tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43326706154284271582024-02-18T18:45:14.413-08:00Izmirian DiscoveryMy goal is to determine if and/or when the Izmirian Family originated from Izmir, Turkey as there is no living knowledge of them being there. Due to the Armenian History, records of their past are missing. To explain this Journey it will require me to incorporate not just the Izmirians but the broader Armenian migration. You may like to read my brief history overview first at www.wyles.com.au to make sense of the blog and people/places mentioned in the entries.Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.comBlogger104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-78338623209467448572009-06-05T20:57:00.000-07:002009-06-10T00:58:57.943-07:00Thank You All.My trip was a wonderful experience and the quest I set out to seek answers for, has been completed beyond my own expectations. I am amazed and very pleased this blog has had over 3000 hits in just over 7 weeks. Your interest has been an inspiration to me to ensure I kept it upto date with information and photos. I still have enquiries to follow up and I will post them when I get the answers. I can not express my gratitude enough to everyone who I met on this trip. I have been humbled by the generosity in both time and recourses from family, friends, acquaintances and people I met for the first time. Thank you everyone for your assistance in helping me research the Izmirian Genealogy and the family’s past movements during my travels from Istanbul Turkey, thru Syria, Lebanon, Jordan and Israel. I look forward to returning this generosity to all of you and my home is always open to you all at any time. شكرا لك, Teşekkürler, Shenorhagalem, Thank YouHave the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-72719766628473269722009-06-05T20:49:00.000-07:002009-06-05T22:00:31.871-07:00HomeVahe dropped me off at the Airport in Amman at 9.30am and 33 degrees Celsius and 24 hours later I exit customs in Melbourne, Australia at 6.pm and 15 degrees Celsius, where Lisa is waiting for me with a big smile and a long warm hug. We were both very pleased to see one another which was evident as we held one another all the way to the car, talking and laughing together. It was great to see her and be home after a 7 week absence.Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-4109423967357501122009-06-05T20:36:00.000-07:002009-06-05T20:48:34.335-07:00Dead SeaVahe, Varant, and I spent my last full day in Jordan down at the Dead Sea. The Dead Sea is the lowest place on the earth. Well below sea level and very hot. The water at the Dead Sea is so salty and dense it keeps you afloat. I was told not to let the water get into your eyes as it stings like acid. Upon entering the water your skin tingles. Apparently if you have any cuts it stings. I can imagine it would. The bottom is rocks and mud. This mud is apparently very good for the skin and people were down at the waters edge covered in black mud and standing in the hot sun baking. It is an unusual experience being so buoyant and floating on top of the water as apposed to floating in the water. It was a wonderful experience. <table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/KVPyJqjuJUUIxOmAKfmIMg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwbsE-Jt8W5mRxfxfJDNVjysFHWPncf7vkfxBaJM3mg2FokGpIVZPTRyVYNBYgcotvkYko_VgJ1FIsTjqYj-w8dkow1JflypZ_CmDepODym7vODSW9g0cCRbqBUknYfDQmsrLGOuxygy4/s400/IMG_2372-1.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/81rLN4qfQZ8A7QgkVULv8w?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3CIkA9gz62z9caIqhMkBW2VK97Q90QNttNTBwC44DXWc_KWIIVvgmlZv5Uflpc4jZxfUoaJTBt-luRnqeFZ1HlSfLBwMKiWGq3WWq3YZJpZFRBKWPGDAC5FChENSzcD2aY7Hrq8_CoYc/s400/IMG_2373-1.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />Once out of the water Varant and I gave the waterslides in the resort a go finishing on Kamikaze. Kamikaze is effectively a slide that is straight down and very fast. We spent a couple of hours here before heading back home. It was a relaxing way to finish the trip and my stay here in JordanHave the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-6905395837774311612009-06-05T20:31:00.000-07:002009-06-05T20:36:04.444-07:00Mail in AmmanIt has come to my attention there is no mail delivery to houses in Amman and for that matter the same applies in Lebanon. Everyone has a Post Office Box as there is no deliveries to the houses. Vahe told me the street he lives in has only recently been given a name. If Fedex or DHL were to make a delivery to the home (as they are the only ones to do this), the delivery address would be taken from the last street with a name followed by "First turn right, second street on the left, 5th house on the right.Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-32188409579063860502009-06-02T08:25:00.000-07:002009-06-02T08:28:05.200-07:00Road to Amman with HabibiI had a four hour plus drive back to Amman. I was picked up by my taxi driver who I have been with for the last day or so. As we were travelling back he was not feeling well So I told him to pull over and provided the solution<br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/N8MlhDFOwSY&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/N8MlhDFOwSY&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-2385495373442864342009-06-02T07:36:00.000-07:002009-06-08T03:17:39.684-07:00Wadi Rum Camping in the DesertAfter leaving Petra I was driven 200km to Wadi Rum. Wadi Rum is a National Park and again run by the Bedouin. I was camping under a Bedouin tent for the night out in the Desert.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/4E0yTvlE7i2nIhHd3Vx2CQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH5xRmfA3htOJh4jduyzfOsiZV0YFv3PAP_nCFN569swkHAbEtZtBbcCQUZrZ537LUEVUryIy61xC_ZRDVeqRtOvvEC39HZMfy7qsnWMfL-7C6ZZ1Nioe1e21_ChSJeY7krlxjVddytvU/s400/IMG_2346.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />As we approached the area the landscape changed and all these large rocks just came up out of the sand.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/FkVAYhBdVtooU080XF1Frw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg23TMNRiX8zlBvxuy35JJffsURmOLRCfGNqDqrTQwfmMBqN0ymAUMD4ABAOkYJpuW5H5x36Cpyfg_J2B8LRXzl843uq2Xcap6OFm-EKgTd3IJuyMG2pSu3dcLfXPNHZW13Bjth0qaT_IQ/s400/IMG_2323.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />Again it was very hot. As the sun went down the temperature did drop but it was not cold. It was very mild. I shared the tent with two American guys who were spending 2 nights here and hiking during the day. I would have loved to stay here another night. It looks fascinating.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/QeYiib60kSjFPVHKmod-AQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsCkcz_w44cQZi7_H83R-SB5nnr9cBipwcaqDESW8iC3ew-WdiUglh_WkuDBPgDK2KW1-CgO4LfchyIv30A73BRHhabcHQDRg0G-oK0qbc4CgyCcvP1bdwVIvSXlE7CnZFipb7hgMkgq0/s400/IMG_2335.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/clwB3ofsdsFyDiwx8gktRQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2EpmSomOtwjNVGMpjqyu7-TIg_AMfzUCwl2ofEtxeZ3tlJwyg0nJZX1aroLS6KX0XcibzwgvNhIL0LMwDo7HarhKr-TQHyl7x6MobMkIMAKMyu98_MZbdJOghCJ0yRKCklZidtuSTIU/s400/IMG_2345.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />After Bedouin dinner of Chicken and rice, I found a moment to look at all the photos I had taken. No power out here so it was a brief look and off to bed early. I needed a rest.