After classes, chapel and lunch we headed to the Athens Museum. DiMy made a scavenger hunt sheet to keep us occupied and they set us free in groups to find all the objects listed. Being on a mission made it go quicker. Without freely exploring, however, I vaguely remember what I saw. I am one of those girls that gets great joy out of checking something off a list. I will honestly write "Check off this item" on a sheet of paper just to feel that satisfaction that results when that pencil makes that small dip and dramatically flares up at an angle. Check! Even better is drawing a line through it, erasing the stress from your memory. I always get cracked up at Lauren because her checklists are quite humorous. She will put "play volleyball today" on a sheet of paper and she will have other reminders up and down her hands, arms and legs..okay, maybe just hands. Somehow we always seem to check off "play volleyball" but we neglect homework and laundry..hmm...go figure!
In the museum, I did enjoy the gold jewelry from the Mycenean period and just the jewelry in general. A lot of it I would honestly still wear today. Lots of browns and turquoises, my favorites! I also found the huge head and arm of Zeus very fascinating. The arm was this massive stone, with defined muscle and a clenched fist. Its size reminded me of the Ramses II statue in Memphis that was so massive. I also loved the statue of Zeus/Poseidon (they're not really sure which one it is.) He is so detailed, every muscle you're supposed to have he had and he had his arms in the air like he was throwing a spear. He was kind of handsome. I'm not going to lie. Since their statues were their ideal forms of the human body, did people work out trying to be like them? I mean-- I do hundreds of ab crunches in vain trying to look like Jessica Alba. Did guys back then hit the gym saying, "Man, I'd do anything to look like Zeus-- the one at the temple. I've been working out for months now trying to get his six-pack."
I also saw the famous Mask of Agamemnon, which was neat since we have studied about him and took a trip to Mycenae. We also saw the Linear B tablets. Maybe I'm just tired-- but those are the highlights. I might add more later if I have an epiphany during the night. Haha.
I dreamed that I was in the Athens Philharmonic marching band last night and Tony was purposely trying to sabotage our performance. I was almost in tears as I begged him not to ruin things! Haha. I guess I really do miss marching band. :-)
I am trying to sign up for classes for next fall and it is scary. I'm fixing to graduate. Eek. I am hoping that everything will work out and I will graduate on time. We are also trying to finish last minute projects and plan for free travel. I feel like I am not helping much with the free travel thing-- I am just not inclined in the areas of travel. (It took me years to figure out how to make it around podunk Paragould..and I still have left some land unexplored..) I am trying to do my best-- which usually involves finding hostels and other simple tasks. Lacey has this neat little itinerary on her computer-- she is so creative and saavy in things like that! :-)
Well, take care! Love you guys!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Incense Headaches and Passing the Torch
My super long day started with a trip to the Greek Orthodox church service at 7:30 a.m. Our Humanities 201 class went as a "cultural experience." I sleepily stumbled into the church, but my senses were violently awakened. No sleeping in Greek Orthodox services, my friend! The smell of weird candles fills the church, as each member buys a candle and lights it. I can deal with candles. The smelly part comes later. We spread out a little bit and sit in different places as not to take someone's spot by clumping together in a mass group.
Two orators begin to sing/chant ancient Greek to each other. Calling back and forth, it seemed to be somewhat of a contest. The guy on the right side was a younger man with a stronger, more professional voice. The one on the left tried to keep up, but he was an older man with a weak voice that got slightly off key at times. Because I couldn't understand it, the melodic chanting almost swayed me into sleep. Two large priests stayed back in the holy room separated by a curtain, but you could still see that they were up to something. One of them looked like Santa Claus, with a sparkly white robe with a cross on the back and the other looked like Hagrid from Harry Potter with a large robe with Jesus' face printed on it. I, in no way to be mean, honestly wondered how they were going to fit through the little door that led to the common area. They were probably the fattest men I have ever seen-- and I'm not just saying that. The time comes for them to do their part of the ceremony and they come out with a silver book, which I'm guessing is their Bible. All of the people line up and kiss the book and the priest's hands. Speaking of kissing objects, when they all walk in-- they kiss all the icons around the church. There is probably not one inch of wallspace that is not decorated with the face of a saint. Jesus is painted on the dome of the church and when you look up there are doves flying back and forth in the dome!
Santa and Hagrid's second job was to bring out the incense. I have gone blank on the name of the percussion instrument, but it was a string of bells that the priest would shake around the audience and incense would emerge in puffs of smoke. He did this several times and I got a headache from the smell of it. That was about the highlight of the service; when we left, they were making a big spectacle out of a wreath with roses in it. They walked around a table three times and we left before I saw what the spectacle was about. It was interesting, that's for sure.
We ate at TGI Fridays for Danielle's birthday. It was delicious! I had the best Oreo icecream dessert ever! I spent quite a bit on food, but sometimes it's worth it to splurge. I finished up some souvenir shopping in the Plaka since we only have one more Sunday left! Isn't that hard to believe?!
At 3:00 we went to the Olympic stadium to see the passing of the torch from Greece to Beijing (where they are being held). It started with the marching in of the guard, who were decked out in their peasant type outfits, tights and fancy shoes with a huge fluff ball on the top of them. They kick their leg high in the air and follow with a dramatic raising of their right arm. You hear a loud clack from their shoes and seconds later, their arm dramatically shoots up in the air. (On a side note, Mandy and I marched just like them down the street when they were marching back to their post. It was quite a ways down the street! Lauren was so close to them that she could hear a guy breathe.)
After the soldiers marched in, I heard a familiar sound. A sound that caused a stirring in my soul and caused my heart to beat slightly faster. You guessed it. The Athens Philharmonic Marching Band!!! You don't realize how much you miss a certain feeling until you haven't felt it for quite some time. Hearing the crisp, sharp sound of a good march made me swell up with pride even though it wasn't even my anthem they were playing. They played while the President came in and played the Beijing and Greek national anthem. The true excitement came as we saw an athletic lady running in with the torch. She was going quite slower than I pictured, but I guess too fast of a pace would destroy the flame and make the important moment over in seconds. She lit the altar-type thing and it ignited into a huge burst. Everyone clapped. There were a lot of speeches made and the torch was handed over to the Beijing Olympic director. He then made a speech and as we all know, Chinese people and amplifiers do not mix well. I felt like I bonded with the Greek people on one thing: we both found it hilarious that he screamed in the abrasive Chinese language. Someone take away the microphone!
These priestesses did this strange dance around the torch and that was part of the program that I didn't quite understand. Pretty women in togas carrying olive branches added that Greek touch to the festivities, I suppose. :-)
It was neat to be a part of a history that only comes around every few years. To be where the games originated was such a neat experience! When I watch the games in August, I can remember that I saw the torch being passed!
It's been a tiring day-- I am going to do some homework and hit the sack as fast as I can! We have a long day tomorrow-- after class, we're visiting the archaelogical museum in Athens.
Love ya'll! Thanks for reading!
Two orators begin to sing/chant ancient Greek to each other. Calling back and forth, it seemed to be somewhat of a contest. The guy on the right side was a younger man with a stronger, more professional voice. The one on the left tried to keep up, but he was an older man with a weak voice that got slightly off key at times. Because I couldn't understand it, the melodic chanting almost swayed me into sleep. Two large priests stayed back in the holy room separated by a curtain, but you could still see that they were up to something. One of them looked like Santa Claus, with a sparkly white robe with a cross on the back and the other looked like Hagrid from Harry Potter with a large robe with Jesus' face printed on it. I, in no way to be mean, honestly wondered how they were going to fit through the little door that led to the common area. They were probably the fattest men I have ever seen-- and I'm not just saying that. The time comes for them to do their part of the ceremony and they come out with a silver book, which I'm guessing is their Bible. All of the people line up and kiss the book and the priest's hands. Speaking of kissing objects, when they all walk in-- they kiss all the icons around the church. There is probably not one inch of wallspace that is not decorated with the face of a saint. Jesus is painted on the dome of the church and when you look up there are doves flying back and forth in the dome!
Santa and Hagrid's second job was to bring out the incense. I have gone blank on the name of the percussion instrument, but it was a string of bells that the priest would shake around the audience and incense would emerge in puffs of smoke. He did this several times and I got a headache from the smell of it. That was about the highlight of the service; when we left, they were making a big spectacle out of a wreath with roses in it. They walked around a table three times and we left before I saw what the spectacle was about. It was interesting, that's for sure.
We ate at TGI Fridays for Danielle's birthday. It was delicious! I had the best Oreo icecream dessert ever! I spent quite a bit on food, but sometimes it's worth it to splurge. I finished up some souvenir shopping in the Plaka since we only have one more Sunday left! Isn't that hard to believe?!
At 3:00 we went to the Olympic stadium to see the passing of the torch from Greece to Beijing (where they are being held). It started with the marching in of the guard, who were decked out in their peasant type outfits, tights and fancy shoes with a huge fluff ball on the top of them. They kick their leg high in the air and follow with a dramatic raising of their right arm. You hear a loud clack from their shoes and seconds later, their arm dramatically shoots up in the air. (On a side note, Mandy and I marched just like them down the street when they were marching back to their post. It was quite a ways down the street! Lauren was so close to them that she could hear a guy breathe.)
After the soldiers marched in, I heard a familiar sound. A sound that caused a stirring in my soul and caused my heart to beat slightly faster. You guessed it. The Athens Philharmonic Marching Band!!! You don't realize how much you miss a certain feeling until you haven't felt it for quite some time. Hearing the crisp, sharp sound of a good march made me swell up with pride even though it wasn't even my anthem they were playing. They played while the President came in and played the Beijing and Greek national anthem. The true excitement came as we saw an athletic lady running in with the torch. She was going quite slower than I pictured, but I guess too fast of a pace would destroy the flame and make the important moment over in seconds. She lit the altar-type thing and it ignited into a huge burst. Everyone clapped. There were a lot of speeches made and the torch was handed over to the Beijing Olympic director. He then made a speech and as we all know, Chinese people and amplifiers do not mix well. I felt like I bonded with the Greek people on one thing: we both found it hilarious that he screamed in the abrasive Chinese language. Someone take away the microphone!
These priestesses did this strange dance around the torch and that was part of the program that I didn't quite understand. Pretty women in togas carrying olive branches added that Greek touch to the festivities, I suppose. :-)
It was neat to be a part of a history that only comes around every few years. To be where the games originated was such a neat experience! When I watch the games in August, I can remember that I saw the torch being passed!
It's been a tiring day-- I am going to do some homework and hit the sack as fast as I can! We have a long day tomorrow-- after class, we're visiting the archaelogical museum in Athens.
Love ya'll! Thanks for reading!
Saturday, March 29, 2008
What the World Needs Now is Love
Though the whole trip for me was an emotional rollercoaster, the final day I could have been on a commerical for Kleenex. The whole 11 days we focused on the hatred that led to the crucifixion of Jesus, but on the last day we focused on a hatred that has happened in recent history: the Holocaust. Out of 13 million Jews, 1/2 of them were exterminated during World War II. Studying this in textbooks kept me at a safe distance from emotional reaction, but as we entered the Yad Vashem Holocaust museum that day-- I knew that I couldn't help but be changed. Even now, I tear up thinking about just how much I was effected by what I saw. The purpose of this museum was different than most-- it was to make sure that each and every person who was killed or helped save a life has a name. They are more than a statistic and a number-- they have names. The museum was very personal, with the people's belongings, stories and survivors testimonies displayed for all to see. Each person had a story, a family, a job-- they each had passions and hobbies. Those that put the museum together did not sugarcoat the monstrosities of the time period, but instead showed videotape that made me sick to my stomach. A part of me wanted them to make it better, to put it in lesser terms that would make me numb. The better part of me, however, is glad that they didn't.
I love quotes and right when you walk into the museum they had a large one posted that gave me chills. "A country is not just what it does...it is also what it tolerates." --Kurt Tucholsky, German essayist of Jewish origin. Isn't this so true? I think you could also replace "country" with "person." I realized that I may not be participating in evil acts of the world, but I am letting them happen. I need to make a difference.
Some of the items I remember most from the museum are stacks of Jewish books that would have been burned. The Nazis tried to demolish anything that represented their culture and ways of life-- and what does that more than destroying a nation's literature? There were children's books that taught children to hate the Jews and board games called, "Out With the Jews." It blows my mind that parents would teach their children to hate. They also had some of the bunks that they stayed in while in concentration camps and next to them had pictures of starving people with hollow eyes piled on them together. Next to this display, were worn jumpsuits of concentration camp inmates. For adults, they were about the right size for a 12-year-old child. The most chilling to me was the freight train cart that carted the Jews to Auscwitz. They had it, almost in its entirety, against one wall.
I walked through the museum alone for about 2 hours before getting to the last room. In the last room, are files of every name with most of their pictures hanging from above. Family members, friends and others contribute their family members to make sure their story is added to the Hall of Names. Avner told us about two sisters that found each other after 60 years because they both entered their parents and thought they were the sole survivor! I looked around at the papers that spiraled around me and realized that every thin piece of paper that made up a file-- that was next to thousands of other files-- was a PERSON. I had to get some fresh air so I went outside, where luckily there was a beautiful overlook. I peered over the edge at all the trees below (which are all named for people who helped house Jews to protect them) and had to take deep breaths for a while. Others from our group joined me, but we didn't talk very much.
