I slept in this morning to rest after all the days of working out and also because I knew I had a lot of teaching to do today.
I taught 12 units of Berlitz lessons today (that's NINE hours!): 9:00-10:30, 10:30-12:00, 12:00-1:30, 3:00-4:30, 5:00-6:30, and 6:30-8:00.
We ate lunch at home today. I cooked vegetarian weenies that we wrapped in flour tortillas.
Monday, September 30, 2013
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Sunday, 29 September 2013
Last night, I went to a meeting at the local branch of WIZO (Women's International Zionist Organization) that was organized to allow us to get to hear some of the mayoral candidates present themselves and their plans for Eilat (the local elections are just over 3 weeks away now). Since it started at 8:00, I put David to bed before I left.
At the beginning of the meeting, just 2 candidates were present: Dubi Cohen (whom I am supporting) and another guy named Menachem (I didn't catch a last name). The meeting was basically in English although Menachem did speak some in Hebrew, as well. Dubi spoke in accented and slightly strained English and then had an American-Israeli friend and supporter of his read us his platform (which was smart, I think). My support only increased for Dubi as a result of this meeting.
The audience was allowed to ask questions, and I must say they did an absolutely TERRIBLE job of that! They were combative, they all wanted to talk at once, and they tended to focus on topics like bad driving in Israel over which the mayor has no authority or power at all! I was embarrassed to be part of the Anglo community!
At about this point, the sitting mayor walked in, and he was invited to join the others at the front of the room. He refused to do this, insisting that he should be up there alone, and he proceeded to walk out. This only served to reinforce my already-low opinion of him. Then, when the others had given their summary statements and the meeting seemed about to end, the mayor reappeared and was able to get what he wanted: a solo performance. This disgusted me so much that I simply left at that point. I have no respect whatsoever for him and his childish, arrogant, and immature behavior!
This morning, I still managed to get up early enough to walk to the gym and to work out a little while there.
After breakfast, I did the grocery shopping and also went to an appointment with the doctor to get a prescription that we had somehow run out of despite my medication tracking system.
For lunch we went to Café Greg. Unfortunately, it was not such a great experience. They didn't have the sauce that David wanted to try, they didn't bring me the water I ordered until I asked for it again (and even then they only brought 1 glass when I had specifically asked for 2), David's ravioli was cooked so badly that he sent it back, and they brought me someone else's bill! Besides all this, I found out that they had cut up my debit card that I had inadvertently left there when we had eaten there last Wednesday. Let's just say that Café Greg at Ice Park has been going steadily downhill, and they hit a new low today. We did go down and have some nice frozen yogurt at the Skhut stand afterwards at least (the place we normally get it).
In the afternoon, I went to the pharmacy to get the prescription filled and to pick up a few other things. After that, I went to the bank to order a new debit card. After waiting there for well over an hour, it was finally my turn. Even then, I had to wait for the banker to call their center on the phone. Eventually, though, I did succeed, but it will be 4 business days before it arrives, and then I'll have to go to the bank again to pick it up (although the wait for that is much shorter).
This evening, David and I walked over to the green strip and sat there on the bench for a LONG time. It was so completely pleasant out! David, however, was only able to walk one very short block on the way back, and I had to go get the car to bring him the rest of the way home.
At the beginning of the meeting, just 2 candidates were present: Dubi Cohen (whom I am supporting) and another guy named Menachem (I didn't catch a last name). The meeting was basically in English although Menachem did speak some in Hebrew, as well. Dubi spoke in accented and slightly strained English and then had an American-Israeli friend and supporter of his read us his platform (which was smart, I think). My support only increased for Dubi as a result of this meeting.
The audience was allowed to ask questions, and I must say they did an absolutely TERRIBLE job of that! They were combative, they all wanted to talk at once, and they tended to focus on topics like bad driving in Israel over which the mayor has no authority or power at all! I was embarrassed to be part of the Anglo community!
At about this point, the sitting mayor walked in, and he was invited to join the others at the front of the room. He refused to do this, insisting that he should be up there alone, and he proceeded to walk out. This only served to reinforce my already-low opinion of him. Then, when the others had given their summary statements and the meeting seemed about to end, the mayor reappeared and was able to get what he wanted: a solo performance. This disgusted me so much that I simply left at that point. I have no respect whatsoever for him and his childish, arrogant, and immature behavior!
This morning, I still managed to get up early enough to walk to the gym and to work out a little while there.
After breakfast, I did the grocery shopping and also went to an appointment with the doctor to get a prescription that we had somehow run out of despite my medication tracking system.
For lunch we went to Café Greg. Unfortunately, it was not such a great experience. They didn't have the sauce that David wanted to try, they didn't bring me the water I ordered until I asked for it again (and even then they only brought 1 glass when I had specifically asked for 2), David's ravioli was cooked so badly that he sent it back, and they brought me someone else's bill! Besides all this, I found out that they had cut up my debit card that I had inadvertently left there when we had eaten there last Wednesday. Let's just say that Café Greg at Ice Park has been going steadily downhill, and they hit a new low today. We did go down and have some nice frozen yogurt at the Skhut stand afterwards at least (the place we normally get it).
In the afternoon, I went to the pharmacy to get the prescription filled and to pick up a few other things. After that, I went to the bank to order a new debit card. After waiting there for well over an hour, it was finally my turn. Even then, I had to wait for the banker to call their center on the phone. Eventually, though, I did succeed, but it will be 4 business days before it arrives, and then I'll have to go to the bank again to pick it up (although the wait for that is much shorter).
