ISRAEL

I know it's been more than a month since my return from the Holy Land but I wanted to share my thoughts and a few pictures so my children can experience my perspective more. First of all, let me say the trip was no ordinary vacation and has changed my life, such as in the way I perceive the Savior, the sacred reverence in partaking the Sacrament, and the shock of cultural difference in the Middle East. My mother was my companion and we made a perfect traveling pair, helping each other out with pictures, things to remember, schedules to keep, and enjoying each others company. We traveled many hours by bus, but while in the city of Jerusalem, we walked for hours. In each setting, I was overcome with the significance and reality of the life of Jesus Christ. Here I am at the River Jordan as the site where Jesus was baptized. It was a powerful and personal witness of His mission as I felt the Spirit in that holy Garden of Gethsemane (picture) and at the Garden Tomb.

The cultural differences, security checkpoints, and typical Israeli food were all part of the experience that I will never forget. The food really got tiresome as it was always the same for lunch and dinner. We were so glad to get back to the States and have a hamburger and fries. The picture of the fence separates the countries of Israel and Jordan. It's better than our defense at the Mexican border! I'm making a hardbound picture book to include all the sites visited and special experiences we had. There are so many pictuers and I could only show a few here just to give some flavor of the trip. I also plan to have Kaylinn help me make a CD with all the pictures so share.

With the burden of moving into my home and working, I wasn't looking forward to a trip to Israel. I didn't like the idea of being away from home where there was so much to do as I was still trying to get settled and unpacked. But I must say now, it was the most rewarding trip I have ever had and has strengthened my testimony of my Savior, in His mission and His Gospel. I am so grateful my Mom prompted me to go because I wouldn't have gone on my own accord.