We spent 2 weeks in Ethiopia with Laura- several days in Addis Ababa, the capital, and then about a week in Awanno, her village, about 7 hours south of Addis.

A fistula patient

These fistula patients loved Laura, being instantly awed that she was a foreigner that knew their language, and wanted to spend time talking to them. She had at least 25 of them captivated. It was so cute!

In the middle of (somewhat grimy) Addis, there was a mock Starbucks. It felt very out of place, but very much like home!

Typical street traffic in Addis... ugly spray painted sheep and goats that roam around the city. Who knows where they graze...

Down in the village, we spent time at the clinic...

.. and the vet clinic

We taught a kids' Bible club with the vlilage children, many of whom have had little or no exposure to a school setting.

We loved our traditional coffee ceremony, watching the hand roasting, grinding and brewing of the coffee. So good!

Picnicing with the locals during a field plowing day, including injera (the big sourdough pancakes) and sauce, and then coffee with salt and butter.

Visiting...

At a nearby "waterfall" (mudfall?)
It's beautiful there now, as it is rainy season, and everything is lush and green- gorgeous!

Laura, Misha, Vicky and Claire
Claire has worked at the clinic for about 15 years, and is a very skilled and compassionate nurse!