This evening, David and I walked over to the green strip and sat there on the bench for a LONG time. It was so completely pleasant out! David, however, was only able to walk one very short block on the way back, and I had to go get the car to bring him the rest of the way home.
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Shabbat, 28 September 2013
I got up quite early this morning again, but I felt less energetic. Nevertheless, I still walked over to the gym and worked out a little before walking back.
All the video lectures for the upcoming week of my Survey of Music Technology class were up today, so I watched all of them this morning. This is the last week of the class, so the professor talked briefly but clearly about a number of different areas of research and practice in the field. Some of the example videos he had us watch were really amazing, especially the one of Shimon, the robotic marimba player improvising jazz along with a live pianist, and the one where a guy is writing and editing a program to make music WHILE THE MUSIC IS PLAYING!
At one point this morning, I heard rustling on the balcony, so I went to see what was going on. The cats had apparently caught a pigeon or at least cornered it. I rescued the poor bird and threw him over the railing. Luckily he was still able to fly, so perhaps he (or she) will be okay. Of course, quite a few feathers remained on the balcony. The cats looked at me in complete consternation, of course. They just can't understand such strange behavior! LOL
We had lunch at home today: veggie weenies wrapped in flour tortillas, and chips and salsa. I'm sure the weenies were made in Israel, but the tortillas were made in Turkey, and the salsa was made in Fredonia, NY!
After lunch, we took a drive around the short loop, which we hadn't done in quite some time. It was beautiful, as usual.
We talked to David's sister this evening. Unfortunately, she's once again in the hospital.
All the video lectures for the upcoming week of my Survey of Music Technology class were up today, so I watched all of them this morning. This is the last week of the class, so the professor talked briefly but clearly about a number of different areas of research and practice in the field. Some of the example videos he had us watch were really amazing, especially the one of Shimon, the robotic marimba player improvising jazz along with a live pianist, and the one where a guy is writing and editing a program to make music WHILE THE MUSIC IS PLAYING!
At one point this morning, I heard rustling on the balcony, so I went to see what was going on. The cats had apparently caught a pigeon or at least cornered it. I rescued the poor bird and threw him over the railing. Luckily he was still able to fly, so perhaps he (or she) will be okay. Of course, quite a few feathers remained on the balcony. The cats looked at me in complete consternation, of course. They just can't understand such strange behavior! LOL
We had lunch at home today: veggie weenies wrapped in flour tortillas, and chips and salsa. I'm sure the weenies were made in Israel, but the tortillas were made in Turkey, and the salsa was made in Fredonia, NY!
After lunch, we took a drive around the short loop, which we hadn't done in quite some time. It was beautiful, as usual.
We talked to David's sister this evening. Unfortunately, she's once again in the hospital.
Friday, September 27, 2013
Friday, 27 September 2013
I again got up quite early and went to the gym and worked out. I did a smaller work-out today, though, both because I had done such big ones for the past 2 days and because I wanted to get back home earlier to allow time for a walk to the bakery later. But it was still very good.
I took the cardboard boxes down to the recycle place and then went on to the bakery and candy store to get challah and candy, all before breakfast.
I had 4 units of Berlitz classes today, but the first student (2 units) was a no-show: 9:00-10:30 and 11:00-12:30.
We ate lunch at Il Pentolino today, having our usual favorite dishes there.
This afternoon, I did one more edit on my Survey of Music Technology project after listening to it with my good earphones. Then I submitted it.
In the evening, we lit candles, drank wine, and ate challah to bring in Shabbat.
I took the cardboard boxes down to the recycle place and then went on to the bakery and candy store to get challah and candy, all before breakfast.
I had 4 units of Berlitz classes today, but the first student (2 units) was a no-show: 9:00-10:30 and 11:00-12:30.
We ate lunch at Il Pentolino today, having our usual favorite dishes there.
This afternoon, I did one more edit on my Survey of Music Technology project after listening to it with my good earphones. Then I submitted it.
In the evening, we lit candles, drank wine, and ate challah to bring in Shabbat.
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Thursday, 26 September 2013 (Simchat Torah in Israel)
I again got up fairly early and got in another excellent work-out at the gym.
This morning it was fairly cool out. I left the windows of the apartment open until nearly noon. I also took advantage of the cooler weather to do some cleaning on the balcony. I was particularly concerned about the dirt from a pot that the cats had knocked down months ago and about cat litter outside their boxes. If it had rained, there would have been a really bad mess out there. Now, it shouldn't be a problem.
I spent most of the day working on my project for my Survey of Music Technology class. I think it's just about done now, and it's sounding pretty good. It uses plenty of recorded sounds, but for this project all the process of putting them in the right place and adding and controlling the special effects must be done in the Python programming language, NOT by editing in REAPER, the digital audio workstation. It's challenging but fun!
We drove up to Yahel for lunch at the Kakao restaurant there today. The weather was very nice, with a good breeze, so we ate outside, which was wonderful. David had pizza, and I had French Toast Tel Aviv.
In the evening, we drove over to Ice Park and had frozen yogurt.
This morning it was fairly cool out. I left the windows of the apartment open until nearly noon. I also took advantage of the cooler weather to do some cleaning on the balcony. I was particularly concerned about the dirt from a pot that the cats had knocked down months ago and about cat litter outside their boxes. If it had rained, there would have been a really bad mess out there. Now, it shouldn't be a problem.
I spent most of the day working on my project for my Survey of Music Technology class. I think it's just about done now, and it's sounding pretty good. It uses plenty of recorded sounds, but for this project all the process of putting them in the right place and adding and controlling the special effects must be done in the Python programming language, NOT by editing in REAPER, the digital audio workstation. It's challenging but fun!
