Part 3

We went to a small village (ack! can't remember the name!) and had lunch at an awesome outdoor cafe'. It was here that Jack and Savannah decided to play with a few cats that were scurrying around, while we were waiting for our food, (cats are everywhere in Isr@el). They decided to make up names for them. Much to the horror and surprise of his mother, Jack proudly announced that the name of his favorite cat was "Crappy". Yes, that's right......"Crappy Cat".It was then that we had to explain, (over the roaring laughter from his siblings), what the word "crap" meant. Of course this just made it funnier, and the name "Crappy Cat" stuck.(ugh)

Now, besides being the home of "Crappy Cat", this village is also the Church of the Visitation. This is on the site of Elizabeth and Zecheriah's home. This is also where Mary came and met Elizabeth, after learning that she was carrying the Son of God. This is a convent, and was absolutely beautiful, with it's gardens and architecture, and art work.

I still have about 3 more posts on the trip, so I'll try to keep it up. Meanwhile, we are all back to school, and Race and I have gotten to know one another again. It is so great to have him home again! He never ceases to amaze me, and after 16 years I am still discovering new things about him. I realized this week, that 2006 was probably the hardest year of my life....but I love my life.I love my husband. I love my family. And I wouldn't trade the things that I've learned this year for anything.I am incredibly grateful to God for the life that I feel so privileged to live.

G'night,
Melissa