A Day in the Park

           Today we ventured outside of Jerusalem, taking the bus to Ashkelon National Park. The old city of Ashkelon dates all the way back to 2,000 BC. Originally a Canaanite city, the Philistines possessed control of it around 1,000 BC. As we traveled towards the city, our guide pointed out that the valley we were driving through was the site where David slew Goliath. Approaching the old city, the Mediterranean Sea came into view, which allowed for a flourishing city of commerce from 500 to 300 BC. Walking through the remains, one could not miss the towering stone columns still standing from thousands of years ago. Perhaps the remains of the Crusaders church exhibited the archaic sensation most clearly, as the apse of the church was all that remained with grass growing up all around.

            Before lunch, we enjoyed a break on the sandy sea shore, not more than half of a mile away from the city ruins. The beautiful day and calm blue waters made for a very enjoyable rest. To top it off, we got a taste of home, eating lunch at the local McDonald's. Some of the men even went for a Mcflurry, which always makes for a good day.