I was tired and slept very well last night. I woke up early and got to work discarding and packing.
I brought some things over to the new place before the movers came and did quite a bit of other miscellaneous tasks that needed to be done.
The movers came around 11:00 a.m., and they were fast, friendly, and efficient. There were 3 of them. Uri was the boss (and the guy I had talked to when hiring them). I didn't quite catch the names of the 2 helpers, but one of them was very excited about celebrating Sylvester this evening. It's really big among the folks from the former Soviet Union, and I think his family (probably not actually he himself) was likely from Kazakhastan, since he told me he spoke that language as well as Russian and several others. He didn't speak much English, though. I communicated with all of them in Hebrew fairly well. It turns out that the other helper actually lives (with other people) in the other basement apartment right next to me! What an interesting coincidence!
I ate a late lunch (about 3:00 p.m.) at Greg Cafe at Mercaz Big. I had their delicious sabikh salad and took a bit of time just to catch my breath.
Most of my boxes are now actually stacked in the hall just outside my apartment, but there's still plenty of stuff in here, as well. I got my bed set up with a sheet, my pillow, and my favorite blanket (I have my blankie -- all will be well! LOL). I've gotten a few other things unpacked, as well.
I met my old landlord this evening and gave him the keys to the old place, so I'm really out of there now. I have to meet with him again on Sunday, though, because we'll have to work out how much I'll have to pay him to fix the place up and get it ready to rent again. Unfortunately, there's quite a bit of damage, mostly done by my cats.
Speaking of cats, I think Pascal actually likes the new place pretty well, despite his wailing protestations on the way over (in the cat carrier, of course). He's already explored and found some great high places to feel safe and keep an eye on all the goings-on. I didn't bring him over, though, until all the things were here.
I walked a total of about 9.8 kilometers today even though I really didn't go anywhere -- just lots of trips up and down and back and forth carrying things to and from places.
Thursday, December 31, 2015
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
Wednesday, 30 December 2015
I slept very well last night and got up early this morning.
After breakfast, I began taking things down that I am getting rid of. Then I walked down to pick up the rental car I had ordered. There was a problem, though. I HAD to have a credit card with a high enough limit for a deposit, and mine didn't work. So it took about an hour and a half extra because I had to walk up to my bank, wait for service there, finally get the limit raised, and then walk back down to get the car. By then, they had already rented the one I reserved, but they gave me a different one at no extra charge. So, instead of an Opel Corsa with a manual transmission, I got a Hyundai i10 with an automatic. It's the new model, however, and actually very nice. I have it until 11:30 Friday morning.
Once I had the car, I drove over to pick up frozen mice I had ordered from the pet store and took them directly to the new apartment, putting them in the freezer there.
Then I drove home, picked up some things to take to the new place and a couple of bags of clothes for WIZO. After delivering those to their respective places, I went and bought more boxes and then drove to Rachel Cafe and had an onion quiche and a small salad for lunch.
When I returned home, I continued packing and hauling things out that I'm discarding. During that time, my current landlord came with a guy who will be fixing up my old apartment when I live. Since my contract says that I must leave the apartment in the state in which I found it, and it's quite a way from that, I'm going to end up having to pay quite a bit more money. But he had already told me that I could pay it over time.
I drove back over to the new place at 5:00 p.m. to meet the new landlord and tell him exactly what to take OUT of the apartment. He was also VERY nice and willing to help, and he seems to speak and understand English pretty well, too. He and his wife immediately set about removing the things I requested, so all is now ready for my things to arrive tomorrow.
Then I returned back home, packed more things, took more things down to discard, and made another trip over to the new place. Now my Macs and my PC are over there (I'm typing this on David's laptop, which is still here in my old place). Some of my food is there, and Goldfinger, my snake, is there in his terrarium. It's even plugged into the electricity so he can go to the warm end if he gets chilly.
I walked a total of about 12.3 kilometers today.
After breakfast, I began taking things down that I am getting rid of. Then I walked down to pick up the rental car I had ordered. There was a problem, though. I HAD to have a credit card with a high enough limit for a deposit, and mine didn't work. So it took about an hour and a half extra because I had to walk up to my bank, wait for service there, finally get the limit raised, and then walk back down to get the car. By then, they had already rented the one I reserved, but they gave me a different one at no extra charge. So, instead of an Opel Corsa with a manual transmission, I got a Hyundai i10 with an automatic. It's the new model, however, and actually very nice. I have it until 11:30 Friday morning.
Once I had the car, I drove over to pick up frozen mice I had ordered from the pet store and took them directly to the new apartment, putting them in the freezer there.
Then I drove home, picked up some things to take to the new place and a couple of bags of clothes for WIZO. After delivering those to their respective places, I went and bought more boxes and then drove to Rachel Cafe and had an onion quiche and a small salad for lunch.
When I returned home, I continued packing and hauling things out that I'm discarding. During that time, my current landlord came with a guy who will be fixing up my old apartment when I live. Since my contract says that I must leave the apartment in the state in which I found it, and it's quite a way from that, I'm going to end up having to pay quite a bit more money. But he had already told me that I could pay it over time.
I drove back over to the new place at 5:00 p.m. to meet the new landlord and tell him exactly what to take OUT of the apartment. He was also VERY nice and willing to help, and he seems to speak and understand English pretty well, too. He and his wife immediately set about removing the things I requested, so all is now ready for my things to arrive tomorrow.
Then I returned back home, packed more things, took more things down to discard, and made another trip over to the new place. Now my Macs and my PC are over there (I'm typing this on David's laptop, which is still here in my old place). Some of my food is there, and Goldfinger, my snake, is there in his terrarium. It's even plugged into the electricity so he can go to the warm end if he gets chilly.
I walked a total of about 12.3 kilometers today.
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Tuesday, 29 December 2015
I slept somewhat fitfully last night, perhaps because of the ice-café too close to bedtime, perhaps because of being excited, or perhaps for no particular reason at all. I didn't get up too early and so was fairly rested.
I walked over to WIZO early in order to help them set up for the celebration today. We celebrated all the birthdays from August through January (that includes mine, in November, of course) with food from Il Pentolino and a nice cake from Uga Chaga bakery. A good time was had by all. I fairly successfully avoided remembering for most of the day that this also would have been David's 60th birthday. :-(
After returning back home, I reserved a rental car from tomorrow morning to Friday morning, so that I can quickly and easily move a few important things myself. The movers, though, will be moving most of my things, of course.
I packed more clothes and bedding today and also took quite bit of stuff out to get rid of it. I have more to do, but it should be very doable.
In the evening, I took a short walk down to the local Shufersal to buy more milk since I was on my last carton.
A walked a total of about 10.8 kilometers today.
I walked over to WIZO early in order to help them set up for the celebration today. We celebrated all the birthdays from August through January (that includes mine, in November, of course) with food from Il Pentolino and a nice cake from Uga Chaga bakery. A good time was had by all. I fairly successfully avoided remembering for most of the day that this also would have been David's 60th birthday. :-(
After returning back home, I reserved a rental car from tomorrow morning to Friday morning, so that I can quickly and easily move a few important things myself. The movers, though, will be moving most of my things, of course.
I packed more clothes and bedding today and also took quite bit of stuff out to get rid of it. I have more to do, but it should be very doable.
In the evening, I took a short walk down to the local Shufersal to buy more milk since I was on my last carton.
A walked a total of about 10.8 kilometers today.
Monday, December 28, 2015
Monday, 28 December 2015
I slept well and got up early this morning but didn't go out for a walk because I knew I'd be walking later.
At 10:00 a.m., I attended an online virtual introduction to the new Berlitz materials for levels 5 through 8 that we'll soon start using. They are a definite improvement of the current ones in a number of ways.
After that, I walked over and rented the basement apartment that I looked at yesterday. The landlady, Dorit, is really nice, and speaks quite a bit of English. We negotiated just a bit, and I got the things I really needed. She was very creative in her offers. So, I now have the key, and the movers can move my things there instead of moving them to Bassia & David's new place.
After I paid and got everything finalized, I went down and measured very carefully. Then I came home and spent some time drawing scale diagrams and placing scale cut-outs of various furniture items to see how efficiently I can use the space. I think it's going to be quite good! There will be no extra space at all, but that will just make it feel more cozy and snug. :-)
I had 2 cheese and tomato sandwiches for lunch at home today.
In the early evening, I filled the rest of my plastic bins, mostly with blankets and other bedding, pillows, belts, sweaters, and pants. There are still more clothes to be packed, but I'll easily have enough boxes. I WILL, though, need to buy some more small sturdy office boxes for the contents of my file cabinet and desk.
After that, I walked down and bought more giant plastic bags (mostly for trash and other discards), ate a bit at Shibolim (cheese burekas, olives, tomato, pickle, and a hard-boiled egg, together with an ice-café -- just a small celebration!), and went to pick up the prescription at the local pharmacy that I had ordered last week.
I'm really feeling very pleased and optimistic about the new apartment. I'm pretty sure that I'm going to have to throw away still more stuff after I get there, and unpacking is going to be rather complicated because of the very small space to work in (the whole apartment is only 40 sq. meters (about 431 sq. ft.), according to the ad). But, in the end, I expect to be very comfortable there in my very own space, taking care of myself.
I walked a total of about 8 kilometers today.
At 10:00 a.m., I attended an online virtual introduction to the new Berlitz materials for levels 5 through 8 that we'll soon start using. They are a definite improvement of the current ones in a number of ways.
After that, I walked over and rented the basement apartment that I looked at yesterday. The landlady, Dorit, is really nice, and speaks quite a bit of English. We negotiated just a bit, and I got the things I really needed. She was very creative in her offers. So, I now have the key, and the movers can move my things there instead of moving them to Bassia & David's new place.
After I paid and got everything finalized, I went down and measured very carefully. Then I came home and spent some time drawing scale diagrams and placing scale cut-outs of various furniture items to see how efficiently I can use the space. I think it's going to be quite good! There will be no extra space at all, but that will just make it feel more cozy and snug. :-)
I had 2 cheese and tomato sandwiches for lunch at home today.
In the early evening, I filled the rest of my plastic bins, mostly with blankets and other bedding, pillows, belts, sweaters, and pants. There are still more clothes to be packed, but I'll easily have enough boxes. I WILL, though, need to buy some more small sturdy office boxes for the contents of my file cabinet and desk.
After that, I walked down and bought more giant plastic bags (mostly for trash and other discards), ate a bit at Shibolim (cheese burekas, olives, tomato, pickle, and a hard-boiled egg, together with an ice-café -- just a small celebration!), and went to pick up the prescription at the local pharmacy that I had ordered last week.
I'm really feeling very pleased and optimistic about the new apartment. I'm pretty sure that I'm going to have to throw away still more stuff after I get there, and unpacking is going to be rather complicated because of the very small space to work in (the whole apartment is only 40 sq. meters (about 431 sq. ft.), according to the ad). But, in the end, I expect to be very comfortable there in my very own space, taking care of myself.
I walked a total of about 8 kilometers today.
Sunday, December 27, 2015
Sunday, 27 December 2015
I got slept well last night and got up early but didn't go out for a walk because I knew I'd be doing plenty of walking later.
I ate breakfast a little early and set out at about quarter to eight on my walk across town to Pelephone (again!). I made good time and got there well before they opened at 9:00. I was able to talk to Mali, the woman who had helped me when I bought the iPhone for Me'ir (and also on a couple of visits there before that about other things), but she couldn't solve the problem, other than apologize. Apparently, Me'ir had told her that the other things (a Smart TV, a stereo, and another smart phone) were for me (of course) and that he would bring them to me, and she had believed him. She said she'd talk to her manager about it and call me this evening, but she hasn't done that (and I don't expect her to, either). She also told me that I need to make a police report, and that, if I come back to Pelephone with something from the police, they MAY be able to do something. I rather doubt it, but I guess it's worth a try. It will consume a whole day just at the police station, of course. I probably won't have time to do it this week.
Bassia had called me last night and said she and David (her husband) wanted to meet me at a café to talk about some complications, so I met them there after I had finished at Pelephone. "Complications" is a HUGE understatement. First, the heat has not been working in the new apartment and they have had cockroaches in their room. They've also realized that the place isn't that large, and so, basically, they have decided that there won't be room for me. Unfortunately, I tend to agree with them, and I certainly wouldn't be comfortable living with people who really don't want me around. However, I'm scheduled to move in just 4 days, so this has put me into a slight panic, being such a sudden change of plans.
So, I walked home and spent the afternoon looking at apartment ads. Most of the ones I can afford are, of course, tiny, and ALL of them are furnished! I managed to walk over (about 25 minutes one way) and look at one, though, and I think it just might work for me. It's in a basement of a house (with no windows whatsoever), but it has a somewhat separate bedroom, it's clean, the landlady seemed VERY nice (she lives in the house upstairs), it's in a good and quiet neighborhood (on Argaman Road, just above the last roundabout before the top end, for those of you who know Eilat), and I think I could live there. I may try to look at a couple of others, but I'm leaning quite a bit towards this one. I think I could still get out of here by Thursday if I hustle. I'll sleep on it, but, the more I think about it, the more I think I'll take this one.