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ZPIidp3yCo9R5Oqp6d1FpA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinCE8gRqoX1FZYidS26cUKNaJL6I_W62D2c6aa-WmjmUh5aG14A5zq3TaFYwCZbrE6rvQib1BFoP5ZK7rm3-fuQkbtETA0Zf9XaoEWT-giRZOUX0dU95hHAr1qSxEUUPNDlFKKTSwrxXM/s400/IMG_2362.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/U6PebwpiNpXUFKHtSgRQ_w?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5N5dcHalhwq8nphjwJ0eNN0v6Ru8pPu6oyWNcOPF3JqygXnlC6kAibc-McFfY9fJjfr5jTO0K8GFqKBg0r4GUeem15g460pwfLPiYT0NYQuP6MfswPO-NyiXCEEBjN4BOdugV3ONLkHg/s400/IMG_2363.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />In the morning the sun made the place look different. For me it was breakfast at 7.30am and then taken back to the local village to be picked up by my Taxi driver.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ZJu-JQATYnnm7oeag_umtQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd0CTQZW-8E_oF6t_33R4fVByAXeRF5mUvnHz2cEHKj31VhzX0l7zBfIIMKOaXcRZHFEgnqdk3xKZohW0Y6xSz84FRu6K-QCPCP0gT7rFgUAdBmYfBeN3GSsytiW-NNFUIwOtnzRliHW8/s400/IMG_2365.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table>Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-59989808519548896702009-06-02T06:41:00.000-07:002009-06-02T07:10:39.991-07:00Petra JordanI headed off to a place out in the Jordan desert called Petra. It is a place run by the Bedouins who still live in the region. It is very hot and was about 37degrees Celsius when I was there. There is alot of climbing and was well worth the effort. The place is a real tourist attraction and is well known around the world. Petra has been carved out of the rock face after you go thru some tight canyons.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/kQ3gAYg3uhAeEMPn3GbOCw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/SiUowHIlyxI/AAAAAAAAFo4/x8f8hLtBXFE/s400/IMG_2261.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/9Mvacs2dbiLD2Hc68q5fcg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6BnStqJRh2Fvd2XOgZQBO5PcVdc35Zexwho7wOqzeO1s7AS22OwpdoJMbdoY1pkC5eJgd2P1cfqMstGRgHFA2ifsLR0skJFNKaRvUQh3MTIRXsgsm7nfZC1PthxcElcQEDMrn-VDgI4M/s400/IMG_2266.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/NLBquI7-FPJo-JUSq5RrLA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/SiUpE1KilYI/AAAAAAAAFpQ/RMh29wsrot4/s400/IMG_2267.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/wkOMfRINmZI99xGrKXQ5Ew?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/SiUpXNipxwI/AAAAAAAAFpk/oCMfDZdaptc/s400/IMG_2272.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />The Bedouins have little souvenir shops thru out the region. This guy sat on one of the high spots in the valley floor.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/j4v2MSrGYEwnPzYXU-49Og?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEn85KmnwmDN30Y8kmvoMMH6ATLdVFI8jlyBI5hm2md6ledXjdP21J2nj_ekZCBtLBjV9StSFI_VWLvIwcNDLHioP-Sc-LLHFwSGjF2CqtMjKNmaMbpIPIT3iMTy32wB72P3WqdkHvPDw/s400/IMG_2287.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />We started to climb off the valley floor to the Monastery at the top of the ridges. It is very hot in this region.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/Hd6LkpVb4IV9Kdf2TCe1sA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguVz5DZaK0omSiekbL69bOFw6zYZOWTThTxLL3EaKd1OAbViGnndzr7WHX4ABYH0zdMC9i5GmGdJvqXTjhfQK-m1_wuar0DVGLSLm6wfMRi0MXlBTzdw6grli64vQR8-5NEFd-uq0fBx4/s400/IMG_2293.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/uO4h3Qs7X7UblXZ6PrS7hg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ZahyphenhyphenwxD7sR4CLmtF4adVNBBcO2NgvNq6vY4hbEtuozspX4cKKbPArFT6Tjkv8qj8ybW0BnsmHtRCPjfGvIrEXSqfx-t2sQRRQX7qJnPoPBdtqgSivhQWFcaz5zxDNdySBEoOakc9nfg/s400/IMG_2298.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />Rollerblading Bedouin style<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/6SAWetgnTCo3OOPoCv_9jg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8-oNANYR9HrvfHMJW33m_yTVPmi5P5rMK0xNSXrjwMBbjDjyTGJsAd7m1aqtpbAs5-anuH4TYll4CSGS3P5LurC40ysrB65wTBgZfYWlkHnjJszdSTZeBYqLFsFgaLwba5tfH-0HmuIA/s400/IMG_2301.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />I got to the top and saw this huge carved out Monastery. They are people in the bottom right hand corner. This place is huge.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/L2pFH6NOih9Iqc57IcEO7A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9W8q0fHymkRWbe2DX0KparoB2R93juOVNd683RwK_Q9NgMz2k2hhuZ5Yu7GsKRl1BSOD6MEArlQ0B_lBgS-SnKbUZ7870BnT7YJFJ9vgeVHTPsnLPw4EzLFAPeuwwMC8IgX5wOaHq3Nk/s400/IMG_2305.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />The long walk back begins with Bedouins offering constantly "Taxi" ride, which is a ride on the Donkey. Many took it as the heat was taking its toll on the Tourists.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/OQ4bDaXiLZR2cqDBbgJJqg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQJYHPbPiTrKmt1CE1NTYAXPFsPvKOrihcAGBK53FgUoeEH17qf71sFE0CJa_m02PWtpjAOPT3G2QHaq-n3qGnRX9LD5u1IJDtcV9MXjz2nnKU5RudoH_3rfuZsax2JBx2xdQ6HfDdRQk/s400/IMG_2313.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/hwDmR24kw7SnPNj81umIQQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_uSMahDw6p3A1dYH6tynxaFw42ciakkvTCWNpCCatXbCiGbYr9ybuWlYpPaH_kWtRB_kqDDm7gCtNufW_FDK3j-VrLs6rAbEOICN-qflPeqgZV5eFahanejBU-LxU5FZONLdcc-jz18/s400/IMG_2317.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan03?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />Petra was worth the visit and effort.Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-21892567420090917212009-05-31T02:36:00.000-07:002009-05-31T03:16:55.233-07:00Caroline's GraduationCaroline graduated from the Modern American School in Amman. The family arranged an extravagant party for everyone and 60 people were invited to a restaurant on the top floor of a hotel. Many of the family had arrived from Lebanon to join in the festivities. It was red carpet treatment from the moment you arrived. Of course I did not have the clothing appropriate for this event in my backpack. After a new shirt and a suit coat borrowed from Garo I was just passable.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/GHFM1WM_WyQBqe9ozAtoUA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBuqN5H8BSenS_Ci4PNKCnzUDX1ZJE9QTq1dsOfwWRtYjXfI5_6L0AMB3__26N0KH1JXbjnyhxNxz6lF0TpXRkmpXUliV1FckGvk2PGG-DjIrvziP8XL4On0nuC-BTsPhnPpnE18hQOjg/s400/IMG_2039.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/1sQASre7PAvni_7hLJUhiQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgALI9z9iYe1WYOmftfaSKjwqsIBfHmUWJI6ovF5DzJcH0F8tAFK14jR6nKPL4vErHqZck2ZYB_GaWEqpcVpeIMyR74ZH5Lgpj73uWafg9Zja-xJiZ6Cby9NQkeRn2h5MXpe_Wo94KVq10/s400/IMG_2043.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />I took the opportunity to have a photo with the lady of the moment.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/8HfK9KGI_QLbkaIGskxdjQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIuU1AqmyQpnKppU75C_E8oWbRonABQiuD7xtXTGpcf0aC4do4EdDwzlS-hoJcPAkNrCO6JXg7yOOeQ-o_3F30kyzfmNzxv2CJuuVQpodNgi-a_rJAO8iwrckypF-c2eW6kAZfnzpxhr4/s400/IMG_2045.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />The party was fantastic and as an observer the family and friends let their hair down and partied well into the night.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/TIMu_xMaI5MfmRCv98aFLA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1zXKcCi6UIsLjWr6GFuZzSGEf7e3m-wpKTXH8JTH8M3OUlIIvee9ppHGyRT3zEd0GIQEzsN_Q3p1kSn2ToD0r476NDe7LVfgkecTmfoy0y63R01kQ23A9pWEBf-0PLAWea7bypZguS_w/s400/IMG_2058.