Good Morning,

We have arrived in Tel Aviv after uneventful, but very long (sleepless) flights. It definitely tested our endurance for sitting in one place for an extended amount of time, especially with the airplane filled to capacity. Upon our arrival, we were met at the airport by an HP shuttle (and to Jeanne’s surprise, several other of her HP coworkers that she didn’t see on the same flight), and quickly whisked away to the Hilton and checked into our room. We were pleased to see a complimentary small bottle of a local red wine on our table as we entered our room, which we enjoyed as we unpacked. After a long, hot shower (airplane dirt has to be the worst…yuck), we found that we both were too tired to eat, and decided to call it a day (2 if you consider that we saw the sun set twice in about 24 hours). We slept until 2 AM, when we both woke up wondering what time it was, and why we are still in bed. Luckily we were able to get back to sleep, and woke up at 7 AM feeling fairly rested.

First order of business will be breakfast. Then down to the concierge to find out the what, where, and how’s of enjoying our stay here. We were surprised to see the difference in the weather just ½ hour from the airport. It went from 70ish and balmy, to 50ish and extremely windy. There is a chance of rain and cooler temps this week, so beach time will be minimal at best. But, there are more things to see and do here that our short 2 weeks will allow. Jeanne will have to start working tonight in preparation for her week, and I will begin planning my solo incursions into Jerusalem and the surrounding areas.

I will try to post again tomorrow night. Until then…

Mike