The banging on Carol's door actually woke me even before Matt got to mine. Seconds later, the knock invading over my threshold confirmed I wasn't dreaming. 2:30 am... right on time.

Less than an hour later, we were shuffling off the bus into the darkness. "Right. Everybody got their torches then?" By torch Matt means flashlight. Those Brits; it's like they've got a word for everything.

Thus began our trek up Mount Sinai. Back when Moses did it, over 3000 years ago, I doubt the path was as nicely groomed. On the other hand, I doubt he had to deal with groups of Bedouin approaching him, asking, "Camel? Want ride camel?"

Near the top of the hill, they were peddling wares that I much more keenly jumped at. A warm tea and a blanket rental sounded just right after 2 hours climbing the night-shrouded and wind-swept approach.

Finally, I nestled into a little nook between two boulders on the side of the cliff face. Having wrapped myself in the blanket and set up my tripod, I awaited my reward...