Wednesday Evening

I am late posting today.  We got into our Hotel Room at the Sancta Maria around 12 am this morning.  Had a delicious supper at midnight.  Fell asleep soon and had to get back up early to start the day.  We had a very good breakfast and then headed out.  Our first stop was to walk up the the Church of the Nativity.  It was nice-our group had a good time going up to the Church.  .  Got through quickly.  Bert Gary did a good job providing information about the Church.When we arrived at the
church it ws almost empty.

Then we went out to the Shepherd's Fields.  Visited two Churches and had a wonderful experience reading the story from scripture about the shepherds hearing the announcement of Jesus birth.  We visited two beautiful Churches.  Saw some great artwork.
Lunch was a real teat.  Ate in Bethlehem at Dollars.  I say they have the best Chicken sandwich in the world!!!!!!!!!!!

Following lunch, we headed out into the wilderness.  Our first stop was the Heriodium.  The palace fortress of King Herod.  What a great sight to see and climb. 

BTW--Tim and I are  still waiting for our luggage.  Packing tonight to go to Galilee will be easy-We each have our backpack. 

Then we headed to the "Tent of Nations", where David and his family have lived for over 100 years.  The "Tent of Nations" is about peace and justice.  We listened  his story about how David is trying to save his land.

Finally headed back to the hotel to eat and pack for Galilee.  Tomorrow we will see the Sea of Galilee.  That will be a great blessing.

I know it is only around 9:00----but I will say good night!!!!!!

Before we board

Tim arrived and we got in line at the Jordanian Air check in.  We are blessed to be able to sit together on this wonderful experience.  While standing in line we met a girl from Beit Sahur who was traveling back home after visiting her sister.  I told her we had a group the will be staying in  Bethlehem and she thanked me.  She was so pleased there were people coming to Bethlehem.  I understand that it is a great blessing for pilgrims to go to Bethlehem.  It helps the moral of the people and the economy of the region.  She also reminded us that they are still celebrating Christmas. 

 Getting through the scan was interesting.  A lot of people at the same time.  But there were no problems.

Our group is sitting here after eating and just waiting for our flight to board.  Going to be a long night but one I know will end with a lot of excitement and joy.  Israel-Here we come!

Music Time in Chicago

Finally figured out how to add my music and videos to my HTC Rezound.  I had to download an app for both.  Having the time in the airport has really benefited me.  Now I should have music and vidoes as I fly to Jordan.  

Monday afternoon-Chicago

Made it to Chicago. The windy city, snowing and cold. Found out on the flight that my mp3 player is not working correctly. Only s small problem. Had to walk forever to pick up my luggage. Then got on board the train for terminal 5. Found Jordanian Air. All set to go. Had lunch and now feeling like a nap. Found out that there is no free wi-fi in the airport so I bought access for 24 hours. Going to sit around text call and facebook until I meet up with Tim. It going to be a lazy afternoon. Can't wait to get on board for Jordan

Monday in Knoxville

Got up early after having very little sleep.  Thanks to Beth who brought me to the airport this morning.  I am so excited about this journey.  There is for me much anticipation and about going back to the Holy Land.  There are many place I will revisit and many new places to see and experience.  Going to be a great trip.  Already thinking about all the things I am going to buy at Johnny's, 

Going to be a long day.  Because of my round trip ticket, I will be in Chicago almost 10 hours waiting for the international flight.  I am flying United to Chicago and Jordanian Air to Jordan.  Wont be in Israel until around 12  midnight Tuesday.