Our journey is coming to an end and we are, as Michael Sinai said to me this morning, both "happy and sad." We are happy to be going home and sad to be leaving Israel. Resident Helen Werner said that she was "not sure" that she could go but that "all these wonderful people made it possible." She said that she has been to Israel and that each time she has seen different things and that she has "learned so much." Resident Susan Levin said that this trip has been "wonderful, fantastic and spectacular." Her favorite moments were dancing on the boat and our time at Kishorit. Staff member Marcia Westcott was thrilled with the chance to "get to know our residents better and to share these experiences with them and see it though their eyes." Staff member Karen Raitt said that "no matter how much I imagined, each day was better than the last." Staff member Danielle Sears told us that "the trip broadened my spectrum and I loved sharing the emotions with the residents." Staff member Kaye Herda said that she has never "laughed or cried so much " as she did this trip.  

Otterbein resident Georgianna Ferguson said that she loved "Nof Ginnosor and the setting of the Sea of Galilee." She was amazed by the topography and the variation in this country. Her husband Jerry says that "as a Christian, I would probably not have spent much time in the Synagogue in Capernum but I was so taken with it and 'blown away' by the setting and the stone work. He noticed the detail of the columns, the intricacy of the space and the thoughtful way in which it was designed. As an engineer, that really spoke to him. Jerry added that "never have so few experienced so much in so short a time." Marjorie Zeidman, a Cedar Village resident and first time Israel traveler, said that the Western Wall was her favorite part of the experience, that she "has never felt anything like that" and that, even now, the thought of it makes her eyes fill. Michael Sinai, one of our Cedar Village residents and a Holocaust survivor said that "I am glad I did it, it was beyond my expectations, I am glad I was here, that I have seen it and I lived it." Staff member Nick Winkler said that " it was fantastic and we had a great time." Staff member Janet Bowling said that "she enjoyed every moment and that this was the best trip." Staff member Sally Korkin said that "as always it is wonderful seeing Israel through they eyes of our residents and staff and now the Otterbein resident's eyes. I loved the time I spent with my buddy, Elaine, and getting to know and connect with the team."

As for me, I would have to say that this has been a magnificent trip. Our staff and residents have been amazing and I am incredibly proud of every member of our team and tremendously privileged to work with each of them.

Thank you to all who have supported us, believed in us and followed us. We were thrilled to share this with each and every one of you.