January 8-14.

This was at the airport when we arrived!

Nabi Samwill/Montjoie (mount of joy)

Commemoration spot to the prophet Samuel. It is a church, mosque, and synagogue.

I was so excited and freezing. Can you tell?

Haas promenade.

Bethlehem = all the white washed stone buildings behind me!

makin friends.

makin more friends.

Augusta Victoria Tower.

Highest point on the Mt. of Olives.

7 Arches Overlook.

PERFECT view of the city walls and the Dome!

This wasn't posed - - cats are EVERYWHERE!

This is what happens when you randomly get stopped while riding a bus.

FHE

The first week we had a lot of orientation meetings and attended our classes. It was exciting to meet our new teachers and dive right into what we would be learning on-site and in the classroom. We were all starting to feel more comfortable with eachother and instantly began game nights, back scratching circles, late night talks, and dances. I was placed in the commitee that was in charge of the activities inside the center. We orgainzed the first FHE and by the time we went to bed that night, let's just say we all knew each other A LOT better!

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We went on a geography field trip towards the end of the week and I would have to say it was one of my favorites. It really allowed us to get a feel for our surroundings. We went to the Augusta Victoria Tower, 7 Arches overlook, Haas promenade, Nabi Samwill, and St. Peters Overlook. Every stop was very informative and thought provoking. I loved visiting them and thinking about the history that took place right where I was standing.

FYI--we sang hymns ALL the time.

It was hard for me to get used to but I grew to love it.

for example-we probably sang 3 hymns at all these sites. at least.