I walked a total of about sixteen and a half kilometers today, which I think is a new daily record for me.
I ate breakfast a little early and set out at about quarter to eight on my walk across town to Pelephone (again!). I made good time and got there well before they opened at 9:00. I was able to talk to Mali, the woman who had helped me when I bought the iPhone for Me'ir (and also on a couple of visits there before that about other things), but she couldn't solve the problem, other than apologize. Apparently, Me'ir had told her that the other things (a Smart TV, a stereo, and another smart phone) were for me (of course) and that he would bring them to me, and she had believed him. She said she'd talk to her manager about it and call me this evening, but she hasn't done that (and I don't expect her to, either). She also told me that I need to make a police report, and that, if I come back to Pelephone with something from the police, they MAY be able to do something. I rather doubt it, but I guess it's worth a try. It will consume a whole day just at the police station, of course. I probably won't have time to do it this week.
Bassia had called me last night and said she and David (her husband) wanted to meet me at a café to talk about some complications, so I met them there after I had finished at Pelephone. "Complications" is a HUGE understatement. First, the heat has not been working in the new apartment and they have had cockroaches in their room. They've also realized that the place isn't that large, and so, basically, they have decided that there won't be room for me. Unfortunately, I tend to agree with them, and I certainly wouldn't be comfortable living with people who really don't want me around. However, I'm scheduled to move in just 4 days, so this has put me into a slight panic, being such a sudden change of plans.
So, I walked home and spent the afternoon looking at apartment ads. Most of the ones I can afford are, of course, tiny, and ALL of them are furnished! I managed to walk over (about 25 minutes one way) and look at one, though, and I think it just might work for me. It's in a basement of a house (with no windows whatsoever), but it has a somewhat separate bedroom, it's clean, the landlady seemed VERY nice (she lives in the house upstairs), it's in a good and quiet neighborhood (on Argaman Road, just above the last roundabout before the top end, for those of you who know Eilat), and I think I could live there. I may try to look at a couple of others, but I'm leaning quite a bit towards this one. I think I could still get out of here by Thursday if I hustle. I'll sleep on it, but, the more I think about it, the more I think I'll take this one.
I walked a total of about sixteen and a half kilometers today, which I think is a new daily record for me.
Saturday, December 26, 2015
Shabbat, 26 December 2015
I slept fairly well last night and woke up reasonably early but didn't go out for a walk until later.
After breakfast, I watched the BCC service from last night and really enjoyed it, especially the L'cha Dodi and Rabbi Lisa's drasha (sermon). The familiar story of Joseph in the book of Genesis has a special resonance for me this year.
Before lunch, I took a long walk past the hospital and over to a neighborhood known as Izidor and then back home again.
I worked more on packing today, of course. Now, almost everyone in the kitchen is packed except the last-minute things, and the bathroom is also almost all packed except for last-minute items.
In the early evening I enjoyed a nice chat with Joyce, David's sister in Ohio, over Skype.
I walked a total of about 7 kilometers today.
After breakfast, I watched the BCC service from last night and really enjoyed it, especially the L'cha Dodi and Rabbi Lisa's drasha (sermon). The familiar story of Joseph in the book of Genesis has a special resonance for me this year.
Before lunch, I took a long walk past the hospital and over to a neighborhood known as Izidor and then back home again.
I worked more on packing today, of course. Now, almost everyone in the kitchen is packed except the last-minute things, and the bathroom is also almost all packed except for last-minute items.
In the early evening I enjoyed a nice chat with Joyce, David's sister in Ohio, over Skype.
I walked a total of about 7 kilometers today.
Friday, December 25, 2015
Friday, 25 December 2015
I slept well last night, got up early, and went out for a full early-morning walk. Then later, still before breakfast, I walked down to recycle some cardboard and buy challah at the local bakery.
After breakfast, I walked over to the new apartment. Bassia & David moved in yesterday, but they weren't home when I got there this morning. Still, I got to see what they brought, giving me some idea of how my things may (or may not) fit in. In any case, it was a lovely walk, with a warm sun but a fairly stiff, chilly breeze. I wore only shoes and socks, jeans, and a short-sleeve t-shirt.
I had a quick lunch at home and then continued with packing the kitchen things. I also cleaned up the large plastic bins that have been stacked on the balcony, empty, since we moved here. I'll use as many of them as I can to pack lighter things, mostly clothes. I already filled one of the biggest ones with things from the kitchen, including my food processor and the contents of the drawers (from which I'm also throwing away a lot of things).
As the last rays of the sun were about to fade from our desert valley, I lit candles, drank a little sweet red wine, and ate a bite of challah to welcome the last Shabbat in my current apartment.
I walked a total of nearly 11 kilometers today.
As I woke up this morning, I was thinking of two songs about the love of God. Neither is of Jewish origin, but they're quite universal, at least with some slight adaptations. Here they are, with some additional changes to support more gender neutrality:
Wide, wide as the ocean,
High as the heavens above,
Deep, deep as the deepest sea
Is our God's great love.
We, often unworthy,
Still are the folk of God's care.
For our God teaches us
That God's love reaches us
Everywhere.
Could we with ink the ocean fill,
And were the sky of parchment made,
Were every stalk on earth a quill,
And every man a scribe by trade,
To write the love
Of God above
Would drain the ocean dry;
Nor could scroll
Contain the whole,
Though stretched from sky to sky.
Shabbat Shalom to everyone!
After breakfast, I walked over to the new apartment. Bassia & David moved in yesterday, but they weren't home when I got there this morning. Still, I got to see what they brought, giving me some idea of how my things may (or may not) fit in. In any case, it was a lovely walk, with a warm sun but a fairly stiff, chilly breeze. I wore only shoes and socks, jeans, and a short-sleeve t-shirt.
I had a quick lunch at home and then continued with packing the kitchen things. I also cleaned up the large plastic bins that have been stacked on the balcony, empty, since we moved here. I'll use as many of them as I can to pack lighter things, mostly clothes. I already filled one of the biggest ones with things from the kitchen, including my food processor and the contents of the drawers (from which I'm also throwing away a lot of things).
As the last rays of the sun were about to fade from our desert valley, I lit candles, drank a little sweet red wine, and ate a bite of challah to welcome the last Shabbat in my current apartment.
I walked a total of nearly 11 kilometers today.
As I woke up this morning, I was thinking of two songs about the love of God. Neither is of Jewish origin, but they're quite universal, at least with some slight adaptations. Here they are, with some additional changes to support more gender neutrality:
Wide, wide as the ocean,
High as the heavens above,
Deep, deep as the deepest sea
Is our God's great love.
We, often unworthy,
Still are the folk of God's care.
For our God teaches us
That God's love reaches us
Everywhere.
Could we with ink the ocean fill,
And were the sky of parchment made,
Were every stalk on earth a quill,
And every man a scribe by trade,
To write the love
Of God above
Would drain the ocean dry;
Nor could scroll
Contain the whole,
Though stretched from sky to sky.
Shabbat Shalom to everyone!
Thursday, December 24, 2015
Thursday, 24 December 2015
I slept very well last night and woke up feeling good this morning.
After breakfast, I set out walking to the Pelephone store, which is way on the other side of town. It took me over an hour to get there. The reason I went is that I noticed that my bill was nearly TWICE what I thought it should be, and I wanted to find out why. It's still not completely clear because the woman who dealt with me wasn't there today -- she'll be in on Sunday, and they promised to call me. I did find out that, somehow, when I bought an iPhone for Me'ir (which I shouldn't have done in the first place, of course) he managed to get a couple of other devices (a smart TV and a Huawei smartphone) for which I apparently I'm still paying. I know that I had to leave on that day to get back home for a lesson, so all I can figure is that he somehow got them added into something I had already signed for before I left. Hopefully, I'll get more details on Sunday and try to get whatever I can straightened out. In any case, I had a lovely walk over and back.
I had two vegan "breast" and tomato sandwiches for lunch at home today.
I spent most of the afternoon and evening working on the kitchen. I now have most of the things packed from there.
In the evening, I walked down to the local ShuferSal to do a little grocery shopping.
I walked a total of almost twelve and a half kilometers today.
After breakfast, I set out walking to the Pelephone store, which is way on the other side of town. It took me over an hour to get there. The reason I went is that I noticed that my bill was nearly TWICE what I thought it should be, and I wanted to find out why. It's still not completely clear because the woman who dealt with me wasn't there today -- she'll be in on Sunday, and they promised to call me. I did find out that, somehow, when I bought an iPhone for Me'ir (which I shouldn't have done in the first place, of course) he managed to get a couple of other devices (a smart TV and a Huawei smartphone) for which I apparently I'm still paying. I know that I had to leave on that day to get back home for a lesson, so all I can figure is that he somehow got them added into something I had already signed for before I left. Hopefully, I'll get more details on Sunday and try to get whatever I can straightened out. In any case, I had a lovely walk over and back.
I had two vegan "breast" and tomato sandwiches for lunch at home today.
I spent most of the afternoon and evening working on the kitchen. I now have most of the things packed from there.
In the evening, I walked down to the local ShuferSal to do a little grocery shopping.
I walked a total of almost twelve and a half kilometers today.
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
Wednesday, 23 December 2015
I didn't sleep very well last night and got up a bit late. I also have a low-level cold (a little stuffiness, a scratchy throat, and, now, a cough).
I had only a single 1-unit Berlitz lesson today: 10:30-11:15.
I spent most of the rest of the day working on sorting and packing. Now, ALL the cabinets in my office are empty, and I've gone through nearly all the kitchen, getting rid of a LOT of stuff, including quite a bit of outdated food. I also packed up 3 boxes, but mostly I was sorting things out today.
I did take a short walk, to the end of Harim Road and back, just after the sun went behind the mountains. At the little play area, I met a feline friend I hadn't seen in a while, a beautiful and friendly black cat. I took some time to pet him, and he even sat for a while on my lap while I sat on the bench there. Then he followed me for about a block as I started back home.
I forgot to mention yesterday that the mover came. So, now the move date and price are fixed. I'll be moving on the very last day of the year, 31 December, a week from tomorrow.
I walked a total of four and a quarter kilometers today.
I had only a single 1-unit Berlitz lesson today: 10:30-11:15.
I spent most of the rest of the day working on sorting and packing. Now, ALL the cabinets in my office are empty, and I've gone through nearly all the kitchen, getting rid of a LOT of stuff, including quite a bit of outdated food. I also packed up 3 boxes, but mostly I was sorting things out today.
I did take a short walk, to the end of Harim Road and back, just after the sun went behind the mountains. At the little play area, I met a feline friend I hadn't seen in a while, a beautiful and friendly black cat. I took some time to pet him, and he even sat for a while on my lap while I sat on the bench there. Then he followed me for about a block as I started back home.
I forgot to mention yesterday that the mover came. So, now the move date and price are fixed. I'll be moving on the very last day of the year, 31 December, a week from tomorrow.
I walked a total of four and a quarter kilometers today.
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
Tuesday, 22 December 2015
I got up reasonably early this morning but didn't go out for a walk because I knew I'd be walking to WIZO later, which I did do, after breakfast of course.
After WIZO, I visited the new apartment briefly (walking up and down the stairs, even though the apartment is on the 7th floor, which would be considered the 8th in the U.S.) and then headed on back home.
I had vegan weenies wrapped in whole-wheat tortillas and a tomato for lunch at home today.
I spent essentially the whole afternoon working on the kitchen. I was mostly focused on getting rid of things. Some I threw away (such as outdated food), but many nice things I took down and put near the trash area so people could see them and take them. Some people did, right away, in fact, but when I was almost done bringing them down (I could only take one small box at a time), a guy who works for the city and lives in the other wing of my building came and told me I could not leave them there, and, that if I did, I could be fined. His reasoning was logical, though, because many of them were breakable, and if kids came along and broke them it would create a hazardous mess. Finally, he let me bring a bigger box, put the things that were left in it, and put it nearer to the trash bin. Then, a guy from the ambulance/fire department saw them and said he would come later and take them to the station, and then they'd be given to families who need them. That made me very happy! Quite a few of the things were beautiful and/or useful, just not to me anymore.
In the evening, Leah (the woman who bought my car) sent her ex-husband (who also still lives on the kibbutz) with her car (my ex-car!) to pick up 3 more blankets that I had found. They will also go for the volunteers at Kibbutz Lotan.
The last thing I did before sitting down at my computer this evening was to walk over to the new local post office to pick up a book Berlitz had told me they were sending (English for the Pharmaceutical Industry) that I will be using to teach at least one of my students.
I walked a total of 11.64 kilometers today.
After WIZO, I visited the new apartment briefly (walking up and down the stairs, even though the apartment is on the 7th floor, which would be considered the 8th in the U.S.) and then headed on back home.
I had vegan weenies wrapped in whole-wheat tortillas and a tomato for lunch at home today.
