Africa...

In early November, I decided to take advantage of the fact that my sister was a mere four hours away (and capable of providing free lodging) and make a quick trip to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.  It was a very short trip (we're talking, arriving at 2 a.m. on Friday morning and departing at 3:30 a.m. on Sunday morning) but we managed to pack quite a lot into the time we had.

Tourist stops at the Ethnological Museum of Ethiopia and Addis Ababa University, St. George's and Holy Trinity Cathedrals, Entoto Mariam and Yod Abbysinia (for a feast, singing and dancing) completed the cultural portion of the trip.

Next, it was time to stimulate the local economy, something my sister and I excel at. I was being very careful to stay within my size limit (a carry-on suitcase and very large "purse" AKA beach bag). I came back with many things I didn't know I needed - jewelry, a table cloth, Christmas tree ornaments, honey, stationary, scarves and some spices. Oh - and an eight foot by four foot rectangular rug (more about that later).

It was a fantastic trip and one that I think was meant to happen - I was literally on the last two flights between Amman and Addis Ababa. Luckily me - British Midlands International ran the route just long enough for me to spend the weekend with one of my favorites.