We have been home for almost 3 weeks now and I feel our trip was a dream, but I know it was not a dream. My thoughts keep going back to the Boat Ride on the Sea of Galilee, the first morning in Israel. My feelings of God's presence were so great that day. I shared at our first team meeting after we returned home, last Friday, about how I felt the presence of God on the Boat and in the first convention meeting. I felt him other times also, but these two were the most distinct times. And then in the Garden Tomb, nothing! I know this may or may not be the actual spot were Jesus was laid to rest, but "He is not here, He is Risen" is so how I felt. He was not there!

I have had an overwhelming feeling of depression since we returned. It hit worst during the second week home. After sharing last week at our team meeting, I am feeling better. Keep praying for me. I know that is why I feel better, everyone is praying for me. Thank you. During our first week in Israel I hurt my left foot somehow, but it wasn't too bad. I did fine on all our walks and climbs. But since I came home I have tried to workout twice and the second time I really felt the pain. So, tomorrow I see a doctor and try to find out what I have done and how to fix it.

I hope to be able to go back to Israel again someday. It may not be in April 2009, but maybe the next time, after that. Teresa got back her pictures and mine are due in within the week. She brought hers to my work yesterday and surprised me with hers all put together in the albums and let me share with my co-workers, wow! They sure enjoyed that. We only developed the ones we took, for now. We plan to go through every one's and have more done. Just a little at a time. They are so cool to look at. I can look at most of the pictures and remember being there.

By the way, some of us went on a Greek Cruise after we left Israel. That was cool, too. It was way different than Israel. I enjoyed Myconos and Santorini , I did not get off the boat at Rhodes, but pictures show it was really nice too.

Thank you Pastor Tom and Pastor Jerry for heading up our team. I will always remember my first trip to Israel. It was wonderful getting to know everyone on our team, Donna, Carl, Bob, Jerry, Judy, Lila, Scott, Pat, Anita, Mary, Jasmyn, Sharon, David, Tom, Cindy, Linda, Teresa and me (Karen). Linda and I have been friends since 1998, when we both started going to our church (Living Way). It was awesome to be able to share this experience with her and my wonderful daughter, Teresa, who started at the church in 1992. Without my daughter, this trip would not have been possible for me. She covered most of my cost. THANK YOU, TERESA!! I remembered all the names! Yeah!

To all who read this, YOU need to go to Israel, too. Love in Christ, Karen