We drove up to Yahel for lunch at the Kakao restaurant there today. The weather was very nice, with a good breeze, so we ate outside, which was wonderful. David had pizza, and I had French Toast Tel Aviv.
In the evening, we drove over to Ice Park and had frozen yogurt.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Wednesday, 25 September 2013
I got up REALLY early this morning and got in the best work-out at the gym that I've done in probably more than a year. It felt very nice.
I have only 1 student today, but it was for a 4-unit class: 9:00-12:00.
We ate lunch at Café Greg today. We split an omelet sandwich, I ate the side salad and an order of edamame, we both drank ice café, and David had some mini-brownies.
I got quite a bit of work done on my project for my Survey of Music Technology class today, and it's really begin to take shape nicely. I still have quite a bit of work to do, though, but I'm enjoying it very much.
I have only 1 student today, but it was for a 4-unit class: 9:00-12:00.
We ate lunch at Café Greg today. We split an omelet sandwich, I ate the side salad and an order of edamame, we both drank ice café, and David had some mini-brownies.
I got quite a bit of work done on my project for my Survey of Music Technology class today, and it's really begin to take shape nicely. I still have quite a bit of work to do, though, but I'm enjoying it very much.
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Tuesday, 24 September 2013
I got up early enough this morning to get in a walk and a good work-out at the gym. The weather is definitely beginning to cool a little, although I still was very comfortable going completely shirtless.
I did a lot of work today on my second project for my Survey of Music Technology class. Mostly, I'm experimenting with what I can do -- kind of prototyping what the final piece will be like. In the end, all the music for this project must be produced as a result of work in the Python program with no additional editing in REAPER (the digital audio workstation we are using for this class). This is challenging, but it's also possible to control some things much more precisely with code than one could do in the REAPER visual interface.
We ate lunch again at Il Pentolino today, having our usual favorites.
I taught only 4 units of Berlitz lessons today: 2:30-4:00 and 7:00-8:30. My last lesson was with a student who recently moved from The Netherlands to the Boston area and is taking intensive English lessons (although her English is already at a very high level). Most, though not all, of her lessons are scheduled with me, and it's really fun to work with her.
I did a lot of work today on my second project for my Survey of Music Technology class. Mostly, I'm experimenting with what I can do -- kind of prototyping what the final piece will be like. In the end, all the music for this project must be produced as a result of work in the Python program with no additional editing in REAPER (the digital audio workstation we are using for this class). This is challenging, but it's also possible to control some things much more precisely with code than one could do in the REAPER visual interface.
We ate lunch again at Il Pentolino today, having our usual favorites.
I taught only 4 units of Berlitz lessons today: 2:30-4:00 and 7:00-8:30. My last lesson was with a student who recently moved from The Netherlands to the Boston area and is taking intensive English lessons (although her English is already at a very high level). Most, though not all, of her lessons are scheduled with me, and it's really fun to work with her.
Monday, September 23, 2013
Monday, 23 September 2013
I slept well last night but got up too late this morning to go out and exercise. I guess I was catching up on the sleep I had lost the night before.
Today was a busy teaching day, 10 units: 9:00-10:30, 12:00-1:30, 3:00-4:30, 5:00-6:30, and 6:30-8:00. All classes were at least level 5, though, so it was easier than when I have to teach lower levels.
We ate lunch at home today, finishing some leftovers from last week.
Today was a busy teaching day, 10 units: 9:00-10:30, 12:00-1:30, 3:00-4:30, 5:00-6:30, and 6:30-8:00. All classes were at least level 5, though, so it was easier than when I have to teach lower levels.
We ate lunch at home today, finishing some leftovers from last week.
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Sunday, 22 September 2013
I had trouble getting to sleep last night. Then, only an hour or so afterwards, I was acquainted by the need to clean up a small puddle. Of course, I then had even MORE trouble going BACK to sleep. Finally, after being awake for quite some time, and cleaning up another small puddle, I finally got to sleep. Needless to say, I got up VERY late and didn't go out for a walk at all.
I finished watching the lecture videos for the upcoming week of my Survey of Music Technology class. I have now even begun working on my project, which isn't due until early in the morning a WEEK from tomorrow. I think this one's actually going to be quite fun!
We ate lunch at Café Greg today. We split an omelet sandwich, I ate the salad that came with it, and I also ate an order of edamame, which was extra good today.
After lunch, I did my monthly visit to the pharmacy, followed by a quick trip to Shufersal to pick up a few more groceries. I didn't need many, since I had just gone there on Friday.
David's blood sugar gave us no trouble today, but we watched it closely all day to make sure it wasn't starting to soar!
I finished watching the lecture videos for the upcoming week of my Survey of Music Technology class. I have now even begun working on my project, which isn't due until early in the morning a WEEK from tomorrow. I think this one's actually going to be quite fun!
We ate lunch at Café Greg today. We split an omelet sandwich, I ate the salad that came with it, and I also ate an order of edamame, which was extra good today.
After lunch, I did my monthly visit to the pharmacy, followed by a quick trip to Shufersal to pick up a few more groceries. I didn't need many, since I had just gone there on Friday.
David's blood sugar gave us no trouble today, but we watched it closely all day to make sure it wasn't starting to soar!
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Shabbat, 21 September 2013
I slept really well last night but got up a little later than usual. I still had time to get to the gym and onto the rowing machine a bit before walking back home, though.
The video lectures for the next week of my Survey of Music Technology class were up today, so I was able to watch more than half of them during the course of the day. This week is really interesting because it's about using computer programs to create music.