I spent essentially the whole afternoon working on the kitchen. I was mostly focused on getting rid of things. Some I threw away (such as outdated food), but many nice things I took down and put near the trash area so people could see them and take them. Some people did, right away, in fact, but when I was almost done bringing them down (I could only take one small box at a time), a guy who works for the city and lives in the other wing of my building came and told me I could not leave them there, and, that if I did, I could be fined. His reasoning was logical, though, because many of them were breakable, and if kids came along and broke them it would create a hazardous mess. Finally, he let me bring a bigger box, put the things that were left in it, and put it nearer to the trash bin. Then, a guy from the ambulance/fire department saw them and said he would come later and take them to the station, and then they'd be given to families who need them. That made me very happy! Quite a few of the things were beautiful and/or useful, just not to me anymore.
In the evening, Leah (the woman who bought my car) sent her ex-husband (who also still lives on the kibbutz) with her car (my ex-car!) to pick up 3 more blankets that I had found. They will also go for the volunteers at Kibbutz Lotan.
The last thing I did before sitting down at my computer this evening was to walk over to the new local post office to pick up a book Berlitz had told me they were sending (English for the Pharmaceutical Industry) that I will be using to teach at least one of my students.
I walked a total of 11.64 kilometers today.
Monday, December 21, 2015
Monday, 21 December 2015
I got up early after a good night's sleep but didn't go out for a morning walk.
I worked hard on packing today and now have essentially ALL of the books I'm keeping packed in numbered boxes stacked in the living room (Pascal thinks they make a GREAT place to perch on!).
I ate 2 tomato and cheese sandwiches for lunch at home today.
After lunch, I went out for a walk for about 45 or 50 minutes. It was a bit hot in the sun but cool and pleasant in the shade.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 3:15-4:45, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
I walked a total of just over 5 kilometers today.
I worked hard on packing today and now have essentially ALL of the books I'm keeping packed in numbered boxes stacked in the living room (Pascal thinks they make a GREAT place to perch on!).
I ate 2 tomato and cheese sandwiches for lunch at home today.
After lunch, I went out for a walk for about 45 or 50 minutes. It was a bit hot in the sun but cool and pleasant in the shade.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 3:15-4:45, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
I walked a total of just over 5 kilometers today.
Sunday, December 20, 2015
Sunday, 20 December 2015
I got up early this morning but didn't go out for a walk.
In the mid-morning, I walked over to an appointment with my doctor. He verified that, indeed, I do have a hemorrhoid. I had thought I would need to walk down to MaccabiPharm to get a prescription filled, but he told me I should go to the local SuperPharm, which I did. They were out, though, so I had to order it, and it may take a week. It's only a numbing agent, though (Lidocaine), and I'm not really having much pain, so it doesn't worry me much. The doctor did say that I should use cold water or even ice, NOT hot water to treat it.
I had soya shnitzels, a tomato, half a yellow bell pepper, and carob spread on bread for lunch at home today.
I walked down to the local ShuferSal to do the weekly grocery shopping today. Since I'm only about a week away from moving, I had to be careful not to buy too much.
I spent most of the rest of the day packing. Now, all 3 tall cabinets in my office are empty, and 3 of the 4 bookcases are also empty. So I have 26 boxes packed and numbered. I'm writing a number on each box as it is finished and recording briefly in a note on my iPhone what's in it.
I walked a total of 6.44 kilometers today.
In the mid-morning, I walked over to an appointment with my doctor. He verified that, indeed, I do have a hemorrhoid. I had thought I would need to walk down to MaccabiPharm to get a prescription filled, but he told me I should go to the local SuperPharm, which I did. They were out, though, so I had to order it, and it may take a week. It's only a numbing agent, though (Lidocaine), and I'm not really having much pain, so it doesn't worry me much. The doctor did say that I should use cold water or even ice, NOT hot water to treat it.
I had soya shnitzels, a tomato, half a yellow bell pepper, and carob spread on bread for lunch at home today.
I walked down to the local ShuferSal to do the weekly grocery shopping today. Since I'm only about a week away from moving, I had to be careful not to buy too much.
I spent most of the rest of the day packing. Now, all 3 tall cabinets in my office are empty, and 3 of the 4 bookcases are also empty. So I have 26 boxes packed and numbered. I'm writing a number on each box as it is finished and recording briefly in a note on my iPhone what's in it.
I walked a total of 6.44 kilometers today.
Saturday, December 19, 2015
Shabbat, 19 December 2015
I got up fairly early this morning but didn't immediately go out for a walk. Instead, I began by watching last night's BCC (Beth Chayim Chadashim) services.
After that, I got a fairly leisurely start to my day, including my morning sitz bath (which I followed this time by a regular shower, as well). Then I walked over again to Moshe's place to feed his cats (and pet them a bit, too). He has a beautiful peaches-and-cream male cat, a calico who is mostly white, and another female who is completely white. They all have nice personalities, too.
I ate 2 cheese and tomato sandwiches for lunch at home today.
I spent much of the rest of the day sorting and packing things. Now, one large cabinet in my office is empty, the smaller tall one is also empty, and the other large one is almost empty, so I'm making good progress. A significant part of what I packed today is family pictures and other treasures, some quite old. Mostly, they were already in boxes, and I didn't sort that much more. I did throw away a few things and do a bit of consolidation, though.
While I was working, I also had my Macs working, too, copying some files from the older one to the newer one. I've been using the older one as my main computer, but I'm planning to switch to the newer one (which was originally David's) when I move. In fact, I've already mostly switched to it. The difference will be that, in the new place, it will trade places with the old one and be in the middle, right in front of me. My PC, which I use only for teaching, will remain on my left.
I walked only 3.83 kilometers today.
After that, I got a fairly leisurely start to my day, including my morning sitz bath (which I followed this time by a regular shower, as well). Then I walked over again to Moshe's place to feed his cats (and pet them a bit, too). He has a beautiful peaches-and-cream male cat, a calico who is mostly white, and another female who is completely white. They all have nice personalities, too.
I ate 2 cheese and tomato sandwiches for lunch at home today.
I spent much of the rest of the day sorting and packing things. Now, one large cabinet in my office is empty, the smaller tall one is also empty, and the other large one is almost empty, so I'm making good progress. A significant part of what I packed today is family pictures and other treasures, some quite old. Mostly, they were already in boxes, and I didn't sort that much more. I did throw away a few things and do a bit of consolidation, though.
While I was working, I also had my Macs working, too, copying some files from the older one to the newer one. I've been using the older one as my main computer, but I'm planning to switch to the newer one (which was originally David's) when I move. In fact, I've already mostly switched to it. The difference will be that, in the new place, it will trade places with the old one and be in the middle, right in front of me. My PC, which I use only for teaching, will remain on my left.
I walked only 3.83 kilometers today.
Friday, December 18, 2015
Friday, 18 December 2015
I slept wonderfully last night and woke up feeling really good. Before breakfast, I walked over and fed and checked on Moshe's cats.
I taught only 1 units of Berlitz today: 9:00-9:45.
Just after noon, I caught the local Regional Council bus just across from the hospital, paid 18 shekels, and rode it all the way up to Kibbutz Lotan. When I got there, Leah, the woman who bought my car, met me at the bus stop and then had her son take me to her apartment, where I waited for about an hour until she finished working at the kibbutz store. Then she joined me and took me on a tour of the kibbutz, and, after that, we drank tea and chatted the rest of the afternoon. At 6:00, we went over to the kibbutz Kabbalat Shabbat service (Lotan is a Reform kibbutz, one of only 2 in the entire country) in the communal room, followed by Shabbat dinner in the dining hall, followed by tea and cake and chatting. I met several other people there, including Leah's ex-husband, her second son, and her daughter (her oldest son is serving in an elite unit in the army and wasn't home).
Afterwards, Leah brought me home (in my former car). On the trip, we chatted some more, and, when we got her, I gave her some extra blankets I wanted to get rid of but didn't want to throw away. She had told me that they are always needing more blankets for volunteers on the kibbutz. It was really a very lovely day, and I enjoyed it thoroughly.
Altogether, I walked a total of almost eleven and a half kilometers today.
I taught only 1 units of Berlitz today: 9:00-9:45.
Just after noon, I caught the local Regional Council bus just across from the hospital, paid 18 shekels, and rode it all the way up to Kibbutz Lotan. When I got there, Leah, the woman who bought my car, met me at the bus stop and then had her son take me to her apartment, where I waited for about an hour until she finished working at the kibbutz store. Then she joined me and took me on a tour of the kibbutz, and, after that, we drank tea and chatted the rest of the afternoon. At 6:00, we went over to the kibbutz Kabbalat Shabbat service (Lotan is a Reform kibbutz, one of only 2 in the entire country) in the communal room, followed by Shabbat dinner in the dining hall, followed by tea and cake and chatting. I met several other people there, including Leah's ex-husband, her second son, and her daughter (her oldest son is serving in an elite unit in the army and wasn't home).
Afterwards, Leah brought me home (in my former car). On the trip, we chatted some more, and, when we got her, I gave her some extra blankets I wanted to get rid of but didn't want to throw away. She had told me that they are always needing more blankets for volunteers on the kibbutz. It was really a very lovely day, and I enjoyed it thoroughly.
Altogether, I walked a total of almost eleven and a half kilometers today.
Thursday, December 17, 2015
Thursday, 17 December 2015
I went to sleep fairly quickly last night, but I woke up not too long later and had trouble getting back to sleep for the rest of the night. The causes seem to be diverse and not very clear. Anyway, although I got up late, I did NOT feel sleepy during the rest of the day.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 10:30-12:00, 12:00-1:30, and 6:30-8:00.
At about 1:40, I set out for Bassia & David's to pick up a key they had had made for me. The key I had had made didn't work. To make a long story short, their key didn't, either, but the key-maker fixed mine so that it now DOES work. Luckily, the key-maker's shop is not far from their current apartment. The new apartment, however, is quite a long walk away and uphill almost all the way. So, we'll get the problem with the non-working key solved later. At least I know have a working key that I have verified directly, because I did walk up their to the new apartment before returning back home. Along the way, I stopped and had a late lunch of falafel at a stand.
I arrived back home at about 5:00 p.m., leaving me plenty of time for my second sitz bath of the day before my last lesson.
I walked a total of 11.15 kilometers today.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 10:30-12:00, 12:00-1:30, and 6:30-8:00.
At about 1:40, I set out for Bassia & David's to pick up a key they had had made for me. The key I had had made didn't work. To make a long story short, their key didn't, either, but the key-maker fixed mine so that it now DOES work. Luckily, the key-maker's shop is not far from their current apartment. The new apartment, however, is quite a long walk away and uphill almost all the way. So, we'll get the problem with the non-working key solved later. At least I know have a working key that I have verified directly, because I did walk up their to the new apartment before returning back home. Along the way, I stopped and had a late lunch of falafel at a stand.
I arrived back home at about 5:00 p.m., leaving me plenty of time for my second sitz bath of the day before my last lesson.
I walked a total of 11.15 kilometers today.
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Wednesday, 16 December 2015
I got up fairly early this morning but didn't go out for a walk, since I was planning to take a longer one later.
I taught a total of 5 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45, 10:30-12:00, and 6:30-8:00. The second lesson is one that will be observed to give me feedback. One of the Berlitz managers will listen to the recording of the lesson to do this. I feel that I did a particularly good job on this one, so I'm happy about that.
I had 2 vegan "breast" and tomato sandwiches and some lettuce for lunch at home today.
In the afternoon, I packed some things and began numbering boxes. Then, for each number, I am creating a note in my iPhone describing what is in that box.
In the late afternoon and early evening, I walked down to the "old" mall (Mall HaYam, right next to the Gulf), walked around a bit on all 3 levels, and then walked back home. The return trip was almost entirely uphill, but I didn't find it too difficult. I did stop and rest a couple of times because I wasn't in a hurry.
Yesterday, a hemorrhoid began causing me some pain, so I read up about them and decided to take two sitz baths today. It definitely helped, and, besides, it quite pleasant to sit in warm water and relax.
I walked a total of 8.91 kilometers today.
I taught a total of 5 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45, 10:30-12:00, and 6:30-8:00. The second lesson is one that will be observed to give me feedback. One of the Berlitz managers will listen to the recording of the lesson to do this. I feel that I did a particularly good job on this one, so I'm happy about that.
I had 2 vegan "breast" and tomato sandwiches and some lettuce for lunch at home today.
In the afternoon, I packed some things and began numbering boxes. Then, for each number, I am creating a note in my iPhone describing what is in that box.
In the late afternoon and early evening, I walked down to the "old" mall (Mall HaYam, right next to the Gulf), walked around a bit on all 3 levels, and then walked back home. The return trip was almost entirely uphill, but I didn't find it too difficult. I did stop and rest a couple of times because I wasn't in a hurry.
Yesterday, a hemorrhoid began causing me some pain, so I read up about them and decided to take two sitz baths today. It definitely helped, and, besides, it quite pleasant to sit in warm water and relax.
I walked a total of 8.91 kilometers today.
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
Tuesday, 15 December 2015
I woke up early this morning but decided not to go out for a walk because I knew I'd be doing quite a bit of walking later.
I left a little early and walked to visit the new apartment again before the WIZO meeting. Then, after enjoying a lot of night conversation at the meeting, Bassia & David and I walked up to the apartment again to look at it together. After that, I walked home.
I ate a thin vegan breaded shnitzel, a salad (lettuce, tomato, and yellow bell pepper), and half a white chocolate candy bar for lunch at home today.