I didn't think I could take much more, but Avner led us to the Children's Memorial. It was made 15 years ago by a couple in California that survived the Holocaust, but lost their 3-year-old son. It is in his honor and in honor of the 1.5 million children that lost their lives. There are five candles in a dark room, but mirrors bouncing off of each other make it seem like there are thousands. You stand in there while a woman reads off each child's name and age. A simple, yet appropriate memorial.
We ended the day by climbing a mountain, where you could overlook the place where David fought Goliath. This was also the part of the world where Samson lived. We read the story and got back on the bus to venture to the airport.
I think you can tell just how much this trip meant to me. I hope that I never lose how I felt in each spot. Love is such a simple concept, but I have never felt like I wanted to do it so badly. My mission now seems so clear, yet so intimidating. How do I love people enough to take away the hurt? How do I get other people to do it too? How did we let hatred take over to the point that it did? I don't know if I will ever truly grasp it. And that's why I need an escape and a Savior. Because I just don't get it.
I love quotes and right when you walk into the museum they had a large one posted that gave me chills. "A country is not just what it does...it is also what it tolerates." --Kurt Tucholsky, German essayist of Jewish origin. Isn't this so true? I think you could also replace "country" with "person." I realized that I may not be participating in evil acts of the world, but I am letting them happen. I need to make a difference.
Some of the items I remember most from the museum are stacks of Jewish books that would have been burned. The Nazis tried to demolish anything that represented their culture and ways of life-- and what does that more than destroying a nation's literature? There were children's books that taught children to hate the Jews and board games called, "Out With the Jews." It blows my mind that parents would teach their children to hate. They also had some of the bunks that they stayed in while in concentration camps and next to them had pictures of starving people with hollow eyes piled on them together. Next to this display, were worn jumpsuits of concentration camp inmates. For adults, they were about the right size for a 12-year-old child. The most chilling to me was the freight train cart that carted the Jews to Auscwitz. They had it, almost in its entirety, against one wall.
I walked through the museum alone for about 2 hours before getting to the last room. In the last room, are files of every name with most of their pictures hanging from above. Family members, friends and others contribute their family members to make sure their story is added to the Hall of Names. Avner told us about two sisters that found each other after 60 years because they both entered their parents and thought they were the sole survivor! I looked around at the papers that spiraled around me and realized that every thin piece of paper that made up a file-- that was next to thousands of other files-- was a PERSON. I had to get some fresh air so I went outside, where luckily there was a beautiful overlook. I peered over the edge at all the trees below (which are all named for people who helped house Jews to protect them) and had to take deep breaths for a while. Others from our group joined me, but we didn't talk very much.
I didn't think I could take much more, but Avner led us to the Children's Memorial. It was made 15 years ago by a couple in California that survived the Holocaust, but lost their 3-year-old son. It is in his honor and in honor of the 1.5 million children that lost their lives. There are five candles in a dark room, but mirrors bouncing off of each other make it seem like there are thousands. You stand in there while a woman reads off each child's name and age. A simple, yet appropriate memorial.
We ended the day by climbing a mountain, where you could overlook the place where David fought Goliath. This was also the part of the world where Samson lived. We read the story and got back on the bus to venture to the airport.
I think you can tell just how much this trip meant to me. I hope that I never lose how I felt in each spot. Love is such a simple concept, but I have never felt like I wanted to do it so badly. My mission now seems so clear, yet so intimidating. How do I love people enough to take away the hurt? How do I get other people to do it too? How did we let hatred take over to the point that it did? I don't know if I will ever truly grasp it. And that's why I need an escape and a Savior. Because I just don't get it.
Easter in Israel!
We also went to a church that was built where they say the last supper was held. This is the place where they had the Passover and also where they met after the crucifixion on Pentecost. (Matt. 26:17 and Acts 2 are references)
We got to visit the western wall (also known as the wailing wall) on two separate occasions. We visited on a Friday night before the Sabbath because we knew it would be busy and best display the religious practice that goes on here. It is sacred to the Jews because it is the remaining wall that is closest to where the temple would have been. We filed into the chaos, first going through security. When you walk in, the women go on one side of the wall and the men go to the other. There was a huge mob and you slowly made your way to the wall, sauntering between groups of Jews chanting, teenage groups singing Jewish songs and women walking backwards after going to the wall to avoid being disrespectful by turning their back. People have their books covering their face, soaking the words with their tears as they rock back and forth-- whispering softly to themselves. Many write their prayers to God on small pieces of paper and place them within the cracks of the walls. You can look up and see papers already filling about every slot. I wrote my own prayer down and placed it in the wall. Though I feel that God is always with us-- not just in a holy place-- it was still good to acknowledge my reliance on him by writing it down. So, my dear friends and family-- your lives and future have been placed in Jerusalem's western wall! :-) You're famous now. Haha.
I really enjoyed the markets within Jerusalem. The owners practiced their own advertising by shouting. They would compete with each other to get the customers. Buying a slice of pizza between two shops across from each other was one of the hardest decisions I've ever had to make. Haha. I bought two skirts and two scarves in the market, all of which I really love! Their shopping centers are divided into quarters-- a Jewish quarter, an Arab quarter, an Arminian quarter and a Christian quarter. I know I compare everything to Disney World, but it was like entering the different countries while still being in the same area as before. You would be exploring shops filled with men in top hats, black suits and a long beard and would look up and be in the Arab quarter, with 6 men with machine guns. Quite the contrast.
Along with the markets, the nightlife of Jerusalem was quite the contrast to the holiness of the day. Though I enjoyed the hustle and bustle and the music everywhere, the hypocrisy of human nature also became apparent to me. The same Jewish teenagers who were spilling tears all over their books at the wailing wall were the same ones with large bottles of alcohol in their hands, partying it up in the town square. The same goes for Christians and all religions, but it never ceases to amaze me how quickly we forget. Why do we set apart holy days and holy places, yet always forget that we are supposed to be carrying around holiness within ourselves? I didn't mean to get all preachy on you-- it's just something that always hit me as I stood there amidst the crowds. For those of you that know me, I have never really had an urge to jump into the hip, party-it-up culture that is supposed to be appetizing to the youth so many times I would just feel terribly uncomfortable and be embarrassed that I was tearing up with no excuse in sight if someone asked me if I was OK. I did enjoy the city and the shops that I went into and we found Dr. Pepper, which was manna from heaven! I think I bought 2 a day!
We saw the Cardo of the city, which is the heart of the city. Most of the stones here are the original ones from 2,000 years ago. Jesus would have walked through the heart of ancient Jerusalem, meaning that I walked on the very stones that he did! Crazy, huh!?
One of the coolest things we did was walk through Hezekiah's Tunnel. I thought that we would just hurry through a short little passageway, but I soon found out how inaccurate I was. In a tunnel about as wide as my hips (occasionally I had to turn to the side), we trekked through water for about 45 minutes! The short girls walked through the whole way, but I had to crouch down a lot. Even though I had to fight claustrophobia and darkness, it was totally worth it! I love dark, creepy places-- this we know!
We went to the Davidson Center, where we went on a virtual reality tour of the temple mound as it would have been during the time of Jesus. It was pretty neat, but it wasn't until we went outside the building and saw the ancient ruins of the places we had seen, that it had its full effect. This was on Sunday so we sat outside of the Davidson center and had a church service. I got to celebrate Easter in Jerusalem! Who can say that? I was celebrating his resurrection in the place where it happened! What a blessing! Avner gave us commemorative olive wood communion cups and let us keep them! Kyle and Tommy gave great lessons, but what stuck with me the most was Kyle had us sing, "Ten Thousand Angels." We sang it the original way the first time through, but he said to sing it again and replace "they" with "I." A lump gathered in my throat as I sang, "I bound the hands of Jesus in the garden where He prayed; I led Him through the streets in shame. I spat upon the Savior so pure and free from sin; I said, "Crucify Him; He's to blame." It hit me. I had been in the garden. I had walked through the streets. I had been to the place where they crucified him. Our sin is easy to deal with when it is not placed in front of us. It is in those moments, like outside of the Davidson Center, that a mirror is placed in front of you and you are forced to look into it.
We got to visit the western wall (also known as the wailing wall) on two separate occasions. We visited on a Friday night before the Sabbath because we knew it would be busy and best display the religious practice that goes on here. It is sacred to the Jews because it is the remaining wall that is closest to where the temple would have been. We filed into the chaos, first going through security. When you walk in, the women go on one side of the wall and the men go to the other. There was a huge mob and you slowly made your way to the wall, sauntering between groups of Jews chanting, teenage groups singing Jewish songs and women walking backwards after going to the wall to avoid being disrespectful by turning their back. People have their books covering their face, soaking the words with their tears as they rock back and forth-- whispering softly to themselves. Many write their prayers to God on small pieces of paper and place them within the cracks of the walls. You can look up and see papers already filling about every slot. I wrote my own prayer down and placed it in the wall. Though I feel that God is always with us-- not just in a holy place-- it was still good to acknowledge my reliance on him by writing it down. So, my dear friends and family-- your lives and future have been placed in Jerusalem's western wall! :-) You're famous now. Haha.
I really enjoyed the markets within Jerusalem. The owners practiced their own advertising by shouting. They would compete with each other to get the customers. Buying a slice of pizza between two shops across from each other was one of the hardest decisions I've ever had to make. Haha. I bought two skirts and two scarves in the market, all of which I really love! Their shopping centers are divided into quarters-- a Jewish quarter, an Arab quarter, an Arminian quarter and a Christian quarter. I know I compare everything to Disney World, but it was like entering the different countries while still being in the same area as before. You would be exploring shops filled with men in top hats, black suits and a long beard and would look up and be in the Arab quarter, with 6 men with machine guns. Quite the contrast.
Along with the markets, the nightlife of Jerusalem was quite the contrast to the holiness of the day. Though I enjoyed the hustle and bustle and the music everywhere, the hypocrisy of human nature also became apparent to me. The same Jewish teenagers who were spilling tears all over their books at the wailing wall were the same ones with large bottles of alcohol in their hands, partying it up in the town square. The same goes for Christians and all religions, but it never ceases to amaze me how quickly we forget. Why do we set apart holy days and holy places, yet always forget that we are supposed to be carrying around holiness within ourselves? I didn't mean to get all preachy on you-- it's just something that always hit me as I stood there amidst the crowds. For those of you that know me, I have never really had an urge to jump into the hip, party-it-up culture that is supposed to be appetizing to the youth so many times I would just feel terribly uncomfortable and be embarrassed that I was tearing up with no excuse in sight if someone asked me if I was OK. I did enjoy the city and the shops that I went into and we found Dr. Pepper, which was manna from heaven! I think I bought 2 a day!
We saw the Cardo of the city, which is the heart of the city. Most of the stones here are the original ones from 2,000 years ago. Jesus would have walked through the heart of ancient Jerusalem, meaning that I walked on the very stones that he did! Crazy, huh!?
One of the coolest things we did was walk through Hezekiah's Tunnel. I thought that we would just hurry through a short little passageway, but I soon found out how inaccurate I was. In a tunnel about as wide as my hips (occasionally I had to turn to the side), we trekked through water for about 45 minutes! The short girls walked through the whole way, but I had to crouch down a lot. Even though I had to fight claustrophobia and darkness, it was totally worth it! I love dark, creepy places-- this we know!
We went to the Davidson Center, where we went on a virtual reality tour of the temple mound as it would have been during the time of Jesus. It was pretty neat, but it wasn't until we went outside the building and saw the ancient ruins of the places we had seen, that it had its full effect. This was on Sunday so we sat outside of the Davidson center and had a church service. I got to celebrate Easter in Jerusalem! Who can say that? I was celebrating his resurrection in the place where it happened! What a blessing! Avner gave us commemorative olive wood communion cups and let us keep them! Kyle and Tommy gave great lessons, but what stuck with me the most was Kyle had us sing, "Ten Thousand Angels." We sang it the original way the first time through, but he said to sing it again and replace "they" with "I." A lump gathered in my throat as I sang, "I bound the hands of Jesus in the garden where He prayed; I led Him through the streets in shame. I spat upon the Savior so pure and free from sin; I said, "Crucify Him; He's to blame." It hit me. I had been in the garden. I had walked through the streets. I had been to the place where they crucified him. Our sin is easy to deal with when it is not placed in front of us. It is in those moments, like outside of the Davidson Center, that a mirror is placed in front of you and you are forced to look into it.
Friday, March 28, 2008
14 Stations of the Cross
In Jerusalem, we also walked down the Via Dolorosa, which is the 14 stations where Jesus stopped while carrying his cross. Like with everything else, most of it is just tradition-- but it is always important every now and then to take the time to remember what happened on that day.
The first two stations were the places where he was brought before Pontius Pilate (Luke 23:1-11 and John 19:1-6). You walk a little further and you come across the 3rd station where they say he fell for the first time. Above one stone wall hangs a Roman numeral IV, which is where they say Jesus met his mother as she weeped for him. The fifth is where Simon was commanded to help Jesus carry his cross and the 6th (which comes more from Catholic tradition) is where Veronica met him and wipes his face with her handkerchief, a vision of his face remaining in her handkerchief after he has already left. It was at the 7th stop where they say Jesus fell for the second time before meeting with the women of Jerusalem at the 8th station. He fell down for the third and final time at the 9th station. The others go along in this manner-- until finally he was crucified. They have built a church over it called, "The Church of the Holy Sepulchure." Most of us were fairly shocked and disappointed when we went in. First of all, I'm a "land" girl. Some people want to have a fancy church over a holy place; I, on the other hand, get so much more out of a piece of land with nothing on it. I want to stand there, feel the breeze and remember. The fight to get into this church can only be compared to Wal-Mart right before Christmas. Pushing, shoving and lying, sadly enough, were used to get into a place commemorating Jesus' death. We had a group of tourists who told us they needed to get through because they were going to a different place. After complying, we soon saw that there was no other place to go and that they had in fact cut in front of us after we had been waiting for quite some time. When we finally got into the church, I was quite blown away by the spectacle. Dimly-lit lanterns hung from every spot in the ceiling and a large gold-leaf, aluminum foil Jesus hung from the wall. People were placing their hands on a stone they say Jesus was laid on and they are rubbing their glasses and other things on it to be healed of their physical affliction. There were times where I had this overwhelming feeling that this is not what Jesus ever intended.
