Missing Ethiopia

A few days ago, through the magic of the internet and the thoughtfulness of internet friends, I was able to see some new pictures of my baby girl. Along with those pictures was a great view of other places outside the transition house, in and around Addis Ababa. When we were there we met a mom who has been in Addis for a few months with her new daughter waiting for the embassy to get their paperwork done. While I know that she would much prefer being at home with her family all together, I know she is experiencing Ethiopia in a way that is truly a gift for her and her daughter. It made me think about the kind of trip I thought I would have and the one that actually happened.

I spent hours researching Ethiopia. Lalibela, Gondar, the Blue Nile, Lake Tanna and other amazing places. Even after making the trip plans and knowing our time was short I thought I'd get to see at least a little of what I read about. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed every minute we got to spend with Katy and all of the kids at the transition house. I can't help but think though, that by not going anywhere else, I've let her down a little. Some day, she'll ask about her country and I won't have anything to share except the road between the guest house and her transition house and pictures that other people took on their trips. I know the purpose of my trip. To meet her and go to court. I get that and did that and loved it. And yet, I feel like I didn't see what it means to be in Ethiopia, experiencing the country and the culture and it makes me sad for her.

Needless to say, the change jar is out and getting filled in anticipation of another trip someday. When she's old enough to remember, we'll be able to go back together and really experience her country like we should have the first time.