Nina's Notes - February 3,2012 Today was deemed a free day for exploration and/or rest so six of us rode the bus into Tiberius which is not far from where we are staying. We had a grand time looking around and experiencing the sounds and sights of the city. We looked in a variety of stores, explored the abandoned mosque in town, and enjoyed eating falafels on the boardwalk. It was a beautiful day and we enjoyed the sunshine and each other's company. When we got back to Tabgha we went down to the Sea of Galilee and waded into the water. It was icy cold and there are lots of stones, but it was worth it - check out the pictures on Facebook. I sat there letting my feet dry and read from the Psalms. It was so peaceful and the presence of the Lord was in that place. I thought I would share with you some of the unusual things we experienced today, in bulleted form. We saw young men and women walking about in military uniforms carrying guns while shopping. All young men and women have to serve for three years in the army when they turn 18. Many were at the bus depot going home for the weekend which is Friday and Saturday We saw many Hisidic Jews in the city today. The men were wearing their kipa on their heads with their pe'ots (a long single ringlet). You cannot be a citizen of Israel unless you are a Jew. We saw lots of fruit for sale at the market such as pomegrantes, bananas, dates and dried fruits of all sorts. We also saw a fish market and stores with various kinds of nuts, and spices. We ate falafels on the boardwalk where there are numerous vendors all wanting you to try their food. The city bus we rode was like a tour bus and the round trip cost $22.40 in shekels which is about $7.50 in American money. Well, that is enough for now. We have our evening devotions soon and I have a few more things to throw in the suitcase. We leave very early in the morning for Jerusalem. I will hate to leave the peaceful area of the Galilee.