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/We86E1S3pJJSjUnzGum9Uw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/SiEFpmr4ChI/AAAAAAAAFH0/jRZh7-uIVk8/s400/IMG_2075.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/YFk1QeryuXWSI6sftZkm_A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXCTsnu1np7uEy2OL7WylEgMwpV14Ux8J-_UpUJ3gJm0aSfY66wmmftAWt0-Hn9ctJ077SKgu0-TFHKhcV4bSB29tv6AN7V8gy3Kz7gqdYdpHyON-8FlZscOt6rCQk7l18tK8eMb5_HtY/s400/IMG_2079.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/t-Wd2huFWgUsskUiLc1p7Q?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_GfOtD1REjsA7FpNn4ug_m4-FAPda3K-s5Q3WLPRTjdKe_vc8lxMf5SbnRT5NFDEZAeQK1YQSVadaAF5yCiczb3KjHYrIoFmcgGrv35WltOH1_QcjNKg0IO9rIf_kDRMbSs-h5T_vw-U/s400/IMG_2095.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/8HJzaw1k2g2A5yC50PGeAg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/SiEG_Ty6LZI/AAAAAAAAFLE/lF-1TkgadsY/s400/IMG_2128.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />The proud parents were joining in the fun as much as anybody.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/GP7mfYBB1bQDQY-ScK5Q9A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheacVdIwDoHqHUAHxK7KqvgbL0Ic_x4kXNA0C7n5pOUQv2sr_uKkxEfkVnrFgtfe7ibY6UdqLWw0XmIktDqMlPrRfw8Gm70YCV3nDRMptdiJAtZ4A8cg2q5kKSxGzLrQnD4AFTlRyi7xM/s400/IMG_2107.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />The arrival of the cake for cutting was a fireworks spectacular in itself<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/IJulq9yCxvcGIClU1doAWg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/SiEHzX9zeMI/AAAAAAAAFNY/oW4AR2CnSMo/s400/IMG_2165.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/5nmzEBM5_I36EnxMoX6Sgg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtvfLLlShWp4YfPiRW0GOtwx0hjI-r73BbrWg9rPouz1M65g55SS2XZiTNOXQHAyO-7G313qbTrnazIvvlYWMnfTtuvudZiaMZXJmiBe8PnJlKfZGxd-Ua0QhoCdBb_bbxKdxcRwbOjw0/s400/IMG_2167.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />Caroline made a wonderful and emotional speech. Most people were covered in champagne after cutting of the cake. The dance floor was cleaned and the partying continued on again. It was a wonderful night that many people will remember for a long time.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/uXIykSNkbAoqJSJqsB6UuQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/SiEIFl__J_I/AAAAAAAAFOA/eEn_aEqhrQw/s400/IMG_2173.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/Elk3EnkYq_JXXY6hQ7f4zA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbKskrUmvsp6VjD1ncTGZ45R-Aa7Hq1Hb_1QG_lQRartf0m4CjjjM3dW7NPfcpdo8FPix3IUAY0ACgomvfYJsz-SKyYxf78Elv1oWF1XeThoDBsmXc9zNSjJguHP8V2jPgGZpukM9_S8/s400/IMG_2174.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/L0gASmvVNOpnuw-eElqqpQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMa_FKoZ6FfM_RLtQmYa8z0B4xAS9xZCNXUnUWgLNxnVCuJ23yj6LAhdnonCaKYaOUtENuK7iRdH1tdAlzJDVOQXGN53iUUMQ2L3I3B9Kx_Vb6SwM32jurY1adqaz3zRD34SybUNLttgI/s400/IMG_2180.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/o3uIVSUXuoPFyoNVTNXU7A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZLUFGAVlRHGCZHfCDCibKXah1RZjtlNJ4CD1AtmkwshxHJUqWjg5Q00QGV0pnRMvWWeJWPJMLrXhF-8KIjTEQ35zcBhx7yJPfTxa4tBdDb0wKEIfviJ2rhJqi6b3CvjBj8WZL1ZxEDY8/s400/IMG_2186.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/zpLyGvWlYcKGG96FmjomcQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnBU7hDDPIGT_MVX6fAyhQlK-Ca44aEiR6lDgAc3EUAUiOmuqEu95R11ZNTbqpmF5hL5vci497yf7l9UR29xXDIivUWphByatMiGU7uiHGtQXSqW-pqNsBmFSua_Ay2me7r_1jCFGNo-g/s400/IMG_2234.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table>Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-37214849041792141872009-05-30T04:08:00.000-07:002009-05-31T11:01:45.875-07:00Party in JordanVahe took us out to an Armenian Independence Day function organised by the Homenetmen Club.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/zqTDIvbZkIjHVCGEIWh0ng?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg79y4HgRl3mSNtGnarVwzqqyZ6XSnE_lIQ9XtEz6OLtEZhVkfRwMk9cTxbrAD6sKsT2tEfjIMBiqlmYE_abqXg-lyVA3g1eauhDHefoxMZt14gyqCuuAU0jZ262U13PqiGwRLek1U32XI/s400/IMG_2003-1.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/BUJ106Gh3qkZlZfZgvnHUw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQx1NaWdcz8p5eAUAYZeNCMu7sVGyWjTt-IVzjMb6F8e2mDWVjh5H30nXwx0Y8zKoXixgZsg6ARWldGiB6l_3IHY-lyuGrG76zhEhjG5lS-73n9fU9Z99R92U_ADa1GcczfcB5nfzAaSU/s400/IMG_2002-1.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/h4H3IPeIrCMmIoPSgC2Ibw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi66U0oslQ4OAzoxVyZicj9s3mZ_3andFopvuWQV4CqGKNN2dLPG90J8gguNEkY9Hb0YhTuvXkwm7h_jVL4USNBXAhOQ_GQM5rEx9RuwWEZHhTZ_XM8h0Bjpw1q0K3ywoVrLz1_1ZaJDV4/s400/IMG_2006-1.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan02?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />There was an Armenian band and the music was loud. Vahe, Haig and myself were deep in the process of demolishing a bottle of whiskey when Vahe leans over an whispers in my ear “You are the person I love the most,” I thought this was a bit strange so I decided to give him a kiss on the cheek. Vahe looks at me very strangely and says “Is this usual in Australia?” I said, “Is it usual in Jordan to tell another man you love him the most?” Vehe said “No I was translating the song for you.” I was heartbroken.Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-18061840436038899172009-05-30T03:30:00.000-07:002009-05-30T03:36:54.323-07:00Goose BumpsJerusalem is a very large International city. It has hundreds if not thousands of Hotels and many more guest houses. You may recall I met two people as I passed the border into Israel who assisted me in getting accommodation.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/hcsHmszwhJJllznAfjoLVA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjExXBL2EWQmwJsYvTyXOWP2nBJHQrqu6vgcO3L0AHNenTWZJdsw5FNk0a7acVzabWejZiLvHPdSCfgoketJg6CJpS1k5LFyvPlb6SZ4e3Z5jESPlhaLWlwQPokctopVNwodCI0TQs0P-s/s400/IMG_1725.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />Richard was a teacher here in Israel for many years and he took me to a guest house at the school where he taught. I stayed at this guest house for 1 night. It is not in the old city and I would never have stayed there or given it a second thought if not for Richard and Rhonde. Whilst Ophilia was telling me her Fathers story, she told me Anania was taken from Egypt to Jerusalem and brought up in the St.George Cathedral Orphanage. Exactly the same building I stayed in. I stayed in the building that Anania lived in for many years. I still can not believe it. From all the accommodation possibilities there is, I stayed in Ananias home.Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-406693130739443062009-05-30T03:14:00.000-07:002009-05-30T03:27:32.257-07:00OphiliaI arrived in Nazareth and could not see Ophilia for a couple of hours as she was working. I took a tour of the city and the Surrounding area with an Israelii who spent 15 years in Canada. We went to most of the significant sites here in Nazareth. Church of the Annunciation, Sermon on the Mount, Sea of Galilee, Mary’s Well, Sites of Water into Wine, and the Bread and Fish.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/8XRkNXsmP_K3rfuwD7fZRQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8jDI7cxh7_QJ8CTsyiUZO0rLHDPGtA9ebVwtlCxUFS8WPdc21Hhoxi89-M8dwsPaosX3i5MY94jGcGinE1q_wy-TXErHIc4LCHN5EDohRtNwENo50e16efSX4G-VNHQ8dbZAzpX59s_0/s400/IMG_1980.