We definitely improved our market experience today with the help of our guide Sami. We were actually able to find the craftsman weaving traditional Ethiopian baskets, identify the smell of Frankincense, and broaden our understanding of how spices (some unique to Ethiopia) are used in local food.
At the National Museum we met Lucy. And yes, the archeologists that discovered her did name her after the Beetles song. Ethiopians refer to her as Dinkinesh which means "you are marvellous" in Amharic. Dinkinesh--fearfully and wonderfully made. You are Always in my Prayers. Love Mom.
We have arrived in Addis Ababa and the adventure has begun. Our guide doesn't join us until Friday so this is our chance to muddle about on our own. The weather is in the 80's and the Ruppell's Weavers are hiding in the blossoms constructing nests just outside our door. We managed to visit the Ethnology Museum on the Addis University campus and order a delicious and thrifty meal while not knowing a word of Amharic. We arrived safely back at our hotel with only one encounter with an unscrupulous taxi driver (to be fair--we took an unmetered cab so we handed him the opportunity). Oh, and lane markings appear to be only suggestions! The hotel is fabulous and the rooms massive. They obviously have a preference for hard mattresses. Thaddeus referred to the beds as simply being elevated boards. Ray has already been offered chat (not the conversation, but the mild narcotic chew). Given our jet lag I don't think we will need any help sleeping tonight, even with the 'firm' mattresses. You are Always in my Prayers. Love Mom. |
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Ray & Diane
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