This is good for today. I will finish my bloggings each day as I can. The end is near! :-) Thanks for reading!!
The first two stations were the places where he was brought before Pontius Pilate (Luke 23:1-11 and John 19:1-6). You walk a little further and you come across the 3rd station where they say he fell for the first time. Above one stone wall hangs a Roman numeral IV, which is where they say Jesus met his mother as she weeped for him. The fifth is where Simon was commanded to help Jesus carry his cross and the 6th (which comes more from Catholic tradition) is where Veronica met him and wipes his face with her handkerchief, a vision of his face remaining in her handkerchief after he has already left. It was at the 7th stop where they say Jesus fell for the second time before meeting with the women of Jerusalem at the 8th station. He fell down for the third and final time at the 9th station. The others go along in this manner-- until finally he was crucified. They have built a church over it called, "The Church of the Holy Sepulchure." Most of us were fairly shocked and disappointed when we went in. First of all, I'm a "land" girl. Some people want to have a fancy church over a holy place; I, on the other hand, get so much more out of a piece of land with nothing on it. I want to stand there, feel the breeze and remember. The fight to get into this church can only be compared to Wal-Mart right before Christmas. Pushing, shoving and lying, sadly enough, were used to get into a place commemorating Jesus' death. We had a group of tourists who told us they needed to get through because they were going to a different place. After complying, we soon saw that there was no other place to go and that they had in fact cut in front of us after we had been waiting for quite some time. When we finally got into the church, I was quite blown away by the spectacle. Dimly-lit lanterns hung from every spot in the ceiling and a large gold-leaf, aluminum foil Jesus hung from the wall. People were placing their hands on a stone they say Jesus was laid on and they are rubbing their glasses and other things on it to be healed of their physical affliction. There were times where I had this overwhelming feeling that this is not what Jesus ever intended.
This is good for today. I will finish my bloggings each day as I can. The end is near! :-) Thanks for reading!!
Garden of Gethsemane
I think this site is on this day for a reason. You have been enduring the heat of Israel for several days, you are tired of the Israeli food and you want to throw your hearing set off the side of the Mount of Olives because you are tired of taking notes. It is at your weakest point that you visit the Garden of Gethsemane. The olive trees here are up to 2,000 years old! We visited a church that was built as a tribute to his agony, with a stone they say he sat on to mourn in the garden. Though moving, it wasn't near as moving as when Avner gave us time by ourselves in the garden. I sat under an olive tree, not really knowing what to do or say. I thought for sure that I would be at my strongest point, feeling so overcome with joy that I was at this monumental place. I was quite the opposite. I felt like a mess. A friend being sent home and the drama that ensued had placed a burden on my heart. The hurting of other friends that were effected weighed heavily on me. The night before I had sat in a friend's room and cried harder than I have in a long time. I was in all these faith-building places, but I questioned things more than ever. When things seem so far away, it is easier to disconnect your emotions from them. I decided to get out my notebook and just write. I didn't think about what I was writing-- I just sat under the tree and wrote. Though personal, I will share:
God, why do I feel so weak? I am at the place where I am supposed to feel overcome with joy for what's been done for me, yet fear, doubts and inadequacy take its place. Though it's hard to let down those barriers, thank you for last night. I thank you for tearing down the walls to my stone heart. My heart is hard and my faith is old and I have realized that this week . Thank you for making me vulnerable. I want to be strong. I want to be bold. Help me to be all these things. I don't always know the right things to say but I know that you can read my heart. Thank you for all the other tourists, who without even knowing, have blessed me with their singing. Everyone needs you. We are all reaching out for you. Please, take our hand. Whether we are Americans, Chinese, Jews or Nigerians-- we are all here because we need you. Please give me wisdom all the days of my life. I don't want to rely on myself anymore. I am here. Use me. Forgive me. Love me.
It was a verbal spilling of thoughts, but at that moment that's what I needed. Jesus himself cried out to God in this very garden and I found myself doing the very same thing. I think that it is when we feel like we have it all together that we realize, in actuality, that we don't.
I saw so many wonderful, holy places in Jerusalem but I also witnessed the wickedness of the world and the prowling nature of Satan.
God, why do I feel so weak? I am at the place where I am supposed to feel overcome with joy for what's been done for me, yet fear, doubts and inadequacy take its place. Though it's hard to let down those barriers, thank you for last night. I thank you for tearing down the walls to my stone heart. My heart is hard and my faith is old and I have realized that this week . Thank you for making me vulnerable. I want to be strong. I want to be bold. Help me to be all these things. I don't always know the right things to say but I know that you can read my heart. Thank you for all the other tourists, who without even knowing, have blessed me with their singing. Everyone needs you. We are all reaching out for you. Please, take our hand. Whether we are Americans, Chinese, Jews or Nigerians-- we are all here because we need you. Please give me wisdom all the days of my life. I don't want to rely on myself anymore. I am here. Use me. Forgive me. Love me.
It was a verbal spilling of thoughts, but at that moment that's what I needed. Jesus himself cried out to God in this very garden and I found myself doing the very same thing. I think that it is when we feel like we have it all together that we realize, in actuality, that we don't.
I saw so many wonderful, holy places in Jerusalem but I also witnessed the wickedness of the world and the prowling nature of Satan.
Jerusalem 1
We spent quite a bit of time in Jerusalem. Upon arrival, Avner took us up on Mt. Scopes, where we could look over the entire city. We saw the Dome of the Rock, the golden-domed mosque that is on top of the temple mound, which is Mt. Moriah (where Abraham brought Issac). Avner brought us salted bread as a gift, which he says is very symbolic to the Jewish people.
We also took a short tour of the government buildings of Jerusalem. We saw the Supreme Court building, the central bank of Israel and other government buildings. We went through the rose garden, which has people camping out in tents protesting. Avner said they can stay for a few months up to a year in these gardens until they get what they want or they give up.
We also saw the giant manorah. It was really tall and had depictions of various Bible stories carved on it. Scenes of David and Goliath, Moses and other figures are on the top, while the Hebrew words for "Hear me, Lord!" adorn the bottom.
We saw the place where they found the Dead Sea Scrolls in Qumran, but it was in Jerusalem where we saw the real things inside the museum dedicated to them. A cave-shaped museum, the whole thing is supposed to simulate being in the caves where they found them. It's dark inside, with only the scrolls themselves lit up. I was so interested in these that I embarrassed myself. The displays that held the different scrolls were an optical allusion-- though they appeared to be a glass window, they were in fact slanted. I was so intent in reading one that my face got closer and closer until suddenly I hit my head against the glass. Bang. Talk about feeling like a bird in those Windex commercials.
We also saw the model of ancient Jerusalem, which I like to call a Barbie's dreamland. Everything is proportionately laid out, with every inch representing a meter in real-life. The temple was reconstructed, the land of David and all the surrounding houses and markets. I was picturing how much fun I would have had playing with it as a child, walking Barbie around in the temple when one of the guys said, "Man, I would love to play Godzilla and tear everything down!" Boys! I also had an embarrassing experience in the museum that goes along with this Jerusalem replica. That day was a bad hair day, ok? Everyone has them. I find a mirror and decide to fix the situation. I pull my hair down, shake it around a little bit, make a disgusted face in the mirror and attempt to pull it up in a decent-looking ponytail. Suddenly, the mirror slides away from me and two Israeli soldiers come out, looking at me strangely. Oh, how I love two-way mirrors.
We went into the city where John the Baptist grew up and went to a church in his honor. We also went up on the Mount of Olives. Not only was the view amazing from it, but just knowing the historical significance made it more than just a mountain. Also, there are graves all over it because people pay lots of money to be buried here-- in hopes that facing the Dome of the Rock will make them first to enter heaven. Somehow I think heaven isn't like Disney World with a fast pass.
We also saw the "Tear of the Master" church (Domini Flavet) which is also referred to as the Church of All Nations because it is maintained by churches around the world.
We also took a short tour of the government buildings of Jerusalem. We saw the Supreme Court building, the central bank of Israel and other government buildings. We went through the rose garden, which has people camping out in tents protesting. Avner said they can stay for a few months up to a year in these gardens until they get what they want or they give up.
We also saw the giant manorah. It was really tall and had depictions of various Bible stories carved on it. Scenes of David and Goliath, Moses and other figures are on the top, while the Hebrew words for "Hear me, Lord!" adorn the bottom.
We saw the place where they found the Dead Sea Scrolls in Qumran, but it was in Jerusalem where we saw the real things inside the museum dedicated to them. A cave-shaped museum, the whole thing is supposed to simulate being in the caves where they found them. It's dark inside, with only the scrolls themselves lit up. I was so interested in these that I embarrassed myself. The displays that held the different scrolls were an optical allusion-- though they appeared to be a glass window, they were in fact slanted. I was so intent in reading one that my face got closer and closer until suddenly I hit my head against the glass. Bang. Talk about feeling like a bird in those Windex commercials.
We also saw the model of ancient Jerusalem, which I like to call a Barbie's dreamland. Everything is proportionately laid out, with every inch representing a meter in real-life. The temple was reconstructed, the land of David and all the surrounding houses and markets. I was picturing how much fun I would have had playing with it as a child, walking Barbie around in the temple when one of the guys said, "Man, I would love to play Godzilla and tear everything down!" Boys! I also had an embarrassing experience in the museum that goes along with this Jerusalem replica. That day was a bad hair day, ok? Everyone has them. I find a mirror and decide to fix the situation. I pull my hair down, shake it around a little bit, make a disgusted face in the mirror and attempt to pull it up in a decent-looking ponytail. Suddenly, the mirror slides away from me and two Israeli soldiers come out, looking at me strangely. Oh, how I love two-way mirrors.
We went into the city where John the Baptist grew up and went to a church in his honor. We also went up on the Mount of Olives. Not only was the view amazing from it, but just knowing the historical significance made it more than just a mountain. Also, there are graves all over it because people pay lots of money to be buried here-- in hopes that facing the Dome of the Rock will make them first to enter heaven. Somehow I think heaven isn't like Disney World with a fast pass.
We also saw the "Tear of the Master" church (Domini Flavet) which is also referred to as the Church of All Nations because it is maintained by churches around the world.
The Garden Tomb
One of the more emotional days for me was when we visited the Garden Tomb. When we first arrived on site, a nice man from Holland greeted us and started the tour. We first went to the part of a cliff that looks like a skull. Time has eroded it some, but it still has two eye sockets and a place for the nose. Though they can't be certain, this has traditionally become the place that they think is referred to as "the place of the skull."
The tomb that they say Jesus was buried in was discovered by General Gordon. (It is also known as Gordon's Tomb.) The reasoning behind why they think Jesus may have been in this tomb is first of all, it was EMPTY and unfinished (the Bible mentions it being unfinished.) Second, it was found by a winepress and cistern within a garden. Why would these be in a garden? They think it belonged to a rich man, possibly Joseph of Arimithea who was the one who wanted to take Jesus' body and bury him in his tomb. They say that this is probably Joseph's garden. Though many in our group were very skeptical, all that matters to me is that the tomb (wherever in fact it was) was EMPTY. Sometimes people need a symbol, need something tangible to hold on to-- and though not everyone needs that-- the important thing is the faith behind it.
The people who have kept up the garden have done a marvelous job. Flowers are blooming everywhere and all I could think of was my mom. I know that she would have explored every petal of every flower there! :-) I, usually unobservant, couldn't help but think how much fun God must have had creating so many unique bouquets! They had sitting areas where groups of people could sit and have their own time. We sang a few songs about Jesus' resurrection and around us we heard familiar songs in different languages. I heard a group of French people singing, "Because He Lives." Though I couldn't understand the words, the music and the message was so familiar. Tears streamed down my face as I realized that everyone needs a Savior. There were many Nigerian groups there in elaborate, colorful costumes and groups of friends who had made the journey together. From all walks of life, we came together for the same reason-- because he lives.
The tomb that they say Jesus was buried in was discovered by General Gordon. (It is also known as Gordon's Tomb.) The reasoning behind why they think Jesus may have been in this tomb is first of all, it was EMPTY and unfinished (the Bible mentions it being unfinished.) Second, it was found by a winepress and cistern within a garden. Why would these be in a garden? They think it belonged to a rich man, possibly Joseph of Arimithea who was the one who wanted to take Jesus' body and bury him in his tomb. They say that this is probably Joseph's garden. Though many in our group were very skeptical, all that matters to me is that the tomb (wherever in fact it was) was EMPTY. Sometimes people need a symbol, need something tangible to hold on to-- and though not everyone needs that-- the important thing is the faith behind it.
