Cross-posted from Ryan’s blog.
We’ve been having all sorts of new experiences and fun here in Addis. Yesterday afternoon, Nesibu and Birtukan took us over to the golf club but I was then able to take Nesibu out for a round of golf. We played nine holes and had a caddy. Nesibu had never played golf before, so we went out and just alternated holes. The caddy was a golf pro of sorts, so he helped give tips along the way and we had a fun time over a couple of hours playing some golf.
Last night, we returned home and began to get Julia around for bed. Nesibu had told us on Friday that they would be slaughtering a lamb and he had brought one home before we went to the golf club in the afternoon. As we were changing clothes, we heard the bell for the courtyard door ring and shortly after, the sound of blades being sharpened outside of our window. Nesibu came to our door and asked if I wanted to come and see and then take some pictures. Honestly, I was a little reticent, but I went out for the festivities. Nesibu and the butcher held down the lamb and cut its throat while Edu and Rahi, the smallest boys, and myself watched and took pictures. The rest went ahead and stayed inside, which I honestly can’t blame them for!
Over the next couple of hours, the lamb was butchered and prepared for the feast that we’ll be having in their home today. This is quite an honor for us to be able to stay here and be with their family. Normally, they would be with their families and, I’m told, serve over 50 people on the food that we will have today. I’m sure I can make up a little bit of the slack there, but it is going to be quite a feast!
I didn’t take pictures of the most gruesome scenes, but did take a couple of action shots anyway. Here is the butcher and Nesibu just before the slaughter and then Nesibu and Nati butchering the meat and preparing it a couple of hours later.