We finally won the battle to get David's blood sugar levels down where they should be. It involved repeatedly giving him around THREE times as much insulin as we normally would, but it finally worked! This probably will NOT be the last time we'll have to do this, though, unfortunately.
We drove up the Arava as far as Yotvata today and then returned and had soyaburgers at Barbis for lunch.
In the evening, we drove over to Ice Park and had frozen yogurt.
The video lectures for the next week of my Survey of Music Technology class were up today, so I was able to watch more than half of them during the course of the day. This week is really interesting because it's about using computer programs to create music.
We finally won the battle to get David's blood sugar levels down where they should be. It involved repeatedly giving him around THREE times as much insulin as we normally would, but it finally worked! This probably will NOT be the last time we'll have to do this, though, unfortunately.
We drove up the Arava as far as Yotvata today and then returned and had soyaburgers at Barbis for lunch.
In the evening, we drove over to Ice Park and had frozen yogurt.
Friday, September 20, 2013
Friday, 20 September 2013
I got up very early this morning, and so I got in a great work-out. Before breakfast, I also took the cardboard boxes to recycle and stopped at the bakery and the candy store for my usual Friday purchases.
I taught only one student for 2 units today: 9:00-10:30.
I went to Shufersal to do some grocery shopping after my class this morning, and it was VERY busy there! Nevertheless, I still managed to get through fairly quickly since they had lots of checkers working.
We were going to eat lunch at Chooka at Ice Park today, but when we saw the heavy traffic on the way there we decided that we might have trouble even finding a parking place, so we opted to go to Il Pentolino instead, having our usual favorites.
This evening we welcomed Shabbat with candle-lighting, sweet wine, and challah.
I taught only one student for 2 units today: 9:00-10:30.
I went to Shufersal to do some grocery shopping after my class this morning, and it was VERY busy there! Nevertheless, I still managed to get through fairly quickly since they had lots of checkers working.
We were going to eat lunch at Chooka at Ice Park today, but when we saw the heavy traffic on the way there we decided that we might have trouble even finding a parking place, so we opted to go to Il Pentolino instead, having our usual favorites.
This evening we welcomed Shabbat with candle-lighting, sweet wine, and challah.
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Thursday, 19 September 2013 (1st day of Sukkot)
This morning I woke up very late, and so I didn't go out for a walk at all.
I spent most of the day updating the system software on both our Macs and updating all our iOS devices to the new iOS 7. It seems pretty impressive so far.
For lunch, we drove up to Yahel and ate at the Kakao there. I had their Tel Aviv French Toast, and David had fusilli with mushroom cream sauce. Unfortunately, something in what he ate didn't agree with his stomach at all, and so it came back up (in the restaurant!). Oh well.
Today we have been battling high blood sugars again. We're not quite winning yet, but we haven't lost yet, either. Stay tuned!
I spent most of the day updating the system software on both our Macs and updating all our iOS devices to the new iOS 7. It seems pretty impressive so far.
For lunch, we drove up to Yahel and ate at the Kakao there. I had their Tel Aviv French Toast, and David had fusilli with mushroom cream sauce. Unfortunately, something in what he ate didn't agree with his stomach at all, and so it came back up (in the restaurant!). Oh well.
Today we have been battling high blood sugars again. We're not quite winning yet, but we haven't lost yet, either. Stay tuned!
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Wednesday, 18 September 2013
Today was another good morning for my walk and exercise, and I made the most of it.
I taught just 1 Berlitz student today, but it was for 4 units: 9:00-12:00.
We ate lunch today at Café Greg. I had their omelet sandwich, which was exceptionally good this time, and David has fettuccine with rosé sauce. I helped him manage it on his fork because otherwise it would have been quite a mess.
After lunch we drove up to Yotvata and bought 2 more kilos of their delicious dates since we were almost out. Then we drove back home.
I evaluated the work of 4 of my fellow students on their Project A for our class, Survey of Music Technology. It was interesting to see how other people had coped with the rather stringent technical requirements. Most of them did quite well.
In the evening, David and I walked over to the green strip and sat there on the bench for some time. He had to stop and rest several times in both directions, but he made it. When we came back, we sat for some time on the bench by our building and petted T'hila, the nice female cat who belongs to a little boy in another part of our building. She is so nice!
I taught just 1 Berlitz student today, but it was for 4 units: 9:00-12:00.
We ate lunch today at Café Greg. I had their omelet sandwich, which was exceptionally good this time, and David has fettuccine with rosé sauce. I helped him manage it on his fork because otherwise it would have been quite a mess.
After lunch we drove up to Yotvata and bought 2 more kilos of their delicious dates since we were almost out. Then we drove back home.
I evaluated the work of 4 of my fellow students on their Project A for our class, Survey of Music Technology. It was interesting to see how other people had coped with the rather stringent technical requirements. Most of them did quite well.
In the evening, David and I walked over to the green strip and sat there on the bench for some time. He had to stop and rest several times in both directions, but he made it. When we came back, we sat for some time on the bench by our building and petted T'hila, the nice female cat who belongs to a little boy in another part of our building. She is so nice!
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Tuesday, 17 September 2013
I got up early this morning and so was able to walk to the gym, get in a good work-out there, and do my stretches on the way back. There was even a slight chill in the air, but I still felt comfortable even though I wasn't wearing a shirt.
I had 6 units of Berlitz lessons today, but the first lesson (2 units) was a late cancellation about which I was notified 15 minutes before it was to have begun: 11:00-12:30, 2:30-4:00, and 4:00-5:30.
