Happy 8th Birthday Zahara Jolie-Pitt!

Name: Zahara Marley Jolie-Pitt

Parents: Brad Pitt & Angelina Jolie

Date of Birth: January 8, 2005

Siblings: Maddox, 11, Pax, 9, Shiloh, 6, and 4-year-old twins Knox & Vivienne

Facts:

♥ Zahara was born in Awasa, Ethiopia, Africa

♥ She was given the name Yemsrach by her birth mother but it was later changed to Tena Adam by the orphanage. The name was based on the local Amharic language’s name for Ruta (a green spice used in Ethiopia to flavor coffee).

♥ Zahara was adopted by her parents from the Addis Ababa, Ethiopia orphanage when she was 6-months-old

♥ She was mistakenly believed to be infected with the AIDS virus but future testing proved that she was in fact not afflicted

♥ After the trip back to the United States, Zahara was hospitalized for dehydration and malnutrition

♥ Although the media reported that Zahara’s biological mother Mentwabe Dawit wanted her back at one time, she actually denied this claim, stating: “I have never disputed the adoption of my baby by Angelina Jolie. I think my daughter is a very fortunate human being to be adopted by a world famous lady. I wish them both all the success they deserve.”

♥ She has enjoyed playdates with fellow A-list kiddos Kingston & Zuma Rossdale

♥ She likes horseback riding

Quotes:

“She was such a beautiful thing. As soon as I saw her I thought about adopting her. When I came back to the office the next day, she had already been taken. I have been thinking about her ever since, but I suppose I could have never offered her the life she will have now.” – Sosina Yeman (a worker at the social affairs office in Awasa) on baby Zahara.

“Both Angelina and Brad held her and looked lovely with her. They looked like a happy family, like any other couple that comes and visits. Brad looked very comfortable holing the baby, like a proud father. We are always sad when the children leave because they are our children and we love them but I know she will be going to a very good place.” – Sister Lete (Zahara’s caregiver in the orphanage) on Zahara’s new parents and her feelings once Zahara was gone.

“Those late nights are so fun when one of them’s up or those mornings when they get up and make pancakes or something. That’s what it’s about.” – Brad on those special moments that make the craziness worth every second.

“Zahara’s got an extraordinary voice and is just so elegant and well spoken.” Angelina on her first daughter.