January 14, 2014

We had a relaxed morning and were out of the house by 9:00.  We visited Eyerusalem at her home and guest house.  She has become a friend of Kathy's since they stayed with her 5 years ago.  It was a lovely visit.  She had coffee, tea, and cookies for us.  We sat in her garden and visited for some time.  She was so kind.  Her home is beautiful and full of antiques.  She shared her amazing stories with us about her home and family history.  It was fun to be so pampered by her and her staff.

The new stage and mural for weddings and events

 

Wonderful lunch

 

Beautiful garden

We left there and stopped at Muya, an artisan shop nearby that Eyerusalem had recommended to us.  We found lots to buy.  It was our first chance to get any of the things we wanted to take back with us.  Next was lunch at Lucy's, the national museum restaurant.  Doro wat for me! 

 

After lunch we headed to the boy's shelter.  They had been waiting for us.  We were glad to see our friend the sheep still grazing on the lawn, but we had only been there long enough to snap a picture with him before he was led to the back corner and slaughtered.  There wasn't much warning, but we did know that they had been waiting for us so they could prepare us this special meal. 

 

 

The boys built a fire and they cooked the meat on a large skillet over the flames.  Roasted sheep.  I got to stir it a little to help with the cooking process.  I tried one piece.  It wasn't bad, as far as sheep goes, but I couldn't eat more than that.

 

 

 

 

After the meal was over we moved our benches into a circle and played a Bible trivia game, which was a totally embarrassing experience and another game I think they made up.  It was truth or dare  - more or less.  We laughed and laughed.  It was a beautiful sound to hear all the laughter as the evening came closing in.  It began to get cool, but I didn't want it to end.

 

The boys sang us a song and we prayed for them.  It was dark and cold before we were done.  We had to say our goodbyes then.  It was hard to leave the boys.  Some were crying and they hugged us all.  I wish we could have spent more time with them.  We promised to come back.  I hope to see great progress in their education and growth when I see them again.

By the time we got home I was not feeling well.  It is the first time I can say this so I am thankful for that.  Early bedtime for me in hopes of feeling better by morning.  We are going to Holeta tomorrow!