CHRISTMAS IN AFRICA

Christmas in Africa isn't the same or even remotely similar to Christmas in America. If Ethiopia celebrated their Christmas the same day as we did, it would at least feel more Christmasy...but as it is, they won't celebrate Christmas, which they call, "Genet" until January 7th. There are no Christmas lights, no Christmas trees, no commercializing of Christmas whatsoever. It is actually quite nice! We celebrated with some American friends here by singing carols, sharing a meal, praying, and exchanging small gifts that cost no more than 10 birr (1.20). We played board games and cards and watched movies either brought by us or traded with other Expats. It was relaxing and fun, even though we missed our friends and family. The rest of this week we returned to homeschooling. We are putting in a solid two weeks before hoping to travel to Addis and further south for a much-needed vacation. We hope to be swimming, chasing wildlife (in a 4wd of course!) and trying out the hot springs as far south as Arba Minch...very far from where we are now! Still, something about seeing donkeys strolling around with packs on their backs reminds us of the FIRST Christmas long ago, when Jesus first entered the world! Camels, donkeys, people dressed in traditional clothes with head coverings and shawls, and the simplicity of life here have all made our holiday very special and memorable. And the sparcity of emails from friends and family even reminded us of what we DON'T MISS about America....the busy hectic pace that sometimes accompanies Christmas! Nope...don't miss that at all!