We pull together a picnic from our market excursion.

Michele carves open her magic watermelon...let the party begin!

Now in Yazd, our tour visits the Zoroastrian Fire Temple. We go to take a group photo, but another local tour group wants in the picture! (Our group is to the right of pink center)

Zoroastrianism is the worlds first monotheistic religion, predating Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. one of the oldest religions of the world. They follow Zoroaster, believed to be born between 1,000 and 1,500 BC.

Zoroastrians are taught to pray in the direction of light, which was interpreted as fire, so they erected fire temples, this one believed to have been going since 470 AD. The flame has been moved several times, most recently to this location in 1934.

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Some young Iranians really push the boundaries of Islamic law when it comes to dress. These two were definitely "trouble." When I asked their names, they said "Pussy Cat Doll and Beyonce."

Iran is predominantly equipped with the "squat toilet" with the exception of hotels that cater to Western tourists. I found this "adapter" most interesting.

Pomegranate trees in the Zoroastrian Fire Temple courtyard, Yazd.

Fifteenth century domed building known as "Alexander's Prison" from the days of Alexander the Great -- Yazd

The Old City of Yazd is a labyrinth of sun-dried red brown buildings and archways made from mud brick, and reported to be one of the oldest towns on earth. LP describes, "simple courtyards, ornate wooden doors, and some lovely adobe architecture.

Antique water vessel, Yazd

Next to Alexander's Prison is the "Tomb of the Twelve Imams," containing inscriptions of the names of the descendants of Mohammad.