers. The best part was that our driver, Wendi acted as our tour guide and told us the meaning behind things and why different pieces in the museum were important. I am amazed at how much symbolism is involved in the culture.

We enjoyed just driving around and looking at the sights, and once again spent as much time as possible with the kiddos. It is weird to be in the "receiving" room so much of the time. We expected to spend more time actually seeing the normal goings on of the orphanage, but were pretty much asked to stay in one room.

We crack up every time they bring her to us: she is always dressed in like 4 layers, with a huge sweater and stocking hat....and it is 65 degrees. They keep talking about the cold weather--but to us it feels like spring! It is nice to walk around with a t-shirt and not be cold....

At night we went to a traditional Ethiopian restraunt, and were in for a real treat. We had the full experience, including honeywine (which none of us enjoyed so much), injera with all kinds of different dishes, and our host, Aster even fed us the last 2 rounds of the meal. We were treated to entertainment and dancing, and even had to get up and dance at one point in the meal....Quite a good laugh....and of course had some delicious coffee and popcorn at the end of the meal.

It was a definite "tourist" restraunt, but a good time, and a fun experience.