July 8

Capernaum; Church of Nativity and International Mary Center and lunch in Nazareth; went to a Basilica on top of Mary’s house; so far!  Then we were too late to get to Zippori to see the beautiful mosaic uncovered there called the Mona Lisa of the Galilee, (it closes at 4), so on our way to our restaurant in Caesarea, Amos took us to see some other Mosaics and a gorgeous beach with an ancient water aqueduct.

While at dinner, it was fantastic and I’ll add the pics I took from my phone at some point to this blog) it was obvious that the   bombings were increasing in nature and severity.  Our guide was very busy on the phone ensuring our safety and well-being but it was obvious the concern on his face.  He, never the less, took excellent care of us, and, of course, got us to the Tel Aviv airport and we left with no incidence.  However, shortly after we left, bombings increased and Israel has had to set up for a major defensive which will mean that our Guide will also be recalled to the Army.

Such a sad way to leave, especially knowing I left my son behind.  We really do take our freedom and safety for granted in this country.  I pray for Peace for Israel.  We all witnessed their efforts for coexistence and Peace.  We saw first-hand the mis-reporting that goes on and how hard they work to prevent casualty except in a defensive posture.

I am still processing this trip.  I will blog a final post I’m sure, without pictures, but with so many reflections…..

God Bless America; and Israel; and humanity….. OX

GO IN PEACE…the last photo I took in Israel.  I pray for Peace in Israel.

apparently I took a picture while putting my camera away!!!  our feet aswe board the bus!

On way in to our restaurant, saw this pic of an ark?!

The moon as it was rising during our dinner on the Mediterranean Sea

Copharnaum – they say on the sigh the Town of Jesus, but it is actually Peter’s home town; Jesus spent a lot of time here, he came back here often, but it’s really Peter’s town!

archological columns found from the synagogue in Capharnaum

they have uncovered all sorts of ancient mosaics in many places we’ve gone.  INCREDIBLE.

Walking in NAZARETH…we’re heading toward the Mary of Nazareth Center

NAZARETH is now a Palestinian town who survives almost solely on tourism, yet they have this huge sign sort of insulting everyone who doesn’t believe in Islam (sort of biting the hand that feeds them!)

Beautiful mosaics at an area just outside of Caesarea, on the Mediterranean Sea
A Roman Era Water Aqeduct – how they managed to get water to/from everywhere in the dessert is amazing.  This sits at what is now a gorgeous beach
our trip organizers/leaders.