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/uxAaw8S7xQjbbP8QCfgF0A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh22CjR_6oz3hgPKlo0uouzagnqMjKPaV9h2Tr8_TRP9JTPGSc6AAZ3PtxS_GXxljg_uxoEQjlv5wZcj6T5fcgOOZhsS4B0DrePkF4BhitxdCEyQTYdypkMTd6lJ4909gtnAqgX_jae10U/s400/IMG_1974.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/p4NhDlJoVNJGvlrYHUt3hw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ10PdmOxjQ0ZqrHa4Xpcuo8AUriqVG3pm2quIcSKac1AvCjQOxJEqILnKZfBpFkMo0AESYxjvUl7CpTi6W5iSizuS7NQcqPozHqS_NQo04tnczTyM5bxltMJu13KD8W-Dwjz1gI0Gd94/s400/IMG_1990.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />Once this was finished it was time to meet Ophilia and Habib. Habib picked me up and I was taken back to their apartment. It is in a very nice part of the city and has a very big balcony with great views of the surrounding area.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/WcaBw2YJLXx9O9wtxtJUQg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbqzdVFfBEl38UoJpgbdhO8f1jSQl3j4dn1SjthQ5oNnmj3xO7L2dBM4-9JPE2V6FVtMkr81VuHAZpaemlXX0Uw9SVn6ZRAO8rEekTbTczyzA59Ylus794qjEB8KwtEt27_z4GN9KNYNI/s400/IMG_1997.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />Ophilia and Habib were wonderful hosts and told me many times my stay was too short. I agree. Ophelia’s daughter Areej her husband Ihab and their two children Emir and Aline came over for dinner. I had a great discussion with Ihab who is thinking of leaving Israel and finding somewhere else to live. They MAY come to Australia for a visit to see if it will suit them, otherwise it could be the USA or Canada.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/vwyqdkjL1K60jpEFwVhIng?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUHVQNAwYLF-EXUTMga_bWYJv6NeErz0J-a_eK6PfsTX_eQV5wwnuNXLPIvRNLFAukfYslb0eaa3E7BitGK3wy-oKlVw43CWEeOtsWHuZWUEt9NP1Ui75HIgwduKZixXFl91UubrvBnWs/s400/IMG_1993.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table> <br />After dinner the kids needed to go home to sleep and I sat down with Ophilia and heard her story. She thinks I am too much like a detective. We pulled apart the years from her father’s birth to him leaving for the USA. Ophilia told me, Anania told her, ‘Hapet was teaching Anania how to use a gun on the mountain.’ I asked her many times this question and she was very firm Anania told her this. William had told me this earlier but there was some doubt as Anania also said he was shot twice on the Mountain. Ophilia told me Anania was shot once in the leg whilst on the mountain.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/H7kuQN20nZc9_ZFCFQDSTQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFHnxITSCnjx6dbbfgN-gUX2COKJdFjS8WrmgSn-5xrUVakW8y9YxW2nIWf9ep7FAESpd7V_i3HZ_MKwbAiG9o27nxIgxVfbacQ_u7UbULLDYdrnsJneL5K37_7ISgfFLg2_TMbFS3ro/s400/IMG_1995.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />I stayed the night a Ophilias and had breakfast on the large balcony before they drove me to the Border.Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-45207009489415793822009-05-28T09:04:00.000-07:002009-05-28T09:13:01.372-07:00WashingThe lady who did my washing was not home when I was leaving. So I needed to get my washing in from the line. The line is outside the window 4 storeys up. So I am leaning out the window collecting my washing when I accidentally dropped a peg. It fell into the rear court yard of someone else’s house below. I was now under pressure and my concentration level increased dramatically as I had this vision of me knocking on her door trying to explain that I needed to go into her courtyard to get my jocks back.Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-45866610939903530242009-05-26T22:32:00.000-07:002009-05-26T22:53:16.429-07:00Dinner in HaifaI caught up with Areen and her two girls Mira and Leen. Areen is an Interior Designer and works close to Tel Aviv. Areen is Daugher of Ophillia who inturn is Daughter of Anania. For her next overseas trip she is contemplating China. I tried to convince her to come to Australia and sweetened the deal with some free Accommodation at our house, plus I hear her Uncle William may be in Australia also. We will have to wait and see.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ysUS0rbceePKY0-1GlwbTw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU-tDs50ZzZTY6ArdRv1-rYJyGcPiRxavsBB9CxnWHfvgPFEzQI8GCa3WB5j29aKavses7YKqmcRY58IAX9TXz9wGabBMrOc3xmDCCaJ9M9bB-Je5vppAERH9eZ7ZWUdmjkyV7byg8v80/s400/IMG_1933.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />The Temple looked spectacular at night all lit up. The main street of Haifa runs up to the beginning of the temple so it looks like it is Kilometres long.<table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/m2uRZ0XyIC5nzcK8Fa3xMw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5jWmtkt-VnK6JclZ3ocOYtLuvGkmgLh7jXjmuGQKFbLz_e0BK3I6ghq1r6bbZ-OZTM2q8Fw833fO9Eqysfh61sUXznjM8rXw7iETKNjPQ_h5SooFLNnkF9z4HkcJYnuwzeaQbcHBwB-E/s400/IMG_1934.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table>Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-90820399206813316142009-05-26T10:37:00.001-07:002009-05-26T11:02:22.410-07:00HaifaI have arrived in Haifa today to catch up with Areen and her two girls. I have arranged my accommodation at a private home. These people are new at letting visitors stay with them. It is like staying at your mums. The lady has got all my washing and always wants to know if I want something. I have to eat. She makes food for the local restaurants in her kitchen and delivers it to them. She is proud of her cooking and has her friend Janet comes over to help. I am the official sampler even if I don’t want to be. Fig and Dates in pastry. Jam filled biscuits, and other sweets.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/GOP5SLNT5iyWKHjvvEmQZw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMPF74ATEBJ9nbl1bsBoqhvQwskvZSCsU2bWWYT5YMA_oC2Bk0vV0xpl0VzcH-RpH7_-FPAdQcYgTFAEWZqFDB9ej8IkoVfb_qiANM3iMYkU4cyQ0OxTRFoNAnIRnQc0OEcJzHqasN6M4/s400/IMG_1925.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/5t4FpJkehjRkoRe4uTuY7w?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinBEGoxzXi6IiiCvM6wyb4_oKIixrDNW9NxTGOlwI50sO8zTvqicS4cfiLaWLQYU8AwpDDgfX6We3Ca6xrI36VtIGCCyCMf0zxNzZGqy52gGaoeFTaSIjEM9SBJCEOucNctryWy6skRFg/s400/IMG_1926.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/VnQKS4v7Qgtdha_AkhBK_A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyc4-2Zl7BCiuGEpi66wYS5cK56Wo7kN4VpYsxQ5tK1ZaDtyot4dvKhe3z8Ps4R9ZKAduvfVozpknz2t3u9X8RhDl8QpAgV9opDrw8DZwaRci-MsGpNcKa7MuBtBS2POrV5mRX4QKupN0/s400/IMG_1927.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />Haifa has the main temple for the Bahia religion. It is an Iranian Christian religion. The main temple is here in Haifa because their founder died here. It causes the faithful all sorts of trouble. Iranians coming to Israel. This week is the main celebration of their religion and all the accommodation is taken. The temple is very spectacular and visible from all angles around the city.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/25eTzzzXaVScfP22iwJ3Fw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/ShwX5O3rYdI/AAAAAAAAE2M/19nv0lH5EdQ/s400/IMG_1917.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/YvXSeDlhRu6U9ePyL7Z6Rg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2wZCFUbIOfh1lfRSth_8FVi4fsMDnkWlINsPfQK4_wRP6c3vjxFHftwVvA4h9bbVp3PBTDtKt50-S7vtDDJfgd_pJw7I_6w7_qP96wUJ0iYatujzrQ0oF5mzOaIaJ0GIMutGgsGmkbbU/s400/IMG_1919.