We just got back from a trip to Israel. It’s truly an amazing place- the landscape, the history, the people, the food, the culture, the crystal clear blue green water, the crispest lettuce and some of the best produce I’ve ever had, all the olives, the fresh mint (“na na”) garnishing lemonades, waters, and more. surfing the Mediterranean, floating in/on the Dead Sea above balls of mineral salts, drinking well made cappuccinos at outdoor cafes.  It’s more than what you might think- home to three big religions (Judaism, Islam, and Christianity), a few smaller ones (Ba’hai), and the best breakfasts I’ve ever had- full of fresh salads, fruit, and protein. despite the obvious political turmoil that exists, people are so passionate about living and so proud of their homeland. Better yet, it’s one of the few countries in the world (the only one?) whose population firmly rejected starbucks. how cool is that? enjoy the images.