Well, that's great! I'm glad we're given a roof over our head (at least for now).
I do have to give Oranim credit, they do set us up with a "free" gym. All we have to do is make an appointment with some "doctor" and pay 50 sheckles, and we're set to go!
But I guess before we get into that I'll fill you in on my past week here. After that amazing concert up in Jerusalem we all slept in on Monday. By 11 only 2 of us were up, and by 12 we packed our bags and (most of us) journeyed to the local shuk and grocery store.
We spent what felt like forever walking through the shuk looking at crap and more crap. My favorite. By the time we got to the end of the shuk we were so lost, to get to one of the grocery stores was a mission. At one point we were walking by a school with kids throwing rocks. Not okay.
We made it to Yesh, the bigger grocery store, which is a little farther, and each filled our book bags to the fullest extent. Jackie and I took our time walking, and by the end of our journey my bag was frontward and we were aching. I was even treated by my cottage cheese exploding in my bag. Lucky me.
During the afternoon the group went to the local college to meet with a group called the Kshaot center. Basically they are a local "club" for kids over the age of 18 to come and practice english. The kids all know how to speak, but use it more as a test for an english-speaking job or some sorts.
We met with one lady in charge and one of the participants. I instantly fell in love! It reminded me of the old Young Judaean activities where we'd sit in circles and just talk. They only wanted 4 volunteers, but five of us, Jackie, Erica, Taylor, Lindsay and I begged for 5.
Successful! We were to meet the following Monday to go over plans, before the meeting began at 6.
After the meeting Lindsay and I went to Dr. Cohen to get our gym note, and boy am I glad I am healthy. Because if I wasn't, I could have easily still passed.
Tuesday, besides getting woken up at 7 when the rest of the house leaves, I slept till 1. Lovely. And by 4 I was off to Ulpan. Still not knowing my way around, I got lost on my way home, know being dark out. Thankfully Lindsay was able to direct me.
On Wednesday, Lindsay, Jackie and I took our first step to the gym. Well, we were the only girls there, and lets just say it was an interesting experience.
In the evening we met with Nir as a group for our weekly meeting and enrichment. Since it was the anniversary of Rabins death, we spoke about him. Half-way though Nir passed around a book, when suddenly Erica explained how "this" was her favorite piece of art, and nothing had touched her more. I looked up to see "this" was the Holocaust memorial, which as many of you know, my grandfather made.
Thursday was basically a waste of time. My only activity of the day way to meet everyone at 1 to help an old lady "fix" her house. Basically, we were expecting the worst. Apparently this lady had called social services, explaining how her house was, saying she absolutely needed some help.
Nir was quick to sign us up, since after all that is what we are here for. But after a late wake up, and rushing to make it on time, no one was home. At least, that is what we thought. We knocked, called, banged, everything, but eventually we turned around and walked home.
This past weekend was wonderful! I can't believe its already been 3 weeks since i've been in Israel.
On Friday, with the rain pouring down, I trekked to the central bus stop and rode to Jerusalem. By the time I got to the central station, it was around 3 and things were shutting down for Shabbat. Wow, that town really closes.
I used my "knowledge" and got on another bus to head towards the old city, where I met Norman at his hotel. It was great seeing him, and meeting all of the people on his ride.
We went with another couple to the Kotel, and it was beautiful. Being there on a Friday night, with everyone dancing and the rain falling was wonderful.
After we met with a couple other riders, and had the most amazing meal. Hands down the best meal I have had in a long time. Sweet-potato soup, amazing bread, great schnitzel, and absolutely wonderful desserts. I took the card, and hopefully can go back soon.
Since Shabbat had taken over the city of Jerusalem, I was stuck taking a cab back to Ramla, which turned out to be great. My driver was so nice and tested me on hebrew my entire trip.
Then came Halloween, my favorite holiday! We had planed to have a "party" for some people of Ramla through the Kshoat center. Few showed up, but it was still fun! My last minute costume turned into Rainbow Brite, since without shock, I have tons of bright clothe!
I even, as I said earlier, got the dutch kid to dress in my Marlin jersey!
Sunday was a rain cloud, and by Monday morning our roof was leaking and I was sick. Thankfully the people I live with are AMAZING. Because of the horrible flu I was struck with, I wasn't able to go to our first Kshoat center, and spent the day a mess.
I felt horrible because Ron was the only other person home, so I just sat with him so he wouldn't be alone. How horrible. But everyone was absolutely great towards me! They spent the entire time, and still are, making sure I drink plenty of water. Even as I went to bed the other night Erica knocked on my door with my water bottle refilled to make sure I was drinking. All 6 of them will make perfect parents!
Today is Wednesday and we just got back from a meeting about teaching english. It was about 3 hours and we went through all these great activities and methods to help the kids. Absolutely worth our time, and worth the "hike" I took while sick as can be.
This weekend we venture to Eilat, and i'm sure that will come with great stories! Allowing me to ramble for hours!
Till then....Enjoy!
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