We ate lunch at Il Pentolino today, having our usual favorites.
Today we got good control of David's blood sugar levels, but only by giving him more than twice the usual amounts of insulin to cover what he ate.
In the evening, we went over to Ice Park and treated ourselves to frozen yogurt. Yum!
I had 6 units of Berlitz lessons today, but the first lesson (2 units) was a late cancellation about which I was notified 15 minutes before it was to have begun: 11:00-12:30, 2:30-4:00, and 4:00-5:30.
We ate lunch at Il Pentolino today, having our usual favorites.
Today we got good control of David's blood sugar levels, but only by giving him more than twice the usual amounts of insulin to cover what he ate.
In the evening, we went over to Ice Park and treated ourselves to frozen yogurt. Yum!
Monday, September 16, 2013
Monday, 16 September 2013
After getting to bed so late last night, we naturally got up very late this morning, as well, and I didn't get out for any exercise at all.
There's an interesting part of the story that I forgot to include in last night's post. When we got to the ER, the main doctor assigned to us was actually not a doctor at all, but a medical student. Of course, a real doctor was also very involved. But the cool part was that the medical student, who is studying at Ben Gurion University (in Be'er Sheva) but is on a rotation in Eilat, was an American, from Colorado. So, he was actually relieved to be able to talk to us in English rather than in Hebrew. He was also very nice and, I might add, very cute! Yes, we are now officially dirty old men. OK, really we have already been for a very long time. LOL
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 12:00-1:30, 3:30-5:00, 5:00-6:30, and 6:30-8:00. We ordered pizza for lunch, and I thought I had allowed plenty of time before my 3:30 lesson. However, rather than the half-hour that they told me on the phone (and that I had planned for before I called anyway), it was nearly a whole hour before the pizza arrived. In fact, I had to take a quick break right AFTER starting my lesson in order to receive the pizza. I managed to eat my pieces during times when I had given the students some writing to do, but it was certainly less than ideal. Poor David had to eat his pieces all alone in the kitchen. Oh well, I guess it was okay in the end.
We are still fighting David's blood sugar, but we have succeeded much better today at keeping it from going really high. I think we'll now be able to manage it, although he's still requiring more than twice the usual amounts of insulin.
There's an interesting part of the story that I forgot to include in last night's post. When we got to the ER, the main doctor assigned to us was actually not a doctor at all, but a medical student. Of course, a real doctor was also very involved. But the cool part was that the medical student, who is studying at Ben Gurion University (in Be'er Sheva) but is on a rotation in Eilat, was an American, from Colorado. So, he was actually relieved to be able to talk to us in English rather than in Hebrew. He was also very nice and, I might add, very cute! Yes, we are now officially dirty old men. OK, really we have already been for a very long time. LOL
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 12:00-1:30, 3:30-5:00, 5:00-6:30, and 6:30-8:00. We ordered pizza for lunch, and I thought I had allowed plenty of time before my 3:30 lesson. However, rather than the half-hour that they told me on the phone (and that I had planned for before I called anyway), it was nearly a whole hour before the pizza arrived. In fact, I had to take a quick break right AFTER starting my lesson in order to receive the pizza. I managed to eat my pieces during times when I had given the students some writing to do, but it was certainly less than ideal. Poor David had to eat his pieces all alone in the kitchen. Oh well, I guess it was okay in the end.
We are still fighting David's blood sugar, but we have succeeded much better today at keeping it from going really high. I think we'll now be able to manage it, although he's still requiring more than twice the usual amounts of insulin.
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Sunday, 15 September 2013
I got up plenty early this morning and got in a nice walk to the gym, quite a good work-out there, and nice stretches on the way back.
We ate lunch at Kakao at Ice Park today. David had a sabich wrap (although he ate only half of it, and I ate the other half), and I had a yam salad.
I watched the remaining lecture videos for the upcoming week of my Survey of Music Technology class. We're getting into really interesting stuff now: synthesis and programming our own effect in the Python programming language!
The battle with David's high blood sugars continue today. By the end of the day, though, we had not succeeded in getting it down, so he ended up in the emergency room this evening. They gave him insulin intravenously, and that did the trick. Let's hope that it does NOT go back up again tomorrow!
Because of that ER visit, we did get to bed until about 11:30, which is VERY late for us!
We ate lunch at Kakao at Ice Park today. David had a sabich wrap (although he ate only half of it, and I ate the other half), and I had a yam salad.
I watched the remaining lecture videos for the upcoming week of my Survey of Music Technology class. We're getting into really interesting stuff now: synthesis and programming our own effect in the Python programming language!
The battle with David's high blood sugars continue today. By the end of the day, though, we had not succeeded in getting it down, so he ended up in the emergency room this evening. They gave him insulin intravenously, and that did the trick. Let's hope that it does NOT go back up again tomorrow!
Because of that ER visit, we did get to bed until about 11:30, which is VERY late for us!
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Shabbat (and Yom Kipur), 14 September 2013
I got up very early this morning, walked to the gym, worked out a little, and walked back home, stopping to do my stretches near the highway 12 kikar. There were very few people out this morning and almost NO motor vehicles. This is because people only drive here on Yom Kipur if it is absolutely essential.
I spent a LOT of time today working on my project for my Survey of Music Technology class. I did finally finish it and submit it, though. It satisfies all the many requirements, and I think it's reasonably musical, as well. It uses techno samples, but I really have no idea if it is truly in the techno style or not.
