Airports

When you get to Ethiopia, hurry and get in the visa line. After the visa line, go to the bank if it is open and exchange money. All money is exchanged at the same rate no matter where you go, so you might as well do it here. Speaking of money, bring 2004 bills and newer. You have to have 2004 and newer for the embassy for sure. You might be able to get away with older in other places, but I wouldn't risk it. If it is closed, you can exchange some money to get by until you go to the Hilton. Then go through customs. Stand in the line on the left. The line on the right is for people traveling through Ethiopia on their way somewhere else (I believe this is called a transfer visa), the line on the left is for people who are staying in the country. (It is a much shorter line.) Then go to baggage claim and through security. Yes, you go through security to leave the airport.

In Dulles, go to the line on the right, the one for American citizens. This counter is both customs and immigration. When it is your turn, you will give them your super secret envelope that you got from the embassy that you are not allowed to open. They will stamp some stuff inside and give it back to you. Then go to baggage claim and get your bags. After that you will have to go off to the right and hand your envelope to the worker there. Then you have a seat and wait for them to call your name. I don't know exactly what they do, but at some point they call your name, give you the baby's passport back, and say you can go.