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table>Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-70001283040914326162009-05-25T23:22:00.000-07:002009-05-25T23:48:04.040-07:00BethlehemTourist day again off to Bethlehem. Bethlehem is in the West Bank which is administered by the Palestinian Authority but controlled by Israel. To enter you have to do thru a checkpoint. It is just like the airport except there are long distances between buildings and the walkways are covered in steel and fencing. Abit like being a sheep.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/uInfvfqXVAehCteRCUdz0w?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVAT79lbv9j4mOpv5crduRYk5ZATILUxhEBkbI2GWvUTGDCfQ-B6NgD2-vFvDO9MdbFaJ6m0GStyJwgdTiZ-flKZPsDW1pmJskyjlnfCBFrFmzNfeSjrEpi08TlbmcdfyjJexRWTghE_Q/s400/IMG_1903.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/uazjeoQj5vUo5Zm08y7DSA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQCD-qzYwl7_405vogDBSTi1-VWdEtGNFmu4zOw26_R5RTGdFVdZLgitq3E2hgV07f9UZXvOu_3lIBlMSlxEOqDi8YBE-oa_aKbb-UGnm1RwtFrTgWnexM4ADdgChyphenhyphenQkxDsLY_oImbIRI/s400/IMG_1904.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />The wall is very big and dominates the landscape. If you look carefully you can see the wall continuing on in the background to the left. this photo was taken between the security checkpoints. Sort of no mans land.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/xs43eO2kfbj6AEwliwS9Ag?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Dl-OzSfmNbOGF54nTcODkKa39ToKuc3vuTwdAWwIPBG3oi4KoEc4TVXTrjpZcIg-7adP7-KjV6UiUYX7s7tT9gjDCjxRJo5zQc7ytSszxMji5_07yp5pC26JvZCavxjMrkYdrKpdOB0/s400/IMG_1906.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />Once in the West Bank I got a taxi and after a discussion with the taxi driver went off to Herodion. Basically a Summer Holiday Fortress for King Herod. The land is hilly around Bethlehem and this hill stands above all else. I climbed the hill and took a few photos.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/vMYxEpglN5Dt7ZCZ2W8m9Q?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/ShqLXtO5_II/AAAAAAAAExA/NXVAz_RDxKc/s400/IMG_1859.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ZKp_ObWO7mmq3t6JJ6JIJQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNz4dwuR-v6vokKCsAY3vUYEmj65uuVWvdTExnlXvM1qruLPT1R-J1Tv_EXYzzQhjO-2kxRm3AD2NrF6Tppa6MdNFl3dDYujB6Vhufn_ETvzSGbAZNYoME1qiz_D9q3Y5j3cZ1acPxFSk/s400/IMG_1858.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />Then off to the Sites Bethlehem is know for.<br />Church of the Nativity was very interesting and the entrance door was very low.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/GG1rzuAUVum4XrxGH1jvnQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMh_ZQHxvQCqe-MFvAUhSfu4NmBOZlxQwobExXrIen_A0RqoES6jIlfd0_BreWnAY_pQLu4H-UnFjiIUheVX4MGEVn80cZxhm_KGY-XVh-1cLSql-EWIsvGcJiBAh9Dl8KGiLFUG6Iz0s/s400/IMG_1875.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/uBrPLRNXy0BUI0i375eyBg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvC1OV_DiyYG1tddKN6EAPjI1NDH4zgyn7UO7MX9AWkxw4eS97RbHDsFQqbiQqlKVJR-gRtGS9bTiat2JP1F2d8R5PIx7RAPqWd-7reEV6RbUKbUP1AyU8YashYsImbpk8aWz93SuoGVo/s400/IMG_1894.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />The crib is allegedly on the right of this photo.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/OIMvTqA4hJ31_QYxov_M6Q?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ9AUpMoF3YVJoZn7MGssQXqFo2GJrMvAjK9vCNR9kSKDImFG3N4pZYjSeRULWY_UM3BpTX_Wxrvkg5bVvy_NlbU_kc2ehPDfsFzzPbG_wlDWsTB0efQBUfBZXLht97y3TvL7DHQPSKeY/s400/IMG_1888.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />I put my head into a little doorway to find a factory making souvenirs from Olive wood.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/IzjlGKuDxNB8LnYofOGEaw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/ShqMIKLqqsI/AAAAAAAAEzs/xebsIwFTdhk/s400/IMG_1901.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/CkDzJLhSrMSmKEcvHaucOw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/ShqMG_lVzvI/AAAAAAAAEzo/LIPmaYb7qGI/s400/IMG_1900.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table>Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-70751201041488042142009-05-24T21:58:00.001-07:002009-05-24T22:06:27.612-07:00Gaza StripI want to travel into the Gaza Strip to see what it is like and talk to some of the people there. You need to get a permit from the Israeli Mininstry of Defence. My application has come back "refused". They only let in people who are invited or very selected Press. Obviously I am neither. They dont want people in there like me. It does not come as a shock but I am not happy about it,Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-81064507089284791842009-05-24T06:56:00.000-07:002009-05-24T21:58:19.934-07:00Old Jerusalem TourI became a tourist again and took a 3 1/2 hour walking tour of the old city. It was fantastic and every interesting. The city is divided into 4 quarters. Christian, Armenian, Jewish and Muslim. Each quarter sort of blends into the other quarters around the edges. We started in the Christian Quarter<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/j_1wvl9bAhaJoWKvaA5DsQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/ShlQFcftg3I/AAAAAAAAEqc/C0fkJufDnGA/s400/IMG_1770.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />Here is where it all happens for Christians. Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It is run by 4 religious groups who can not agree and was the scene of the religious punch up that took place within the church a year or so ago. Inside the Church is allegedly the tomb of Jesus, the site of his crucifixion plus the area where his cross was found. It is a massive church and very interesting.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/DEGrs-atXcmrYb0v6Hxfcw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJqpnlR7nNObjea35p8utcb3CRkcnEMWCBCgCoqowdIuOlPHL5SCT8k9coQJFMLHreEtvyz8rd1aNwGyQ39xv_gQXDBIi0JBfySKn0lnNoTyBQzRWVgghN4UQs3jAiXu3xvrdIQzYoslw/s400/IMG_1773.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />Site of Jesus crucifixion.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/eUcU9EOfcrOivuGR9QQbog?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7KhAnpp5jDxyFNT6S59NIDZzPpoSzj7o865_PrzsWPZi_eNPFj2zMRQoivR94QhfJvsgvjQtVr_toPKR5o0jfMedAZb_Obif1ehKlBe41R8YGEzqX8Q7cYM0FiFk7DSZAT96_7WuWcbw/s400/IMG_1779.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />The slab of stone Jesus was laid on after his crucifixion but before is burial.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/p5ozw2Bkefv81Q7pR_5_Zw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOd6soqdS7Sj3GMuFu4mYG_-brKDeZtSvbqhEBk_-S2-iQvNyNJRUQ7hEsQ11lv_iQIXQeDmtqoC3QG7gkHZPLa_9IUUlgvIE6HqvHciWZrV2EltDQunz3-oDDAgJheVn9WVIA_dAFSdI/s400/IMG_1783.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />The tomb of Jesus where the stone was rolled back from and the Angel appeared. It is inside this structure and you have to line up to go in. We did not have the time.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/vxEGq1FSXkzDixQjc9Yaeg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeWv21v5xdGuTRIyet2hPgtqii5wf7rvWt0xnilKNMGZnFt3dMxCro_bEIlN5XcphS6acPA2FSXUnEbciVqYUXCVbKESwmqeUUzQXVWnWtM_WKHfY8Nrpa1uYn8mgoZRmXYQFQh3h80RQ/s400/IMG_1785.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />The Armenian Alter within the Armenian Church within the Holy Sepulchre.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/O-4rXz7BeAF-ZuPvWNBgKQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDsUcvrqzmRsXvTBAkgsLm7v2aAbwU57RkYKXC_AW6srF6j9KXfASdRP5J_OxCDiVG6OTlioxmGHznpzbu7DwysKji5Z_fr91giELE2Lw2wXuC-wuBpcPPaxkyeXHOtwPzYdmY91tYAOg/s400/IMG_1790.