Letters from Mari | Unpredictable

One moment, you're fire,

In a second, you're calm.

Changes like the weather,

All for being better.

A being of valor,

With a dash of flair.

A determined spirit,

And tons of grit.

Sway in any direction,

Flow in unforseen situations.

Stability is always at stake,

Weaving life with faith.

♡,

Mari

Israel 2023 | The Dead Sea

We left Jerusalem very early and arrived at the location before sunrise. Almost 2 hour drive and I'm surprised I was awake 😄

Probably because of the nonstop conversations and the amazing sceneries along the way. 

As soon as we arrived, we chose our spot and set-up our things. My initial impression was it would be crowded but luck was on our side since we were one of the few groups who arrived early. 

I went around for a bit and read the precautions too. So the water temperature is high and I should not let the water touch my eyes due to its salt content. The most important thing is to float only on your back and do not attempt to swim to avoid accidents.

The Dead Sea has extremely high salt concentration making the water dense and therefore exerts a strong upward buoyant force. It is easy for people to float.

What to bring:

1. Sunscreen

2. Hat

3. Lots of water

4. Refreshing snacks

5. Camera

After sunrise, we decided to go back since its too hot already and we wanted to avoid too much crowd.

♡,

Mari

Hola, 2025!

Feliz año nuevo!

Welcoming the new year with hope 🍀

Looking forward to more opportunities for growth, wealth, and prosperity! 

♡,

Mari

Adios, 2024!

Thankful for all the blessings and grateful for what I have 🙏

Patiently waiting for all unanswered prayers to unfold as we welcome another year of hope and chances.

Thanks, 2024! 

It was a challenging year but glad we made it 🥂

♡,

Mari

Jerusalem | Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Church of St. Peter, and Mount of Olives

Jerusalem, capital of Israel, is one of the oldest cities in the world.

Visited Jerusalem and explored religious or holy places.

Western Wall 

Also known as the "Wailing Wall" or "Kotel", is the most religious site in the world for the Jewish people.

It is the last remaining outer wall of the ancient Jewish temple, and an incredibly important site of modern Israeli history. 

Traditionally, prayers are either spoken or written down and placed in the cracks of the wall. The wall splits into two sections, one area for males and the other for females.

Reference

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

The site of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem is identified as the place of both the crucifixion and the tomb of Jesus of Nazareth. The church has long been a major pilgrimage center for Christians worldwide.

Reference

Church of St. Peter

Saint-Peter in Gallicantu (from Latin “galli cantu”, meaning “where the rooster has crowed”) is built on the Eastern slopes of the Mount Zion. This spot is believed to be the location of Caiaphas’ palace.

This place commemorates:

• the appearance of Jesus before the High Priest Caiaphas
• the death sentence of Jesus imposed by the Sanhedrin
• the Denial of Peter and his repentance when the rooster crows

Reference

Mount of Olives

Also known as a place of prophesies, prayer, hope, redemption, and victory. 

It has an observation point that offers panoramic view of Jerusalem's old city, Dome of the Rock, the Western Wall, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Other places:

• Independence park
• Tower of David
• Chamber of the Holocaust
• Location of the Last Supper
• Pontius Pilate

♡,

Mari

Galilee | Church of Transfiguration and Church of the Annunciation

Galilee is known for the Sea of Galilee (Jesus walked on water) and where Jesus grew up. It was also said that it was where Jesus started his ministry. 

Mount Tabor

This mountain was said to be a site of settlement and battles between Canaanites and Israelites. Later, it was believed that the transfiguration of Jesus took place in this mountain. 

At present, you will find the Church of Transfiguration, under the Franciscan order, in Mount Tabor. 

Kafr Kanna

Our itinerary was set to visit Nazareth, and eat knafeh along the way. 

But I suggest visiting the place where Jesus performed his first miracle - He transformed water into wine at a wedding feast. 

The Church of the Annunciation 

Commemorates the place where angel Gabriel visited Mary and announced that she will conceive/bear the son of God - Jesus. 

That's all for today!

♡,

Mari

Letters from Mari | For time never waits

I am well aware that time waits for no one.

Life unfolds without waiting for anyone. 

♡,

Mari

2024