Rooftop lounging

I've decided these posts need to become more bullet point-like because there is just too much happening to explain in narrative form...

-Had a one on one learning session with a young religious woman, Nehama from Atlanta, who had hosted me and another girl for a Shabbat meal. I was able to ask some big questions I'm struggling with- like accepting the Oral Law was given at Mt. Sinai, that non-religious jews are anything less than the observant and lots more... anyways it was a good connection and I felt heard.

-Went on an adventure with my friend Liz. Took the bus again (getting good at a few routes) downtown and then walked to the Ticho House, a museum and restaurant- very cool. Then walked through a park to a neighborhood called Rehavia, with tree-lined streets- so beautiful.

-After the long trek across the city and up a large hill, we arrived at the Israel Museum, which is located right by the Israeli parliament, the Knesset. Although the majority of the museum is under renovation, we were able to see the model of the second temple and the Shrine of the Book, where the Dead Sea scrolls are housed. It was incredible! The museum sits atop a large hill and we had a great view and watched the sun set in the beautiful sky.

-Went to American Apparel and saw a bag with many "international" cities on it, including Eugene! I thought that was very cool and bizarre. The clerk recommended a place to get some dinner with a nice view. One of the nicest hotels I've ever entered- the Mamilla. Headed to the eighth floor to the most incredible rooftop lounge/restaurant. Very swanky and awesome view of the Old City and downtown. Liz and I had a glass of wine while waiting for our table then had a wonderful meal- indescribable... We bonded with the bartender and our waitress and plan to return for their Mediterranean night next week. It was heavenly.

-Had my first ulpan class (intensive Hebrew) which was great. I'd thought it be really lame- like shalom... but I'm in the higher level and was really challenged. The teacher is an older lady who says m'tzuyan (excellent) a lot and she speaks in Hebrew the whole time. Looking forward to next week's class.

-Went on a walk with Liz around dusk because the light is so stunning here. We explored our neighborhood's many stairways to other streets and hidden pathways, and discussed a hidden lookout point where we watched the sun set. Wish I'd brought my camera!

-Got a compliment from my prayer class teacher that I have good energy, after asking her some personal questions... that was touching.

-Continue to love the contrast of the religious and secular population in this neighborhood. Its amazing to see so many people walking in the streets- who look soooo different.

-Lastly, there are very interesting flowers all over and I plan to try and capture a shot of each one! So far I've identified jasmine and bougainvillea.

Overall I'm feeling more "at home" here, meaning comfortable in my house and with my learning experiences. This weekend I will post my pictures thus far. L'hitraot! See ya later!