Friends, family, and followers,

Shalom! Here we are at the end of day number 2... and what a day it was! We started with an early (we're talkin 7am-breakfast early) start in Nazareth, setting out on our way to begin our 4 day adventure along the Jesus Trail. The first stretch was by far the toughest, challenging us to a trek up what felt like a million stairs to reach the edge of Nazareth, shortly after which we were graced with an unbelievable view of the many valleys and hills, and what would be our path for much of the day ahead.
Part way through our hike, we reached Zippori where we explored the park, including the ruins of a first century Roman city. We carried on to find ourselves completing our first stretch in the city of Cana. Happy to check off our first hiking day, we were relieved to get out of the heat, hang up our sweaty gear (trust me, sweaty is an understatement. there were even incidences (ie. Brigitte) where exact backpack lines were visible via sweat. yum.), and relax in a wonderful guest house here in Cana. Walking through the city to get to the guesthouse, we were greeted by children who were delighted to see us, following us through the streets, waving, smiling, and talkingt to us (both in some English words and Arabic which, no, we didn't understand). It was heartwarming to see how welcoming and excited they were to have us here. Even at one rest spot along the way, a gentleman offered us all large buns (similar to a submarine bun, just to clarify). He passed us later on in another part of town and was sure to honk his horn and offer us a smile and an excited wave!
Our guesthouse is right next door to the Cana Catholic Wedding Church where it is thought that Jesus performed his first miracle, turning water into wine. The beautiful church is a wonderful view from our windows, and inside we were suprised by getting to see some young school children practising prayers and songs for what we think might be their first communion.
Tomorrow we take on day 2 of the Jesus Trail, where we hope to find another moving, beautiful, and fun hiking day. Just a short way into our adventure, we're enjoying not only the things and places we get to see, but also getting to know the wonderful group of people we're with.
We are safe and well! Thanks for following us on our travels!

Smiles and Love

Heather