Today I embark on my first trip to Israel. I am traveling with a team of journalists at the invitation of Israel's Ministry of Tourism and El Al Airlines. It promises to be a fabulous trip with highlights including meetings with the mayors of Nazareth and Jerusalem.

My itinerary for each day will show up here. I'm loading it ahead of time so you can follow me even on days when I don't have internet access. As with my Jordan trip, I will do my best to add photos and commentary as I am able. I am seven hours later than Central time, if that helps you figure out what time it is in my world.

Today includes a flight from Dallas to JFK in New York City, with a layover of eight hours before we board our transAtlantic flight. Fortunately, though we are flying coach, arrangements have been made for us to have access to the airline's lounge. That will give our team of twenty (or so) a chance to sit in comfortable surroundings as we get to know each other before we embark on our long night over the Atlantic.

Please shoot up a prayer for me and for my family near and far. I have mixed emotions about leaving right now, but we all agree it's the chance of a lifetime...so off I go.