The people who have kept up the garden have done a marvelous job. Flowers are blooming everywhere and all I could think of was my mom. I know that she would have explored every petal of every flower there! :-) I, usually unobservant, couldn't help but think how much fun God must have had creating so many unique bouquets! They had sitting areas where groups of people could sit and have their own time. We sang a few songs about Jesus' resurrection and around us we heard familiar songs in different languages. I heard a group of French people singing, "Because He Lives." Though I couldn't understand the words, the music and the message was so familiar. Tears streamed down my face as I realized that everyone needs a Savior. There were many Nigerian groups there in elaborate, colorful costumes and groups of friends who had made the journey together. From all walks of life, we came together for the same reason-- because he lives.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Jordan
When we entered Jordan, it appeared like I had previously expected Israel to look. Dirt and sand as far as the eyes can see. Men with machine guns were stationed every few miles. There were poor bedoins living in tents in the desert, tending sheep, goats and camels.
One of our first stops in Jordan was Mt. Nebo. This is the mountain on which Moses died. They have erected a large monument (a rod with a snake wrapped around it) in his honor. Check out Deuteronomy 34 and Numbers 21:4 as references to this spot.
Soon after, we grabbed a quick lunch and then went to the Greek Orthodox church that houses the mosaic of the Holy Land on the floor. Though most of it was destroyed in an earthquake, the part you could see was quite impressive.
Probably one of my favorite sites the whole trip was PETRA-JORDAN! You Indiana Jones fans out there have no idea how beautiful this place is when it stands before your eyes. It was probably almost 90 degrees this day, but I didn't care. You are an ant within these massive cliffs that the Nabotese (spelling?) people once made their town. You can still see royal tombs that are carved into the cliffs and remnants of idols to their god. I tripped numerous times because my eyes were always looking up and my mouth was always open in awe. I found myself instinctively whispering, "Wow" over and over. For someone who is hardly ever short on words, "Wow" is all that I said for most of the tour. Many of the cliffs boasted bright colors-- reds and oranges and yellows--from the minerals within their composition. You travel this journey to get to Petra's prized possession. You first see a small glimpse of it from a narrow gap where the two cliffs almost meet. You start to get more and more excited until suddenly you see it in its entirety: THE TREASURY! My "Wow" turned to a full-out "Woooooooow" as I witnessed the intricate creation of this ancient people. This building would have been a masterpiece had it been created on land-- but carved out of a giant rock? That is too much for me to fathom. They recently found another layer that was buried beneath the surface. I can't wait to show you pictures!
I also climbed up and looked in the royal tombs, which were equally as intricate and carefully constructed. They even had a theater carved into the side of the mountain. I wish I could go back in time and witness their way of life. Not only was Petra beautiful, but the people and way of life added to its unique beauty. The bedoin people make their own jewelry and sell it within the caves-- I bought a necklace. They sell donkey rides (Mandy almost got trampled by a few of them at one point). I bought a rababa instrument for Dad, but it is already falling apart. It is the thought that counts, right? I'll try to superglue it for you, Pops! :-)
I think Petra was such a great addition to the trip and I hope they keep it as part of the trip for future HUG generations.
Stay tuned for more updates.
One of our first stops in Jordan was Mt. Nebo. This is the mountain on which Moses died. They have erected a large monument (a rod with a snake wrapped around it) in his honor. Check out Deuteronomy 34 and Numbers 21:4 as references to this spot.
Soon after, we grabbed a quick lunch and then went to the Greek Orthodox church that houses the mosaic of the Holy Land on the floor. Though most of it was destroyed in an earthquake, the part you could see was quite impressive.
Probably one of my favorite sites the whole trip was PETRA-JORDAN! You Indiana Jones fans out there have no idea how beautiful this place is when it stands before your eyes. It was probably almost 90 degrees this day, but I didn't care. You are an ant within these massive cliffs that the Nabotese (spelling?) people once made their town. You can still see royal tombs that are carved into the cliffs and remnants of idols to their god. I tripped numerous times because my eyes were always looking up and my mouth was always open in awe. I found myself instinctively whispering, "Wow" over and over. For someone who is hardly ever short on words, "Wow" is all that I said for most of the tour. Many of the cliffs boasted bright colors-- reds and oranges and yellows--from the minerals within their composition. You travel this journey to get to Petra's prized possession. You first see a small glimpse of it from a narrow gap where the two cliffs almost meet. You start to get more and more excited until suddenly you see it in its entirety: THE TREASURY! My "Wow" turned to a full-out "Woooooooow" as I witnessed the intricate creation of this ancient people. This building would have been a masterpiece had it been created on land-- but carved out of a giant rock? That is too much for me to fathom. They recently found another layer that was buried beneath the surface. I can't wait to show you pictures!
I also climbed up and looked in the royal tombs, which were equally as intricate and carefully constructed. They even had a theater carved into the side of the mountain. I wish I could go back in time and witness their way of life. Not only was Petra beautiful, but the people and way of life added to its unique beauty. The bedoin people make their own jewelry and sell it within the caves-- I bought a necklace. They sell donkey rides (Mandy almost got trampled by a few of them at one point). I bought a rababa instrument for Dad, but it is already falling apart. It is the thought that counts, right? I'll try to superglue it for you, Pops! :-)
I think Petra was such a great addition to the trip and I hope they keep it as part of the trip for future HUG generations.
Stay tuned for more updates.
Israel Update 2
I'm sorry it has taken me a few days to blog about my trip-- I was waiting to get my moleskin notebook back from DiMy who was grading them. I got a 60/60-- thanks for asking! :-) Haha. It might take me a few entries to completely cover what we did so I will take it in segments.
After our visit to the Church of Annunciation, we made a trip to what has become known as the "Jesus Boat museum." Though we have no proof that Jesus sailed in this boat, it is dated back 2000 years ago and would have hit the high seas during that time period. They found the pieces of the boat because there had been a severe drought that caused the sea to recede. Blessings do come from hardships.
Our next adventure was Capernaum, which is known in the Bible as the area of many of Jesus' miracles. This is where he cleared the synagogue, cured Peter's mother-in-law, made the crippled man to walk again and healed the Roman centurion's servant. This city existed until the 8th century when it was abandoned. We saw the remains of the synagogue and the place where they say that Peter's mother-in-law lived based on artifacts they found mentioning Peter and Jesus. As with most other sites in Israel, a modern church is built on top of the ruins. On this day, we also climbed the mountain that is said to be where Jesus taught the Sermon on the Mount. I wish we had had more time for reflection here, but we read the sermon, sang a few songs and prayed. It was a neat place. One of my favorite parts of this day was sailing on the Sea of Galilee. We went out into the middle of the sea and sang. Knowing I was on the body of water that Jesus walked on was just surreal to me. We read some of the scriptures that dealt with this sea. We stayed in a village-like place this night and it was really a neat place. Many of us went swimming at night at the community pool.
We then went to Qumran where they found the famous Dead Sea Scrolls. Though we later saw the originals, they had replicas at this museum and we looked over a lookout to see the caves in which they were found. We also saw what was left of purifying baths. The people who wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls had to bathe and purify themselves before writing the name of God. If they made one mistake, they had to start all over. This finding was such a blessing to the Christian world. Before these findings, the latest copies we had dated back to 9th century A.D. Over 1000 pieces of literature now prove that the scriptures date back 2000 years! Isaiah was found in its entirety. Isn't it funny how God gradually reveals himself to those who are looking? It just amazes me how the words we read today have been so properly preserved. As a writer, it makes me cherish my profession.
Oh, Masada. I never thought I would say this. I promised I wouldn't say this-- but...*dun dun dun* I'm glad they made us watch the movie series. The acting was horrific, the soap opera storyline was ridiculous-- but the familiarity it gave me with this place was very helpful. It was scorching hot this day, but we grabbed our water bottles and lived the story live. We took a huge lift up the mountain which was so much more high and impressive than what I thought. In the movie, Flavius Silver (played by O'Toole) is always shouting up to the Jews on top of Masada and the leader of the Jews is always sarcastically calling back. That ain't happening here, people. Unless in 76 A.D. they had megaphones and a jumbo-tron hanging from the cliff, there is no way this type of communication would be possible. We got to see the ramp that the Romans built to get on top of Masada and we saw remnants of the waterways that enabled the Jews to live on top for long periods of times. The story of Masada is depressing, but our guide told us the reason that it is told to young people generation after generation. The Jews ended up killing their families and committing suicide rather than face the slavery that would meet them once the Romans conquered Masada. Avner said that each year the Israeli troops take an oath on Masada, claiming that Masada will never fall again. They instill in future Israelis that freedom and conviction is of utmost importance. We didn't take the lift back across-- we instead stumbled down about 4 kilometers of steep mountain to get to the bottom. I saw what I thought was a vision of a man holding out fresh orange juice toward the end of the trail, but he was real. I totally quenched my thirst right then and there. Best orange juice I have ever had!
Swimming in the Dead Sea-- one of my favorite memories of this trip. First of all, I'm a pretty stout girl. I've got some muscle on me and I usually sink. When I submerged myself in this water, I floated to the top like an apple to be bobbed for. It was such a weird feeling. You would try to flip over to your other side, but it proved to be quite a challenge. To make things better, DiMy and Captain bought us body mud and we covered ourselves in black. We let it dry, got back in and came out silky smooth. I bought some later that day.
Stay tuned for the tales of Jordan. :-)
After our visit to the Church of Annunciation, we made a trip to what has become known as the "Jesus Boat museum." Though we have no proof that Jesus sailed in this boat, it is dated back 2000 years ago and would have hit the high seas during that time period. They found the pieces of the boat because there had been a severe drought that caused the sea to recede. Blessings do come from hardships.
Our next adventure was Capernaum, which is known in the Bible as the area of many of Jesus' miracles. This is where he cleared the synagogue, cured Peter's mother-in-law, made the crippled man to walk again and healed the Roman centurion's servant. This city existed until the 8th century when it was abandoned. We saw the remains of the synagogue and the place where they say that Peter's mother-in-law lived based on artifacts they found mentioning Peter and Jesus. As with most other sites in Israel, a modern church is built on top of the ruins. On this day, we also climbed the mountain that is said to be where Jesus taught the Sermon on the Mount. I wish we had had more time for reflection here, but we read the sermon, sang a few songs and prayed. It was a neat place. One of my favorite parts of this day was sailing on the Sea of Galilee. We went out into the middle of the sea and sang. Knowing I was on the body of water that Jesus walked on was just surreal to me. We read some of the scriptures that dealt with this sea. We stayed in a village-like place this night and it was really a neat place. Many of us went swimming at night at the community pool.
We then went to Qumran where they found the famous Dead Sea Scrolls. Though we later saw the originals, they had replicas at this museum and we looked over a lookout to see the caves in which they were found. We also saw what was left of purifying baths. The people who wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls had to bathe and purify themselves before writing the name of God. If they made one mistake, they had to start all over. This finding was such a blessing to the Christian world. Before these findings, the latest copies we had dated back to 9th century A.D. Over 1000 pieces of literature now prove that the scriptures date back 2000 years! Isaiah was found in its entirety. Isn't it funny how God gradually reveals himself to those who are looking? It just amazes me how the words we read today have been so properly preserved. As a writer, it makes me cherish my profession.
Oh, Masada. I never thought I would say this. I promised I wouldn't say this-- but...*dun dun dun* I'm glad they made us watch the movie series. The acting was horrific, the soap opera storyline was ridiculous-- but the familiarity it gave me with this place was very helpful. It was scorching hot this day, but we grabbed our water bottles and lived the story live. We took a huge lift up the mountain which was so much more high and impressive than what I thought. In the movie, Flavius Silver (played by O'Toole) is always shouting up to the Jews on top of Masada and the leader of the Jews is always sarcastically calling back. That ain't happening here, people. Unless in 76 A.D. they had megaphones and a jumbo-tron hanging from the cliff, there is no way this type of communication would be possible. We got to see the ramp that the Romans built to get on top of Masada and we saw remnants of the waterways that enabled the Jews to live on top for long periods of times. The story of Masada is depressing, but our guide told us the reason that it is told to young people generation after generation. The Jews ended up killing their families and committing suicide rather than face the slavery that would meet them once the Romans conquered Masada. Avner said that each year the Israeli troops take an oath on Masada, claiming that Masada will never fall again. They instill in future Israelis that freedom and conviction is of utmost importance. We didn't take the lift back across-- we instead stumbled down about 4 kilometers of steep mountain to get to the bottom. I saw what I thought was a vision of a man holding out fresh orange juice toward the end of the trail, but he was real. I totally quenched my thirst right then and there. Best orange juice I have ever had!
Swimming in the Dead Sea-- one of my favorite memories of this trip. First of all, I'm a pretty stout girl. I've got some muscle on me and I usually sink. When I submerged myself in this water, I floated to the top like an apple to be bobbed for. It was such a weird feeling. You would try to flip over to your other side, but it proved to be quite a challenge. To make things better, DiMy and Captain bought us body mud and we covered ourselves in black. We let it dry, got back in and came out silky smooth. I bought some later that day.
Stay tuned for the tales of Jordan. :-)
Monday, March 17, 2008
When in Unfamiliar Territory, Find Mickey D's...
I found wireless internet at a McDonald's here in Israel so I thought I would update you really quick about what we've done so far. It probably won't be as detailed as usual, but I will do my best under the circumstances.