We've been having a LOT of trouble with David's blood sugar level the last few days. Even with giving him MUCH more insulin than normal it has been running much too high. Luckily, we have an appointment with the doctor first thing tomorrow morning. I hope they don't have to hospitalize him!
I spent a LOT of time today working on my project for my Survey of Music Technology class. I did finally finish it and submit it, though. It satisfies all the many requirements, and I think it's reasonably musical, as well. It uses techno samples, but I really have no idea if it is truly in the techno style or not.
We've been having a LOT of trouble with David's blood sugar level the last few days. Even with giving him MUCH more insulin than normal it has been running much too high. Luckily, we have an appointment with the doctor first thing tomorrow morning. I hope they don't have to hospitalize him!
Friday, September 13, 2013
Friday, 13 September 2013
I got up early enough to walk to the highway 12 kikar and back this morning. Later, I also walked down to recycle cardboard and to buy challah, cake, and candy.
I worked quite a bit on my first project for my Survey of Music Technology class. With the requirements for this project, I feel that I'm working in very unfamiliar territory. The piece will basically be some kind of techno, but probably not really anything that someone who actually knows techno would even recognize, at least not as of any value! Anyway, it will be what it will be. I've still got work to do just to get all the requirements in. I hope that the final result will at least be musical in SOME sense.
We ate lunch at home today, having the ravioli that we brought home 2 or 3 days ago from Café Greg.
In the afternoon, we took a short drive up the Arava, just to get out of the house for a while, especially since we will NOT be able to drive at all tomorrow since it's Yom Kipur.
To welcome Shabbat and Yom Kipur, we lit candles, ate challah, and drank a little wine. Neither of us is fasting for Yom Kipur this year. With David's health, he should NEVER fast, and I think I can squeeze out of it, too, now that I'm over 60!
I worked quite a bit on my first project for my Survey of Music Technology class. With the requirements for this project, I feel that I'm working in very unfamiliar territory. The piece will basically be some kind of techno, but probably not really anything that someone who actually knows techno would even recognize, at least not as of any value! Anyway, it will be what it will be. I've still got work to do just to get all the requirements in. I hope that the final result will at least be musical in SOME sense.
We ate lunch at home today, having the ravioli that we brought home 2 or 3 days ago from Café Greg.
In the afternoon, we took a short drive up the Arava, just to get out of the house for a while, especially since we will NOT be able to drive at all tomorrow since it's Yom Kipur.
To welcome Shabbat and Yom Kipur, we lit candles, ate challah, and drank a little wine. Neither of us is fasting for Yom Kipur this year. With David's health, he should NEVER fast, and I think I can squeeze out of it, too, now that I'm over 60!
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Thursday, 12 September 2013
I woke up too late to go out for a walk this morning. I also felt tense and sore although I had slept fairly well. I felt much better, though, soon after getting up.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 11:00-12:30, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
We ate lunch at Il Pentolino today, having our usual dishes. We also ordered an additional serving of penne with Roquefort sauce to bring home for when we can't go out over the weekend.
We also made a quick trip over to Shufersal to get a few additional items.
I did 3 loads of laundry today, including all the whites and also the bed sheets and pillow cases.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 11:00-12:30, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
We ate lunch at Il Pentolino today, having our usual dishes. We also ordered an additional serving of penne with Roquefort sauce to bring home for when we can't go out over the weekend.
We also made a quick trip over to Shufersal to get a few additional items.
I did 3 loads of laundry today, including all the whites and also the bed sheets and pillow cases.
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Wednesday, 11 September 2013
I got up a little late this morning but still managed to walk to the highway 12 kikar and back.
I taught 9 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-12:00 (4 consecutive units with a level 1 student!), 3:30-5:00, and 6:00-8:15.
We ate lunch at Kakao at Ice Park today. We both had their Tel Aviv French Toast.
After lunch, we stopped and refueled at the Yellow station. Then we got Rosa (our car) a much-needed bath. She looks so nice now!
I taught 9 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-12:00 (4 consecutive units with a level 1 student!), 3:30-5:00, and 6:00-8:15.
We ate lunch at Kakao at Ice Park today. We both had their Tel Aviv French Toast.
After lunch, we stopped and refueled at the Yellow station. Then we got Rosa (our car) a much-needed bath. She looks so nice now!
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Tuesday, 10 September 2013
Today I was very tired in the morning and got up too late to go out for any walk at all. However, I did finally feel sufficiently rested when I finally got up.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 11:00-12:30, 2:30-4:00, and 4:00-5:30.
We ate lunch at Café Greg. I had an omelet sandwich, and David had cheese ravioli with mushroom cream sauce.
In the evening, we went back over to Ice Park for frozen yogurt.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 11:00-12:30, 2:30-4:00, and 4:00-5:30.
We ate lunch at Café Greg. I had an omelet sandwich, and David had cheese ravioli with mushroom cream sauce.
In the evening, we went back over to Ice Park for frozen yogurt.
Monday, September 9, 2013
Monday, 9 September 2013
I got up early enough this morning for a good walk to the gym, a little leg-swinging while there, and my stretches on the way back.
I taught only 4 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:30-11:00 and 12:00-1:30.
We ate lunch at Il Pentolino today, each of us having our respective favorites there.
I got food for the cats and did the weekly grocery shopping today. Actually, I bought very little at the market because we were gone for half the last week.
We talked for a while with David's sister in Ohio. Then I left and let them continue talking.
I'm trying to do the first project for my Survey of Music Technology course, but it's somewhat tough going. The requirements for it are such that I'll have to create music FAR from what I'm familiar with and knowledgeable about. I'm trying to view it as a challenge, but it's been a little frustrating thus far.
