March 27, 2003

A local shepherd lets us hold one of his lambs.

A photo beneath a curious tree formation.

We spent the day up in the mountains in a small village called Apshia. An American family who works with the Middle East Council of Churches took pity on us poor Presbyterians and brought us all - those from Palestine, those from Egypt - up to their home for a little relaxation time, a home-cooked meal, and just a general good time. It was way too cold to swim in their pool, but getting to eat lasagna (for the first time in a long time) was refreshing.

The Cypriot countryside.

We walked around their lovely little village. A shepherd even let us play with one of his baby goats for a while. The view that overlooks the valley on both sides is incredible - to the north, Mount Olympus and a number of small villages dotting the hillside. To the south, the Mediterranean Sea. Not bad. Not bad at all.