I taught only 4 units of Berlitz today: 5:00-6:30 and 7:00-8:30.
I walked a total of 9.67 kilometers today.
I left a little early and walked to visit the new apartment again before the WIZO meeting. Then, after enjoying a lot of night conversation at the meeting, Bassia & David and I walked up to the apartment again to look at it together. After that, I walked home.
I ate a thin vegan breaded shnitzel, a salad (lettuce, tomato, and yellow bell pepper), and half a white chocolate candy bar for lunch at home today.
I taught only 4 units of Berlitz today: 5:00-6:30 and 7:00-8:30.
I walked a total of 9.67 kilometers today.
Monday, December 14, 2015
Monday, 14 December 2015
I was awake for a while in the night last night and got up quite late this morning. But I felt very rested and refreshed.
I taught only 5 units of Berlitz lessons today: 10:00-10:45, 3:00-4:30, and 5:00-6:30.
After my first lesson, I walked to the bank, waited an hour, withdrew some money, walked over to Bassia & David's current place (they'll be my new housemates in a couple of weeks), walked up to the new apartment (that we'll be sharing), measured my room, and walked home in time for my second lesson.
In the evening, I paid my landlord the back rent that I owed him, and I also paid the va'ad fees (for maintenance of the common areas in the building) for the last 6 months. I'm very happy that I've been able to pay these unauthorized debts which I SHOULD have been paying on time. For me, this is an important part of getting back on track and moving forward in my life.
In the evening, I also made a scale map of my room in the new apartment and scale cut-outs of my bed, my desk, and my cabinets, so that I can see how they can all fit in the new place.
I walked a total of 9.76 kilometers today.
I taught only 5 units of Berlitz lessons today: 10:00-10:45, 3:00-4:30, and 5:00-6:30.
After my first lesson, I walked to the bank, waited an hour, withdrew some money, walked over to Bassia & David's current place (they'll be my new housemates in a couple of weeks), walked up to the new apartment (that we'll be sharing), measured my room, and walked home in time for my second lesson.
In the evening, I paid my landlord the back rent that I owed him, and I also paid the va'ad fees (for maintenance of the common areas in the building) for the last 6 months. I'm very happy that I've been able to pay these unauthorized debts which I SHOULD have been paying on time. For me, this is an important part of getting back on track and moving forward in my life.
In the evening, I also made a scale map of my room in the new apartment and scale cut-outs of my bed, my desk, and my cabinets, so that I can see how they can all fit in the new place.
I walked a total of 9.76 kilometers today.
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Sunday, 13 December 2015
I slept well, woke up early, and started out for a nice morning walk. But, as I was walking down D'vorah HaNviah Street I began to feel a few very small drops on my sensitive rain sensor (aka my bald head). Luckily, I was only about a block from home, so I decided I'd better get back in case it started raining seriously. Actually, I don't think it really did, at least not until MUCH later in the day, but I didn't want to get soaked by rain and be far from home. The threat of rain, however, kept me from getting in any walk at all today (I'm The Wicked Witch of the West, you know!), which makes me just slightly cross.
I did walk down in the morning to the local Shufersal to do my weekly grocery shopping, however.
I had 2 cheese and tomato sandwiches for lunch at home today.
I made some progress today on throwing stuff away. It's quite difficult, because I hate to just dump stuff that's perfectly good. But there are some things that I know that I will never use, especially most of David's craft things.
Despite no real walk other than the aborted one in the early morning and the short one to Shufersal, I managed to walk 4.35 kilometers today.
I did walk down in the morning to the local Shufersal to do my weekly grocery shopping, however.
I had 2 cheese and tomato sandwiches for lunch at home today.
I made some progress today on throwing stuff away. It's quite difficult, because I hate to just dump stuff that's perfectly good. But there are some things that I know that I will never use, especially most of David's craft things.
Despite no real walk other than the aborted one in the early morning and the short one to Shufersal, I managed to walk 4.35 kilometers today.
Saturday, December 12, 2015
Shabbat, 12 December 2015
I actually hadn't planned on going for an early-morning walk today, but after having slept well, woken up slowly, and gotten up a bit late, I decided that I wanted to go out anyway. And it was great!
I followed my new Shabbat tradition this morning of watching BCC's Friday night service from the night before. I was particularly blessed by Tamara Kline's insightful drash. It's also meaningful for me to say Kaddish for David when they say it.
Today, I loaded a giant trash bag twice with clothes in bad repair, underwear, old sheets, and old blankets and took them to a clothing and textile recycling receptacle about 4 short blocks from here.
I ate vegan shnitzel, corn on the cob, and a tomato for lunch at home today.
After lunch I walked way down next to one of the lots near the port where they park new cars before they're trucked north. Then I walked back up via Nakhal Garof, which is just southwest of town. It was a great walk, with most of the walk back up in the shade because of the high southwestern wall of the canyon.
In the early evening, I enjoyed talking with Joyce, David's sister in Columbus, Ohio.
I walked a total of nearly ten and a half kilometers today.
I followed my new Shabbat tradition this morning of watching BCC's Friday night service from the night before. I was particularly blessed by Tamara Kline's insightful drash. It's also meaningful for me to say Kaddish for David when they say it.
Today, I loaded a giant trash bag twice with clothes in bad repair, underwear, old sheets, and old blankets and took them to a clothing and textile recycling receptacle about 4 short blocks from here.
I ate vegan shnitzel, corn on the cob, and a tomato for lunch at home today.
After lunch I walked way down next to one of the lots near the port where they park new cars before they're trucked north. Then I walked back up via Nakhal Garof, which is just southwest of town. It was a great walk, with most of the walk back up in the shade because of the high southwestern wall of the canyon.
In the early evening, I enjoyed talking with Joyce, David's sister in Columbus, Ohio.
I walked a total of nearly ten and a half kilometers today.
Friday, December 11, 2015
Friday, 11 December 2015
I slept a little late this morning and didn't go out for an early walk other than to buy challah.
I taught only 3 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45 and 11:00-12:30.
I ate lunch at home today.
After lunch, I went for a walk up highway 12, then on a trail that goes over to Nakhal Shakhamon, and then back home through the nakhal. It was a beautiful walk!
Just before the sun disappeared from our lovely valley, I lit candles, drank a bit of sweet red wine, and ate a little challah to welcome Shabbat.
I walked a total of 6.42 kilometers today.
In honor of Khanuka:
I taught only 3 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45 and 11:00-12:30.
I ate lunch at home today.
After lunch, I went for a walk up highway 12, then on a trail that goes over to Nakhal Shakhamon, and then back home through the nakhal. It was a beautiful walk!
Just before the sun disappeared from our lovely valley, I lit candles, drank a bit of sweet red wine, and ate a little challah to welcome Shabbat.
I walked a total of 6.42 kilometers today.
In honor of Khanuka:
מודים אנחנו לך על הנסים ועל הפרקן ועל הגבורות ועל התשועות ועל הנפלאות ועל הנחמות שעשית לאבותינו ולאימותינו בימים ההם בזמן הזה
We give thanks to You for the miracles and for the relief and for the heroism and for the salvation and for the wonders and for the comfort that You did for our ancestors in those days at this time.
Thursday, December 10, 2015
Thursday, 10 December 2015
I got up quite early this morning but decided NOT to go out for an early walk.
After breakfast, I walked over to the new local post office, which is located in a small market. I found out, though, that I was a half-hour early, so I walked up the street a block and sat on a nice bench in the warm sunshine until they opened. Then I picked up my registered mail and walked a bit more.
I was scheduled to teach two 2-unit lessons today, but the first was a late cancellation, about which I was informed a little before its start time: 12:00-1:30 and 6:30-8:00.
I got a little more sorting of things done today, and threw some away. I'm trying to focus on getting ready to move now, but it's proving to be a bit difficult to organize and motivate. Luckily, I'm not on a tight timeline, at least not yet.
I went for another walk before the sun disappeared, going all the way to the end of Harim Road and sitting there and enjoying the sunshine a bit before returning home.
I walked a total of 6.42 kilometers today.
After breakfast, I walked over to the new local post office, which is located in a small market. I found out, though, that I was a half-hour early, so I walked up the street a block and sat on a nice bench in the warm sunshine until they opened. Then I picked up my registered mail and walked a bit more.
I was scheduled to teach two 2-unit lessons today, but the first was a late cancellation, about which I was informed a little before its start time: 12:00-1:30 and 6:30-8:00.
I got a little more sorting of things done today, and threw some away. I'm trying to focus on getting ready to move now, but it's proving to be a bit difficult to organize and motivate. Luckily, I'm not on a tight timeline, at least not yet.
I went for another walk before the sun disappeared, going all the way to the end of Harim Road and sitting there and enjoying the sunshine a bit before returning home.
I walked a total of 6.42 kilometers today.
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Wednesday, 9 December 2015
I slept very well last night despite having to get up to pee. I woke us early feeling rested and went out and walked for more than an hour. I wore my jacket and generally felt quite comfortable.
I taught only 3 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45 and 6:30-8:00.
After my first lesson, I met the buyer for my car, who drove it down from Kibbutz Lotan, and we finalized the deal and transferred the title, which is done here at the Post Office. That went very smoothly, and she drove me into town (from the local P.O.) where I deposited her check in my bank account. Then I walked back home.
I ate lunch at home, which was 2 sandwiches, both with cheese and tomato and mayonnaise, and one of them with a vegan "breast".
After lunch, I took another short walk to the green strip and then to the south end of Harim Road, where I rested a bit before returning home.
I walked a total of 11.71 kilometers today.
I taught only 3 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45 and 6:30-8:00.
After my first lesson, I met the buyer for my car, who drove it down from Kibbutz Lotan, and we finalized the deal and transferred the title, which is done here at the Post Office. That went very smoothly, and she drove me into town (from the local P.O.) where I deposited her check in my bank account. Then I walked back home.
I ate lunch at home, which was 2 sandwiches, both with cheese and tomato and mayonnaise, and one of them with a vegan "breast".
After lunch, I took another short walk to the green strip and then to the south end of Harim Road, where I rested a bit before returning home.
I walked a total of 11.71 kilometers today.
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Tuesday, 8 December 2015
I had trouble getting to sleep last night but generally slept quite well. I got up early but didn't go out for a walk, partly because of the cold and partly because I was planning to walk later (to WIZO).
I did walk to WIZO and back, and very much enjoyed it. I was given the honor of lighting the Khanuka candles, singing the blessings, and leading in singing one verse of Ma'oz Tzur for the celebration at WIZO today. At one point on the walk back, though, my feet, especially the left one, began to feel like they were burning. It was quite painful, so I stopped as soon as I could find a good place to sit in the shade and took my socks and shoes off for a while. There was nothing visibly wrong with my feet, and when I put the socks and shoes back on and continued home, I had no more problems.
I had a thin vegan shnitzel, a tomato, and a couple of Reese's peanut butter cups for lunch at home today.
In the mid-afternoon, I walked over and picked up some more boxes from my friends who moved. I used a little cart that I've had for many years to bring them back home quite conveniently.
I taught only one 2-unit Berlitz lesson today (to a student who works for Shell in Gabon!): 4:30-6:00.
In the evening, I walked down to the local Shufersal and bought a few miscellaneous items.
I walked a total of 10.14 kilometers today.
I did walk to WIZO and back, and very much enjoyed it. I was given the honor of lighting the Khanuka candles, singing the blessings, and leading in singing one verse of Ma'oz Tzur for the celebration at WIZO today. At one point on the walk back, though, my feet, especially the left one, began to feel like they were burning. It was quite painful, so I stopped as soon as I could find a good place to sit in the shade and took my socks and shoes off for a while. There was nothing visibly wrong with my feet, and when I put the socks and shoes back on and continued home, I had no more problems.
I had a thin vegan shnitzel, a tomato, and a couple of Reese's peanut butter cups for lunch at home today.
In the mid-afternoon, I walked over and picked up some more boxes from my friends who moved. I used a little cart that I've had for many years to bring them back home quite conveniently.
I taught only one 2-unit Berlitz lesson today (to a student who works for Shell in Gabon!): 4:30-6:00.
In the evening, I walked down to the local Shufersal and bought a few miscellaneous items.
I walked a total of 10.14 kilometers today.
Monday, December 7, 2015
Monday, 7 December 2015
I slept quite well last night but didn't go out for an early-morning walk, mostly due to the cold.
I was scheduled to teach 5 units of Berlitz lessons today (10:00-10:45, 11:30-1:00, and 5:30-7:00), but the second lesson turned out to be a late cancellation (for which I still get paid).
I had planned to go to the pharmacy after lunch, but I decided to go before when the lesson was canceled. So, I walked to the Maccabi pharmacy (about 3.5 km), picked up my prescriptions and a couple of other things, and walked back. The whole thing took only a little over 2 hours, including the time at the pharmacy, a stop to buy soda on the way back, and another stop to rest for a bit before I got home. It was very enjoyable, and I was comfortable wearing socks and shoes, jeans, and a short-sleeve t-shirt. In fact, on the way back, I was walking as much as possible in the shade to keep from being too hot.
I had cheese and tomato sandwiches and cookies for lunch at home today.
