Thank you Ethiopia

As our time in Ethiopia draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on this extraordinary adventure. This country has changed my life forever. Its two native babes have given meaning to my life that is deeper than I could have ever imagined.

1. First and foremost, I will be eternally grateful to the two selfless women who gave birth to my boys - then made a painful decision, in the hopes of a better life for their babies. Their sacrifice is my gift. In their honour, I will make sure these kids actually HAVE a better life, and develop into men full of love and happiness who truly care about people, the world and especially, each other. I will help them both discover as much about their history as they wish to know.









2. I am grateful to the local people I have met on this journey. Each one has helped me to gain a deeper understanding of this complex yet peaceful nation. They are kind and beautiful - both inside and out. Despite their hardships, they are industrious and proud. I have been welcomed warmly and firmly believe I have their blessing. I often hear “thank you” or “God bless you” or “lucky boys"......the truth is, I am the lucky one. I say this with all sincerity. I did not save my boys. My boys saved me. Meet some of the locals....
















3. I am grateful for the opportunity to spend 15 weeks in Ethiopia welcoming Levi into our family. Being on his “turf” for this transition has been beneficial in so many ways. We were able to visit both orphanages he lived in for short periods of his young life. I was able to gather invaluable information about him that has already helped me to be a better mother. Our long stay in Addis has also provided the necessary time for Luke and Levi to truly bond as brothers, without any outside distractions. This, in itself, as been priceless. Here is a picture of Levi and Beletu Asnake, the director of the orphange in Addis where I met Levi for the very first time.



4. I am grateful to the people who cared for LUKE before I arrived here in 2007 and became a mother for the first time. Reuniting with some of his caregivers, after almost five years, was one of the most exciting and satisfying parts of this trip. Having them at his baptism was also incredibly special. Here are two photos of Luke and Geday Buzuneh, the woman who ran the orphanage where Luke lived as a baby. The first photo is from March 2007 and the second from October 2011. As you can imagine, Geday was overwhelmed with emotion and was so proud of her little baby Luke!





5. I am also grateful for technology. The communication I have had with all of you (via blog comments, emails and face book chats), has been greatly appreciated. In addition, and with your help, I was able to make a difference in the lives of some kids who are really struggling, right here in Addis. Living on the continent most successful at producing babies yet least successful at producing food, poses serious challenges when it comes to food.

6. Finally, I feel blessed to have been born in Canada and into the family I am a part of. I am privileged and I know it. I fully realize that not many can even entertain the idea of international adoption, let alone complete two. The support of my family and close friends has made all the difference. I also thank my maker for giving me the patience, mental strength and open heart needed to make my dream a reality.

To all those involved in this adventure, directly or indirectly, I say....