Farewell Lebanon, until we meet again.
We were remote, in the mountains, paying homage to our adored Lebanese saint, Charbel. It was a haunting place, creaking with wind and chill and a kind of desolation. I prayed for all of us.
As I left, the branches of a tree waved and beckoned me over from across the courtyard. Are you my cedar tree, I asked, the one I’ve been looking for? The cedar was not silent. She answered me by stretching her arms even wider, teaching me the lesson I want to keep learning—making beauty of the harsh wind by standing strong, and lilting, gracefully.
See you back in the kitchen this week. I send you an embrace as wide as a cedar tree to say thank you for being with me with all of your comments, messages, and good wishes on my journey to Lebanon…that has meant the world to me. There are many more pictures, and much to say, which we’ll do over time. I’m so grateful to have you to share it all with.
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Maureen, Wishing you a safe trip back home. The photos of your trip are so beautiful. I have enjoyed Lebanon through your eyes and your writing is so hearfelt. You have a gift of expressing your thoughts that capture the reader completely. Thank you for sharing your journey.
Safe trip home to Northern Michigan!!!
Can’t wait to see you & hear more about your trip!!!
Wow!
Xoxo
🙂
allison
Maureen,
I can’t tell you how much I’ve enjoyed your magnificent pictures. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us. It has been wonderful. Here’s hoping your trip home is safe and I’ll look forward to seeing & hearing more as time goes on.
Jody
Thank you for the journey, I will be looking forward for more entries down the road along with some wonderful recipes. By safe in you travels home.
Looks like a lovely trip with beautiful pictures and commentary in the poetic language of our ancestors. Have a safe trip home. Looking forward to more details! Marlene
Maureen…Such a lovely journey you have had… Can’t wait to hear all about it upon your safe return…
Maureen, your words and pictures touch me to the depths of my soul. That is what art does, it makes us feel. I love all of the comments above that others have said about you– they express my feelings about you so eloquently. Angels wrap their wings around you and bring you home safely!
Very nice post. The words and the pictures are both beautiful.
Maureen thank you for the wonderful pictures and stories. I have been checking your posts everyday. Your pictures are great. much love virginia
Beautiful pictures and commentary. Travel safely.
Safe trip home. Pics and stories have been great. Glad u could make the trip with your mom and Peggy. Back to work next week!!!!! Love you
Thank you for sharing the mysteries explored on your vision quest, Maureen. So glad your sacred cedar found you. What a gift and a blessing.
Your photos have been amazing. What a beautiful place. Thank you for sharing your journey!
Maureen, everyday I looked forward to you words and pictures from Lebanon. Sharing the experience with someone I know made it thrilling. Thank-you. Greeting to you mom and have a safe trip home. Rose Roche
You’re pure bliss.
Paula
Maureen,
Well written and great photos –as usual…
Michael
:-). Save travels, Maureen.
Loved loved every second of your journey! I am waiting on edge of my seat to hear more. Love to you always. PZ
Returning home….too soon I am sure!
Welcome back.
Jerry
Maureen, thanks for sharing your gorgeous photos. What an amazing trip for all reasons.
Diane
Maureen–loved your trip journal and photos amazing! So glad you are home safely. Can’t wait to hear more!