Day 1 and Done!

We are done, as in exhausted. Any of you who know Laura, know that when we got here we were into action.

Today we hired a driver and saw a few of the sights here in Addis. Our first stop was at the Ethiopian Museum and Library of the Institute of Ethiopian studies. It really was an old palace on the grounds of the Universtiy that was made into a museum. We couldn't take pictures inside, but got this one of a popular monument.

The monument was built in honor of Ethiopia's victory over Italy in the 1940's. The stairs represent each year of Italy's fascist rule under Musolini and the Lion of Judah (symbol of Ethiopia's Monarchy) sits victoriously atop the final step.

We were also able to visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, which is considered the second-most important place of worship in Ethiopia.

It is also the final resting place for Emperor Haile Selassie and his wife. They were celebrating a holiday today as you can see the decorations. Many were outside praying at the doors, some even kissing them. Inside, was even more spectacular with it stained glass windows and ornate design.

After that we finally turned in picking up some bottled water at a local grocery and eating here at the guesthouse. We also have finally met almost everyone in our travel group. It is a wonderful group, very friendly and fun. We look forward to spending more time with them.

One last picture to give you an idea of life in Addis, this is one view of the area we are staying taken from our balcony.

And after I post this message, the lights will go off for a hopefully restful night of sleep. As you know, tomorrow brings such joy, the day we have for so long waited and dreamed of.