Day 5 in Ethiopia (Lori)

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 Day 5 in Ethiopia

Sidama, Ethiopia
 
Today started with a monkey trying to steal our food. One of the workers threw rocks and shook a sick to try to scare him away. When we were almost done and Daniel was alone at the table, the monkey came up and stole some bread. I think that made Daniel excited.
 
After breakfast some of the family came to see us at our hotel. We made photo books for Tamenech's grandma and sister. Everyone enjoyed looking at the books. They were laughing at one of her hair styles, smiling at others, comparing themselves and telling me how she looks like them. They looked at the books over and over again. The books were such a big hit. Everyone wanted their own, but I only had two. Tamenech brought her Polaroid camera and she took some pictures with family so they could take the picture home with them. They loved it.
 
We brought out some soccer balls, and they all gathered around. Some played (futball) aka soccer and some played volley ball. They were playing so hard and really having fun.
We went into town and had lunch with some of the family members. Tamenech is a happy girl, she has had Ehiopian food almost everyday. This was a real treat for her family as they don't get to eat out and have soda. It was really nice having lunch with them.
 
In the afternoon, more of Tamenech's family can to see her and hang out. Again we got out the soccer balls. At one point there were four different balls being used. There is a language barrier but it didn't stop them from having a great time. The conversations go from Sidama language to Amharic, to English, and back again.
 
While Tamenech was hanging with her family, Daniel was off with the driver Mr.Gold playing soccer with some kids in the street. Our sound like they had a great time.
 
Our trip hasn't come without any road bumps or family dynamics, but we are just loving on everyone the same. Tom and Yonas should be named Peace Keepers of the Year.
 
We have learned so much this trip. We all know that we couldn't have done this with out Yonasand Mr. Gold. They are amazing in every way. Yonas might need to be paid double for all he has had to navigate on this trip.
 
Tonight we had dinner, and are just taking a little time to relax. It is amazing, but it can also be overwhelming. This culture doesn't know about our American personal space. We have been hugged and kisses thousands of times.
 
Did I mention, every hug come with about 10 kisses and the hug lasts a really long time.
Tonight, we are packing up our bags. In the morning the family will come over one more time for good byes and then we will leave this area. Tomorrow is going to be a very hard day, so please pray for Tamenech.
 
We are so very thankful for this experience and there is so much more to come.
 
Tom and I couldn't be more proud of Daniel and Tamenech. We have experienced so many new things, learned tough things, been put in tough situations, and they have handled things with such maturity and grace. This is truly a once in a life time experience.
 
Thank you for all the love, support, and prayers.
 
Tamenech even got a big scolding from her Grandma for sitting on the ground next to her grandma's chair. Her Grandma was not happy she was going to get her pants dirty. Tamenech told it was alright, but her Grandma just lectured her more. We were all laughing and Tom told her to get up and respect her Grandma.

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