Getting into the swing of things

Today was our first day of classes at Neve!  After a relatively early start (though later than usual) we headed to the highest point in Jerusalem, Har Nof, to begin our learning.  We had three classes; a class about the two worlds that we all coexist in- the world of connection and the world of disconnection, a class about the righteous characteristics of our ancestral matriarchs that exist within us, and a class about love.  As if the subject matter wasn't interesting enough to pique our Jewish interest, the teachers were unbelievable!  It's incredible how much insight and passion the teachers express through their stories and conversations.


It's amazing how in Israel one wonderful, amazing experience always follows another.  Of course, we needed some sustenance following such a stimulating morning, so we went for our fourth Israeli frozen yogurt expedition of the trip, quite necessary.  It was a first course to our lunch of Bayla-made salad in our AMAZING apartment!  All the stimulation and excitement of the past four days our delicious lunch had to be followed up by a quick schluff (nap), following which we headed out in our Maidel Mobile to volunteer!

We spent the afternoon into the evening making clay sculptures with victims of terror attacks.  Although the amazing women there didn't speak much English, the organization, One Family Fund, and the spirit of the clients was an inspiring atmosphere and we were all impacted by the gravity of these peoples' experiences.
We created different sculptures for the center, Hamsas and a vase, a box, and plaques, and it was a wonderful experience.

It's physically impossible to go any extended period of time without eating of involving food in our itinerary, so we went for pizza on the main street of Har Nof.  The pizza was delish, even though finding a parking space anywhere in Jerusalem is virtually impossible (thank goodness we have an amazing driver in Bayla).

To cap off an incredibly full but wonderful day we went to an apartment for a Q&A panel about women and Judaism and to hear the story of an religious recording artist, Moran Sabbah, who turned down a recording contract with Sony to move to Israel!

We are continuing to have an amazing time and Israel, and as we delve into our learning, we are all thrilled to be exploring Judaism together!  We love you and miss you all!

http://www.moransabbah.com/Shalom for now! <3 Sydnee :)