We arrived at the Israel airport at about 12 p.m. A few of us girls looked ahead of us to this gorgeous Israeli man who was holding up a "HUG" sign. Whitney took advantage of the situation and hugged him, though she knew exactly what the sign referred to. We thought this beautiful man was our tour guide so all the girls almost fainted with excitement. He was tall, dark-complected and muscular. His teeth shined a bright white and his eyes sparkled when he spoke. When we went to thank DiMy for 10 days of absolute bliss, she informed us that he was simply the airport travel agent who would introduce us to our tour guide. Sad, sad day. We soon met Avner though, who is a tall, lanky man with a sense of humor and a good spirit. We all love him!
We went to Caesarea upon arrival, where we were first introduced to the vast sea, with its powerful waves and crystal blue color. You could literally be looking at some of the ancient ruins and a wave would rise up high and spray you like a killer whale at Sea World. You could smell the salt from the water and I was just mesmorized by the whole atmosphere and the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks.
One of the neat things from this site was the stone that had a carving mentioning Pontius Pilate-- this was a neat feature because it is the only non-Biblical reference to this man, proving that he did it exist. We checked out King Herod's palace and his swimming pool, which now presides in the sea. We also entered Herod's large hippodrome, where they had chariot races and other activities. They even had a metal model set up where you could get your picture. Danielle and I put on our chariot-racing faces and took a pic.
After Caesarea, we went to see the Roman aqueducts, which were used to bring water 16 miles to the city. These sat right on the beach, so we played around in the water and enjoyed the sand. Take a bunch of kids from dinky Arkansas and sit them on a beach. Excitement and chaos always results.
Day 2: I LOVED Dan. We went on this nature walk, where we walked across bridges and large stones across streams of running water. Our guide, luckily, was very respectful to the peace and tranquility this part of the world offers and let us kind of enjoy the ambience without constantly chattering. I have to say that I underestimated the beauty of Israel. I pictured the stereotypical Israel: Desert. Camels. Desert. More Desert. It is so green! There are lush hills and full trees and bodies of water. Don't get me wrong, there is plenty of desert, but I am so glad I was introduced to what else this country has to offer. Another wonderful thing this country has to offer is scorpions. Our guide pulled one out and some of us got pictures with it. Most just had it on their hand, but I decided to show off and had him place it on my nose.
The perfect ending to the nature walk on this day was the Banias waterfalls. Also known as Caesarea-Philippi, this place had churches carved into the side of a cliff in honor of the god Pan. This was neat, but it wasn't until we made it to the waterfalls that I was in complete awe of God's creativity. You could hear the sound of the falls as you climbed up the mountain, but it wasn't until you felt the mist from the waterfall itself-- that you felt this sense of wonder. I could have sat there for hours, but Avner soon clapped his hands, motioning for us to get a move on.
We went to some Israeli bunkers on top of a volcano later in the evening. The guys, of course, were more impressed with this-- but I enjoyed seeing the old military equipment and they even set up metal dummies showing what the soldiers would have done from certain spots.
To end the day, we went and saw the Jordan River. We waded in it and sang "I Went Down to the River to Pray," one of my favorite spiritual songs. Every time I hear it, I picture myself walking to the sway of the song carrying a water basin down to the river. Call me strange. Mid-picture-taking, Sarabeth started screaming and splashing because someone told her there were leeches in the Jordan and Sara Montgomery touched her foot to make her think it was a killer leech. It was hilarious!
A new (and soon to be omitted) part of the trip was going to the Israeli Diamond factory. Though it was beautiful, it was like sticking a starving kid in a candy store and saying, "You can't have any!" I saw a necklace for $77,000! Wow.
Day 3: NAZARETH, WHERE JESUS GREW UP! We started off this day by climbing up the mountain that is traditionally known as the spot where the Jews tried to drive Jesus off the side of the mountain. We went up there, read some scriptures and took pictures. The view of the town below was amazing from this heighth.
After this visit, we made a stop at the Church of Christ in Nazareth and worshipped with them. Once again, it was an emotional experience for me. They sang in Arabic (this is the Arabic part of Israel, not Hebrew) and we sang in English-- yet it blended beautifully together. Mr. Myhan preached about being courageous and mentioned the fact that they face many trials because of their faith. Many of them nodded their heads in agreement- it hit me that these people are part of the 2% minority of Christians. He encouraged them to keep the faith and persevere. Afterward, we visited with them briefly over dessert they had fixed us before we had to head on our way. They were so gracious and eager to be with us-- imagine worshipping a Savior who lived in your very town!
We went to the Church of Annunciation, which is built on the spot where the angel visited Mary to tell her that she was pregnant with Jesus. It was an elaborate building, with mosaic depictions from countries around the world displaying their version of Mary's story. When we left, Avner let us be a part of an Israeli celebration that was going on outside of the church. People were dressed up, music played everywhere-- it was neat to be a part of the hustle and bustle.
More updates later-- the laptop battery is a/b to die! Love ya'll
We arrived at the Israel airport at about 12 p.m. A few of us girls looked ahead of us to this gorgeous Israeli man who was holding up a "HUG" sign. Whitney took advantage of the situation and hugged him, though she knew exactly what the sign referred to. We thought this beautiful man was our tour guide so all the girls almost fainted with excitement. He was tall, dark-complected and muscular. His teeth shined a bright white and his eyes sparkled when he spoke. When we went to thank DiMy for 10 days of absolute bliss, she informed us that he was simply the airport travel agent who would introduce us to our tour guide. Sad, sad day. We soon met Avner though, who is a tall, lanky man with a sense of humor and a good spirit. We all love him!
We went to Caesarea upon arrival, where we were first introduced to the vast sea, with its powerful waves and crystal blue color. You could literally be looking at some of the ancient ruins and a wave would rise up high and spray you like a killer whale at Sea World. You could smell the salt from the water and I was just mesmorized by the whole atmosphere and the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks.
One of the neat things from this site was the stone that had a carving mentioning Pontius Pilate-- this was a neat feature because it is the only non-Biblical reference to this man, proving that he did it exist. We checked out King Herod's palace and his swimming pool, which now presides in the sea. We also entered Herod's large hippodrome, where they had chariot races and other activities. They even had a metal model set up where you could get your picture. Danielle and I put on our chariot-racing faces and took a pic.
After Caesarea, we went to see the Roman aqueducts, which were used to bring water 16 miles to the city. These sat right on the beach, so we played around in the water and enjoyed the sand. Take a bunch of kids from dinky Arkansas and sit them on a beach. Excitement and chaos always results.
Day 2: I LOVED Dan. We went on this nature walk, where we walked across bridges and large stones across streams of running water. Our guide, luckily, was very respectful to the peace and tranquility this part of the world offers and let us kind of enjoy the ambience without constantly chattering. I have to say that I underestimated the beauty of Israel. I pictured the stereotypical Israel: Desert. Camels. Desert. More Desert. It is so green! There are lush hills and full trees and bodies of water. Don't get me wrong, there is plenty of desert, but I am so glad I was introduced to what else this country has to offer. Another wonderful thing this country has to offer is scorpions. Our guide pulled one out and some of us got pictures with it. Most just had it on their hand, but I decided to show off and had him place it on my nose.
The perfect ending to the nature walk on this day was the Banias waterfalls. Also known as Caesarea-Philippi, this place had churches carved into the side of a cliff in honor of the god Pan. This was neat, but it wasn't until we made it to the waterfalls that I was in complete awe of God's creativity. You could hear the sound of the falls as you climbed up the mountain, but it wasn't until you felt the mist from the waterfall itself-- that you felt this sense of wonder. I could have sat there for hours, but Avner soon clapped his hands, motioning for us to get a move on.
We went to some Israeli bunkers on top of a volcano later in the evening. The guys, of course, were more impressed with this-- but I enjoyed seeing the old military equipment and they even set up metal dummies showing what the soldiers would have done from certain spots.
To end the day, we went and saw the Jordan River. We waded in it and sang "I Went Down to the River to Pray," one of my favorite spiritual songs. Every time I hear it, I picture myself walking to the sway of the song carrying a water basin down to the river. Call me strange. Mid-picture-taking, Sarabeth started screaming and splashing because someone told her there were leeches in the Jordan and Sara Montgomery touched her foot to make her think it was a killer leech. It was hilarious!
A new (and soon to be omitted) part of the trip was going to the Israeli Diamond factory. Though it was beautiful, it was like sticking a starving kid in a candy store and saying, "You can't have any!" I saw a necklace for $77,000! Wow.
Day 3: NAZARETH, WHERE JESUS GREW UP! We started off this day by climbing up the mountain that is traditionally known as the spot where the Jews tried to drive Jesus off the side of the mountain. We went up there, read some scriptures and took pictures. The view of the town below was amazing from this heighth.
After this visit, we made a stop at the Church of Christ in Nazareth and worshipped with them. Once again, it was an emotional experience for me. They sang in Arabic (this is the Arabic part of Israel, not Hebrew) and we sang in English-- yet it blended beautifully together. Mr. Myhan preached about being courageous and mentioned the fact that they face many trials because of their faith. Many of them nodded their heads in agreement- it hit me that these people are part of the 2% minority of Christians. He encouraged them to keep the faith and persevere. Afterward, we visited with them briefly over dessert they had fixed us before we had to head on our way. They were so gracious and eager to be with us-- imagine worshipping a Savior who lived in your very town!
We went to the Church of Annunciation, which is built on the spot where the angel visited Mary to tell her that she was pregnant with Jesus. It was an elaborate building, with mosaic depictions from countries around the world displaying their version of Mary's story. When we left, Avner let us be a part of an Israeli celebration that was going on outside of the church. People were dressed up, music played everywhere-- it was neat to be a part of the hustle and bustle.
More updates later-- the laptop battery is a/b to die! Love ya'll
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Headed for the Holy Land
We are leaving at 6:30 a.m. for our trip to Israel. Though I'm not crazy about the crack of dawn wake-up call, I can't be more pumped about the reason for doing so! It still hasn't quite hit me yet, but I know when I step off the plane this rush of reality is going to overwhelm me. While following in the footsteps of Paul is an amazing quest, walking in the steps of Jesus has got to be a Christian's ultimate dream come true. I know this will probably be one of those "waterwork" weeks for me; I haven't cried much as of lately so I have plenty of tears stored away. :-) I just pray that the tour guide will give us enough time to enjoy some personal time at some very monumental places-- the garden where Jesus prayed, the mount of Olives and other sites where I am going to want to take my headset off and just think.
I went to this Wal-Mart-like store close to Athens today with some others and stocked up on snack food. I heard the food there isn't great and that we are responsible for our own lunch some of the days. It was so nice to be in such a superstore. I wanted to walk around for hours, but the Griffiths nor my wallet would allow that. I think when I get home, I am just going to roam around Wal-Mart for a while. Haha. (No, Mom-- that doesn't include getting a cart full of groceries! :P)
I have a big test tonight which I need to start (yes, start!) studying for. I am looking forward to the guilt offering of brownies. :-) We are spoiled.
Pray for our safety. It will be a while before I can blog again-- unless of course, I somehow find internet in one of the hotels or something. You can check in every now and then, but don't be disappointed if I haven't been able to update.
This is the last 'shebang' of the semester and I can't wait to see this part of the world come to life for me.
P.S. Don't think you are going crazy-- I changed up the look of my blog a little bit-- I might do that from time to time because I get bored with it.
I went to this Wal-Mart-like store close to Athens today with some others and stocked up on snack food. I heard the food there isn't great and that we are responsible for our own lunch some of the days. It was so nice to be in such a superstore. I wanted to walk around for hours, but the Griffiths nor my wallet would allow that. I think when I get home, I am just going to roam around Wal-Mart for a while. Haha. (No, Mom-- that doesn't include getting a cart full of groceries! :P)
I have a big test tonight which I need to start (yes, start!) studying for. I am looking forward to the guilt offering of brownies. :-) We are spoiled.
Pray for our safety. It will be a while before I can blog again-- unless of course, I somehow find internet in one of the hotels or something. You can check in every now and then, but don't be disappointed if I haven't been able to update.
This is the last 'shebang' of the semester and I can't wait to see this part of the world come to life for me.
P.S. Don't think you are going crazy-- I changed up the look of my blog a little bit-- I might do that from time to time because I get bored with it.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Greek Cooking Class
I can't write really long because I'm fixing to have to take my final for Humanities 201. We are watching "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" and disecting it with things we have learned and observed about the Greek culture. It's better than a hard test, but I don't want to have to disect one of my favorite movies-- I would rather just sit back and enjoy it.
Today a lady from the church here came and helped our class cook a Greek meal for everyone. We made lemon chicken in potatoes, Greek salad, cheese pie, stuffed vegetables and baklava (spelling?) It lasted for four hours, but it was a neat experience. She put me in charge of cleaning the chicken. I am used to the neat little packages from Wal-Mart that are kind of gooey, pretty much drained of blood and cleaned. Not these, my friends. It looked like someone had plucked the poor thing and pulled it limb for limb. There was still bloody looking stuff in it and I nearly gagged. I decided I was going to be tough and took the bag of body parts from her and headed to the sink. DiMy laughed at me because apparently I am not very good at hiding emotions. I would stick my hand, with the chicken in it, under the water-- only using my peripheral vision so that I wouldn't gag. She said that she was very proud of me for taking this on and that my mom would be glad to hear that I did it. So-- there ya go, Mom! :-)
I also helped make the baklava and stuff the vegetables. I got some of the recipes so I may attempt to make them at home, but who knows how it would turn out. All I have to say is: Can we use the Wal-Mart chicken?