I was scheduled to teach 5 units of Berlitz lessons today (10:00-10:45, 11:30-1:00, and 5:30-7:00), but the second lesson turned out to be a late cancellation (for which I still get paid).
I had planned to go to the pharmacy after lunch, but I decided to go before when the lesson was canceled. So, I walked to the Maccabi pharmacy (about 3.5 km), picked up my prescriptions and a couple of other things, and walked back. The whole thing took only a little over 2 hours, including the time at the pharmacy, a stop to buy soda on the way back, and another stop to rest for a bit before I got home. It was very enjoyable, and I was comfortable wearing socks and shoes, jeans, and a short-sleeve t-shirt. In fact, on the way back, I was walking as much as possible in the shade to keep from being too hot.
I had cheese and tomato sandwiches and cookies for lunch at home today.
Sunday, December 6, 2015
Sunday, 6 December 2015
I slept somewhat fitfully last night, but overall it was okay. I did NOT get up early and go for a walk, though.
After breakfast, I decided to combine a long walk with some shopping research. I walked over to the area where I will soon be living and visited the 2 supermarkets there, first the Shufersal, and then the other market that is located immediately adjacent to our building. I had made up my grocery shopping list for the week, and I checked at each market to see if they had the items, and how much each cost, recording the numbers in a note on my phone. Then I walked to the Shufersal near my current place and did the same thing there. I didn't buy anything, though, at ANY of these 3. Instead, I drove over a little later to my usual Shufersal, the huge one on the other side of town, in the industrial area, and did my shopping there, also recording the prices. In addition, I bought a number of other items there.
After lunch at home (vegan weenies wrapped in a tortilla, a tomato, and a cucumber), I took another shorter walk around the neighborhoods south of here, stopping at the ATM to redraw more money to pay my landlord, who will come over later this evening.
In the late afternoon, the woman who's buying my car came into town from her kibbutz and paid me the amount of money I needed to pay off the loan on the car. When I get the clearance from the bank, she'll pay me the rest of the money for it and I'll transfer ownership to her.
I walked a total of about eleven and a half kilometers today.
After breakfast, I decided to combine a long walk with some shopping research. I walked over to the area where I will soon be living and visited the 2 supermarkets there, first the Shufersal, and then the other market that is located immediately adjacent to our building. I had made up my grocery shopping list for the week, and I checked at each market to see if they had the items, and how much each cost, recording the numbers in a note on my phone. Then I walked to the Shufersal near my current place and did the same thing there. I didn't buy anything, though, at ANY of these 3. Instead, I drove over a little later to my usual Shufersal, the huge one on the other side of town, in the industrial area, and did my shopping there, also recording the prices. In addition, I bought a number of other items there.
After lunch at home (vegan weenies wrapped in a tortilla, a tomato, and a cucumber), I took another shorter walk around the neighborhoods south of here, stopping at the ATM to redraw more money to pay my landlord, who will come over later this evening.
In the late afternoon, the woman who's buying my car came into town from her kibbutz and paid me the amount of money I needed to pay off the loan on the car. When I get the clearance from the bank, she'll pay me the rest of the money for it and I'll transfer ownership to her.
I walked a total of about eleven and a half kilometers today.
Saturday, December 5, 2015
Shabbat, 5 December 2015
I slept well but didn't go out for a walk this morning. I was tired, it was cold (okay, that's kinda relative, but one gets spoiled quickly here in Eilat), and it was quite windy.
Most of the day, I just relaxed, but I did treat myself to the wonderful Greek salad at the Gulf Restaurant (not to mention their lovely side salatim).
In the early evening, I talked with Joyce, David's sister in Ohio.
Later in the evening, I brought David, the husband of the couple I'll be living with soon, over to my place so that he could pick boxes for them to use that I got from some other friends who moved recently. Then we took the boxes over to the apartment where they live now. All three of us will be moving into the "new" apartment over the next few weeks. While I was at their place, their 2 guests from the U.S. returned from their day trip to Petra, Jordan, so I again got to chat a bit with them.
Despite not taking any real walks today, I still walked more than 3.4 kilometers.
Most of the day, I just relaxed, but I did treat myself to the wonderful Greek salad at the Gulf Restaurant (not to mention their lovely side salatim).
In the early evening, I talked with Joyce, David's sister in Ohio.
Later in the evening, I brought David, the husband of the couple I'll be living with soon, over to my place so that he could pick boxes for them to use that I got from some other friends who moved recently. Then we took the boxes over to the apartment where they live now. All three of us will be moving into the "new" apartment over the next few weeks. While I was at their place, their 2 guests from the U.S. returned from their day trip to Petra, Jordan, so I again got to chat a bit with them.
Despite not taking any real walks today, I still walked more than 3.4 kilometers.
Friday, December 4, 2015
Friday, 4 December 2015
I got up and walked for nearly an hour early this morning. It was noticeably chilly out, with a fairly strong breeze, so I was thankful for my thin flannel shirt (worn over my t-shirt), jeans, and socks and shoes. It was a good walk, though. Later, I also walked down and bought some produce at the local market and challah at the bakery.
I taught only 3 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45 and 11:00-12:30. I had cheese and a nice salad for lunch at home today.
I had an appointment with my psychiatrist at 2:00 today. I walked over there early, and he was available, so I actually FINISHED seeing him at about 2:00. Then I took a long walk clear over to the intersection of Sheshet HaYamim ("The Six Days") and Y'rushalayim HaShlemah ("All of Jerusalem") streets, a little beyond where I will be living in a few weeks. It was a very pleasant walk, with enough sun to make it quite warm but enough wind to keep it almost chilly, too. I wore socks and shoes, jeans, an a t-shirt, and felt very comfortable.
I walked a total of almost 13 kilometers today.
As the last light of day was illuminating the craggy mountains of Edom across the valley, I lit candles, drank a bit of sweet red wine, and ate some challah to welcome the Shabbat. After that, I did my own little Kabbalat Shabbat prayers, sitting comfortably in my favorite chair and singing some of my favorite melodies.
I taught only 3 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45 and 11:00-12:30. I had cheese and a nice salad for lunch at home today.
I had an appointment with my psychiatrist at 2:00 today. I walked over there early, and he was available, so I actually FINISHED seeing him at about 2:00. Then I took a long walk clear over to the intersection of Sheshet HaYamim ("The Six Days") and Y'rushalayim HaShlemah ("All of Jerusalem") streets, a little beyond where I will be living in a few weeks. It was a very pleasant walk, with enough sun to make it quite warm but enough wind to keep it almost chilly, too. I wore socks and shoes, jeans, an a t-shirt, and felt very comfortable.
I walked a total of almost 13 kilometers today.
As the last light of day was illuminating the craggy mountains of Edom across the valley, I lit candles, drank a bit of sweet red wine, and ate some challah to welcome the Shabbat. After that, I did my own little Kabbalat Shabbat prayers, sitting comfortably in my favorite chair and singing some of my favorite melodies.
ישמחו במלכותך שומרי שבת וקוראי עונג שבת
They will rejoice in Your realm, those who guard Shabbat and call it a delight.
Thursday, December 3, 2015
Thursday, 3 December 2015
I got up early enough this morning to get in my usual full morning walk. For the first time this season, I actually wore jeans instead of short pants. I also wore a light flannel shirt, although I unbuttoned it fairly early into the walk and even removed it entirely on the last leg (walking down my street).
This morning, I showed my car to a woman from Kibbutz Lotan, an American originally from New Jersey, who was very impressed with it and has decided to buy it! The exact day of the transaction still has to be worked out, but it should all happen within the next week.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 10:30-12:00, 12:00-1:30, and 6:30-8:00.
I ate lunch at home and then took a long walk down to the bottom of Shakhamon (my neighborhood, which actually constitutes about half of the City of Eilat, really), just above the port, and then up the far south side, next to Nakhal Garuf. There is a HUGE amount of construction going on in that area, including both apartment buildings and some very lovely villas (which is what they call single family homes here in Israel).
I walked a total of 11.36 kilometers today.
This morning, I showed my car to a woman from Kibbutz Lotan, an American originally from New Jersey, who was very impressed with it and has decided to buy it! The exact day of the transaction still has to be worked out, but it should all happen within the next week.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 10:30-12:00, 12:00-1:30, and 6:30-8:00.
I ate lunch at home and then took a long walk down to the bottom of Shakhamon (my neighborhood, which actually constitutes about half of the City of Eilat, really), just above the port, and then up the far south side, next to Nakhal Garuf. There is a HUGE amount of construction going on in that area, including both apartment buildings and some very lovely villas (which is what they call single family homes here in Israel).
I walked a total of 11.36 kilometers today.
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Wednesday, 2 December 2015
I slept well last night but was tired in the morning and so got up late and didn't go for a walk. I did take a short walk after breakfast, though, as far as the post office.
I taught 11 units (8.25 hours!) of Berlitz lessons today: 10:30-12:00, 12:00-1:30, 2:00-4:15, 5:00-6:30, and 6:30-8:00. Students were in Germany, France, Austria, and Hungary.
I taught 11 units (8.25 hours!) of Berlitz lessons today: 10:30-12:00, 12:00-1:30, 2:00-4:15, 5:00-6:30, and 6:30-8:00. Students were in Germany, France, Austria, and Hungary.
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
Tuesday, 1 December 2015
I got up and got in a lovely walk this morning. I actually wore a light long-sleeve shirt over my t-shirt, but I still wore short pants. Just before I arrived back home, I actually took the long-sleeve shirt off. I petted the most friendly, cute peaches-and-cream kitten during the walk. He wasn't afraid at all -- I even picked him up for a bit -- and he just purred like crazy.
I walked to the WIZO meeting this morning (and back afterwards). It only took me just over 45 minutes to get there. On the walk back, I extended and went all the way to the end of Harim Road before returning home. It was again such a perfect day out for walking.
I had Heinz beans and (vegan) weenies, plus a green salad with tomato and some cookies, for lunch at home today.
After lunch, I went and bought a lot more boxes and lids, tape, and pens to label boxes with.
I taught 4 units of Berlitz lessons today, all in the evening: 5:00-6:30 and 7:00-8:30.
Altogether, I walked more than 14.8 kilometers today (21,569 steps), a new record high for a single day.
I walked to the WIZO meeting this morning (and back afterwards). It only took me just over 45 minutes to get there. On the walk back, I extended and went all the way to the end of Harim Road before returning home. It was again such a perfect day out for walking.
I had Heinz beans and (vegan) weenies, plus a green salad with tomato and some cookies, for lunch at home today.
After lunch, I went and bought a lot more boxes and lids, tape, and pens to label boxes with.
I taught 4 units of Berlitz lessons today, all in the evening: 5:00-6:30 and 7:00-8:30.
Altogether, I walked more than 14.8 kilometers today (21,569 steps), a new record high for a single day.
Monday, November 30, 2015
Monday, 30 November 2015
I got up a little late this morning but went out for a walk anyway. I walked to the outdoor gym and worked out a bit, something I hadn't done in some time. It was great!
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:30-11:00, 12:00-1:30, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
I ate a simple lunch at home today. Afterwards, I went for a walk and was gone for nearly 2 hours. The weather was just perfect for walking this afternoon. Clouds covered almost the whole sky, keeping the sun from shining hotly on me, but the air was not cold and there was a cool and refreshing breeze.
Altogether, I walked a total of 12.6 kilometers today.
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:30-11:00, 12:00-1:30, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
I ate a simple lunch at home today. Afterwards, I went for a walk and was gone for nearly 2 hours. The weather was just perfect for walking this afternoon. Clouds covered almost the whole sky, keeping the sun from shining hotly on me, but the air was not cold and there was a cool and refreshing breeze.
Altogether, I walked a total of 12.6 kilometers today.
Sunday, November 29, 2015
Sunday, 29 November 2015
I slept well but a little weirdly last night and didn't get up until late, so I didn't go for a morning walk.
I did the weekly grocery shopping this morning at Shufersal.
I had thin vegan shnitzel and a green salad with red bell pepper and a tomato for lunch at home today. I also ate a couple of cookies for dessert.
In the afternoon, I went over and picked up more boxes from our friends who moved.
From about 3:30 until 5:30, I took a very long walk over to a little past the apartment I'll be moving to and back again. It was a perfect time for walking, and I also took some gorgeous pics of the sunset as I was on my way back.
Altogether today I walked well over 11 kilometers.
I did the weekly grocery shopping this morning at Shufersal.
I had thin vegan shnitzel and a green salad with red bell pepper and a tomato for lunch at home today. I also ate a couple of cookies for dessert.
In the afternoon, I went over and picked up more boxes from our friends who moved.
From about 3:30 until 5:30, I took a very long walk over to a little past the apartment I'll be moving to and back again. It was a perfect time for walking, and I also took some gorgeous pics of the sunset as I was on my way back.
Altogether today I walked well over 11 kilometers.
Saturday, November 28, 2015
Shabbat, 28 November 2015
I got up early enough to walk for more than an hour. I went up highway 12 to Ramat Yotam, then turned left on the road that goes by the huge oils tanks and left again back to the southwestern end of Shakhamon and home on Harim Road. Part way up highway 12, I snapped a lovely pic of the sunrise (it didn't actually come up until more than half an hour later) over the Jordanian mountains, the Gulf, and Eilat.
