We arrived in Ethiopia around 11am today. When we went to board our flight we were notified that we had been upgraded to business class. It was a great way to start the day! When we settled into our seats the other person in our row said, "Are you Kate?" It was one of our America World families who recognized me from the blog. So Allison and I spent part of the flight talking and getting to know each other. I could get used to the business class life- it was wonderful!
We were right at the front of the plane so we were quick to get in line for our visas and exchanged money very easily. After we passed through passport control we went to baggage claim. We kept waiting and waiting for our bags to come out. And then we waited some more. Two of our four bags arrived safely and we're not too sure where the others are. Unfortunately for our physical comfort, the two bags missing are the suitcases that contain all of our clothes and
everything I brought for Mathios. We filed a claim, tried not to get too upset and are praying that they will arrive on the flight from Dubai tomorrow morning. Please pray that they get here!
We were met at the airport by the tour company that works with our agency and were brought to the guest house. It's comfortable and clean and we have wonderful suitemates. We have private bed and baths and share a common area with a kitchenette. Sara and Shane, our suitemates, invited us to go sightseeing this afternoon. So just a few hours after we arrived we were driving through the wild streets of Addis Ababa up to Entoto Mountain. We visited a small Ethiopian museum (had a great tour guide), saw the oldest Orthodox Church in Addis Ababa and walked through the old "palace grounds." The views from the top were breathtaking and the history of this country is amazing. It was a great way to spend our first afternoon in Ethiopia.
As you can see, we have internet access and we're so thankful for that. This emailed post is coming to you from the comfort our own room. We just finished up dinner and are ready for bed. The last 2.5 days have been exhausting and we've got a big day ahead of us tomorrow! About the time you are getting up, eating breakfast and starting your day we will be meeting Mathios! We are truly amazed that this day has finally come. So what if we don't have clean clothes to wear- we get to meet our boy! Let's see if I can keep this attitude tomorrow if the bags don't come!
We're doing well, though we're pretty exhausted from traveling and now suddenly being at 8,000 feet or so of elevation. Hopefully a good night of sleep awaits us; we know that tomorrow will be great!
4 comments:
I am SO thrilled that you have internet access! What a treat! So glad you arrived safely. We have been praying for your arrival and will continue to pray for the lost luggage. Our luggage got lost when we were traveling to Greece a few years ago. We had to wear the same clothes for 2 days and finally it arrived. So I feel for you! Keep the updates coming...can't wait to hear all about your meeting with your sweet baby boy!!!!
I am so glad you are able to update your blog. It's exciting to be able to share in each step of your journey. So sorry you are without clothing. We'll be praying that they will make it to you quickly! I will be thinking and praying for you as I get ready for work tomorrow. Great things will be happening! Can't wait to hear all about it!
Wonderful! Thanks so much for updating. I'll make sure Reagan and I pray for you and Cale as you meet Mathios the same time she eats breakfast. And we'll include a plea to the Lord for your lost luggage to arrive, too! Can't wait to read more updates when you get a chance to write.
I can go to bed happy now knowing that you will be meeting in a few short HOURS! Can you believe it?! And since you've got Internet connection- there's a little something special on my blog (from Friday) just for M. Miss you and can't wait to hear the next installment soon.
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