odds and ends

So, I just got back into the country yesterday. Hubby and I went with my dad to Israel for 10 amazing days. It was my first time to Israel, and my first time anywhere in the Middle East. Awesome! I'm in a bit of a jet-lagged, post-vacation fog at the moment, but eventually I'll settle back into a routine. I'm in the middle of a book right now (Settlers of Catan...yes, it's inspired by the board game) and thinking of seeking out some good Middle Eastern literature for my next read. Also, anyone knowledgeable about oud music and musicians? I heard some while I was there and loved it. 

In the meantime, here's a list:

Rugged mountains

Banana trees, date palms, olive groves

Floating in the Dead Sea

History come to life

Lots of people in small spaces

Stone

Wading in the Jordan River and Sea of Galilea

Beach day in Tel Aviv

Scarves

Pottery

Hebrew

Arabic

Shawarma

Falafal

Pilgrims

Walking and people watching

Bazaar

Gardens

Churches

Shevet Achim

Community