In the morning, I watched the recording of last night's BCC (Beth Chayim Chadashim) service and joined them in saying Kaddish for David.
I ate 2 cheese and tomato sandwiches for lunch at home today.
In the afternoon, I drove over to Bassia & David's place and very much enjoyed chatting with their two guests, Sue and Ute, who are visiting from the U.S. to celebrate birthdays together with Bassia.
Then I came home and talked for a while with David's sister, Joyce, in Ohio.
In the evening, I spent a bit of time sorting through some drawers in the kitchen.
I walked a total of more than eight and a quarter kilometers today.
In the morning, I watched the recording of last night's BCC (Beth Chayim Chadashim) service and joined them in saying Kaddish for David.
I ate 2 cheese and tomato sandwiches for lunch at home today.
In the afternoon, I drove over to Bassia & David's place and very much enjoyed chatting with their two guests, Sue and Ute, who are visiting from the U.S. to celebrate birthdays together with Bassia.
Then I came home and talked for a while with David's sister, Joyce, in Ohio.
In the evening, I spent a bit of time sorting through some drawers in the kitchen.
I walked a total of more than eight and a quarter kilometers today.
Friday, November 27, 2015
Friday, 27 November 2015
I got up early enough this morning to walk for almost an hour. Then, I later walked down to recycle cardboard and buy challah.
I taught 5 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45, 10:00-11:30, and 11:30-1:00.
For lunch, I treated myself to a Greek salad at the Gulf Restaurant (plus all their little free salatim and pita). Afterwards, I took a walk down the tayelet and back (along the north shore of our branch of the Red Sea).
Altogether, I walked about eight and three quarters kilometers today.
As the sun was hovering just above the Eilat Mountains to the southwest, I lit candles, drank a bit of sweet red wine, and ate a little challah to welcome this Shabbat.
I end with this quote in honor of the American holiday of Thanksgiving. It is the first verse of at least THREE different Psalms (107, 118, and 136):
I taught 5 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45, 10:00-11:30, and 11:30-1:00.
For lunch, I treated myself to a Greek salad at the Gulf Restaurant (plus all their little free salatim and pita). Afterwards, I took a walk down the tayelet and back (along the north shore of our branch of the Red Sea).
Altogether, I walked about eight and three quarters kilometers today.
As the sun was hovering just above the Eilat Mountains to the southwest, I lit candles, drank a bit of sweet red wine, and ate a little challah to welcome this Shabbat.
I end with this quote in honor of the American holiday of Thanksgiving. It is the first verse of at least THREE different Psalms (107, 118, and 136):
הודו ליי כי-טוב כי לעולם חסדוGive thanks to the Eternal, who is good, whose favor is forever.
Thursday, November 26, 2015
Thursday, 26 November 2015
I woke up quite early this morning but feeling tired and even a little depressed, so I didn't get up and go out for a morning walk.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 10:00-11:30, 12:00-1:30, and 3:00-4:30.
I drove over to Mercaz Big and got a pita with falafel for lunch today. It was nice to get out a bit. I also walked around while there and did a bit of window shopping, but, of course, I didn't buy anything.
After my last class, I took a long walk from here over to the apartment we're planning to move into in a few weeks and back. It took an hour and a half, total, and was a very nice walk.
After cooling down a bit, I drove over to the new apartment of some WIZO friends who just moved and picked up some of their freshly emptied boxes. On Shabbat, I'll go over again and pick up more (which are not yet emptied at this point).
My total walking distance for today is just over 10 km.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 10:00-11:30, 12:00-1:30, and 3:00-4:30.
I drove over to Mercaz Big and got a pita with falafel for lunch today. It was nice to get out a bit. I also walked around while there and did a bit of window shopping, but, of course, I didn't buy anything.
After my last class, I took a long walk from here over to the apartment we're planning to move into in a few weeks and back. It took an hour and a half, total, and was a very nice walk.
After cooling down a bit, I drove over to the new apartment of some WIZO friends who just moved and picked up some of their freshly emptied boxes. On Shabbat, I'll go over again and pick up more (which are not yet emptied at this point).
My total walking distance for today is just over 10 km.
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
Wednesday, 25 November 2015
I got up reasonably early this morning and walked for nearly a full hour.
I taught 10 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-10:30, 12:00-1:30, 3:00-4:30, 4:30-6:00 (an emergency replacement for another teacher), and 6:30-8:00.
I had cheese and whole-wheat tortillas for lunch at home today.
I taught 10 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-10:30, 12:00-1:30, 3:00-4:30, 4:30-6:00 (an emergency replacement for another teacher), and 6:30-8:00.
I had cheese and whole-wheat tortillas for lunch at home today.
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Tuesday, 24 November 2015
I woke up early but a bit tired this morning, so I didn't go out for a walk.
As always, I enjoyed the English speakers' meeting at WIZO today even though it was just conversation and announcements, with no special speaker.
I ate a cheese and tomato sandwich for lunch at home today.
Afterwards, I went for a walk for an hour, following a similar route to what I walked last night.
I taught 4 units of Berlitz lesson today: 3:00-4:30 and 5:00-6:30.
In the evening, I returned the walker I had gotten for David to Yad Sara, and I also donated the wheelchair to them.
When I returned, I parked my car up on Harim Road, as I've been doing lately in order for the "for sale" sign in the window to be seen by more people, and then I walked to the end of Harim Road and back before returning home.
In all, I walked more that eight and a half kilometers today.
As always, I enjoyed the English speakers' meeting at WIZO today even though it was just conversation and announcements, with no special speaker.
I ate a cheese and tomato sandwich for lunch at home today.
Afterwards, I went for a walk for an hour, following a similar route to what I walked last night.
I taught 4 units of Berlitz lesson today: 3:00-4:30 and 5:00-6:30.
In the evening, I returned the walker I had gotten for David to Yad Sara, and I also donated the wheelchair to them.
When I returned, I parked my car up on Harim Road, as I've been doing lately in order for the "for sale" sign in the window to be seen by more people, and then I walked to the end of Harim Road and back before returning home.
In all, I walked more that eight and a half kilometers today.
Monday, November 23, 2015
Monday, 23 November 2015
I slept well last night and woke up fairly early but rather tired, so I didn't go out for a morning walk.
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:30-11:00, 12:00-1:30, 2:30-4:00, and 5:00-6:30. All those 1-hour gaps were kind of useless for getting much done, except for the lunch break.
For lunch, I had breaded vegetarian shnitzels and a salad with greens and a cut-up tomato.
In the evening, after my last class, I took a somewhat longer walk for a full hour, and I enjoyed it very much.
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:30-11:00, 12:00-1:30, 2:30-4:00, and 5:00-6:30. All those 1-hour gaps were kind of useless for getting much done, except for the lunch break.
For lunch, I had breaded vegetarian shnitzels and a salad with greens and a cut-up tomato.
In the evening, after my last class, I took a somewhat longer walk for a full hour, and I enjoyed it very much.
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Sunday, 22 November 2015
I got up reasonably early this morning and got in a full, lovely early-morning walk.
After breakfast, I planned a morning trip around town to take care of a number of tasks.
First, I checked out the grocery stores and bakeries near the building where I expect to be moving in about a month and was very impressed; they are well-stocked.
Next, I put an ad for my car at the main building of the university.
Then, I went to the pet store to order mice for my snake, and I told them about my car being for sale. They suggested that I advertise it in Erev-Erev, the local newspaper, and so I went over and did that. My ad will appear for 3 weeks in Erev-Erev, Ma Nishma (an advertising rag that is distributed free to every residence in Eilat on Friday mornings), and on their online site, all for only 140 shekels.
After that, I proceeded to the garage where I get my car serviced. I not only left an ad on their bulletin board (with their permission) but also talked to the head mechanic, who was happy to tell anyone interested about my car.
Finally, I went to my regular Shufersal and did the weekly grocery shopping.
For lunch, I had stuffed mushrooms at Café Café at Ice Park. I also claimed my free piece of cheesecake (one dessert available any one time during November, the month of my birthday). After eating, I walked around both levels of the mall several times before returning home again.
In the evening, I walked over to the green strip and sat there for a while, enjoying the lovely evening and the beautiful moon in the sky, before continuing my walk. Just after the top of the green strip I ran into my friend, Liz, who was out for a walk with her dog and her sister, who is visiting from England. We chatted for a while, and then I continued walking to the end of Harim Road, where I sat and read for a bit before walking back home.
Altogether, I walked more than 13 kilometers (more than 8 miles) today, the most in one day since my phone has been keeping records.
After breakfast, I planned a morning trip around town to take care of a number of tasks.
First, I checked out the grocery stores and bakeries near the building where I expect to be moving in about a month and was very impressed; they are well-stocked.
Next, I put an ad for my car at the main building of the university.
Then, I went to the pet store to order mice for my snake, and I told them about my car being for sale. They suggested that I advertise it in Erev-Erev, the local newspaper, and so I went over and did that. My ad will appear for 3 weeks in Erev-Erev, Ma Nishma (an advertising rag that is distributed free to every residence in Eilat on Friday mornings), and on their online site, all for only 140 shekels.
After that, I proceeded to the garage where I get my car serviced. I not only left an ad on their bulletin board (with their permission) but also talked to the head mechanic, who was happy to tell anyone interested about my car.
Finally, I went to my regular Shufersal and did the weekly grocery shopping.
For lunch, I had stuffed mushrooms at Café Café at Ice Park. I also claimed my free piece of cheesecake (one dessert available any one time during November, the month of my birthday). After eating, I walked around both levels of the mall several times before returning home again.
In the evening, I walked over to the green strip and sat there for a while, enjoying the lovely evening and the beautiful moon in the sky, before continuing my walk. Just after the top of the green strip I ran into my friend, Liz, who was out for a walk with her dog and her sister, who is visiting from England. We chatted for a while, and then I continued walking to the end of Harim Road, where I sat and read for a bit before walking back home.
Altogether, I walked more than 13 kilometers (more than 8 miles) today, the most in one day since my phone has been keeping records.
Saturday, November 21, 2015
Shabbat, 21 November 2015
I woke up very early this morning, but I didn't get up right away even though I did NOT feel tired. When I did get up, I drank a cup of coffee and went on my computer a while before going out. The reason for all this was that I was planning to hike in Nakhal Yo'ash, and I needed to wait until it was a bit lighter out (no streetlights up there!). And so, I parked my car along highway 12 and hiked from about 6:00 until 8:00 a.m., up the Nakhal as far as one can go. It was as beautiful as I had remembered it, and the weather was absolutely perfect. Most of the time, I was hiking in the shade because the narrow canyon runs roughly north-south and there was also virtually no wind, and I was perfectly comfortable wearing short pants, a t-shirt, and shoes and socks. What a lovely, quiet, stunning place that is!
After breakfast, I watched the BCC (Beth Chayim Chadashim) services from last night, which included trans remembrance and was led by the assistant rabbi together with a trans person. Quite moving.
My friends, Bassia & David, had invited me for lunch today, and they also surprised me by celebrating my birthday. It was very nice, with delicious food and delightful company.
In the early evening, I had another enjoyable talk with my sister-in-law, Joyce, in Ohio.
After breakfast, I watched the BCC (Beth Chayim Chadashim) services from last night, which included trans remembrance and was led by the assistant rabbi together with a trans person. Quite moving.
My friends, Bassia & David, had invited me for lunch today, and they also surprised me by celebrating my birthday. It was very nice, with delicious food and delightful company.
In the early evening, I had another enjoyable talk with my sister-in-law, Joyce, in Ohio.
Friday, November 20, 2015
Friday, 20 November 2015
I went to bed early last night, fell asleep fairly quickly, and slept well, but didn't get up until late, so I didn't go out for a morning walk other than the quick trip down to the bakery to buy challah.
I taught only one 2-unit Berlitz lesson today: 11:00-12:30.
I had soup and some kind of veggie meat in a sandwich for lunch at home today.
Just before the light began to fade from our valley, I lit candles, drank a little sweet red wine, and ate some challah to welcome a new Shabbat.
Later, I walked over to the green strip and sat there for some time, enjoying the lovely evening. Then I walked up to Harim Road and walked all the way to its southern end, petting a couple of friendly cats there before return back home.
I leave you with a verse from Psalm 34 that is meaningful to me at this time:
I taught only one 2-unit Berlitz lesson today: 11:00-12:30.
I had soup and some kind of veggie meat in a sandwich for lunch at home today.
Just before the light began to fade from our valley, I lit candles, drank a little sweet red wine, and ate some challah to welcome a new Shabbat.
Later, I walked over to the green strip and sat there for some time, enjoying the lovely evening. Then I walked up to Harim Road and walked all the way to its southern end, petting a couple of friendly cats there before return back home.
I leave you with a verse from Psalm 34 that is meaningful to me at this time:
קרוב יי לנשברי-לב ואת-דכאי-רוח יושיע
Close is the Eternal to the broken-hearted, and the depressed in spirit the Holy One will save.
