Just before it all happens

Wow! It has been 12 yers, 5 months and 26 days since the last time I flew to my country to see my family. As many of you know, I haven't been able to go back home for several reasons, since that memorable summer in 1996 when I last left Addis. Jeez, I feel old.
Last time I was back in Ethiopia, I was but a skinny, pimple-faced, young boy. At 18, I had just finished my second year in the college before going back to Ethiopia for my first visit since leaving in 1994. That was probably the best summer of my life. I spent most of it with my brother Workineh and my very first true love of my life, Aberu (ie. Madré, as Oved would say - sorry for the cheesiness).
I am now sitting in my apartment, all packed up and ready to go and yet feeling unprepared. Anticipating, excited, worried, sad...so many emotions. Leaving a loving girlfriend (Margo) and a beautiful city behind. Luckily, it will be easy to go to 75 degree weather (Addis Abeba, Ethiopia), so to leave the cold and bitter Fall in Portland is a Christmas gift in and of it's own, but leaving the presence of the person who has given me a great year to remember will be difficult. The rest of you, namely Paul, Oved, Boyett, BOB, James, Lui, Josh, Brett and Joe Connweezi (that's your new nickname now Connell), I can definitely do without for the following 4 weeks (jk).
Well folks, I hope you will keep reading my posts as I update you on this journey of mine. This is a trip with a few significant firsts for me; First time to meet my two special nephews, daggi and gogo!!! First time to meet my sister in-law. First time to see my dear mother in 12 years. First time to visit my brother's resting place. We all miss you Worke.
Needless to say, it will be a very emotional trip for me. I hope that through my words and pictures I will spark an interest in you to someday visit my home and my country.
Stay tuned folks...and thank you for being part of my journey.

ps. I'll be on facebook too, so be sure to post some comments there as well. Love + Peace!