Abeba Faith and her dad, Justin Darling Justin and Melissa Darling announced in December they would bring their Ethiopian daughter, Abeba, home in January. After flying 18 hours to arrive in Ethiopia to finally meet her and then another 20 hours to get her back home in Carroll County, Abeba Faith is secure in her new home. However, the trip was not without obstacles.

According to the new parents, Abeba did not immediately warm to them.

"She was scared to death," said Melissa. "She likes oneon one attention. The orphanage couldn't provide that. She was found abandoned and no one knows how long she wandered the streets before she entered a government-run orphanage. Then she went to our agency's orphanage."

"That first day - she wouldn't let me touch her," she continued. "She screamed for two hours solid at first. But with each day, she becomes more comfortable with us and around us. We are adjusting to each other constantly."

The couple remained in Ethiopia six days readying Abeba for her new life in the United States. They were also given the opportunity to visit other orphanages in the area, the American Embassy and to enjoy local cuisine. However, even that was startling to them.

"The people of Ethiopia consider all Ethiopian children their children to care for and protect," Justin explained. "If a baby cries at a table, it is an accepted practice for the waitress to pick the child up and take it with her to other tables and wherever she is going."

The Darlings were given the opportunity to photograph another child destined for a local couple awaiting the adoption date. Those images became very special for those new parents.

"That was very special," Melissa said.

The Darling family, including Hannah, Eli and Israel, report Abeba is settling in to life on their farm after arriving Jan. 17. She plays with her new siblings, has a hearty appetite and is learning the English language.

"She is trying to figure out who her mom and dad are," Melissa said. "She is very independent due to survival instincts."

"All Americans should visit Ethiopia," she continued. "It makes you look at things differently."

The Darlings consider themselves advocates for international adoption. They offered to speak to civic groups, service clubs, churches and other groups to share their adventure and the message about adoption. To schedule a presentation or to inquire about their experiences contact them via the Internet at www.solas4me@gmail.com.

Justin kept a blog of the experience which can be viewed at www.solas4me.blogspot.com.