False cushions

Despite the awful heat of 35 degrees this morning, I had a nice time because I unexpectedly met with  group of UNISA professors and students who asked me to guide them along the Way of the Cross. I had studied with UNISA (Uni. of S. Africa) for many years and was more than happy to bring them along the sites. The group consisting of 3 professors and 17 students had been excavating Hazor and now that the digging season is over, they came to Jerusalem for some religious visits. We covered the Probatica Pools, St Anne's church, the 14 Stations and everything inside the Holy Sepulchre. It was a 4 and a half hour tour. Everyone was happy. I'm glad I was able to do something for UNISA.

Dangerous comfort

While sun-lovers are gloating over the marvelous sunshine and perfect beach opportunities, and lots of student groups are making summer excursions and camps all over the country, most people are moaning about the heat. It is so uncomfortably stuffy and oppressive. And I have extremely bad attacks of asthma these few nights. Bleeding in the nose as well. And a splitting headache for 3 full days. Summer is not going to be good for me. The weather is like the cluster of colourful cushions occupying the shaded courtyard next to Safra Square. They look so soft and comfy except that police railings are surrounding them. Later a notice came up saying they're made from cement and therefore not as comfy as it looks. So that's summer for you - looks real good until you're in it and find out it isn't what it seems.

More dead as the war in Gaza continues for another day. And a potential terrorist is arrested in Cyprus. And the massacre in Syria continues. What a day! It's like having one of those cement cushions being thrown at you.