Today was the first day of classes. It has been decided that I will take the Introductory+ Talmud (mostly Mishna) class on Mondays and Wednesdays, and the Intermediate Talmud class (Mishna and Gemara) on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. (Yes, the week here starts on Sunday.) Today I attended the Mishna class from 8:30-11:30 in the …
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Clouds on the first day of school
There were clouds in the sky this morning when I got up — actual clouds! I had to smile when David Bernstein ,the Dean of Pardes, used clouds as an illustration of how differently many things may look from an Israeli perspective than from that of other countries (particularly the U.S.). As he noted, we …
Finding my way
I know I promised to tell you the history of the San Simon Monastery, the battle there, etc. However, I find myself so struck with a million little quotidian experiences — Hachayyim HaYisraelim HaYomYom החיים הישראלים היומיום Which is to say, the daily Israeli life. So today let me share how my day went, what …
Living in History
When we think of Israel, we often think of layers and layers of ancient history. One of my husband Bob’s favorite objects was a Stone Age tool that I picked up in the desert near where his son lives in Mitzpeh Ramon. There, ancient stone tools, 6,000 or more years old, are to be found …
First Shabbat in Jerusalem
The weekend in Israel is Friday and Saturday, rather than Saturday and Sunday. Friday is for getting ready for Shabbat. I had a somewhat restless Thursday night, so I didn’t manage to get up until 10:30 am on Friday. Then I really had to scurry to get to hasuper for my groceries; they close at …
Israeli Breakfast
My Hebrew textbook tells me that the average Israeli does not eat much for breakfast. Like Americans, they gobble a few bites on the run, perhaps managing cafe and maybe some kornfleks. (This refers not just to cornflakes but to any cereal — there is another Hebrew word for cereal, but it is seldom used.) …
First Day
I am in my new apartment, in the Katamon area of Jerusalem. It’s perfect — everything I imagined. A small patio, living-dining area, compact but complete kitchen, tiny guest bedroom (if you want to come visit!), bathroom with little washing machine included, and bedroom. (Oops –I brought sheets, but it looks as though I will …
Nine months in Israel
Welcome to my new blog. I have never blogged before, but I am an inveterate keeper of travel journals, and I imagine this will be a bit like that — only I am sharing it with all of you! I leave for Israel Tuesday evening August 27. Watch this space for what happens next!
My First Blog Post
Lechi lach to the place that I will show you… Debbie Friedman This is the first post on my new blog. I’m just getting this new blog going, so stay tuned for more. Subscribe below to get notified when I post new updates.
Introduce Yourself (Example Post)
This is an example post, originally published as part of Blogging University. Enroll in one of our ten programs, and start your blog right. You’re going to publish a post today. Don’t worry about how your blog looks. Don’t worry if you haven’t given it a name yet, or you’re feeling overwhelmed. Just click the …
Nine months in Israel 