Today is the first day I have really felt tired and overwhelmed. I just have so many tests and papers due and we haven't planned for free travel well-- and we're fixing to head to Israel. Aaaaghh!! *Breathe*. Just pray for my wisdom and sanity as these next weeks roll around.
Love ya'll!
Today a lady from the church here came and helped our class cook a Greek meal for everyone. We made lemon chicken in potatoes, Greek salad, cheese pie, stuffed vegetables and baklava (spelling?) It lasted for four hours, but it was a neat experience. She put me in charge of cleaning the chicken. I am used to the neat little packages from Wal-Mart that are kind of gooey, pretty much drained of blood and cleaned. Not these, my friends. It looked like someone had plucked the poor thing and pulled it limb for limb. There was still bloody looking stuff in it and I nearly gagged. I decided I was going to be tough and took the bag of body parts from her and headed to the sink. DiMy laughed at me because apparently I am not very good at hiding emotions. I would stick my hand, with the chicken in it, under the water-- only using my peripheral vision so that I wouldn't gag. She said that she was very proud of me for taking this on and that my mom would be glad to hear that I did it. So-- there ya go, Mom! :-)
I also helped make the baklava and stuff the vegetables. I got some of the recipes so I may attempt to make them at home, but who knows how it would turn out. All I have to say is: Can we use the Wal-Mart chicken?
Today is the first day I have really felt tired and overwhelmed. I just have so many tests and papers due and we haven't planned for free travel well-- and we're fixing to head to Israel. Aaaaghh!! *Breathe*. Just pray for my wisdom and sanity as these next weeks roll around.
Love ya'll!
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Baby, When the Lights Go Out (that's a song from middle school for all you older folks out there!)
I sit here on Mandy's laptop watching the last part of "Masada"-- hallelujah! (That's hallelujah to it being the last part, not that I'm watching it.) Right now, it is the climatic scene and there is the high-pitched violin music that is making me want to scream. It's worse than nails on a chalkboard. That, my friends, is not why I am writing two entries in one day. I am writing because something cool happened tonight.
Several people were studying for tests and several of us were outside playing volleyball tonight when the electricity went out. Usually when the workers strike, it's during the day when we can manage with sunlight. Tonight's blackout made things terribly inconvenient. I came in to find people studying by candles and lanterns-- I felt like I had gone back in time. Then, we all eventually met in the living room for ghost stories. Though many of them creeped me out, I think Bethany and Bobby's stories topped my list. Bobby's in particular because it happened while here at the Artemis. He told about doors opening and loud knocks on the door in the middle of the night. Many others agreed with his story and said it had happened to them. It kind of makes me scared and I hope that nothing like that happens to me while here. For some reason, a cardboard cut-out figure of Humphrey Bogart was found when we first arrived. He mysteriously appears different places-- that is the closest to fear I have come. I love Humphrey with all of my heart, but when I walk up the stairs and he is standing there in a trench coat with a cigarette in his mouth, I can't help but be startled.
After the stories ceased, we began to sing some worship songs. We sang for a while and concluded with "Light the Fire." I am not kidding when I say that when we began on the chorus of "Light the Fire" the electricity came back on. I know that's not earth shattering, but I thought it was cool. Let there be light! :-)
Well, have a good night! Love ya'll.
Surprise in Chapel
It all started with a clip of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. We were all sitting in chapel and no one knew why Captain was using this as a time to show an action movie. I admitted to a girl next to me that I had never seen it and she couldn't believe it. Before I knew it, others caught on to this fact and stared at me with mouths open in shock. (Apparently, I need to watch this in order for my life to be complete..thanks, Mom and Dad! Haha.) But--that is beside the point.
At the end of the clip, Captain announced that for the first time in HUG history, we are getting to visit the country of Jordan for 3 days on this Israel trip!! The reason he showed the movie is because we will get to visit the Valley of the Crescent moon that is in that movie, along with the treasury and other things that are built into the rock. I am impressed that we are going to Jordan, but I wish I was more familiar with the movie to appreciate that aspect a little more. There I was thinking we were going to meet Harrison Ford the whole time. Oh, well-- this is so much better!
We have been a part of many firsts-- we are one of the few who have gotten to take a leap year weekend (when we went to the island), we are the first to go to Alexandria, and now Jordan. Looks like I picked the right semester, huh?!
Not much else to tell, really. We're just taking tests a lot and getting ready to head out on Friday. I hear that this is the worst security we will face in an airport all semester- they told us we would probably get interrogated and asked what we were doing, etc-- and that our stories all have to match. Scary. I hate airports to begin with-- add a scary soldier questioning me-- fantastic. :-)
At the end of the clip, Captain announced that for the first time in HUG history, we are getting to visit the country of Jordan for 3 days on this Israel trip!! The reason he showed the movie is because we will get to visit the Valley of the Crescent moon that is in that movie, along with the treasury and other things that are built into the rock. I am impressed that we are going to Jordan, but I wish I was more familiar with the movie to appreciate that aspect a little more. There I was thinking we were going to meet Harrison Ford the whole time. Oh, well-- this is so much better!
We have been a part of many firsts-- we are one of the few who have gotten to take a leap year weekend (when we went to the island), we are the first to go to Alexandria, and now Jordan. Looks like I picked the right semester, huh?!
Not much else to tell, really. We're just taking tests a lot and getting ready to head out on Friday. I hear that this is the worst security we will face in an airport all semester- they told us we would probably get interrogated and asked what we were doing, etc-- and that our stories all have to match. Scary. I hate airports to begin with-- add a scary soldier questioning me-- fantastic. :-)
Monday, March 10, 2008
Hammocks & Beachside Cafes
So, you're probably getting tired of my obsession with Greek weather and atmosphere (haha), but the weather outside was beautiful again today. After working out, I went outside and attempted to get in one of the hammocks which proved to be quite the challenge. I waited until no one was looking and clumsily fell back into it, praying that I wouldn't flip over. Mission accomplished-- until I tried to get out of it. I laid in the hammock and read my book-- I wanted to take a nap, but I was afraid I would lose track of time and it got a little chilly in the shade.
I walked with Alana down to a beachside cafe, where we met Lauren and Lacey. It is a holiday here so all the cafes were packed and people were flying kites. Lauren and Lacey flew a kite earlier, but I was probably wrestling with the hammock when they left. Usually when we go to a cafe, it isn't very crowded, but I loved being caught up in the hustle and bustle. Families were getting together, old friends-- it was fun to see the excitement on their faces and in their voices. On one of my tests today, the teacher asked what is something we want to take back to the United States and apply to our relationships. I put that I think that I need to put more time into conversation with friends. Instead of chugging down a cappucino, why not finish it slowly and visit for an hour or so? What is so wrong with taking things slow and not constantly having to check something off of a list? Efficiency and hard work are very important, but so is friendship and love-- for God has blessed us with those to make life more fulfilling.
We just got done with supper and I'm probably going to play some volleyball for a while until we are summoned into the living room for chapel (we didn't do it earlier because the electricity went out-- strikes here cause us to lose power for a few hours each day!) and we have to watch "Masada" again-- joy of a thousand joys. :-)
We also have to plan free travel tonight because it is soon approaching. When we get back from Israel it will be about 2 weeks until we part ways. CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT? Wow. It seems like yesterday I was terrified of getting on that plane, facing the unknown, not knowing anyone-- now I am fixing to have to leave them. I heard that free travel is strategically placed at the end to make you want to go home, but if I was leaving straight from the Artemis, it would be a hard step. I love home and miss it, but I love the pace here. I love the new things. I love to feel like I'm growing in knowledge and in self. Though it will be sad, there are things I have gained here that I can take back with me.
As you all know, you are constantly being thought of. I love you all!
I walked with Alana down to a beachside cafe, where we met Lauren and Lacey. It is a holiday here so all the cafes were packed and people were flying kites. Lauren and Lacey flew a kite earlier, but I was probably wrestling with the hammock when they left. Usually when we go to a cafe, it isn't very crowded, but I loved being caught up in the hustle and bustle. Families were getting together, old friends-- it was fun to see the excitement on their faces and in their voices. On one of my tests today, the teacher asked what is something we want to take back to the United States and apply to our relationships. I put that I think that I need to put more time into conversation with friends. Instead of chugging down a cappucino, why not finish it slowly and visit for an hour or so? What is so wrong with taking things slow and not constantly having to check something off of a list? Efficiency and hard work are very important, but so is friendship and love-- for God has blessed us with those to make life more fulfilling.
We just got done with supper and I'm probably going to play some volleyball for a while until we are summoned into the living room for chapel (we didn't do it earlier because the electricity went out-- strikes here cause us to lose power for a few hours each day!) and we have to watch "Masada" again-- joy of a thousand joys. :-)
We also have to plan free travel tonight because it is soon approaching. When we get back from Israel it will be about 2 weeks until we part ways. CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT? Wow. It seems like yesterday I was terrified of getting on that plane, facing the unknown, not knowing anyone-- now I am fixing to have to leave them. I heard that free travel is strategically placed at the end to make you want to go home, but if I was leaving straight from the Artemis, it would be a hard step. I love home and miss it, but I love the pace here. I love the new things. I love to feel like I'm growing in knowledge and in self. Though it will be sad, there are things I have gained here that I can take back with me.
As you all know, you are constantly being thought of. I love you all!
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Sunday in the Plaka
Today was pretty much your usual Sunday for us. A few of us planned to take the 1:00 bus to Athens, but would you believe that the bus drove off when we were standing right there? I was later informed that some bus drivers basically require you to stand in the street and flag them down. We didn't get that memo, nor was there a sign on the outside of the bus that read, "This bus is being driven by a mean, impatient man. Wave your arms violently!" Oh well. We just waited at the bus stop until the 2:30 bus came. We got into Athens late and made our 2nd stop to Subway. After Subway, I went off with a few girls and we shopped quickly before church. It is really getting warm here and I don't have many short-sleeved shirts. I found some tank tops that have different designs on them so I was pleased. :-) We rode the metro to church instead of walking and got there just before it started.
Tonight, there was a Pepperdine group at church. They are studying in London, but are taking a break in Greece for a while, seeing all the sights. I met a lot of the girls and they seemed really nice. I even ran into my friend Kyle Wood's girlfriend, Heather. It's a small world I guess. The professor who was with their group spoke to us and did a really good job. He covered the beatitudes, which I love to hear. For some reason, I would rather sit back and hear them read aloud than read them myself. There are certain verses that are like that for me.
We had yucky leftovers tonight, but I stuffed myself with fruit so that I could bear it. Haha. Sorry this entry was kind of boring, but I do have one interesting story to tell.
Alana and I were leisurely walking down one of the streets when this crazy bird decides to dive right above our heads. I lean off to the side to avoid its sharp beak, but Alana (I soon found out) is TERRIFIED of birds. She freaks out and before we know it, we are fumbling around and we bump heads (my lip gloss got on her hair). She is screaming and flailing her arms which flusters me and I knock her drink out of her hands. The Greek people looked at us with a "Does America not have birds?" look and Pete got quite a kick out of seeing the whole thing from behind. Oh me! Good times.
Last night, we played beauty salon in the room. Lauren cut Lacey's hair and gave her bangs-- while some of the rest of us painted nails, plucked eyebrows, etc. I painted my nails, but when I got out in the sunlight today, I realized that I must have been more tired and out of it than I thought. One of the guys sitting next to me was like, "Ashton, your toe is bleeding!" I look down to find that I had inadequately taken the red paint off before applying another color. Hopefully I'll have some time before Israel (when I'm wide awake) to re-do them.
I hope everyone is doing well-- I enjoy your comments!
Tonight, there was a Pepperdine group at church. They are studying in London, but are taking a break in Greece for a while, seeing all the sights. I met a lot of the girls and they seemed really nice. I even ran into my friend Kyle Wood's girlfriend, Heather. It's a small world I guess. The professor who was with their group spoke to us and did a really good job. He covered the beatitudes, which I love to hear. For some reason, I would rather sit back and hear them read aloud than read them myself. There are certain verses that are like that for me.
We had yucky leftovers tonight, but I stuffed myself with fruit so that I could bear it. Haha. Sorry this entry was kind of boring, but I do have one interesting story to tell.
Alana and I were leisurely walking down one of the streets when this crazy bird decides to dive right above our heads. I lean off to the side to avoid its sharp beak, but Alana (I soon found out) is TERRIFIED of birds. She freaks out and before we know it, we are fumbling around and we bump heads (my lip gloss got on her hair). She is screaming and flailing her arms which flusters me and I knock her drink out of her hands. The Greek people looked at us with a "Does America not have birds?" look and Pete got quite a kick out of seeing the whole thing from behind. Oh me! Good times.
Last night, we played beauty salon in the room. Lauren cut Lacey's hair and gave her bangs-- while some of the rest of us painted nails, plucked eyebrows, etc. I painted my nails, but when I got out in the sunlight today, I realized that I must have been more tired and out of it than I thought. One of the guys sitting next to me was like, "Ashton, your toe is bleeding!" I look down to find that I had inadequately taken the red paint off before applying another color. Hopefully I'll have some time before Israel (when I'm wide awake) to re-do them.
I hope everyone is doing well-- I enjoy your comments!
