Nazareth

To get across into Israel from Jordan was quite the adventure. Our Jordan driver Jamil coached us well on the process and the scams. Proved an uneventful experience; however, even I was taken aback by the extreme security measures. Worst than the old Check Point Charlie (going from West to East Berlin during the cold war). Full bags checked, a grilling by a beautiful but very intense Israeli customs/immigration woman. It took over 2 hours... and there were very few people there so I can't imagine what it's like during the heavy tourist/high heat season.

Our Israeli driver/tour guide was waiting for us with a cadillac and big smile when we finally got over to Israel and drove us to Jerusalem where we stayed for a few nights.

As it turns out, Nazareth is inside the the West Bank controlled by the Palestinian Authority. So, our Israeli driver dropped us off just outside the entry control point (as an Israeli Jew he is not allowed in) and Mauria and I went off for yet another new adventure. Security going into the West Banks was not as tight as expected.

Our Palestinian driver (Israeli citizen so he was free to drive between the two areas) took us into Nazareth and I was pleasantly surprised by what I saw: a bustling population, stores, and no apparent signs of gross poverty/war. The Nazareth where Jesus is born is most preserved and I imagine generates much income for the Palestinians so they are most protective. Our Palestinian guide spoke impeccable English and proved most knowledgeably even considering Mauria's very astute questioning. She was thrilled with him, I learned a lot. Pictures:

#1: The Franciscans (Catholic Monks) have bought up many of the religious sites over the years and have done just a beautiful job preserving them and telling the story giving access to all. This picture depicts St. Francis and I thought it most beautiful.

#2: For some reason, I just never thought about Mary nursing baby Jesus so this portrait just took me aback.

#3: Mauria standing before what is believed or could be believed to be the location of Jesus' birth. I learned stables here are not like our barns but were caves... that makes a lot of sense to me now too.

Big surprise for the next blog I think you'll find exciting, but you'll have to wait