I am the True Vine

     Viticulture was a prominent part of life among the Israelites.  When Jesus said, "I am the true vine . . . ye are the branches" it was a comparison to grapevines to emphasize our dependence upon Him (John 15:1, 5).  Without Him we can do nothing (John 15:5).  But He will provide nourishment to our spirits.  He will strengthen us.  With Him we can do all things (Luke 18:27).  

     With my new camera, I can post occasional photos along with gospel messages that include plants.  This is a first.

     I will maintain this blog for the sake of my book.  Spring in the Holy Land provided some lovely shots.  But, I returned with about 40% of the photos of plants that I need.  I'd like to return for harvest time.
     One concern is that over the weekend, three Israeli teens were kidnapped and killed by Hamas (Palestinian forces).  Each side is firing missiles which, may or may not effect any travel plans to that region.  I checked the tours (the only method with which I feel would be safe travel) and there is an LDS tour leaving the end of Oct.  For now, I'm deeply embedded in the research and compilation of the research I already obtained.

     This experience taught me about how much I appreciate things in America that I took for granted.  Things like; safe and unimpeded travel, freedom of speech, women's rights (and restrooms), civilized men, children's rights and advocacy, government garbage removal services, clean and un-littered streets, shopping, grocery and food needs, refrigerators, OCEA, the FDA and other building and safety agencies that protect the public from unscrupulous individuals, traffic laws, agencies designed to protect historic sites and, the list goes on . . .
The American flag is the mightiest, most benevolent symbol on earth.  "I'm proud to be an American where, at least I know I'm free.  And I won't forget the ones who died, who gave that right to me."  Happy 4th of July three days ago!  This is a picture of my nephew Max saluting the flag at our 4th of July parade activity.  Way to go Max!      

 

At the going down of the sun behind the ancient pyramids of Egypt I rejoice in this Middle East journey.  We leave at the end of this day and I may not have the chance to write again.  Our plan is to take a ferry along the Nile River.  Our flight leaves very late tonight.  I bid farewell to my unexpected friends throughout this region.  They will always be in my heart and prayers.  And, as for my book, I suspect it will require more expeditions before it is completed.  Adieu.      

Pyramids

Hi from the Pyramids of Egypt!  

     Today we took a taxi to see the famous Pyramids and Sphinx of Egypt.  The camel ride was a tradition we couldn't pass up. Pictures never do things like this justice.  These ancient edifices are spectacular!  

Dead Sea and Cairo Egypt

Our final day of our study abroad was spent on an excursion to the Dead Sea where, you just lay there and float on the water.  I took a camel ride into the water.  We'd heard that a Dead Sea mud bath is luxurious and will soften your skin so, we smeared it all over us. 

Early this morning, seven of us boarded our one-hour flight to Cairo, Egypt.  We're staying at a wonderful Marriot hotel and this is a view of the Nile River from our balcony!!  The traffic is horrific and the city is insanely crowded.  There are millions upon millions of people.  But this hotel is exquisite! 

It's hard to believe our journey is almost over.  I'll be home in 3 days!!  So much to share.

Delicious Dinner

We spent our last evening in Jordan sitting in a circle around one of the most delicious dinners with Luma's family at their home.  The neighborhood/camp where Luma grew up was bustling with people, warm and welcoming. It was a really fun night.