Hey all,

Hmm I have been lazy with this blog of late. Not lazy in general but just not writing much. I am supposed to present a slideshow on the development/rehabilitation projects from Aus/Sols/Africa, so that's taken a bit of screen time. Anyway this blog is going to be a little bitsy, more of a reminder so I can tell the stories properly next time.

Firstly to answer some questions, in the pics that is definately a parasitic Orobanche, well spotted Kim, I didn't know we had them? Cool, will have a hunt when I get back. Theres also a more impressive Cistanche tuberosa in the pics too, a yellow parasite on the Israeli Atriplex and yup that was a semi wild ibex strolling around off the highway near En gedi which is sub tropical in climate... Jess I still haven't Sat down to I.D these plants (I know slack as) but the camera is a Nikon D90. Pretty old now but does a good job.

Hmm for you folks reading that aren't plant people there have also been interesting adventures of scholars arrests and a trip with the ambience of rocket fire, but I won't go into those here. Good for a yarn in person in a few months though.

Well I haven't written much but lifes great at work and outside, I'd probably stay here permanently if I could but will see how I feel in another three months.

A few trips recently included one to Ein kerem where there is a spring that is supposed to be related to where a story of Mary washing in the bible is set. There's also a great hill treck there with more ruins and springs and a set of terraced garden plots that are made available to people living in city apartments with no space. great idea.

Ok, will write properly tomorrow about Masada, Acco, Haifa, Monteforte and celebrating the Shavout holiday the authentic way at a Kibbutz. Oh also Cyclamen surveys in the forest and a Japanese stage show at the gardens.

Bye for now.