Muddy Waters

Today, we visited the historical site of Masada where the last bastion of Jewish freedom fighters against the Romans committed mass suicide rather than be taken captive. Then on to En Gedi where David secretly tore a piece of King Saul's cloak. We hiked on the actual trail that David traveled on his way to his cave. There were spring fed water falls and it was a beautiful area. Both of these places are located on the eastern edge of the Judean Desert near the shore of the Dead Sea. We had a stop at the Dead Sea and some of those in our group went for a swim floating around on the water like balloons because of the salt water. A few people settled for a little mud bath rubbing here and there on their bodies or wading. The water and mud is suppose to have rejuvenating and healing powers for your skin. I was satisfied just to watch. Terry waded in the water and seeing his slimy, muddy legs when he got out, was all I needed to experience. Oh, this place, BTW, is the lowest place on earth, about 1300 ft. My ears were popping as we drove down, which seemed strange. Everyone in the group is doing fairly well. A couple of women stayed in the hotel today to rest, but for the most part everyone is holding up with all the walking we are doing. Some days are easier than others. It has stopped raining and that has really been a blessing! It was warm today, around 65 degrees, I'm guessing. I have a message for Jodi's family. She said to tell you she is doing well but will be glad to be home. She's a little homesick, I think. She's adventurous though. I watched her eat some kind of tongue for dinner last night. Eeewww! The food is interesting. Salad is served at every meal including breakfast. There is always something good to eat and many new things to try. Yesterday was Sabbitt (Sabbith) for practicing Jews, and, among other things, they could not push the buttons on the elevators so they have a special elevator that stops at each floor. Now, I was speaking of food and it's almost time to eat, so I'm signing off. Time to try something new again.