Catch up 2

We arrived at Kidane Mehret, unsure of what condition our little girl would be in, if she had gained any weight or height, if she was still sick, or what she was ill with. Knowing her size, however, meant we'd had to spend a small sum on new clothes-- newborn clothes, 0-3 month clothes. We'd brought lots of formula, clothing, medication for her bottom. Prepared to spend 7 days in Ethiopia, we'd packed clothes for ourselves as well :)

We walked the steps up to Kidane Mehret. Much like most spaces in Ethiopia, the outside belies what the inside holds. Through an old painted gate, we entered a garden haven. Up curving steps, and into an opening filled with school-aged children playing, laughing, enjoying each other, spending time with the nuns who laughed, played and conjoled with them.

We were introduced to the head nun, Sister Lutgarda, who ushered us into a small and cramped room with an old couch, pictures of Jesus Christ, crosses and all about children's clothing, toys and supplies. We signed the guestbook as we waited for Soly to arrive. Soon, another nun made her way in the room, holding a tiny baby girl, head capped in a white hat. She wore white tights, a white turtleneck and a summer jumper with a giraffe on the front which said, "Mommy Loves Me!" She greeted us with a toothless, brilliant smile.

That smile has lasted to today. No matter how ill, even while throwing up, Soly will flash you a brilliant smile which makes you feel as if the world is forever going to be okay and fills you with joy.