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />Crosses cut into the wall of the entrance of the Armenian Church by Pilgrims<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/zKacut2XPJTwlSSmmCW_QA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBY1BPIh8IijNiNJne8nKL5vyvOFTaHyOlGvJVhJtyl_wElfucvuHV5hXCnGIDBqDUVdO854hOlTOAo6sbRYIsNt2C_ve-Fzrmn2408BEfdRjoCNsvA1jdSDDTVEg8MX2kZSlVlCfw_GU/s400/IMG_1797.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />The Temple Mount. Site of the Al Asqa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock. Both structure are Muslim and I am not going to write the entire story here. In short it is the site where two Jewish Temples once stood and have now been destroyed. All religions believe the end of the world is when the third temple is rebuilt. All religions believe Jesus will return and go thru one of the gates Known as the Golden Gate and the scales will be placed on the Temple Mount to weigh each soul.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/O4mZ3WWwIWsH4ghjsazZ1w?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV7jcNeS47hzDoj9KhMWedWR8zL1NJMom3vp1Hs7auFP7jQaRpfZ8ylIdrWSbXlLJBNx0zPGaqcjDQp-1WMQWtELsn54V3PT3kgrFKbK4FP33QKmBfgO-KwAEiK1-C8Yy79fwvXOQE6FU/s400/IMG_1818.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />No one is allowed into the Al Asqu Mosque unless you are Muslim. Opposite the Mosque but still on the Temple Mount is The Dome of the Rock. It is very impressive.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/7HPacZi3jN_9xxyja5nqzQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK3guOOnN4FEpiGwFxHPeGAu9A1yUJ37l7BGCYLDfKhtgCl-CDvjX40uCnKqFfhBk3uLRZsnXkiEV6PVkVolYNpNu4d93zbXeSHDAz-pGO4pvGj9OPnfv8vLpSzJwsptLQZViv-Tr42IU/s400/IMG_1819.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/PvJ4z3CAx7mpeAMpUhUcsg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj5WrdwRkxgazxFCxJdZmIJEzHHAXyG57fguDq5XlFOWgO7kQKL7phLAY0IQaJubO4-tAOFfkEy-0I0tZ9zEkPY9Vs3qq7uiJ8sndbgwX78O_gF-RQCsDlgBWOjjU2IwF8T-Xpq7ZbXZY/s400/IMG_1820.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />Just outside the walls of the old city is a huge cemetery called Mount of the Olives.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/G36YysmcwMjBEPCSH4oE6A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ20iiP_VfcmOY7QQXsqEl-X4g-SaPkdfgLvU0UaWK0qH0ZU6sCEUaHxXvI5iFdClTasGXhc-rQ0ANwIq6U3mMr898jkXqeGtyImx2eU7o_WfNHIL_3i_xdsG9vA763iecdkTJsDaRWAQ/s400/IMG_1831.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table> <br />We moved to the Room of the Last Supper<table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ZzzZm5B4z0o5QZtppFeV0A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWKI-yLamxCrA0TY4dS_zs2dPPLfILSag92kJp923EoSplPDtcGW_XLU6A8utrjtrMO9ko9u8h9zaU9SiLGxVHA-pRchrdQ_tX6KeKA4XNLrWszQP27znO_k1mUK_HZlKwtQ2csOl5H0/s400/IMG_1836.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />Our tour was finished and I have shortened it dramatically to keep you from leaving. I specifically wanted to go to the Valley of Hennon. It is just outside the walls of the old city.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/x8p73mWmCi93viq3Pqfidw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieaXM_e5AscyoUuVjQE0ECiL6ftdOmvn06Azu0kTk-N28QcJP6rRmEGln99qk-SmxarPxc-YkyfzGNxIm6a6CqWZC5SDFDeUK2pLnocdkEchcawfcvRLl1-2w7gysaUrPVWgijMMcsnCw/s400/IMG_1840.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/8rq7zV-lBEs_4hd0QRpm0g?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2_1-k-Xg95aEAvABQJW4M1XASjvydzOj9jHLxKYEPaLSkt2lTo_iNYIQhV22V_QYhabApQnc2JZ1BL6AyM7OTNONZKlawkio4TG_ne07BMigGgy9IXeiu4-r6yx_vVdhs1z7uoqPpHrg/s400/IMG_1842.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/mCiTOFvQqDmRdUE5L7_KTQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/ShlSItVC-cI/AAAAAAAAEvI/KzjK4yS_JPc/s400/IMG_1843.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />You will notice that there are no houses built in the valley. I took a walk along the floor of the Valley. All three religions, Jewish, Muslim and Christian believe this Valley is the spot where the gates of Hell will open from.<br />For my last night in Jerusalem I have moved into the old city and staying at a little hotel within the walls.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/pJv8FZw09cBLwfKf_W1i3w?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZQb3kGyO4M62qt1HQLXnojImf_rV2OWrVmgzLjz7eCSwhSMOzlQOIctJI4UppxNoll9Dbec1e1jAw57lv_Ih0aUOns-tD420qOn99NYIolYAyT3Q89Hw-DwIHfNZ2hXQmbd5yS86WR8c/s400/IMG_1850.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/o7Lno3pVDkC9lumwi7_caw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCc_C3yeApWQlNB1x9sffztUsE2Rcwx-2sFHuWbWjnwTu66hMBWfjH1q_t6zpdnUfWXtWmk8pul5kuOFcnjR0Z6zqtSgqmgEowANGkMqMl6Tw8XezKAft4be4a553_7Q6sEoustDQCdSI/s400/IMG_1852.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table>Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-29357202084789428742009-05-23T06:44:00.000-07:002009-05-23T07:19:04.856-07:00Old JerusalemNeedless to say Old Jerusalem is a very interesting place. It appears that everyone is here. There is no shortage of religious people from all religions walking around in their ceremonial outfits. No one bats an eyelid. I spent the entire day in the old city walking its stone streets taking in the sights sounds and smells. I had a very interesting conversation with a Muslim man who could speak excellent English. We had a 30 minute conversation about Religion, war, Palestine, gods, the devil and the Koran. It was a wonderful conversation and a pleasure. He was a real person of peace. I bounced some of the ideology of the Radical Islamic fundamentalist off him and he quoted me what the Koran says about each of the points. Basically it would be better to damage the house of god in Mecca than kill one believer. According to this man there is no religion in the conflicts. It is money.<br />The old city is full of churches, ruins, and temples amongst the shopping bazaars.<br />Inside the Tower of David<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/vQkGSQDOtMVAsRMIpSxlew?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvlC50aJHn3GCN653f5oiP0QINDit7ULNbU2aa7WgMNwV6NMFfPG7I2PjzqIhTnSbZc9F8ucEqTLofWxRj6Sb3xQLR9XLd99Nw0kEqEI72VmCO7ypQQioyBYCCNfxSqWxhzmQy2_mKg9A/s400/IMG_1741.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />The Jerusalem ruins are missing some of the adventure the Turkish ruins have. For a start they are very safe with safety rails and areas of no go for safety reasons. Turkey had none of this and kept you on your toes. Some parts of these ruins had displays and it was air conditioned.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/vLy3vmwTxrzkSzN3Vaz5sg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmJDcFssXaVNAGr9LIzn2L9h9LNxuKHADYXzDrLpSp1rAAkdPqKIoPSeKY45L4asp1W0DqYh-DcPnQaxzU03fmrj7afJMiRbqgg6Ie0lKFqbWSeOigGV_ZXW7UVdQAvHKpxQ7k3WCRQUY/s400/IMG_1753.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />Yesterday was prayers and not as busy as today. It was shoulder to shoulder throughout the entire city.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/fceEYiomUN6b8ge-zIqZiQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/Shf6K5unYZI/AAAAAAAAEpM/G3nuXE3jMqA/s400/IMG_1764.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table> <br />One of the most noticeable differences is not many people smoke. It is like Australia. Everyone smokes alot in Turkey, Syria and Lebanon and Jordan.Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-69489830951675164692009-05-22T09:31:00.000-07:002009-05-22T10:31:35.127-07:00Jordan to IsraelVahe and Haig (Son) drove me to the border so that I could cross into Israel. They have been fantastic hosts and I will catch up with them again once I have spent a week or so in Israel. I caught a bus to go thru to the Passport control in Israel. The Israel border crossing is very very thorough. We had to get off the bus and show our passports. The bus was searched and we were allowed to continue. Get back on the bus and drive 1 km and get off the bus again. The bus is under constant surveillance with armed guards on high alert. Unlike guards at other crossings these guys were anxious and moving like an attack was imminent. Sorry to say I could not take any photos. Our bags were taken from us and put thru x-ray machines I suspect as we did not see where they went. We moved into another area and thru the normal metal detectors. They had a second machine that blew air on you. It was like a walk in cupboard. I suspect it was for explosive analysis. I stood in line to have my passport stamped. This took over 1 hour and I was about 6th in line. Each person gets a very intense interview. Whilst in line I adopted the less is best method of answers. "Why are you coming to Israel? Tourist. Is this the first time? Yes. How long are you staying? 1 week. Where are you staying? Don’t know Hotel. Do you know anybody here? No. Are you going to meet anyone here? No. How much money do you have? Show me your departure ticket. Are you a Christian? Yes can’t you tell by my smile? She let me thru after that. I had my Passport checked two more times and my bags checked thru a machine once more. Finally I was out and in Israel. I found out that the border closes at 11.30 am and we just got thru. I was lucky Vahe got me down there in time. I never thought about the border being closed.<br />From the border post to Jerusalem is a 40 minute drive in a minibus. The bus driver had a ten seat mini bus and was not leaving until he had 10 passengers. After standing around for about an hour in the hot sun we had 7 passengers. Then it was 8 passengers after another 15 minutes. Because the border was closed not many people were behind us. I suggested after sharing a banana with Richard and Rhonde from Calgary who have previously lived in Jerusalem and taught at St. Georges Cathedral, the Eight of us put in a few extra dollars each and we buy the remaining seats so we could go. I purchased the extra two seats; Richard and Rhonde re paid me and the majority didn’t. What happened to the Middle East I have been in?<br />At 3.30 pm we get into Jerusalem, Richard and Rhonde now run tours of the Sinai and suggested I stay at the St.George Hostel. Richard directed the mini bus to my location and we all got off. I could not stay there as it was booked out but Richard and Rhonde stayed with me until they found me a place. It is great of them to do that. It is alway great getting information from the locals or former locals. <br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/yQWE2g0jGJh0fl1ldcoQdg?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5K0arQuzhCs6WmY4UG2qILxiJvmBPE2bjhhHvXRC0gr92EmRI3WDNKJrbFIPiryYl4glvOSBKUSCJjdVfliJFUGYTgUAMIHUZbkZmf0MIDajaFQNZjFyZ-gZ1HsoPeGgCcWRs5Dy4_9g/s400/IMG_1724.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />Once Settled in I had a quick look at the Old City but will return there tomorrow for a good look. The first thing that is impressive in the old city is the pavement. It is very solid and smooth with a shiny texture. The laneways are just full of shops and only 3 metres wide.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/2n3yW9-INyigQhsXa2aLqQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/ShbBz0pT87I/AAAAAAAAEmA/Vu6HXHuJgKA/s400/IMG_1726.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/434I40LACVtxmhSjgEdkSw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqh8sEDGhTysD_yx4_hve3JcSfenZp2TkA9PYD-nUlcbBDfPqitvTzOmX7dW1MVqPma1XhVioDVYTCOFgANhkrQXc4mpefE-ps1wfKiBHj0ca2gR6ldzFgvcWA4Cvt0Fvl8mVBujombE8/s400/IMG_1736.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table><br />I did come across the Western Wall so I had a quick look but tomorrow I will have another good look. Some Jewish men had big hats and I will find out tomorrow why.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/VI4VtaTG6pi5GleA2LQU5A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3rksUzdTA935UqWeEweXXUINz6hsfdr8cztdCkXSKMIUDJcJBXbI0RO_74SdNZv6fcKojYaQkP6EzPlGCrzuzIIR7oa-dRpGxWY185Y5oyDkvq0RFSUTpP8s5p5DNxXvX7dNzlLSxSdA/s400/IMG_1730.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Israel?feat=embedwebsite">Israel</a></td></tr></table>Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-25675706158202805972009-05-20T22:20:00.000-07:002009-05-20T22:46:02.146-07:00Arrived in JordanI took a short flight from Beirut to Jordan. I was in and out of customs in no time. I have not been asked once in all my border crossings in the Middle East to look at my luggage. It appears that it is only a paperwork issue. Vehe was there to pick me up from the Airport which was very convenient and generous considering his biggest problem is time. Jordan is very different to Lebanon. All the buildings are new and no buildings are higher than three or four stories as a general rule. I was taken to the flagship retail outlet of the Izmirian Empire where I met Greta.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/WOYcTF10D979dVpj5nx5LA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/ShPSPasX0eI/AAAAAAAAEYY/iZbIbsHRuE0/s400/IMG_1721.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />The shop was very impressive indeed. The lighting, shopfitting and set out just let the spacious,opulant shop sparkle.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/wSHvzt0hJ2Qcm63MQRHGDQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/ShPSSMeggXI/AAAAAAAAEYc/F6dVERF6Km4/s400/IMG_1722.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/cthyiTLJLcJyArlW6XQe_w?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/ShPSEKRZsxI/AAAAAAAAEYM/LWR5mumgVJ0/s400/IMG_1718.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Jordan?feat=embedwebsite">Jordan</a></td></tr></table><br />I was given a quick lesson in Gold, Diamonds and the industry. Vehe had some important documentation to do, so I returned to their house and caught up with the boys Haig and Varant. After getting my bottom kicked by Varant with an Xbox game I caught up on some much needed sleep before heading out for dinner to a very nice restaurant with Vehe,Greta and Caroline. Tomorrow I am going to get a more in depth lesson in Gold and Diamonds. I am really looking forward to that.Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-15404948374555952802009-05-20T02:31:00.000-07:002009-05-20T03:02:37.039-07:00Tourist before Departure to JordanHaig and Nellie took me to Saint Maria in Lebanon.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/Trcoyf0T_xDhHNs85yNhtA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_OKv7V8OgbN4/ShPRbg6Jg0I/AAAAAAAAEXg/NmDS0AHMkK8/s400/IMG_1707.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Lebanon?feat=embedwebsite">Lebanon</a></td></tr></table><br />It is a mountain top church and statue dedicated to Mary mother of Jesus. There were alot of different religions represented in the large crowd. <br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/62oZmxeAk_DHd0m8aecn4A?