All is calm in Jerusalem

Just received an email from my sister that alerted me to the bombing in Jerusalem earlier today--near the Central Bus Station.  I am very near the Central Bus station and even had dinner there last night with another marathoner and her husband.  We walked from our hotel right past the area I saw in the news video.  Had a Kosher meal at McDonalds as the bus station is also a shopping mall.  Had to go through metal detectors and baggage xray just to get into the bus station--probably why the attack was outside of the building by where people catch the bus.  So sad that people were hurt and one woman killed.  At least you know that this area is now probably the safest around Jerusalem.  I am really surprised with the police presence along with many in military uniform. 

The trip so far has been great.  Wonderful weather yesterday on my tour to Masada and the Dead Sea.  Masada is a stronghold built on top of a mountain that overlooks the southern end of the Dead Sea.  Views were spectacular and a ton of history.  On the way back, the tour bus stopped by the Mineral Beach on the Dead Sea.  Here where I smeared mineral mud all over my body and let it dry in the sun.  Then I went into the water, walking carefully with flip flops on over the salt crystalline beach into the water.  Oh my, oh my--I just leaned backwards and floated with no effort whatsoever!  Amazing!  The water is so full of salt you just float.  Nothing lives in that water because of its chemical composition.  Full of magnesium it really feels good on joints and it was warm!  Ultimate experience of the day and the trip so far.

Today was good too, as I visited several historic areas of Jerusalem including walking the stations of the cross to the Holy Sepulchre where Jesus was crucified.  The stone where his body was anointed with oils was also there.  This was after visiting the Jewish Wailing Wall.  So much to see.  The afternoon took me to the Holocast Museum along with a view of the city from the Mount of Olives.  Got back to the hotel around 7pm.  

Tomorrow is going next door to pickup my marathon packet and rest for most of the day before race day on Friday.

All is calm in Jerusalem tonight.