A God thing...

At the end of the boat ride we walked along the canal for close to a mile.  Eventually the walkway will go all along the canal ~ several miles.  Won't that be fun!

 

There were two very different bridges across the canal.

 

Our destination was Al Safa Park.

 

We had been told there was a restaurant in the park.  It was about 2:15 when we reached the entrance where we found out the restaurant closed YESTERDAY for renovations!  We. Were. Hungry.

At a snack bar they had cold drinks, cans of Pringles, and ice cream bars.  That's it!  So we had ice cream and water.  Andy was a bit grumpy.

 

The park was quite large and very pretty.  Hundreds of people were there picnicking and grilling all sorts of tasty things. 

 

I sat in the grass eating my ice cream not far from this young family.

Then we were walking through the park...still hungry.  I stopped to ask directions and in the process we had a God sighting encounter.

The family I talked with was Syrian and very friendly.  They were grilling some good smelling meat and Andy leaned over, making movement with his hands so the smell would rise for him to enjoy.

Immediately, the man offered us a taste.  Then a sandwich of sorts.  And then a salad.  It. Was. Amazing.

 

Our need for food was met...

 

It was a traditional recipe handed down from generation to generation.  You cannot find anything close to it in restaurants we were told.

I think they were actually preparing for supper because the women were at a table still making food.

 

 

Andy wasn't grumpy anymore...he was energized and excited.

 

We stood there talking and eating for quite some time, learning some lessons about generous hospitality along the way.

Did I say,    It. was. Amazing.

 

Finally we were on our way up the path, making our way to the metro line to get back to the car...still talking about the incredible encounter.

We walked about 4 1/2 to 5 miles but it was well worth the experience!

 

We had to change trains from the red line to the green line ~ these chandeliers were in the stairwell in the train station...and before we knew it, we were 'home'.

A nice day out and about...

I could add much more about our conversation with this delightful family but I need to get to bed.  You'll have to ask about it next time we see you!