Now that we are in the thick of the Christmas seasons, it only felt right to revisit my pictures from the Holy Land cruise that I went on last month.  It's so easy to get caught up in the food and drinks and gifts (though I will have a gift guide here soon), but I'm trying to keep my faith in mind and focus on the birth of Jesus Christ as the real meaning behind Christmas.  So, let me step off the pulpit and get to the pictures! {outside of Mary's house}Kuşadasi is a resort town on the coast of Turkey and from the port, we took a bus (the first of many, many bus rides) to the ancient city of Ephesus.  Those of us familiar with the Bible will recognize this city as the namesake for Ephesians.  In this book, Paul preaches the Gospel to the city residents.  I was familiar with the ancient city, but had no idea that Ephesus is also the city where Mary spent the last days of her life after the crucifixion of Christ.  It was so special to visit her home and take in the peace and tranquility that surrounded it.  I especially loved a wall outside of her home where visitors write their wishes on a wall.  I of course had to take part (but we all know I can't share my wish).{ancient city of Ephesus}{on the steps of the library at Ephesus}{isn't Ephesus stunning?}