Hi all!  The internet is working again today so I can send you some photos. My last two posts have been from an internet cafe, where I used a different computer, so I wasn't able to add photos.

Today I have photos from a wedding I crashed on Saturdya.  Yes, it isn't only in the movies that people crash wedding!  Actually, it was the reception, on the seminary campus, in a yard surrounded by hedges. But I was so curious to see what was happening that I tried to get in.  A student we know went and asked someone from the wedding if I could come in and take photos, and so I actually got permission.  The last photo in this row is of two Oromian women dressed in their traditional gowns for the wedding.  I asked to take their photos and they were very pleased!  They really did look beautiful, and I love that the best thing they can wear for a special occasion is their tribal dress.

You can see that a stage was built in the yard, with draperies hung to surround this platform where the bride a groom sat.  They had big chairs, almost like thrones, of white with white upholstery. In front of them is a framed photo of the bridal couple, and during the reception, all of the guests go up to greet the bride and groom and sign the photo with their good wishes.  There was a large buffet table with food for the wedding guest, and they lined up to partake.  Injera, wat and some deep-fat fried vegetables and perhaps fish were served.  One of the photos is of a group of older women sitting eating. They too are wearing traditional garb and look so lovely.  There was a platform built out in the center of the reception area, with a very tall tiered cake. It actually looked like a bunch of little cream puffs piled on one another, tier after tier.  The bride and groom climbed up onto the platform and fed a piece to each other while everyone stood around and cheered.

After eating, the music started, very loud and piped in. I'd say world rock was the species. The dancing started and they were at it for several hours. I went home, so didn't take photos of that in the dark.

I see that I have now had more than 500 hits on this blog. I am overwhelmed, and so grateful that I am able to share our trip with you in this way.!  I am now going to post another one with photos from our weekend sightseeing.

Love to all, Carolyn