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD_JtKhSLqczoxBIEWPIk3Dsf14I9YwDnMd2IFMiOG-XSYWjR2SetC-B0OsgcKzy4rtyU1u7Olm4GhKwsKIiEsbrXvEEXW2ctIcMjUjpXV8po4UTPw69-ZUNvT5GDwqTmlGN9pDI0srQI/s400/IMG_1705.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Lebanon?feat=embedwebsite">Lebanon</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/0Rf4JDlJhNLIplkaMHiJXQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3pF9B1_oZboE2ABkLSe3S8eIFuLMQY_zFCOZNlR4x8tIaihGMEqB4LM1sDdJlO8zlkkisR4iPWiFdauXLuH72x84yObkPT5Ys9f2YRYIdhXSltrMhSiCGwqOnAuavsv9S9TbOyMsfjk0/s400/IMG_1698.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Lebanon?feat=embedwebsite">Lebanon</a></td></tr></table><br />The view over suburbia Beirut was excellent.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/uUtUwjMc6sYdwa5j8uZOsw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwUXFaA_1jMT7h_4I9owKYpNrSuAczc8ZuXu4Rg2CXY7lJrUVV6jOo5_nFjFCO3_j09BKKFllS8jeLV3PK-PU65G858wHypGp4Y4LnEaKAsyZ8fROVhI2xQzzqRiMLC2ywtT5hh2il9uk/s400/IMG_1695.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Lebanon?feat=embedwebsite">Lebanon</a></td></tr></table><br />Bedig,Lenna and the family meet us at Downtown Beirut. It is an area that is being rebuilt in the original style. It was well protected and we had a nice meal together.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/BiBe77uVkpV2HYQXOOX7eA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig00hJhv6dYo2J7njBlpsedwvIv9eoLR_DkPs4QguN-kRtXT_Wi-AYiZOtZz1wCC_wJ7BhsDcgBcWc-PbUebrOR31L9JzBpJdjtayb-IsCkc97pwcckfihfBQ5gNObBadKNDRkHHXJrUQ/s400/IMG_1713.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Lebanon?feat=embedwebsite">Lebanon</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/fBX7go2dEb5RfF9yL_seOw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUA63hH_gkpvga8nznV8Fc9UUlkUe6zFdWSXoRC3cE9TFqTxSFuTeneR9eN5aD5IjYhoU8D8MdTvujiM9rqtXu1J7ozuGfJMncK_SfqW4rb_7qkHSuBjnVVTun7Zd5JLq6AYsqfY6FkHs/s400/IMG_1708.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Lebanon?feat=embedwebsite">Lebanon</a></td></tr></table><br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/BsQnFRE_juoP5sXEd1pHIw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHbsOazHoX2nhxfv4s6iVc1dtT4e01JDfNkVPQqtcZ8enu83ctlGeO4frVT2Lt3-ropVZzmWBzN3ol6uzkIz7dUaqHdf8h6RFlTNvifmlo87NVUJzc5S3IXSO3ZTmPc85CDpkDDoE5YE/s400/IMG_1711.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Lebanon?feat=embedwebsite">Lebanon</a></td></tr></table>Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-30726952973036127342009-05-19T01:48:00.000-07:002009-05-19T01:53:41.922-07:00BootsThese were a brand new pair of boots six weeks ago. They could not go the distance. It probably explains why my feet are so blistered.<br /><table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/60DUOiFVe10w3cplUZawhw?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAEi1Tr0Lo9nhHtxCwcZX4rkBYN1NxCsySRd7YjYR74ClBQMeHxKY-P1pvv-lqdv6R7bgqjuipsbg6Ui92rgidlAYx73CeEJ94Bhy9lIH6fcO92qbj3MSt1yOWLg1wot5jkjaDVgCX50/s400/IMG_1694.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/StephenWyles/Lebanon?feat=embedwebsite">Lebanon</a></td></tr></table>Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-52928957436801516412009-05-19T01:47:00.000-07:002009-05-19T05:10:26.948-07:00Why climb the MountainWhy did the population of Musa Dagh decide to climb the mountain? Having been there I must admit it seems like a silly idea. Six years earlier in 1909 at the time Garobed and the family were killed a group of Armenians in Kessab decided to climb a mountain to escape the massacre there. A World Vision ship was passing and the group came down to the sea shore and many were saved and over 300 were killed. This is where the idea to climb Musa Dagh was born.Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-38140380368910648722009-05-19T01:40:00.000-07:002009-05-19T01:46:35.608-07:00Today V. 1915Having climbed Musa Dagh Mountain it seems impossible to me for a civilian army to withhold a regular army for over 40 days. This question has been on my mind since. Tonight I have spoken to Yessayi Havatian who has added all the bits that now make sense. Firstly the Turkish Army did not know that the Armenians were armed with weapons and only sent a few soldiers to “Fix the problem.” The commander of the Turkish said I could send two Soldiers to fix this problem in the beginning. They were fired upon and came back for reinforcements. The Turkish were busy with other issues and conflicts and did not give this issue the resources needed. The second attempt was with and extra 100 soldiers. They too were bogged down and could not make head way. The third attempt included artillery and 5000 soldier from 3 different entry points. This would easily achieve the objective from my knowledge. What I did not know is the mountain side was “like the Amazon jungle” with the canopies of the trees so thick it stopped sunlight reaching the ground. When I showed the photos I took to Yessayi Havatian he commented that the conditions I experienced re the fog is exactly what it was like during the 40 odd days on the Mountain. The other interesting point is the Armenians were not in one spot. They were spread out over the mountain in the areas I had walked thru. The walk is over 1hour between each of the 4 groups of Armenian civilians on the mountain. So with thick Forrest, fog, spread out groups of population, lack of resources and importance applied to the task by the Turkish leaders initially by the Turkish army I can now see how the civilians were successful.<br />Yessayi Havatian told me a fascinating piece of information. Apparently when the ships initially were told of the Armenians on the Mountain they had to get authorisation from higher authorities to save or assist the Armenians. So the ship gave the civilians a French flag. They were told to raise this flag if things got bad as this would authorise immediate action from the ship and override the governments decision of waiting for approval.Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4332670615428427158.post-34460207152075745352009-05-19T01:39:00.000-07:002009-05-19T01:40:13.063-07:00Musa Dagh HistorianHaig and I went to speak with Yessayi Havatian a local Historian and Lecturer who specialises in Musa Dagh. I had a very good conversation with him and was able to discuss the Fight on Musa Dagh and why the Turkish failed along with the whereabouts of Hapet. Circumstantial Evidence suggests that he was on the mountain in 1915 but the fact nobody mentions him in any documents is just too big a hole in the story to ignore. Yessayi showed me a document written in 1910 by a Journalist sent to Musa Dagh to document how many Musa Dagh people were killed in the 1909 massacre. Garobed Izmirian and a son aged 20 were mentioned as killed between Bizgu and Adana. There was no record of Garobed’s wife or other child. There was no mention of the child’s name. Unfortunately Garobed did not have a son aged 20 at that time. It just goes to show the information was not 100% correct. At this time women and children were less important than the father of the house added to we don’t know who gave the information to the journalist. People in Musa Dagh were not educated at this time.Have the desire to learn.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16437401507196300121noreply@blogger.com0