David and I drove over to Ice Park for frozen yogurt, but we didn't stay long since I'm trying to spend as much time as I can on my project. It isn't actually due until early next Monday morning, but I need to finish it by Thursday, since I'll be away all day Friday and Saturday and most of the day Sunday.
I taught only 4 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:30-11:00 and 12:00-1:30.
We ate lunch at Il Pentolino today, each of us having our respective favorites there.
I got food for the cats and did the weekly grocery shopping today. Actually, I bought very little at the market because we were gone for half the last week.
We talked for a while with David's sister in Ohio. Then I left and let them continue talking.
I'm trying to do the first project for my Survey of Music Technology course, but it's somewhat tough going. The requirements for it are such that I'll have to create music FAR from what I'm familiar with and knowledgeable about. I'm trying to view it as a challenge, but it's been a little frustrating thus far.
David and I drove over to Ice Park for frozen yogurt, but we didn't stay long since I'm trying to spend as much time as I can on my project. It isn't actually due until early next Monday morning, but I need to finish it by Thursday, since I'll be away all day Friday and Saturday and most of the day Sunday.
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Sunday, 8 September 2013
My last post was early Friday morning, so I'll try to pick up from there. After breakfast, we decided to take a drive to the Golan, in particular to Har Bental. We've been there many times before, but it's always a nice place to go for a great view. In fact, it's one of the best places in Israel from which to look a little into Syria. The nearest Syrian city is Kuneitra, and it's possible to see the general layout of the city and even distinguish where some of the larger buildings are. Although much of Syria has been destroyed by the civil war there (from the reports we've all seen), I didn't detect any damage in Kuneitra. Of course, I was only looking with my naked eyes -- with binoculars I might very well have seen much more.
In the evening, I helped to lead the Kabbalat Shabbat prayers at Emet V'Shalom, and afterwards we were part of a very nice dinner at the Loberants' house which included another family that we know and a new family who just made aliyah (immigrated to Israel) from New Jersey about a week ago! It was a very enjoyable evening with delicious food and great company.
Because we got to bed about 2 hours later than our usual bedtime, we got up quite late Shabbat morning. In fact, by the time we really got going it was nearly lunch time, so we decided to drive to Karmiel and have lunch at Art de Coco, a nice restaurant there that we know and love. I had spinach lasagna, and David had their "hot salad". We also each had one of their scrumptious desserts!
This morning, we got up early, got packed, and were on our way shortly after 6:30. We ate breakfast at the Aroma at Rambam Medical Center before going to David's appointment there. After his appointment, we immediately started our trip home and got back here just after 3:30 p.m.
In the evening, we went over to Ice Park for frozen yogurt. After that I did the unpacking.
In the evening, I helped to lead the Kabbalat Shabbat prayers at Emet V'Shalom, and afterwards we were part of a very nice dinner at the Loberants' house which included another family that we know and a new family who just made aliyah (immigrated to Israel) from New Jersey about a week ago! It was a very enjoyable evening with delicious food and great company.
Because we got to bed about 2 hours later than our usual bedtime, we got up quite late Shabbat morning. In fact, by the time we really got going it was nearly lunch time, so we decided to drive to Karmiel and have lunch at Art de Coco, a nice restaurant there that we know and love. I had spinach lasagna, and David had their "hot salad". We also each had one of their scrumptious desserts!
This morning, we got up early, got packed, and were on our way shortly after 6:30. We ate breakfast at the Aroma at Rambam Medical Center before going to David's appointment there. After his appointment, we immediately started our trip home and got back here just after 3:30 p.m.
In the evening, we went over to Ice Park for frozen yogurt. After that I did the unpacking.
Friday, September 6, 2013
Early Friday morning, 6 September 2013
We left home Wednesday morning a little after 9:30. Coming across the desert, we met a LOT of traffic going south (the other direction) but not much going our way. However, after passing the Center on highway 6, the northbound traffic became very heavy with holiday travelers.
We didn't get to Nahariya until about 5:30, and David was so worn out from the trip that we decided not to go to the Erev Rosh HaShana prayers. We did go on Thursday morning, though, and had a great time. It was good to see so many old friends, and we were quite impressed with how well the congregation was able to manage a full high holiday morning service without any cantor or rabbi.
For lunch, we drove out to Khurfeish, a Druze town about halfway between the coast and Tsfat, and ate at one of our favorite restaurants there. We always leave stuffed with good food, and the price is less than we pay at nearly any other restaurant in Israel!
After lunch we briefly visited our friend, Ruth, in Shlomi, and then we headed back to the Loberants' to rest for the remainder of the day. We also enjoyed a nice light meal with them just before going to bad.
We didn't get to Nahariya until about 5:30, and David was so worn out from the trip that we decided not to go to the Erev Rosh HaShana prayers. We did go on Thursday morning, though, and had a great time. It was good to see so many old friends, and we were quite impressed with how well the congregation was able to manage a full high holiday morning service without any cantor or rabbi.
For lunch, we drove out to Khurfeish, a Druze town about halfway between the coast and Tsfat, and ate at one of our favorite restaurants there. We always leave stuffed with good food, and the price is less than we pay at nearly any other restaurant in Israel!
After lunch we briefly visited our friend, Ruth, in Shlomi, and then we headed back to the Loberants' to rest for the remainder of the day. We also enjoyed a nice light meal with them just before going to bad.
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Tuesday, 3 September 2013
Another unfortunate confusion incident around midnight had me awake last night for a couple of hours. So, I got up late this morning and didn't get out for any exercise at all.
