The prayer cards and chocolates given to all at Sleman’s ordination and first Mass will make simple (and for me, cheap) souvenirs for the my parish staff. I noticed in the unpacking that the chocolates are “Queen’s Chocolates.” That goes well with the image on the front of the prayer card. Waiting for me at the airport in Cincinnati after my 14 “flying hours” in the plane(s) was my friend Susan. In the car with her she had ham and cheese and bread and milk and bananas and eggs, so that I would have at home something to eat that I like to eat I when return home. The care and affection that I have in my life is much more than I deserve. Susan took me home, put the stuff in the refrigerator, reminded me about supper at their house the next day, on Sunday, for which she was going to make peach pies, my favorite, to celebrate my birthday with the family. Am I blessed or what? After a ham and cheese sandwich, I plopped on my bed with the intention of taking a quick nap, and wound up spending 14 hours in bed. Even though the hours in sleep equaled the hours in flight, my body and mind are still a bit disoriented. But I do have a piece of leftover peach pie to help remember where I am and what I have here! As, with this post, I end this journal of my journey to Fuhais, I am a grateful man.
With Open Doors 
. . . And Glory be to God!
What a pastor, teaching us how to be grateful!!
Hi Fr. Rob,
The Holy Spirit led me to your website and I have been following your trip to the land that is so special to us. Thank you for your commentary – it has renewed by determination to return to Palestine next year on a personal pilgrimage.
Salaam,
Gail Freeman
You go, girl! The Holy Land would welcome you. My travel agent in California did a great job for me. I can introduce him to you, if you’d like. – Rob