The passing of Haregewoin Teferra.

Hi Everyone,

I found out this morning about the sudden passing of Haregewoin Teferra. For those that read “There is No Me Without You”, you’ll recall Haregeowin’s efforts to help the HIV-positive children of Ethiopia. Worldwide Orphans has taken custody of the 42 children in her care. Melissa has written about the current state on her blog. I thought you all would want to know.

http://www.thereisnomewithoutyou.com/blog?op=view&id=63.

What an amazing woman…she changed (saved) the lives of many children. I feel a real sense of loss today. For those that have adopted from Ethiopia, I’m sure you share my feelings that the suffering of the Ethiopian children feels like the suffering of my own child. They are like our extended family and she was there to care for them when I couldn’t. It sounds a little odd but it really hits home. Perhaps it’s that subtle reminder that, no matter what state my mind puts this situation, the reality of it remains. It's a crisis my heart can't take in all at once. Anyway, I thought you all would like to know.

Blessings,
jen

Her first tutu

Okay, so with the winter rains and such, I signed up Amara for a little ballet class with the Parks and Rec. (There is so little offered for those of us that have to work, btw...totally bitter about that. AM classes only, little to nothing on the weekends or late-afternoon. What is up? That's another post....grrr) Anyway, I didn't need to buy a tutu, no, I didn't need to buy a leotard, no, and I didn't need to buy tights. But I did. I'm not a foo-foo chick with Amara at all but, I have to say, seeing the little ones float around like butterflies is enough to make anyone smile, no matter what your day was like. Such sparkle, imagination, flight, splendor and possibility in their eyes. It's enchanting really. So, with her tutu, I had to video. We put it on for Papa when he got home from work. If you watch him in the background, you'll see oodles of laughter. He was beside himself, struck with the cuteness factor being off the charts. Enjoy and happy dancing!