I had 9 units of Berlitz today, but 2 of those were a no-show student and 2 others were a late cancellation: 9:00-9:45 (actually training in the new Adobe platform), 11:00-12:30, 2:30-4:00 (the no-show), 4:00-5:30, and 5:30-7:00 (the late cancellation).
Today, I picked up the package from the post office that contained my new watch. I had to visit another office that is only open from 11:30-1:30 in order to avoid having to pay customs on it (because we live in Eilat, which is a duty-free zone!). The watch is a Pebble watch that interfaces with my iPhone via Bluetooth. That way, I can see who's calling, get SMS messages, get other notifications, and load new apps especially made for the Pebble. Also, there are many different watch faces available, both old-fashioned clocks and all sorts of digital arrangements. I had a little trouble getting it working properly at first, but now everything's fine, and it's really a pretty cool toy!
We ate beans and weenies (vegetarian, of course!) for lunch at home today.
Because of the late cancellation of my last lesson, we had time to go over to Ice Park and get ourselves frozen yogurt. This was particularly nice for David, since he hadn't yet even been out of the house today before that.
I had 9 units of Berlitz today, but 2 of those were a no-show student and 2 others were a late cancellation: 9:00-9:45 (actually training in the new Adobe platform), 11:00-12:30, 2:30-4:00 (the no-show), 4:00-5:30, and 5:30-7:00 (the late cancellation).
Today, I picked up the package from the post office that contained my new watch. I had to visit another office that is only open from 11:30-1:30 in order to avoid having to pay customs on it (because we live in Eilat, which is a duty-free zone!). The watch is a Pebble watch that interfaces with my iPhone via Bluetooth. That way, I can see who's calling, get SMS messages, get other notifications, and load new apps especially made for the Pebble. Also, there are many different watch faces available, both old-fashioned clocks and all sorts of digital arrangements. I had a little trouble getting it working properly at first, but now everything's fine, and it's really a pretty cool toy!
We ate beans and weenies (vegetarian, of course!) for lunch at home today.
Because of the late cancellation of my last lesson, we had time to go over to Ice Park and get ourselves frozen yogurt. This was particularly nice for David, since he hadn't yet even been out of the house today before that.
Monday, September 2, 2013
Monday, 2 September 2013
I got up early enough today to walk to the gym and back. My energy level was a little low, though, so I didn't work out there at all. Still, it was a good walk.
I did the weekly grocery shopping this morning at Shufersal. I also bought us a set of 2 suitcases so that we'll travel a little more conveniently. We have been using my old gym bag plus various plastic bags from stores, which is slightly cumbersome and certainly not at all elegant!
I finished all the module 2 activities for my Survey of Music Technology course today. I'm early, but that's because I'll be very busy tomorrow and away from home the rest of the week.
We ate lunch today at Il Pentolino. They didn't have any whole-wheat spaghetti, so I tried my favorite sauce on fettucine. The sauce wasn't as good as usual, and it goes better with spaghetti, too, I think.
I started packing clothes for our trip north for Rosh HaShana. We'll be leaving first thing Wednesday morning, and I've got a lot of classes tomorrow, so I figured I'd better get an early start on the packing.
I taught just one 2-unit Berlitz lesson today: 5:00-6:30.
In the evening, I went over to the pharmacy to pick up some meds that they hadn't had when I was in there last week, so now we're completely supplied.
I did the weekly grocery shopping this morning at Shufersal. I also bought us a set of 2 suitcases so that we'll travel a little more conveniently. We have been using my old gym bag plus various plastic bags from stores, which is slightly cumbersome and certainly not at all elegant!
I finished all the module 2 activities for my Survey of Music Technology course today. I'm early, but that's because I'll be very busy tomorrow and away from home the rest of the week.
We ate lunch today at Il Pentolino. They didn't have any whole-wheat spaghetti, so I tried my favorite sauce on fettucine. The sauce wasn't as good as usual, and it goes better with spaghetti, too, I think.
I started packing clothes for our trip north for Rosh HaShana. We'll be leaving first thing Wednesday morning, and I've got a lot of classes tomorrow, so I figured I'd better get an early start on the packing.
I taught just one 2-unit Berlitz lesson today: 5:00-6:30.
In the evening, I went over to the pharmacy to pick up some meds that they hadn't had when I was in there last week, so now we're completely supplied.
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Sunday, 1 September 2013
I slept well last night, got up early, walked to the gym, worked out a little, and did stretches on the way back.
I attended the Berlitz "brown bag" meeting this morning. I usually don't bother because there's not much really useful information and Berlitz is steadfast in refusing to pay us to attend it. But today she was talking about the level placement process, and I wanted to learn a little more about it. And so I did.
We ate lunch today at Barbis and had their soyaburger. It's good but very messy!
I watched some more videos for my Survey of Music Technology class today. I'm learning more about how to use Reaper and about some of the myriad special effects that are available and a little about how they work.
In the evening, we drove over to Ice Park for frozen yogurt and stayed for the 8:00 show, which was very nice, as usual.
I attended the Berlitz "brown bag" meeting this morning. I usually don't bother because there's not much really useful information and Berlitz is steadfast in refusing to pay us to attend it. But today she was talking about the level placement process, and I wanted to learn a little more about it. And so I did.
We ate lunch today at Barbis and had their soyaburger. It's good but very messy!
I watched some more videos for my Survey of Music Technology class today. I'm learning more about how to use Reaper and about some of the myriad special effects that are available and a little about how they work.
In the evening, we drove over to Ice Park for frozen yogurt and stayed for the 8:00 show, which was very nice, as usual.
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