Tel Aviv, Jaffa, and Caeseria

What a day. I can't begin to tell you how much we have learned and how much fun we have had.  We started our tour in Tel Aviv. Walking through the Carmel Market was a sight to behold. The food...spices, fruits, vegetables, fresh meat, and fish sent us on sensory overload. It was beautiful.

From the Market we went to the old port of Jaffa. This port is where Jonah was swallowed by the whale. The Mediterranean Sea is beautiful. Although it was only in the mid 70s, it was HOT!!!!!

We traveled to Caeseria where we visited the National Park and viewed ancient ruins.

The best part of the day was an excursion to a winery and then a dinner at a Mediterranean restaurant.

Leaving on a jet plane. Don't know when I'll be back again!

Today I am leaving for Israel and Jordan and yes, I do know when I will be back;however, I couldn't resist a little John Denver ditty.

This trip has been in the making for almost 2 years. It  was postponed  in March so I could be here for the birth of our third grandchild. So glad I had that time with my sweet family.

I have read multiple books, studied maps, and read Scripture in preparation. I am more than a little excited.

Back in 1967 my great aunt and uncle traveled to Israel. For Christmas that year, they gave me a beautiful mother of pearl Bible from Jerusalem. I have treasured that Bible, and so began a yearning to walk where Jesus walked. Now almost 50 years later I will be walking the Via Dolorosa, visiting the birth place of Jesus, seeing where Jesus was baptized, floating in the Dead Sea, riding a camel, and so much more.

We are hoping we have adequate internet service to post pictures and blog. Once we arrive in Jordan, the internet service is pretty sketchy;therefore, I will probably be posting pictures and the last blogs once I arrive home.

So many people have asked me if I am afraid. NO! My friends who made this trip in March said they felt safer in Israel and Jordan than on trips across Europe. So as we travel Psalm 91:11 will be my prayer. "For He shall command His angels for you, to guard you on all your paths."

I hope you will follow our trip and enjoy reading about the journey. See you stateside November 14th.