Mehaber and Minnesota Zoo

This past weekend we took a trip to Minneapolis to attend this year's EKC Mehaber (picnic). We left a day early so we could enjoy some family time which involved shopping (okay, maybe that was for me) and the Minnesota Zoo. Maya had a great time seeing all the animals including the Africa exhibit where we saw giraffes and zebras. Maya also saw a tiger, a bear, and the dolphins. After the zoo, we met up with Trish and Doug and their adorable daughters Lexi and Olivia. We traveled with them to Ethiopia almost 2 years ago.

Here Maya is ready to hit the zoo with her hat and sunglasses

Maya got close and personal with the bear

I was busy reading an informational sign when the tiger walked right past me. The only thing separating us was the piece of glass. Amazing.

The Mehaber was an all day affair on Saturday. Activities included the Merkato (market place with all sorts of neat things pertaining to Ethiopia), dance performances, kids activities, lunch, and meeting/visiting with other families. We were lucky to meet fellow bloggers and other friends we have met throughout the adoption process. We had so much fun and Maya did really well considering she had no nap.

Here is a picture of Maya and her friend Lexi. They had so much fun playing with each other. Too bad we live so far away.

Group shot of Trish, Doug, Lexi, Olivia, and us.

Family Photos - love this one.


We can't wait for next year's Mehaber. Hopefully more of our travel group can make it as it is a great time to reunite and keep the Ethiopia tradition alive. At our good-bye ceremony in Ethiopia, we were asked to raise our child as an Ethiopian American. Dave and I made a commitment that we will do exactly that as Maya should be proud of where she came from and who she is. She may love McDonald's and Dora but hopefully she will also love Ethiopia. I know we do.