We met Melat!

Hi All….this is Kristine, we have had a very busy day along with very little sleep.  Our first stop for the day was to Melat’s orphanage.  We were welcomed by  five of her friends.  We barely got through the gate when four older children ranging in age from 6-13 came rushing up to us all wanting hugs.  We found out that they are a sibling group and are waiting for their adoptive parents to come back and pick them up.  It’s a good thing they already had an adoptive family because I was ready to take them home myself.  Little Melat came running up to us after the older kids were finished getting hugs.  I sat down on the ground and she came right to me with her arms held up for her hug.  It was so percious and she was just a little sweet heart.   I got a sucker out and handed it to her and she was all smiles after that.  She did great with Greg especially when he got a balloon out and they played a little game.   She has the best belly laugh and loves to be held.  She is a little peanut for being three but seems very healthy.  We will go again tomorrow and hopefully one more time before we leave.

While we were at the orphanage we had our first coffee ceremony.  This is a tradition that is done for special guest or events, we were very honored to share in the ceremony.   Greg even tried the coffee, which is something I have never seen him do.

After the visit our guide took us to get coffee and chat with him and the social worker.  We then went back to the hotel and chilled out for an hour.   In the afternoon a driver came to pick us up and took us to a local market.  I had fun shopping while Greg carried all my purchases.  The vendors were great and I got better at bargaining with them by the end of our shopping excursion.

We are now back at the hotel relaxing and trying to stay awake at least until 8:00.  The jet leg has really set in for both of us.   We want to be ready for tomorrow.  We will be going to see the lions in the morning, then more time with Melat at the orphanage and then out to dinner and a show with our in country guide.

Annierae and Ja we miss you and hope you are doing well.  I know that the two of you are going to love having Melat as a little sister!!!  Hugs and kisses to you both!!!

-- Kristine (6:47PM Wed, 12/14 Ethiopian time)