Life is amazing. On June 2nd I attended my grandson’s high school graduation. I used to carry Rocco on my hip and hold him on my lap reading him lots of stories. At age four, he stood behind me as I worked at the computer teaching and grading college Roman History. He retained the list of Roman Emperors without trying. Now he’s 6’ 5” and a solid rock. His dad’s birthday is four days later. We have lots to celebrate. Summer’s here, so I hope you do, too.
Back on our Minnesota farm, I was also eager to reconnect with the 12-year-old Amish neighbor who saved me from our bull last summer. I told Mervin I’d written his story in my April 4th blog here and called it, “You don’t have to be big to be mighty.” It happens that his next oldest brother is already taller than he is. Mervin grinned and said happily, “Small but mighty!” I agree.
I’m also celebrating the release of a book I’ve wanted to write for years—A Traveling Grandma’s Guide to Israel: Adventures, Wit, and Wisdom.
How did I get to Israel in the first place? In 1983, I was teaching in a small college in Canada when Bob Allen, a retired archaeologist, came to visit. Coincidentally, I had just agreed to develop an archaeology course but had few resources.
Bob insisted on sending books, color slides, replicas, and several genuine artifacts. He donated $3,000 to our college IF I would travel to Israel to study hands-on. That 36-day trip in 1984 changed my life.
I loved Israel and its people so much, I worked hard to send myself back eight more times. I stayed in touch with friends there, learned lots, and had fun. Many people in North America asked me to help plan their trips.
The result? A Traveling Grandma’s Guide to Israel!
There’s not another like it anywhere that includes everything from destinations and climate to sensitive political and religious issues, to recipes, and the bride price in camels at the Beersheva camel market (plump blonds bring the highest price.)
Once it releases (I’ll keep you posted on the actual date!) I do hope you’ll read and enjoy it, whether you prefer armchair adventure or dream of planning and taking your own journey. Then, if you’d be so kind as to post a review on Amazon of this and all your favorite books, I would be so grateful. Doing this small task helps authors more than you know.
Now, please share if you’re planning any trips this summer. Or do you prefer a restful staycation? Is there a place you’ve traveled to that you love so much, you want to go again? That’s what happened to me with Israel. God bless and have a great few weeks!
Love from Delores
Can’t wait to read your traveling guide. If you plan another trip let us know.
It would be a blast to take you. You’ve got me thinking! Lot of people there I’d love to introduce you, too 🙂
You are one very busy lady!!! But I bet you enjoy every minute being with friends and family. I’m just a teeny bit jealous!!! Hahahaha Much love, Mary!
I miss you and it would be great to drop in and see you–or have you come here. You’re going to love my Israel book coming out soon 🙂
Much love back always! Delores