Journeys

 
The Western Wall
One of the most sacred places in the world is the Western (or Wailing) Wall in Jerusalem, Israel.  In 2006 I had the privilege to visit this holy place (it feels like holy ground.)  It is the only remnant left of the Holy Temple.  Solomon built the first temple in the 10th century BC which was destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 BC.  Herod the Great rebuilt the temple which was completed in 19 BC and destroyed by the Roman Empire in 70 AD.    The remaining wall is a pilgrimage spot for Jews and Christians.  Over one million prayers are placed in the wall each year—prayers placed in the wall are thought to be closer to Heaven’s Gates being more likely to be heard by God.  Use this link to send a note that will be placed in the Western Wall.  http://www.aish.com/w/note/  This is one of my favorite pictures of all time.     


Road Trip to Cincinnati, Ohio.
Why haven’t I visited Cincinnati more often?  It’s just over an hour away and what a fun city.  The main purpose of our trip was to visit the Newport Aquarium, http://www.newportaquarium.com/.  (Before you go make sure to look for coupons online because we were able to take an additional $2 off each admission.)  It’s fun to relive childhood through the eyes of your child(ren).  There are tunnels with fish, sharks, and turtles swimming all around you, as well as a bird sanctuary, an otter den, and many tanks with fish from all around the world.  The other cool thing about the aquarium is that it is located on the Levee with restaurants, an ice cream shop, and a candy shop. It’s a one stop destination for a road trip, unless of course you need to make a trip 20 minutes up north to Ikea, which we did!  I bought the cutest lamp—and in fact have been looking for a lamp since I created Ella’s nursery a year and a half ago! This lamp is perfect and of course, cheap!  I was ready to do more (Ballard Design and Frontgate outlets are just down the street) but the little munchkin was ready for her nap, and when you’re a parent your child wins!  Alas we drove back to Louisville so our little girl could get a precious nap.  A great day in Cinci!



Ella giving the puffer fish a kiss!


Ella petting the horseshoe crab!
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