Latrun Day - Tanks and Trappists

So when RCG and I were planning my trip we kept talking about taking a day to visit Latrun where there is a spice farm and winery. Truth be told this is the location I build in the "exception" to my resolution for the year.

We had a leisurely start to the morning. So we headed down the road to Latrun to visit the abbey. We arrived at noon as the bells were sounding. We were able to visit the "gift shop" that had candles, post cards, and various wines and other beverages. Part of the Trappist way of living is to work and so these various products represent how the monks make a living. So I settled upon buying a couple of things. So a few bottles of wine later (as in purchased not consumed), we decided that we should head to lunch and return when the chapel reopened.

We drove down the road a little closer to Jerusalem and ate at the Flam Winery. It was packed and so service may not have been the greatest. However they brought out some fresh bread with sides of olive oil with basil and a hint of garlic and what looked like soured cream or butter. It was incredible. Then came the Brucetta Buffalo and our main dishes. I had ordered a Wild Forest Ragout that turned out to be amazing. I tried to be mindful of my meal and really enjoy it. It definately made it worth the wait for service.

After lunch we walked through the Tavlin Spice shop. It is so neat to see so many fresh spices available and many various teas and infusions. I laughed when I saw the Viagra Tea Infusion and wondered if the Hebrew gave more information as to what was in it. I did settle on trying some Mint Infusion tea and another for stomach issues. These are both loose teas blends that I am hoping to take home with me.

SInce it was still too early to see the church we went over to the Tank museum. I have never once questioned that I am an Air Force Brat. I love planes and welcomed my time of working at the airlines. I also grew up around airshows and knowing the difference between the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds. I even recall the thrill of seeing teh SAC Aggressor squadron out on the runway at Langley AFB many years ago. This being said - tanks can be amazing and the memorial that is here was something else.

We then headed back to the Abbey and were able to visit the church and even see at least one monk on the grounds. I have never understood why I love visiting these old churches and learning about monasteries. I just really find them peaceful and each one so unique. It also was a nice way to finish off the day. As we headed out of the church it started to sprinkle. So we slipped back in the gift shop to try the sweet liquor the monks make. I decided that I would have to take a bottle home and also get another for RCG and I to have some over the next week.

PS - I also loved the crest from the Abbey