Today, we had a special gathering of the university and high school youth for games, food, and fellowship.

We call the picture "Zababdeh at Night."

We fast because it reminds us that everything, even the food we take for granted, is from God.

A nice reminder of why we came here - to worship the one who came as the king who turned to the world on its head.

The views were stunning as we drove down through the Jordan valley, passed a completely blocked-off Jericho.

Yes, we ate turkey. And stuffing. And sweet potatoes. And cranberry sauce (with the lines from the can and everything).

We headed down to Nablus with our neighbor.

He has connected the students here with the Youth Group at Covenant Presbyterian Church (Lubbock, Texas).

Although we continue to remain safe in Zababdeh, there has been shooting at the nearby military training camp at night.

One of the last days of the olive harvest this year.

In the afternoon, we joined our neighbor on a walk through the hills around Zababdeh.

So many Israeli planes are flying over these days it feels like the runway at O'Hare.

On a lighter note, Elizabeth got a haircut.

Everyone seemed happy and relieved to have us here - and that was true for us, too. 

Sunday was a day of waiting for our visas - which we got without a hitch.

Saturday provided us with the opportunity for much-needed rest.