I have not had access for several days, I really have a lot to say!

Friday

Started our day on the Pilgrim Steps or Southern Steps, as the are sometimes called. These are the original steps that the everyday man would have used to go up to the temple. The prayer and sharing time there was sweet. Afterwards, we had a private time of prayer and reflection at the Western Wall. Those of you who gave me your prayers, they were place in the wall and prayer was made.

We went to Rabbi Moshe’s shop and what was to be a few minutes talk turn into quite a discourse. The Rabbi sure likes to share. I set outside with Meir and caught up on his family.

At sundown we went back to the Western Wall so we could experience the bringing in of the Sabbath. Music, Dancing and Prayers! All kinds of people! Many of the athletes that are participating in the Maccabian Games were there with there wearing their country’s colors.

Saturday

Packed up and headed to Bethlehem. Our guide, Ibraham, an Arab Christian,has a masters degree in Sociology, and works with handicapped adults when he is not guiding a tour. He has only been guiding for about 3 years. We went to the Church of the Nativity and Shepherds Field. We ended our day shopping! I got to see my Friend Mary. She is doing well and was glad to see me back (as I was to see her). Michael, owner of the shop now owns a restaurant called The Crystal and we ate lunch there. It was located in a small mall and was very good.

On to the Dead Sea! As we stepped off the bus the HEAT slapped us in the face. If hell is a place of intense heat, I don’t want to go there. Everyone’s room was ready but ours, so by the time I got to our room I was beat. Thanks to whoever invented air conditioning.

Sunday

MASADA-one word says it all. I didn’t go up, but the group did beat the heat. They were back by 11:00. Made a stop by Qumran (place where the dead sea scrolls were found) and a quick over view at Bet Shean (Roman City). Arrived in Galilee, and check into the beautiful Scot’s Hotel. Lovely place!

Monday

What a way to start the day with a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee! The weather was perfect, a slight breeze and no waves. Our friends Alex and Tova were both at their shop where the Jesus Boat (Galilee Boat) is on display. They were very busy (this is good), but they took time to visit with our group. They have a new display about the beginnings if the State of Israel. The photographs are so inspiring. You could see hope and perseverance in their eyes and smiles.

Tuesday

We stayed at the hotel while the group went to Nazareth and some places along the way. Thomas and I walked around Tiberias. It really makes one appreciate the land in which we live. I went into a grocery store (security at the door) and found prices a little higher than ours and we definitely have a larger selection, well, of everthing. That being said I did find on of my favorite teas! Had some lunch, a sandwich called a Scottish Club, it had a fried egg among other things on it. Surprisingly good. There is a beautiful pool area with covered pavilions. We spent an hour and an half there.

Typing this as dinner is done and the sun is setting on another beautiful day in Galilee.