Tuesday, May 8, 2007

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!

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

You have come such a long baby! I can't believe that my little sister is such an experienced traveler and thrives to get more experience under her belt. I'm so thrilled for you and I know that you are going to have a grand summer. I wish clean bathrooms, smooth plane rides, gentlemen with lots of money and lavish gifts, and sweet memories for your trip. I only ask you for one thing-to come home safely, please.

Unknown said...

Who do I share my lame puns with for the next 2 months?

Unknown said...

You wouldn't believe it but Noah was sitting on the couch today and pointed to the stairway doorway leading to your room and said "Where's Auntie Rachael Elyssa Jacob?" No, it's scientifically true, based on 100% of doctors surveyed agreeing to its validity.

Anonymous said...

Aunt Lee

the desert cat said...

Hi Rae:
Aunt Lee suggested that you stay home where it is safe, get married and have a baby! Told ya when these two ol' biddies get together we discuss you!
Don't worry about being homesick, yu'll be too busy.
Trevor: I love puns, share them with me.

natsaxe said...

hi honey!!

hope all is fabulous!!

do call my cousin leora (she's in teh states thru may) when you get a chance.

Love,
natalie

Anonymous said...

This page really needs updating. Its now the 20th. A phone call wouldn't hurt either. Mommy hat off now. Are you still having a great time? They must be keeping you really busy. How is it now that you can read some of the language? Its thundering here now. I had my 35 muke bike ride this morning in Loveland- it was a great route and in a world of cyclists- only 1 passed me!! This week brings the bike up to 100 miles and running only to 15. Noah has been sick for a while- you haven't missed much. Except the new and improved temper tantrums. Corrine is going to post the hazards of tractor riding soon. Evidently, we didn't calculate collateral damage in the cost estimate. Hope you're safe and happy! Love Mom

the desert cat said...

Hi Rae:
You should not allude to spending time at the ER, gives your parents grey hair. No excuse, you lived in the desert for a couple of years. You know whenever your eyelids sweat it's time to drink more Gatorade.
You sound like you are having a wonderful time, you're exactly where you should be at this point in your life.
Basheret: What's meant to be, will be, when it's supposed to be, with G-d's help.
Luvya, Kit

Anonymous said...

Hi Rachael:
Greeting from one desert to the other. (Or did I mean dessert?)
Here is a pithy saying for you: (I love to pith !)
"One way to open your eyes is to ask yourself, 'What if I had never seen this before? What if I knew I would never see it again?"
Blame it on the heat!!
Luvya
Kit