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Fun in the Sun
Today was another beautiful sunny day. After my first class, I went out on my balcony and read for a while. I'm reading the book Ryan got me for Christmas. (Thanks, Ryan-- it's really good so far!) It's called, "If you Could See Me Now." It's totally different than I thought it would be. It's a lot of fantasy, but for some reason I have started really getting into those kind of books recently. I read all three "Twilight" books over Christmas-- they have vampires, werewolves and other crazy things in them that I would usually avoid-- but for some reason, these particular stories suck me in. I think maybe I am boycotting the fact that I am growing up and I am returning back to fantasy worlds to keep me from facing reality. Haha. As long as I am falling in love with vampires, I don't have to remember that this is my last summer to be a kid. When I'm worried about a werewolf, it doesn't sink in that I am fixing to graduate and get a job-- a job with no one-month summer vacations and Christmas breaks. Nevertheless, it was great to feel the sun shining down on my face while I escaped into a world with Ivan, who is invisible and makes it his duty to change the lives of people who desperately need him. I haven't quite figured out yet why the sun revives me so. I just feel like a different person when I'm out on my balcony. I look over at the mountains, I feel the breeze and the world is right. I feel independent, yet totally in tune with everyone else. I feel carefree, yet I can clearly think about the cares my heart bears. I guess you could call the above paragraph an "Ode to Balcony"-- didn't mean to get all mooshy. It's just a balcony-- goodness.
Sara Montgomery and I got a girls' pick-up basketball game going. It was so much fun! Some girls had experience, some didn't-- but it was good to get up and down the court again. Sara plays ball for Abilene Christian University-- she's quite the baller, but she is fun to play with and makes me better. We eventually drew a crowd of boys, who cheered for us and played referee.
Tonight is pizza night and I am so ready! We have to watch the second part of the Masada video tonight as our movie so that kind of stinks, but oh well-- we all have to endure it together. I guess that basically covers my day. Love you guys!
*Don't worry about the situation in Israel. We have been assured that we are completely safe and away from all the terrorism.
Sara Montgomery and I got a girls' pick-up basketball game going. It was so much fun! Some girls had experience, some didn't-- but it was good to get up and down the court again. Sara plays ball for Abilene Christian University-- she's quite the baller, but she is fun to play with and makes me better. We eventually drew a crowd of boys, who cheered for us and played referee.
Tonight is pizza night and I am so ready! We have to watch the second part of the Masada video tonight as our movie so that kind of stinks, but oh well-- we all have to endure it together. I guess that basically covers my day. Love you guys!
*Don't worry about the situation in Israel. We have been assured that we are completely safe and away from all the terrorism.
Friday, March 7, 2008
Movies from the Old Days..
I hear that Arkansas and some other places are getting lots of snow. Well, not to rub it in, but I walked outside today in basketball shorts and a cut-off shirt. It was so sunny and beautiful! Mrs. Griffith drove Danielle and I to the ruins of the Artemis temple-- it's only about 10 minutes down the road. It was a neat area, with an old chapel from the 16th century dedicated to St. George. There was a small stream that ran down the hill from the church. The temple had some columns left and near it were the ruins of the oldest stoa in Greece. Hard to believe dinky Porto Rafti has the "oldest" of something. We made our powerpoint and we're set for our presentation.
I played some basketball outside today and bumped the volleyball around with Lacey and Lauren. Fun, fun! :-)
Tonight after supper, we had to watch the movie Masada in preparation for our trip to Israel. It's a 3-part movie that we have to watch each night. I was confused for most of it, but toward the end I began to piece together that the Romans and the Jews didn't like each other. The poor Jews-- everyone was always picking on them. It's so hard when you're used to 2008 special effects in movies to adjust to a movie that was made like in the 70s. Whereas war scenes in movies like " Troy" and "300" brings tears to my eyes, I feel guilty for laughing in these. There was this one scene where this Roman comes in, yells at a Jewish man and picks him up and throws him. Wowzers-- that really took care of that. Haha.
I am looking forward to Israel--- I'm sure it will be a life-changing experience. We are praying for the situation there and hope that recent events won't keep us from going. I am trying to be patient with these movies and look at them as a learning experience-- since I do get to actually see the places that are shown. So the Jews have British accents. Who cares that the Romans talk like Americans? It's a learning experience. Haha. Not everyone thought that I guess-- Jarrett started snoring really loud-- it was so funny!
Tomorrow we start back to class after a long absence. Joy! :-) Love ya'll!
P .S. I wanted to apologize for not putting more pictures up on facebook for those of you who check. It's a very frustrating process that I have about given up on. One solution is to look at my tagged pictures. Another solution is to look at my friend Noah's web site. He is a really good photographer and I am putting his name out there for ya'll. His web site is haonavy.uber.com! Don't put the "www" or it won't work. Go to his photo blog and check it out. Maybe it will give you a good idea of what we're seeing.
P.S.S. Funny moment: Pawpaw, I read your comment about you wrestling the students and thought it was Mimi because it was under her name. I laughed and laughed picturing Mimi taking on some college guy. But then I read til the end and was relieved to find that it was you. Haha.
I played some basketball outside today and bumped the volleyball around with Lacey and Lauren. Fun, fun! :-)
Tonight after supper, we had to watch the movie Masada in preparation for our trip to Israel. It's a 3-part movie that we have to watch each night. I was confused for most of it, but toward the end I began to piece together that the Romans and the Jews didn't like each other. The poor Jews-- everyone was always picking on them. It's so hard when you're used to 2008 special effects in movies to adjust to a movie that was made like in the 70s. Whereas war scenes in movies like " Troy" and "300" brings tears to my eyes, I feel guilty for laughing in these. There was this one scene where this Roman comes in, yells at a Jewish man and picks him up and throws him. Wowzers-- that really took care of that. Haha.
I am looking forward to Israel--- I'm sure it will be a life-changing experience. We are praying for the situation there and hope that recent events won't keep us from going. I am trying to be patient with these movies and look at them as a learning experience-- since I do get to actually see the places that are shown. So the Jews have British accents. Who cares that the Romans talk like Americans? It's a learning experience. Haha. Not everyone thought that I guess-- Jarrett started snoring really loud-- it was so funny!
Tomorrow we start back to class after a long absence. Joy! :-) Love ya'll!
P .S. I wanted to apologize for not putting more pictures up on facebook for those of you who check. It's a very frustrating process that I have about given up on. One solution is to look at my tagged pictures. Another solution is to look at my friend Noah's web site. He is a really good photographer and I am putting his name out there for ya'll. His web site is haonavy.uber.com! Don't put the "www" or it won't work. Go to his photo blog and check it out. Maybe it will give you a good idea of what we're seeing.
P.S.S. Funny moment: Pawpaw, I read your comment about you wrestling the students and thought it was Mimi because it was under her name. I laughed and laughed picturing Mimi taking on some college guy. But then I read til the end and was relieved to find that it was you. Haha.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Charter Buses, Toilet Fiascos and Millie
We just returned from our long trip to northern Greece. We spent probably 80% of our time on a charter bus. We either got lost, our tour guide miscalculated approximate distance or our bus driver would take the scenic route for no apparent reason. Haha. Let's start with our tour guide. Oh Millie! Catharina, our usual tour guide, was booked for this week so we got Millie. She is this little lady in her late 50s. I knew it was going to be an interesting few days when she began our journey with a long, drawn-out joke with no end in sight. We had just got on the bus early in the morning-- we didn't even want our seat partner to talk to us that early--and here this little old lady that talks like Mrs. Doubtfire starts playing comedian. She was really sweet, but she loved the bus microphone. And her accent was adorable. Every 2 syllable word ended on a high note...literally. My favorite word that she would say was mountains and pebbles. I wish, oh how I wish, I could put a soundbite in this blog so you would know what I was talking about. She would start out lower with "mount" and excitedly crescendo into "tains" a few octaves above the first syllable. When we went into tombs, she kept saying "tombs" and would pronounce the "b." Little pet peeve..don't ask me why. It is silent-- not "toom-bahs." Man, I'm coming down on Millie too hard. She was a very sweet lady-- the guys here play this crazy game where they call your name and if you look at them they shoot you with an imaginary dart..you must, wherever you are, fall down and pretend to be dead. Someone has to pull the dart from your neck before you are free to get up and go on your way. Millie was very confused by this and asked me why the other kids were falling down all the time. I explained the game to her and later on, someone shot her with a dart and she pretended to be dead. Ten million bonus points for Millie. After she did that, she could say "tombs" however she wanted.
The first day we went to Delphi, which I knew mostly because of the oracles I had heard about. It was a beautiful sunny day-- I got to bust out my tank tops and capris. :-) Like most other sites here, it was quite a climb but the scenery, once again, impressed me. You think I would get tired of seeing mountain, ocean, mountain ocean..but it never gets old to me. We saw Apollo's temple and heard about all that went on there. We saw the altar next to it also. I think what was the neatest about this was seeing the huge rock where the "vapors" would come out and put the future-telling women in a trance. They would give them pretty broad answers so that no matter what happened, it fit the situation. Kind of like that plastic fortune-telling lady at Bonanza. As a kid, I continued to support her with my coins and she continued to tell me "Love is in the air" or "Today is a good day for you." What a rip-off!
It was in Delphi that we saw the stadium where the Pythian games were held. Of all the stadiums, I think this was my favorite because it was more in tact and you could better see what would have went on within its walls. We saw another ancient theater with great acoustics. The Delphi museum, which we have heard about in class, was closed due to a worker strike. What in the world are museum workers striking about? Bad benefits? I guess they don't get paid enough to sit there and shout, "No flash!" Millie tried her best with a pamphlet to show us what would have been inside, but it was still disappointing. I wanted to see the bronze statue of the Charioteer-- it's supposed to be one of the most impressive bronze statues that has ever been found. The sculptor put so much detail into his feet even though they would have been covered by a chariot. I didn't get to see his detailed feet. Mean museum workers.
The first night we stayed at a hotel in Kalambaka, this small town of about 15,000 or so. We had time that evening to walk around the town and get the feel of it. Such a cute town! The highlight would probably have to be eating at Pizza Land-- the pizza was amazing!! I didn't think pizza would be a Greek specialty, but the best pizza I've had has been here. We went to this gelato shop and the owner came out and talked to us for a while. He was so funny. They always seem to start talking about politics. You will be on one topic with them and they will randomly say, "What you think about Obama?" It kind of catches you off guard and before you know it, you are discussing politics. I am sad to report that I think Greeks are more informed about our government than we are.
The 2nd day we visited monasteries on top of huge cliffs in Kalambaka. After huffing and puffing my way to the top, I have a newfound respect for the monks and nuns who travel this path quite often-- especially in those garment get-ups. Haha. (Their restrooms are also holes in the ground so I'm sure their wardrobe isn't ideal for that either..)
I think what hit me the hardest were the depictions of Christian persecution that were displayed on the church walls. It showed martyrs being murdered for the sake of Christ in ways you couldn't possibly imagine. Though worn by time, the pictures still spoke strongly to me today. Seeing them tied to a wooden wheel that was rotated around spikes and other sharp objects, I couldn't help but realize how blessed we are today. I go to church every Sunday on my own accord; I go to a Christian university with people who share my beliefs. I thought being made fun of in high school for not partying was such a sacrifice-- now I know that it was nothing more than what I was called to do-- and I am lucky to have not faced death.
We then headed to Thessaloniki, where we stayed in the best hotel thus far. It was a five star hotel. There is a magnificent fountain in the front of it and the white marble walls required you to lean back and look up to catch every floor. I think all of our jaws dropped when the bus pulled up. When we got to our room, the first thing we did was a bathroom check. The bathroom was as big as our hotel room the night before! And guess what! It had a bathtub with bubble bath! I was jumping up and down at the thought of the evening bubble bath to come. It was then that I opened the closet door and found that I had a bathrobe and slippers waiting for me! Wowzers. Our family usually celebrates when we get a free continental breakfast-- I got a delicious breakfast and a robe! It goes without saying that I had a bubble bath both nights. Haha. Life's little blessings.
We explored Thessaloniki some that evening and, once again, I enjoyed the atmosphere. I love the town squares and the people going about daily life.
The next day we drove to Philippi. Paul came here on his 2nd missionary journey after receiving the vision of the Macedonian man. I have always loved that story-- I love how Paul alters his plans and goes to Macedonia. It is also here that he meets Lydia (the dealer of purple cloth) that he baptizes in the Angilee River. I think my favorite story from Philippi is when Paul and Silas are imprisoned and the earthquake comes. The jailer is about to commit suicide when Paul suddenly stops him. The jailer asks what he has to do to be saved and he and his family are all baptized. I think it's neat that I was in the same area where all this happened. We saw the prison that has become known through the years as the one Paul was probably in. They have recently decided that though this is probably not it, that it would have been similar to this one. Still a cool thought even though they are not positive!
In Philippi, we also saw the remnants of old basilicas (churches). The mosaic floors were still in tact which was so impressive to me. We saw the ancient road that connected the port to Philippi-- just another "walking in Paul's footsteps" moment.
Not as important, but Ashton has once again had a bathroom fiasco. I don't know what it is with me and European bathrooms. It was in Philippi that I had a mental breakdown in a stall with a hole in the ground. Among other difficulties, I laid my purse to the side of the stall. When I flushed, I underestimated the water power that flows into the hole and it sprayed EVERYWHERE, soaking my purse and getting me wet. I couldn't tell how much was water and how much was urine. I scream really loud and later realize that the boys are right next to us and can hear everything that goes on. One of the guys was like, "Ashton, did you have problems in there?" and I turned really red. He still brings it up. Ugh. I can't wait to use my bathroom in my house. I might take a magazine in and enjoy it for hours just for the sake of calling it my own.
