Visit with the Jolliffs - part 1

 It has been almost 2 years since we saw the Jolliffs. We are here, we are HERE, and we are having a great time! We had a nice reception at the airport from Andrew and Elizabeth. Andrew warmed up to us all right away, and he was such a good helper with Caleb. This was the first time they met Benjamin, and he got lots of love. It was so great to see Hap and the boys when we got home. They got so big, especially baby Jake, who was only 7 months old the last time we saw him. Now he and Caleb are 2 and a half year olds boys! The boys had a good time playing, laughing, and eating, and the adults had a great time talking and starting to get caught up.

Yesterday, we enjoyed seeing things in the daylight, especially the snow on the ground! Their home is beautiful and it has great space for little boys to run. The landscape is very diverse, we were surprised by how hilly it is.

We hung around in the morning, and in the afternoon we went to the Old City. It is amazing to be here, there is so much to soak in. We walked through the winding streets of the market. There was lots of music, pleasant smells, and livey people. Elizabeth took us to a delicious falafel restaurant that we all enjoyed.

Afterwards, we went to visit a historical wall, where many people pray for the rebuilding of the second temple. This wall divides two regions, and has been the source of much conflict over the years.  It is incredible to be able to visit these sites, and I am really looking forward to our week ahead.

That evening, all the boys stayed at home, and Elizabeth took me to see her grocery store, fruit stand, and we even saw Santa, Barney, and a Smurf dancing to music in the street! It was nice to see parts of everyday life, it is a lively place.

It is so much fun to see the boys together!