Thursday, November 19, 2015
Thursday, 19 November 2015
I got up bright and early this morning and went for a lovely walk before dawn. There was a definite "chill" in the air this morning, although I was comfortable (but just barely) wearing sandals (no socks), short pants, and a t-shirt.
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 10:30-12:00, 12:00-1:30, 3:00-4:30, and 6:30-8:00.
Between my last 2 classes, I took another walked for more than 40 minutes.
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 10:30-12:00, 12:00-1:30, 3:00-4:30, and 6:30-8:00.
Between my last 2 classes, I took another walked for more than 40 minutes.
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
Wednesday, 18 November 2015
I woke up quite tired this morning and so didn't get up until very late. I only went out for a walk AFTER my first lesson.
I taught 7 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45, 12:00-1:30, 4:00-5:30, and 6:30-8:00.
I had Heinz's beans and vegan weenies, with a salad on the side, for lunch at home today.
After lunch, I decided to take the records (LPs) I'm getting rid of down to the trash. I was actually planning to leave them next to the bin rather than putting them in it, but a woman who happened to be out there stopped me and was interested in them. She lives in Jerusalem, but her son and his family live in an apartment on the ground floor of my building. So I instead left them with her. I was very happy that someone actually wanted them!
I taught 7 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45, 12:00-1:30, 4:00-5:30, and 6:30-8:00.
I had Heinz's beans and vegan weenies, with a salad on the side, for lunch at home today.
After lunch, I decided to take the records (LPs) I'm getting rid of down to the trash. I was actually planning to leave them next to the bin rather than putting them in it, but a woman who happened to be out there stopped me and was interested in them. She lives in Jerusalem, but her son and his family live in an apartment on the ground floor of my building. So I instead left them with her. I was very happy that someone actually wanted them!
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Tuesday, 17 November 2015
I slept well and also LONG last night, and didn't get up until 7:00, which is VERY late for me. But, for some reason, I just needed the sleep.
I enjoyed the WIZO English speakers' meeting this morning, as always.
After the meeting, David and Bassia came with me to my house to have a look at the things I have and to talk a bit about what might be useful to bring when the 3 of us move in together. Then I took them home.
I had a vegan breast and tomato sandwich for lunch today, with water to drink and carob-peanut spread on the end-piece of the bread for dessert.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today, all to people in France (in the middle lesson, they actually talked briefly about the terrible attacks in Paris -- one of the 2 students lives in the Paris area): 3:00-4:30, 5:00-6:30, and 6:30-8:00.
I enjoyed the WIZO English speakers' meeting this morning, as always.
After the meeting, David and Bassia came with me to my house to have a look at the things I have and to talk a bit about what might be useful to bring when the 3 of us move in together. Then I took them home.
I had a vegan breast and tomato sandwich for lunch today, with water to drink and carob-peanut spread on the end-piece of the bread for dessert.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today, all to people in France (in the middle lesson, they actually talked briefly about the terrible attacks in Paris -- one of the 2 students lives in the Paris area): 3:00-4:30, 5:00-6:30, and 6:30-8:00.
Monday, November 16, 2015
Monday, 16 November 2015
I woke up early this morning and quite well rested, and so I got in a very nice morning walk in really pleasant weather.
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:30-11:00, 2:30-4:00, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
I had some people who were about to buy my car today. They took it to a mechanic to be checked, and he told them it was in excellent condition. But they didn't have cash, so they said they'd apply to the bank for a loan. However, a little later, the young woman (whose car it was to be) sent me a polite note saying she didn't want it. Actually, I think the bank probably refused to give her a loan. Oh well.
I had a cheese and tomato sandwich, additional cheese, and half a white chocolate bar for lunch at home today.
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:30-11:00, 2:30-4:00, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
I had some people who were about to buy my car today. They took it to a mechanic to be checked, and he told them it was in excellent condition. But they didn't have cash, so they said they'd apply to the bank for a loan. However, a little later, the young woman (whose car it was to be) sent me a polite note saying she didn't want it. Actually, I think the bank probably refused to give her a loan. Oh well.
I had a cheese and tomato sandwich, additional cheese, and half a white chocolate bar for lunch at home today.
Sunday, November 15, 2015
Sunday, 15 November 2015
I woke up a bit late and tired this morning, but I still went out for a nice morning walk -- very refreshing and invigorating!
I did the weekly grocery shopping at Shufersal today.
In the early afternoon, my friend, Moshe, came over to see which of my records and CDs he might like. He took a few of the records and a larger number of CDs. I also took the opportunity to see which ones I wanted to keep. I threw away the rest of the CDs, and later I'll do the same with the records I don't want.
I had a vegan schnitzel, a salad, a couple of cookies, and a little halva for lunch at home today.
In the evening, 2 women came to look at my car. The younger, who needs a car, took it for a little drive (I went along, of course), and they clearly liked it. Tomorrow, they'll return and take it to a shop to be checked. I think there's a pretty good chance they'll buy it, so I'm happy about that.
I did the weekly grocery shopping at Shufersal today.
In the early afternoon, my friend, Moshe, came over to see which of my records and CDs he might like. He took a few of the records and a larger number of CDs. I also took the opportunity to see which ones I wanted to keep. I threw away the rest of the CDs, and later I'll do the same with the records I don't want.
I had a vegan schnitzel, a salad, a couple of cookies, and a little halva for lunch at home today.
In the evening, 2 women came to look at my car. The younger, who needs a car, took it for a little drive (I went along, of course), and they clearly liked it. Tomorrow, they'll return and take it to a shop to be checked. I think there's a pretty good chance they'll buy it, so I'm happy about that.
Saturday, November 14, 2015
Shabbat, 14 November 2015
I slept very well last night but had a little trouble dragging myself out of bed in the morning. Nevertheless, I went out a bit late for a lovely morning walk.
In the late morning, I watched the BCC (Beth Chayim Chadashim) service from last night and enjoyed it very much.
Before lunch I took a short nap with the warm sun shining on my body through the open bedroom window. It felt wonderful.
I had a cheese and tomato sandwich for lunch at home today.
Between about 3:00 and 4:30, I drove up on highway 12 to Nakhal Shlomo, parked the car just off the road, and walked to the end of the nakhal. It was very nice out, and I felt comfortable wearing just socks and shoes, short pants, and a tank top. Part of the walk was in the sun, but mostly I was in the shade.
In the early evening, I talked with Joyce, David's sister in Ohio.
In the late morning, I watched the BCC (Beth Chayim Chadashim) service from last night and enjoyed it very much.
Before lunch I took a short nap with the warm sun shining on my body through the open bedroom window. It felt wonderful.
I had a cheese and tomato sandwich for lunch at home today.
Between about 3:00 and 4:30, I drove up on highway 12 to Nakhal Shlomo, parked the car just off the road, and walked to the end of the nakhal. It was very nice out, and I felt comfortable wearing just socks and shoes, short pants, and a tank top. Part of the walk was in the sun, but mostly I was in the shade.
In the early evening, I talked with Joyce, David's sister in Ohio.
Friday, November 13, 2015
Friday, 13 November 2015
I had trouble getting to sleep last night, but I eventually did and slept well. However, I didn't get up in time for a walk, and I was also a bit depressed and anxious when I first woke up. I felt better after I got up, though, of course, and I did walk down before breakfast to buy challah for Shabbat.
I taught 4 units of Berlitz lessons today, back to back: 10:00-11:30 and 11:30-1:00. The first student was located in the south of France, and the second one in Finland.
I went to an appointment with my psychiatrist today at 1:30, and it was good to be able to talk a little with him about my current crisis. I'm thankful that at least I'm not at all suicidal -- that would REALLY scare me!
I had a simple lunch of vegan weenies wrapped in a whole-wheat tortilla, chips and salsa, and another tortilla with carob-peanut spread. For dessert, I ate half of a white chocolate bar.
As the sun was about to disappear from our beautiful valley, I lit candles (and sang the blessing while gazing out the window at the mountains of Edom), drank a little sweet red wine (after singing the blessing while looking the other direction at a mountain in Egypt -- the blessing specifically mentions the exodus from Egypt), and ate a bite of challah to welcome Shabbat.
In the evening, I spent some time composing a message which I plan to send out to a list of close friends and family members, probably tomorrow, telling more details about my current situation. I also plan to post it for friends on Facebook.
I leave you with the first words from the 23rd Psalm, which I took as a personal promise to me this morning when I was feeling anxious:
I taught 4 units of Berlitz lessons today, back to back: 10:00-11:30 and 11:30-1:00. The first student was located in the south of France, and the second one in Finland.
I went to an appointment with my psychiatrist today at 1:30, and it was good to be able to talk a little with him about my current crisis. I'm thankful that at least I'm not at all suicidal -- that would REALLY scare me!
I had a simple lunch of vegan weenies wrapped in a whole-wheat tortilla, chips and salsa, and another tortilla with carob-peanut spread. For dessert, I ate half of a white chocolate bar.
As the sun was about to disappear from our beautiful valley, I lit candles (and sang the blessing while gazing out the window at the mountains of Edom), drank a little sweet red wine (after singing the blessing while looking the other direction at a mountain in Egypt -- the blessing specifically mentions the exodus from Egypt), and ate a bite of challah to welcome Shabbat.
In the evening, I spent some time composing a message which I plan to send out to a list of close friends and family members, probably tomorrow, telling more details about my current situation. I also plan to post it for friends on Facebook.
I leave you with the first words from the 23rd Psalm, which I took as a personal promise to me this morning when I was feeling anxious:
The Eternal is my shepherd, I will lack nothing יי רועי לא אחסר
Thursday, November 12, 2015
Thursday, 12 November 2015
I got up early this morning and got in a great walk. I even jogged a couple of times (about a block or 2 each) during the walk.
I taught only 4 units of Berlitz lessons today (and the 2nd 2-unit lesson turned out to actually be a late cancellation): 10:00-11:30 and 3:00-4:30.
I showed the car today to someone who was interested, but he thought the mileage was too high and didn't really want a manual. The price he was willing to pay was too low for me to go. At least someone was finally interested in it.
I had a salad and a vegan "chicken" breast sandwich for lunch at home today. I also finished some ice cream that I had.
In the early evening, I took 12 boxes full of books to Fay's place.
I taught only 4 units of Berlitz lessons today (and the 2nd 2-unit lesson turned out to actually be a late cancellation): 10:00-11:30 and 3:00-4:30.
I showed the car today to someone who was interested, but he thought the mileage was too high and didn't really want a manual. The price he was willing to pay was too low for me to go. At least someone was finally interested in it.
I had a salad and a vegan "chicken" breast sandwich for lunch at home today. I also finished some ice cream that I had.
In the early evening, I took 12 boxes full of books to Fay's place.
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Wednesday, 11 November 2015
I got up early this morning and got a nice walk in. My heel seems less sore today, and I wore socks and shoes this morning for the first time in many months. I even jogged a little for 2 short blocks!
I taught 5 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45, 10:00-11:30, and 11:30-1:00.
I received my first call inquiring about the car today. They will probably be looking at it tomorrow.
I had Heinz's beans and little vegan weenies for lunch at home today.
After lunch, I took a bag of shoes to WIZO (and left it there, even though they weren't open). Then I tried to take 4 boxes of books to the library, but they wouldn't accept any. Next, I went to an office supply store to buy more boxes (I bought 10 of them).
Later, I called Fay, and she said I can bring the books to her place. This is good, because I really can't bear to just throw them away.
In the evening, I packed 6 more boxes full of books to give away, and there's still more than enough to fill at least one more box. If I sell my car, I'll have the additional problem of how to get them all to Fay's house.
I taught 5 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45, 10:00-11:30, and 11:30-1:00.
I received my first call inquiring about the car today. They will probably be looking at it tomorrow.
I had Heinz's beans and little vegan weenies for lunch at home today.
After lunch, I took a bag of shoes to WIZO (and left it there, even though they weren't open). Then I tried to take 4 boxes of books to the library, but they wouldn't accept any. Next, I went to an office supply store to buy more boxes (I bought 10 of them).
Later, I called Fay, and she said I can bring the books to her place. This is good, because I really can't bear to just throw them away.
In the evening, I packed 6 more boxes full of books to give away, and there's still more than enough to fill at least one more box. If I sell my car, I'll have the additional problem of how to get them all to Fay's house.
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
Tuesday, 10 November 2015
I slept weirdly in the latter part of the night and got up too late to go for a walk. Also, the problem with my right heel is still there, and I still can't tell exactly what it is.
I enjoyed the WIZO meeting this morning, as always. My new friend, Bassia, gave an extemporaneous talk about her love of languages and language-learning. Quite impressive!
I had Brussel sprouts and a cheese-and-tomato sandwich for lunch at home today.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 3:00-4:30, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
I enjoyed the WIZO meeting this morning, as always. My new friend, Bassia, gave an extemporaneous talk about her love of languages and language-learning. Quite impressive!
I had Brussel sprouts and a cheese-and-tomato sandwich for lunch at home today.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 3:00-4:30, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
Monday, November 9, 2015
Monday, 9 November 2015
I woke up early enough to go out for a walk, and I started on it. But my right heel was hurting at the side, and I was afraid that too much walking might make it worse, so I came back home after only walking around the block. I'm still not sure what's wrong with that heal except that it's only on the skin. I don't really SEE anything, though.
