Back in Addis

Okay, so I will have to post the hippos chase photos later. After visiting Eden, checking out the city of Awassa, and taking a luxurious lake cruise, we returned to Addis Ababa to spend a few relaxing days in the city. We looked at a place in Addis to live (too big), and visited Bambi's and Friendly's, both pretty decent grocery stores. It was great to just chill in one place for a couple of days before heading home. While in Addis, we also visited the ICCM sponsored study center for AIDS affected children which has a preschool program as well as a lunch/tutoring program for elementary aged kids.

Feeling at home and acting goofy!
Kaldi's Coffee is Ethiopia's answer to Starbucks. Here you can get the usual...in addition to milkshakes, ice cream, and humburgers. (not a typo)

Down to the logo and green aprons...the similarities are striking

(no High Speed WI FI, however).

One of the challenges in Ethiopia, children working when they should be learning.

Children begging, when they should be sleeping.

The view from the hotel in Addis...This was a nice neighborhood, government offical homes...embassies, etc.

The bookstore across the way from the hotel. Indian owned, this store had many text and reference books, and if you are a good customer, you can take coffee or tea.

The traffic of Bole Road.

Why would people take a picture of a huge chunk of Grana Padano cheese...or a Coke Light or Coffee Mate? Because they offer the familiarity of home and because we are just goofy like that!

FM Emmanuel Light and Life church in Addis Ababa.

Subject to flooding.

The soundbooth inside the church, for bad sound guys, who need to be locked up. (Not good sound guys, like the ones at Lamb's). Oh and chair cusions , too.

Tim with Getu and Pastor Megbib.
Starting to say our good-byes for now. This is Tsega; she is the bookeeper/accountant for the Ethiopia FM Churches and also helps with Childcare.

With Lois Meredith. Lois has faithfully served as a missionary for 39 years and continues on (even though she is 'retired') volunteering in Ethiopia with ICCM.
Timmy says "good-bye" for now to Hibret.

The joys and sorrows of a long flight home. It was bittersweet and we look forward to our return in a little over 75 days or so. Thank you for taking this blog journey through Ethiopia with us. Until we return, we will keep you posted of our travel and packing plans in the interim!