Dirty, Different, Spicy, and Green

Heidi and I headed up to OHSU yesterday to meet with Robin, one of the chief residents of internal medicine. Robin had traveled to Gondar almost two years ago to work at the hospital, and Heidi and I wanted to sit down with her to try to get a sense of what to expect.

She was very enthusiastic, animated, and generous with her time. It was truly a joy to experience a kind of 'real-world trailer' to the adventure upon which we are about to embark through Robin's memories and impressions!

She was also cool with me taking my first video for the blog... and for that I will always be grateful. Cheers to you, Robin! I hope to buy you at least a yard of beer when we get back...

At Robin's suggestion, we rounded out the evening perfectly with a traditional Ethiopian meal at 'Bete-Luka's' on 50th and Division to prime ourselves for the culinary dimension of our journey... a graceful shift from your traditional fare, both in flavor and technique. 

No silverware... One large plate... and a beautiful pinwheel palette of colorful dishes that you scoop with your right hand in pieces of bread called 'Injera', and deliver to your eager taste buds with glee and enthusiasm. The flavors are classic and new at the same time... onions, garlic, ginger, and chiles dancing together in bold rhythm! This cuisine is already a new love.

Thanks so much to Peter, the owner... Your warmth and kindness were received with equal satisfaction to your wonderful food!