Shabbat Shalom

Just wanted to give out a big Shabbat Shalom from Jerusalem. I'm here in the holy city, waiting to go to the Kotel for Kabbalat Shabbat. WOW.
Quick update too. Obviously I'm not in Tzfat any more, plans had to change. I'll be here for a few days while I'm deciding what to do. I'm pretty sure I'm going to go to a farm that is in real need of help. But really, who knows.
Lots of events in the past few days. Time is of the essence currently, so this might be a bit short. First of all, remember to drink. Not just drink, but drink a lot. This was a big mistake on my part. And sweating is very natural, and common, and bad if it goes away. That was another mistake. And please, don't climb up a canyon at 2 in the afternoon in the desert, not a good idea. Due to all of these, I decided to check out a local ER--what an experience. Not that I recommend it though. I'm fine and have learned many valuable lessons.
The group disbands in just over 36hrs and it will be really sad to see every one go. I can't imagine what it will be like to be on my own time schedule once more.
I went to the shuk today and can't wait to go back. I actually bargained with a shop keeper there, in Hebrew. That was so empowering. Knowing numbers really helps.
I am getting a mass of stories that I cannot wait to tell, soon, I promise.
Mosquitoes have feasted so well these past few days, courtesy the Rachael buffet. I have well over 100 bites. The most distracting are those on my face, while the ones on my toes drive me crazy. I think they think 100% DEET is dessert. Oh well. What would a trip be without a little adventure? This is so stream of conscious right now; I have so many thoughts and so little ability to form them coherently.
And in case it is not coming through, I want to say clearly that I am having an amazing time. Really, this is the best thing I could be doing with my life right now. Miss you in a good way.

Unbelievable

Wow! it's been a week and the time has simultaneously flown by and dragged on. I am getting around 3-5hrs sleep/night. This group is awesome. No alone time though. so i've cried at the wailing wall. I've been humbled by serving the homeless in Jerusalem--really. Being completely lost and feeling helpless and having these eyes pleading with me for food in a verbal language I don't understand, but in a human language that is universal is quite an experience. That night we celebrated the 40th anniversary of the unification of Jerus., in Jerus. simply mind blowing. Walking down the streets with revelry and merriment while surrounded by gun holding soldiers. Bizarre doesn't begin to describe it. Once again I sat in the bar kochba caves and that was hard mentally; crawling through passageways that i didn't think i was small enough to fit through. I have massive bruises from doing so, and each day they remind me. Up here in Tzfat we have been working on a bomb shelter. Structurally it is mostly ok, but that is where the goodness ends. We walked in and there was a stench that caused the most hilarious faces on my chevre I've ever seen. Paint didn't exist, mold was everywhere, and oh yeah, we were standing in 4" of water. The foreman/manager assured us that it wasn't 'shit water'. Some how that didn't make us feel better. There were huge bugs. Probably at one time dead animals too, though those were gone. I am in awe what 10 people can do working together in only 5hrs. The place had a floor, a first coat of paint and everything was moved out. My heart was saddened by all the books that were destroyed by the water damage. Some books were more that 100yrs old; all were holy and had to be buried. Hard labor for sure. Today we finished that one and I am impressed. Truly what a community means.
I am finally doing laundry and get internet, a few more days before communication becomes on my own terms rather than a group mentality.
I still don't know what I am doing after this ends in a short week. There are so very many options--like a kid in a candy store. Sleep might be in order first though. I have made friends here with a few folks. i am the oldest woman, and the 4th oldest overall. Part of me plays mother hen, part of me is just too tired to deal with immaturity.
I am learning a ton. About other people, yes, but moreso about myself.
Hebrew is still incredibly difficult and people here speak fast and soft. I'm constantly saying "ma?"--meaning "what?" 'Ani lo medeberet ivrit' is another phase I am using when it becomes too much. Knowing how to read clearly helps, if only I understood. Smiles go a long way and I'm proficient in that.
Time to go now, more adventures await just over the horizon.
I will be in touch. I miss everyone, very much, already. (sappy moment) You're all here though, in my heart, truly.

05.08.07 (Tuesday)
I leave for my second Israeli adventure in a short 56hrs. Currently I have things to do and a place to stay until May 26, courtesy of Livnot; then I am on my own until my planned return mid-July. I do not have a place to stay, I don't even know which part of the country I'll be in. This is simultaneously thrilling and frightening, though much moreso the former. Initially the goal was go and work the land via an agricultural kibbutz. Most have rejected my inquiry due to time restraints. Now my revised vision is to connect with the people and be of use however possible (hospitals, food banks, farms, etc). I plan on experiencing as much as I can. Exploring the rich history the country has to offer and gaining an understanding of my distant heritage are also on the list.
Though not yet departed, I miss people already. I do fear homesickness will be a formidable enemy (more directly than say the Palestinians or the Lebanese). As a shield/weapon I have decided to create this blog. I will update it as I can and as the need strikes. Please feel free to leave comments as the mood strikes you.
And for those of you who have heard about my previous international travels, stayed tuned for bathroom stories--I am sure there will be some to be had!