We're Going Back!!!

...to Ethiopia, that is! OMG, I am so excited!!!!! The idea has been thrown around the last month or so but now it is a definite YES. Kimberly, Brad, myself, and a few others from our church will be making the trip in June (specific dates to be determined but will probably be leaving June 4th). I never thought we would be going back this soon...but since I will hopefully be moving there in September-ish, what a wonderful opportunity!

Ethiopia is such a beautiful country - not in just physical beauty but in culture and beauty of the heart. It is so exciting that others want to experience Ethiopia but also that I can be a part of it with them! I don't know what the Lord will have for us on the trip....I'm sure it can be nothing short of intense, yet amazing adventures. This second time traveling will probably take on such different emotions for us, with it being almost 2 years later and the kids not being in tow. I can't wait to help plan the itinerary and hopefully do some of the things we weren't able to last trip - like ALERT leprosy hospital, lunch at Dreamland, and Gladney's cultural dinner. Illness and stressful emotions seemed to get in the way a bit of engaging in all the activities planned for us back in September 2008.

I have to admit though....I think I'm most excited about seeing my Tamrat again! He has changed SO much since I first met him, and I can't wait to throw my arms around him again...in fact, I think I might have a problem letting go when I actually do see him!! He is just the most precious thing ever, and I couldn't feel more privileged to be called his mom. What can I say? I'm a proud mama. :) I mean look at this face...

"We are the World"....take 2

Like everyone else, I loved the original "We are the World" collaboration in 1985 and was so excited when I heard that they were going to remake the song! I think some of the artists they chose are a little random, but I was definitely not disappointed with the outcome. With all the new developments in my life, the song itself and the purpose for recording it have taken on a whole new meaning for me. Coincidentally, the Hope for Haiti benefit concert aired Friday, 1/22 - the exact night I decided I would probably move to Ethiopia. I had just made the decision, turned on the tv for a brief distraction, and this video had just started playing. I immediately fell back into tears, to say the least!