Athens

relaxing on the boat

We all got a good rest on the ferry and it was nice to be able to see Italy and Greece from the water's perspective. Everything was absolutely beautiful and the mountains were all around us. We ate breakfast early and were all very eager to get on our way to Greece. Everyone was ready for a new environment and some new food (cold cuts for breakfast were getting old).

We got off the ferry around 12:30 and met our Grecian tour guide, Voula. We started the tour almost immediately as we boarded the bus as she started to tell us about the history of Corinth and Athens. On the way to Ancient Corinth we encountered a problem with the bus though, as the back half started to fill with smoke and became very hot. We pulled off at a small gas station then as Demetrius went to get it fixed. Although it was a long wait, we passed the time well with books, cards, and conversation, and it was definitely worth the wait when the bus was fixed and smoke free.

Then we headed off to the ruins of Ancient Corinth, where we learned about how most of the structures were Roman in nature because of the takeover years ago. We saw a lot of statues and a lot of old structures, and saw where Paul came to write Corinthians.

After a long day we were finally able to sit down and take in one of the Greek specialties...GYROS!! (pronounced Yee-ros) The scenery was breathtaking and the food was delicious after a lunch of gas station food.

Our arrival to our new home was late, and we were all just ready to get some sleep, but this new place was modern and clean and comfortable. We have refrigerators that make ice and nice spacious rooms. We also have a small kitchen and laundry area. Everyone is excited about this new place and ready for our experiences in Athens.

Our morning meeting

Another great day is in the books. We were able to sleep in today. Breakfast and lunch were prepared by the ringers after the groceries were bought in the morning. We didn't leave the bible school until 1:30, and when we did, we traveled to the Harding University Greek (HUG) campus and from there walked to a beach and swam in the Aegean sea. Following our swim, we returned to the dorms to enjoy pizza with students and perform for them. It was a great performance and the students were a great audience. We are now back at the Bible School and having an early night because we have a big day tomorrow with three concerts!