Time to go...

We have all our documents in hand and are preparing to leave Ethiopia.  It is so bittersweet as we have come to love and respect so many of the people we have met as well as this amazing country.  Mekdes seems to be doing well, but how much does she really understand of what is happening to her?

In the airport a lovely man in line with us for Ethiopian Airlines took off his cross necklace and gave it to Mekdes.  He said she will continue to be blessed in America.  This was so touching to us as we have encountered some negative responses from some of the Ethiopian people regarding our adopting Mekdes.  

One of us must keep a hand on Mekdes at all times in the airport as well as in the plane as she has become a runner!  A huge smile crosses her face as she realizes she has escaped our grasp and the exciting game of chase ensues.  I must admit this "game" is mentally and physically exhausting!  She met a young boy on the plane who was completely infatuated with her.  He kept coming by our seats to give her a hug and a kiss and offer her gifts of various kinds.  Shawn, of course, did not find this the least bit endearing!

This huge tube full of people sure is bizarre!

After 24 hours of travel....we are home!  She is completely fascinated by everything she sees and adores her sisters!  Mekdes continues to only eat bread and bananas, but we are hoping she will open her pallet up to some new tastes as the days go by.  

We are so blessed!  My heart is overflowing with love as the sounds of five beautiful girls giggling with unleashed delight fills the air!

Our five wonderful girls in front of the  "Mekdes tree".