Today we stopped in Pella-- a thriving city of Macedonia. We went to a museum and did a scavenger hunt for extra credit in Hum 270. In Vergina, we went into Phillip II (Alexander the Great's father)'s tomb, which was really neat. The museum was dark, with only the displays lit up. We saw his armor and other things that were buried with him. They know that it was him because they know that he had a leg injury from war and the leg armor they found was consistent with that knowledge. As you all know by now, I am obsessed with the dead so this part was one of the neatest parts of the trip. Call me morbid, but I just like tombs and dead people stuff. I can't help but sit there and think, "He WORE that" or "That crown was on Phillip II's head!" Nerdy, I know.
It took us FOREVER to get home it seemed, but we finally made it. We figured that when Millie made a "Are we there yet?" calculation that you multiplied it by 4 and that was the accurate time left. She counts in dog years. Haha. We are here and that is what matters. I'm fixing to go to bed because I'm exhausted. Luckily, we have a day off tomorrow. Danielle and I have to go to a museum here in Porto Rafti though for an assignment. Blah. Museums, museums!
Love ya'll!
The first day we went to Delphi, which I knew mostly because of the oracles I had heard about. It was a beautiful sunny day-- I got to bust out my tank tops and capris. :-) Like most other sites here, it was quite a climb but the scenery, once again, impressed me. You think I would get tired of seeing mountain, ocean, mountain ocean..but it never gets old to me. We saw Apollo's temple and heard about all that went on there. We saw the altar next to it also. I think what was the neatest about this was seeing the huge rock where the "vapors" would come out and put the future-telling women in a trance. They would give them pretty broad answers so that no matter what happened, it fit the situation. Kind of like that plastic fortune-telling lady at Bonanza. As a kid, I continued to support her with my coins and she continued to tell me "Love is in the air" or "Today is a good day for you." What a rip-off!
It was in Delphi that we saw the stadium where the Pythian games were held. Of all the stadiums, I think this was my favorite because it was more in tact and you could better see what would have went on within its walls. We saw another ancient theater with great acoustics. The Delphi museum, which we have heard about in class, was closed due to a worker strike. What in the world are museum workers striking about? Bad benefits? I guess they don't get paid enough to sit there and shout, "No flash!" Millie tried her best with a pamphlet to show us what would have been inside, but it was still disappointing. I wanted to see the bronze statue of the Charioteer-- it's supposed to be one of the most impressive bronze statues that has ever been found. The sculptor put so much detail into his feet even though they would have been covered by a chariot. I didn't get to see his detailed feet. Mean museum workers.
The first night we stayed at a hotel in Kalambaka, this small town of about 15,000 or so. We had time that evening to walk around the town and get the feel of it. Such a cute town! The highlight would probably have to be eating at Pizza Land-- the pizza was amazing!! I didn't think pizza would be a Greek specialty, but the best pizza I've had has been here. We went to this gelato shop and the owner came out and talked to us for a while. He was so funny. They always seem to start talking about politics. You will be on one topic with them and they will randomly say, "What you think about Obama?" It kind of catches you off guard and before you know it, you are discussing politics. I am sad to report that I think Greeks are more informed about our government than we are.
The 2nd day we visited monasteries on top of huge cliffs in Kalambaka. After huffing and puffing my way to the top, I have a newfound respect for the monks and nuns who travel this path quite often-- especially in those garment get-ups. Haha. (Their restrooms are also holes in the ground so I'm sure their wardrobe isn't ideal for that either..)
I think what hit me the hardest were the depictions of Christian persecution that were displayed on the church walls. It showed martyrs being murdered for the sake of Christ in ways you couldn't possibly imagine. Though worn by time, the pictures still spoke strongly to me today. Seeing them tied to a wooden wheel that was rotated around spikes and other sharp objects, I couldn't help but realize how blessed we are today. I go to church every Sunday on my own accord; I go to a Christian university with people who share my beliefs. I thought being made fun of in high school for not partying was such a sacrifice-- now I know that it was nothing more than what I was called to do-- and I am lucky to have not faced death.
We then headed to Thessaloniki, where we stayed in the best hotel thus far. It was a five star hotel. There is a magnificent fountain in the front of it and the white marble walls required you to lean back and look up to catch every floor. I think all of our jaws dropped when the bus pulled up. When we got to our room, the first thing we did was a bathroom check. The bathroom was as big as our hotel room the night before! And guess what! It had a bathtub with bubble bath! I was jumping up and down at the thought of the evening bubble bath to come. It was then that I opened the closet door and found that I had a bathrobe and slippers waiting for me! Wowzers. Our family usually celebrates when we get a free continental breakfast-- I got a delicious breakfast and a robe! It goes without saying that I had a bubble bath both nights. Haha. Life's little blessings.
We explored Thessaloniki some that evening and, once again, I enjoyed the atmosphere. I love the town squares and the people going about daily life.
The next day we drove to Philippi. Paul came here on his 2nd missionary journey after receiving the vision of the Macedonian man. I have always loved that story-- I love how Paul alters his plans and goes to Macedonia. It is also here that he meets Lydia (the dealer of purple cloth) that he baptizes in the Angilee River. I think my favorite story from Philippi is when Paul and Silas are imprisoned and the earthquake comes. The jailer is about to commit suicide when Paul suddenly stops him. The jailer asks what he has to do to be saved and he and his family are all baptized. I think it's neat that I was in the same area where all this happened. We saw the prison that has become known through the years as the one Paul was probably in. They have recently decided that though this is probably not it, that it would have been similar to this one. Still a cool thought even though they are not positive!
In Philippi, we also saw the remnants of old basilicas (churches). The mosaic floors were still in tact which was so impressive to me. We saw the ancient road that connected the port to Philippi-- just another "walking in Paul's footsteps" moment.
Not as important, but Ashton has once again had a bathroom fiasco. I don't know what it is with me and European bathrooms. It was in Philippi that I had a mental breakdown in a stall with a hole in the ground. Among other difficulties, I laid my purse to the side of the stall. When I flushed, I underestimated the water power that flows into the hole and it sprayed EVERYWHERE, soaking my purse and getting me wet. I couldn't tell how much was water and how much was urine. I scream really loud and later realize that the boys are right next to us and can hear everything that goes on. One of the guys was like, "Ashton, did you have problems in there?" and I turned really red. He still brings it up. Ugh. I can't wait to use my bathroom in my house. I might take a magazine in and enjoy it for hours just for the sake of calling it my own.
Today we stopped in Pella-- a thriving city of Macedonia. We went to a museum and did a scavenger hunt for extra credit in Hum 270. In Vergina, we went into Phillip II (Alexander the Great's father)'s tomb, which was really neat. The museum was dark, with only the displays lit up. We saw his armor and other things that were buried with him. They know that it was him because they know that he had a leg injury from war and the leg armor they found was consistent with that knowledge. As you all know by now, I am obsessed with the dead so this part was one of the neatest parts of the trip. Call me morbid, but I just like tombs and dead people stuff. I can't help but sit there and think, "He WORE that" or "That crown was on Phillip II's head!" Nerdy, I know.
It took us FOREVER to get home it seemed, but we finally made it. We figured that when Millie made a "Are we there yet?" calculation that you multiplied it by 4 and that was the accurate time left. She counts in dog years. Haha. We are here and that is what matters. I'm fixing to go to bed because I'm exhausted. Luckily, we have a day off tomorrow. Danielle and I have to go to a museum here in Porto Rafti though for an assignment. Blah. Museums, museums!
Love ya'll!
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Back to Reality
We just got back to the Artemis not long ago from our weekend holiday. Sorry Mom and Dad but I have decided to move to an island post-graduation. I hope that's okay. Haha. Though that will most likely not be the case, I hope to return someday for a longer visit.
On Saturday, we headed to the beach. It was not as sunny as we would have liked, but it was warm enough most of the time to wear a bathing suit with maybe a light jacket occasionally. The two boys decided to climb the mountain next to the water while the girls relaxed on the sand. Because it is a tourism off-season, we had the beach pretty much to ourselves except for a few joggers. Ashley was the only one that braved the icy water all the way-- about mid-thigh is all I could manage. I loved this afternoon. I listened to Ashley's Ipod while dancing down the beach. I listened to "It's a Pretty Good Day"-- this upbeat song that seemed to fit my mood perfectly. You know those moments when you feel like you're in a movie? That was mine. I was wearing my brightly-colored sun dress, spinning around by the water-- and the world was right.
We tried to experience as much of the town life as we could in one weekend-- we tried out different cafes and restaurants, all of which turned out to be amazing choices. My favorite cafe was called "Deals." It was this chic, dimly lit cafe with leather chairs and couches. Large groups of families and friends were all around. The typical loud Greek conversation filled the restaurant and laughing filled the air as much as the cigarette smoke. Can I just say how much I love the Greek way of life? First of all, I love that conversation is of utmost importance. In America, we sit at a restaurant, scarf down our food and leave almost immediately. In Greece, you pay for your table because they expect you to use it-- and they leave you alone for as long as you wish to stay. Second, they have spunk. Though it has taken some getting used to, I now look at that little old lady that pushed her way through the crowd with appreciation. Feeble old people do not exist here. On the bus, this old man behind me kept pushing me when I couldn't go anywhere-- where usually this frustrates me, I couldn't help but smile to myself. I mean, how many older people in America try to pick a fight with a college student? Adding to their spunk is the fact that they never back down from a heated debate, even if the talk is just for the sake of being heated. To the American ear it sounds like arguing, but they are simply enjoying the art of conversation. I find this fascinating. Considering talking to most people (especially of the male species) in America results in a simple, "Yeah" or "No, not really," I love that they can get into deep, meaningful discussions with perfect strangers. There have been so many instances that I have wished I could speak Greek fluently so I could jump right in.
The ferry on the way back was quite a trip. It was rocking back and forth like a storm-tossed ship. You could see the water through the window and then suddenly it would completely disappear-- your stomach would flop and then the water would reappear. We finally made it to dry land. Before we got off, this little old lady smiled at Lauren and handed her a rose made out of a napkin. It was the sweetest thing I have ever seen! The Greek people have such a heart for lost college students. And we have "lost" written all over our foreheads.
Tomorrow we are leaving early, early in the morning to go to northern Greece for 4 days, 3 nights. I won't be able to blog for a while. I can't believe how fast this semester is flying! When we get back from northern Greece, we go to class for a week and then we leave for Israel. Can you believe it?! Wow. This has been such a wonderful semester and this weekend just added whipped cream and a cherry to the top of it! :-)
I love you all!
On Saturday, we headed to the beach. It was not as sunny as we would have liked, but it was warm enough most of the time to wear a bathing suit with maybe a light jacket occasionally. The two boys decided to climb the mountain next to the water while the girls relaxed on the sand. Because it is a tourism off-season, we had the beach pretty much to ourselves except for a few joggers. Ashley was the only one that braved the icy water all the way-- about mid-thigh is all I could manage. I loved this afternoon. I listened to Ashley's Ipod while dancing down the beach. I listened to "It's a Pretty Good Day"-- this upbeat song that seemed to fit my mood perfectly. You know those moments when you feel like you're in a movie? That was mine. I was wearing my brightly-colored sun dress, spinning around by the water-- and the world was right.
We tried to experience as much of the town life as we could in one weekend-- we tried out different cafes and restaurants, all of which turned out to be amazing choices. My favorite cafe was called "Deals." It was this chic, dimly lit cafe with leather chairs and couches. Large groups of families and friends were all around. The typical loud Greek conversation filled the restaurant and laughing filled the air as much as the cigarette smoke. Can I just say how much I love the Greek way of life? First of all, I love that conversation is of utmost importance. In America, we sit at a restaurant, scarf down our food and leave almost immediately. In Greece, you pay for your table because they expect you to use it-- and they leave you alone for as long as you wish to stay. Second, they have spunk. Though it has taken some getting used to, I now look at that little old lady that pushed her way through the crowd with appreciation. Feeble old people do not exist here. On the bus, this old man behind me kept pushing me when I couldn't go anywhere-- where usually this frustrates me, I couldn't help but smile to myself. I mean, how many older people in America try to pick a fight with a college student? Adding to their spunk is the fact that they never back down from a heated debate, even if the talk is just for the sake of being heated. To the American ear it sounds like arguing, but they are simply enjoying the art of conversation. I find this fascinating. Considering talking to most people (especially of the male species) in America results in a simple, "Yeah" or "No, not really," I love that they can get into deep, meaningful discussions with perfect strangers. There have been so many instances that I have wished I could speak Greek fluently so I could jump right in.
The ferry on the way back was quite a trip. It was rocking back and forth like a storm-tossed ship. You could see the water through the window and then suddenly it would completely disappear-- your stomach would flop and then the water would reappear. We finally made it to dry land. Before we got off, this little old lady smiled at Lauren and handed her a rose made out of a napkin. It was the sweetest thing I have ever seen! The Greek people have such a heart for lost college students. And we have "lost" written all over our foreheads.
Tomorrow we are leaving early, early in the morning to go to northern Greece for 4 days, 3 nights. I won't be able to blog for a while. I can't believe how fast this semester is flying! When we get back from northern Greece, we go to class for a week and then we leave for Israel. Can you believe it?! Wow. This has been such a wonderful semester and this weekend just added whipped cream and a cherry to the top of it! :-)
I love you all!
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