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-10:30, 11:00-12:30, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
At my big break, I drove over to the big Shufersal to try to get some empty cardboard boxes, but they had already all been crushed. While I was over in the area, though, I decided to get falafel for lunch at Mercaz Big.
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-10:30, 11:00-12:30, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
At my big break, I drove over to the big Shufersal to try to get some empty cardboard boxes, but they had already all been crushed. While I was over in the area, though, I decided to get falafel for lunch at Mercaz Big.
Sunday, November 8, 2015
Sunday, 8 November 2015
I got up early this morning and so got in another wonderfully pleasant walk.
In the morning, I drove over to the used car dealer to see if I could sell my car to them. They told me, though, that they don't BUY cars -- they only accept trade-ins. So, that was that. I'll have to continue trying to sell it privately. Today, I lowered the price to 27,000 shekels, which gets you a red 2011 Fiat Panda with a 5-speed manual transmission and about 129,000 km on the odometer. This is WELL under the book price, so grab it quick while it's still available!
After that, I went to Shufersal and did my weekly grocery shopping.
Later in the morning, I refilled the 4 boxes I have with more books to give away, but I didn't take them to the library yet.
For lunch, I had a sandwich with whole-wheat bread, vegan chicken breasts, tomato, barbecue sauce, and mayonnaise. It was delicious!
After lunch, I went to the pharmacy to pick up my monthly prescriptions and a couple of other items.
Later on, I sorted through my shoes and flip flops and set aside those that I'll give away.
I had an interesting experience this afternoon. Someone called taking a survey about how I was treated by the police. I generally gave them very high ratings because they were very professional and compassionate in all their dealings with me. I was glad to do this for them, and also pleased that I was able to do it in Hebrew, although the interviewer had to repeat several of the questions before I got what he was asking.
After the sun disappeared between the mountains but before it got dark, I walked over to the green strip and sat there a bit. Than I walked up it, turned left, and walked all the way to the end of Harim Road before returning back home. It was so lovely out!
In the morning, I drove over to the used car dealer to see if I could sell my car to them. They told me, though, that they don't BUY cars -- they only accept trade-ins. So, that was that. I'll have to continue trying to sell it privately. Today, I lowered the price to 27,000 shekels, which gets you a red 2011 Fiat Panda with a 5-speed manual transmission and about 129,000 km on the odometer. This is WELL under the book price, so grab it quick while it's still available!
After that, I went to Shufersal and did my weekly grocery shopping.
Later in the morning, I refilled the 4 boxes I have with more books to give away, but I didn't take them to the library yet.
For lunch, I had a sandwich with whole-wheat bread, vegan chicken breasts, tomato, barbecue sauce, and mayonnaise. It was delicious!
After lunch, I went to the pharmacy to pick up my monthly prescriptions and a couple of other items.
Later on, I sorted through my shoes and flip flops and set aside those that I'll give away.
I had an interesting experience this afternoon. Someone called taking a survey about how I was treated by the police. I generally gave them very high ratings because they were very professional and compassionate in all their dealings with me. I was glad to do this for them, and also pleased that I was able to do it in Hebrew, although the interviewer had to repeat several of the questions before I got what he was asking.
After the sun disappeared between the mountains but before it got dark, I walked over to the green strip and sat there a bit. Than I walked up it, turned left, and walked all the way to the end of Harim Road before returning back home. It was so lovely out!
Saturday, November 7, 2015
Shabbat, 7 November 2015
I got up early and got in another lovely walk this morning.
Later in the morning, I watched the BCC service from last night.
I enjoyed a delicious lunch and good conversation with my friends, Basia and David, at their place today.
In the evening, I took 4 boxes brimming full of books to the WIZO book exchange at Fay's house.
Later in the morning, I watched the BCC service from last night.
I enjoyed a delicious lunch and good conversation with my friends, Basia and David, at their place today.
In the evening, I took 4 boxes brimming full of books to the WIZO book exchange at Fay's house.
Friday, November 6, 2015
Friday, 6 November 2015
I got up early this morning and got in a GREAT morning walk. Such perfect weather for walking! I wore a t-shirt and was comfortable, but a tank top probably would have sufficed. I also walked down a little later to recycle cardboard and buy challah for Shabbat.
I taught 4 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:30-11:00 and 11:30-1:00.
I went with my friend, Basia, to look at an apartment today that she and her husband and I may possibly share. We were quite impressed, and both of us felt that it could meet our needs. There are a number of details to be worked out, but it looks like it may be a great solution for me especially.
I had a can of Mexican-style brown beans for lunch at home. It was just slightly spicy-hot, but very good.
I filled the 4 empty boxes I had with books to be given away today, but it's only a small fraction of the books I intend to get rid of.
At the sun disappeared between the Eilat Mountains this evening, I lit candles, drank a bit of sweet wine, and ate a bite of challah to welcome Shabbat.
Some verses about a new beginning, from the beginning of Psalm 40:
I taught 4 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:30-11:00 and 11:30-1:00.
I went with my friend, Basia, to look at an apartment today that she and her husband and I may possibly share. We were quite impressed, and both of us felt that it could meet our needs. There are a number of details to be worked out, but it looks like it may be a great solution for me especially.
I had a can of Mexican-style brown beans for lunch at home. It was just slightly spicy-hot, but very good.
I filled the 4 empty boxes I had with books to be given away today, but it's only a small fraction of the books I intend to get rid of.
At the sun disappeared between the Eilat Mountains this evening, I lit candles, drank a bit of sweet wine, and ate a bite of challah to welcome Shabbat.
Some verses about a new beginning, from the beginning of Psalm 40:
קוה קויתי יי ויט אלי וישמע שועתי:
ויעלני מבור שאון מטיט היון ויקם על-סלע רגלי כונן אשרי:
ויתן בפי שיר חדש תהלה לאלהינו
I waited patiently for the Eternal, who bent to me and heard my cry,
And raised me from the pit of despair, from the mire,
and set my feet on the rock and established my footsteps,
And put into my mouth a new song, a prayer to our God.
Thursday, November 5, 2015
Thursday, 5 November 2015
I woke up early this morning but didn't feel really good. Also, there was still obviously a lot of dust in the air, so I decided NOT to get up and go for a walk and, instead, lay in bed for about another hour. Pascal (my cat) appreciated the attention that he got as a result. LOL
Today was a VERY long day -- I taught 12 units (NINE hours!) of Berlitz lessons: 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.
I ate a simple cheese and tomato sandwich for lunch at home today. After lunch, I continued sorting my books into ones I'll keep and ones I'll give away.
In the afternoon, we got a bit of welcome rain. I had all the windows in the house open most of the day today, including during the rain, and yet I was comfortable sitting shirtless at my desk. Beautiful weather!
On this day 121 years ago, in 1894, my dad, Benton Wareham, was born in Ft. Benton, Montana, a town on the banks of the Missouri River. I have visited there twice, the first time with my family (including my dad) when I was a kid, and the the second time with David, in 2002.
Today was a VERY long day -- I taught 12 units (NINE hours!) of Berlitz lessons: 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.
I ate a simple cheese and tomato sandwich for lunch at home today. After lunch, I continued sorting my books into ones I'll keep and ones I'll give away.
In the afternoon, we got a bit of welcome rain. I had all the windows in the house open most of the day today, including during the rain, and yet I was comfortable sitting shirtless at my desk. Beautiful weather!
On this day 121 years ago, in 1894, my dad, Benton Wareham, was born in Ft. Benton, Montana, a town on the banks of the Missouri River. I have visited there twice, the first time with my family (including my dad) when I was a kid, and the the second time with David, in 2002.
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Wednesday, 4 November 2015
I slept a little irregularly last night and didn't feel very good this morning. This is at least partly because I have some kind of cold or sinus disturbance. I'm not sure which yet. In any case, I didn't get out for a walk at all.
I taught 7 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45, 10:00-11:30, 2:30-4:00, and 6:30-8:00.
I ate lunch at home and didn't go out at all today except for a short walk to the green strip before my last class. I was feeling a bit depressed today and having some trouble shaking it.
I taught 7 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45, 10:00-11:30, 2:30-4:00, and 6:30-8:00.
I ate lunch at home and didn't go out at all today except for a short walk to the green strip before my last class. I was feeling a bit depressed today and having some trouble shaking it.
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
Tuesday, 3 November 2015
I got up early and had a wonderful walk this morning.
I especially enjoyed today's WIZO meeting. A woman told us about and led us in a session of "laugh yoga", and it was really great!
I had an appointment with the urologist today, and he checked my prostate. He told me that it is NOT enlarged and ordered another PSA test to be done in 2 months. The only reason for the visit was that my PSA level in the test a couple of weeks ago was 6.2, whereas the top of the "normal" range is supposed to be 4.
I ate a cheese and tomato sandwich for lunch at home today.
I taught 4 units of Berlitz lesson today: 3:00-4:30 and 5:00-6:30.
I especially enjoyed today's WIZO meeting. A woman told us about and led us in a session of "laugh yoga", and it was really great!
I had an appointment with the urologist today, and he checked my prostate. He told me that it is NOT enlarged and ordered another PSA test to be done in 2 months. The only reason for the visit was that my PSA level in the test a couple of weeks ago was 6.2, whereas the top of the "normal" range is supposed to be 4.
I ate a cheese and tomato sandwich for lunch at home today.
I taught 4 units of Berlitz lesson today: 3:00-4:30 and 5:00-6:30.
Monday, November 2, 2015
Monday, 2 November 2015
I slept quite well last night but woke up tired and got up late. So I didn't go out for a walk at all.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 10:00-11:30, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
I had to resolve a problem with my ISP that was causing me not to be able to get to the Berlitz website at all. The tech person from Berlitz gave me a work-around so that I could teach my first lesson, but I had to get on the phone to HOT Net to get the Berlitz site unblocked. This happened once before, as well, and I have NO idea why.
My friend and I ate lunch today at the Gulf Restaurant and then spent a little additional time together. She got the good news that her husband will be released from the hospital and will return home tomorrow.
I taught 6 units of Berlitz lessons today: 10:00-11:30, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
I had to resolve a problem with my ISP that was causing me not to be able to get to the Berlitz website at all. The tech person from Berlitz gave me a work-around so that I could teach my first lesson, but I had to get on the phone to HOT Net to get the Berlitz site unblocked. This happened once before, as well, and I have NO idea why.
My friend and I ate lunch today at the Gulf Restaurant and then spent a little additional time together. She got the good news that her husband will be released from the hospital and will return home tomorrow.
Sunday, November 1, 2015
Sunday, 1 November 2015
I got up early this morning and had a wonderful walk. I was very comfortable the whole time in a t-shirt, short pants, and sandals.
After breakfast, I did the weekly grocery shopping at Shufersal.
During the day, I managed to sort out the things to keep and the things to get rid of in David's desk and its bookcases and in 3 of the 4 bookcases in my office.
In the evening, I went over and spent some time with my new friend, Basia. The company was good for both of us.
After breakfast, I did the weekly grocery shopping at Shufersal.
During the day, I managed to sort out the things to keep and the things to get rid of in David's desk and its bookcases and in 3 of the 4 bookcases in my office.
In the evening, I went over and spent some time with my new friend, Basia. The company was good for both of us.
Saturday, October 31, 2015
Shabbat, 31 October 2015
I woke up feeling a bit off this morning and didn't quite manage to get up and go out for a walk.
I spent much of the day visiting a new friend whose husband is in the hospital. She was quite anxious about it, and I know my company helped to calm and comfort her. And I enjoyed the day, getting to know her better.
In the afternoon, I talked with David's sister, Joyce, in Ohio, and we enjoyed a nice chat.
In the evening, I began sorting things from the drawers in David's desk, something which proved to be more difficult and emotional than I had thought, but at least I did it.
I spent much of the day visiting a new friend whose husband is in the hospital. She was quite anxious about it, and I know my company helped to calm and comfort her. And I enjoyed the day, getting to know her better.
In the afternoon, I talked with David's sister, Joyce, in Ohio, and we enjoyed a nice chat.
In the evening, I began sorting things from the drawers in David's desk, something which proved to be more difficult and emotional than I had thought, but at least I did it.
Friday, October 30, 2015
Friday, 30 October 2015
I got up nice and early and got in a great walk this morning. Today, I wore a t-shirt and felt just perfect. Later, still before breakfast, I also walked down to recycle cardboard and buy challah for Shabbat.
I taught 5 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-10:30 (to a student who is from Burma and lives in Singapore) and 11:00-1:15.
Just before the light was set to fade from our freshly washed valley, I lit candles, drank a bit of sweet red wine, and ate challah to welcome Shabbat.
In the evening, I did all the work for week 5 of my Swift programming class (watched the videos and took the quiz).
I leave you with the last verse of the first Psalm:
I taught 5 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-10:30 (to a student who is from Burma and lives in Singapore) and 11:00-1:15.
Just before the light was set to fade from our freshly washed valley, I lit candles, drank a bit of sweet red wine, and ate challah to welcome Shabbat.
In the evening, I did all the work for week 5 of my Swift programming class (watched the videos and took the quiz).
I leave you with the last verse of the first Psalm:
כי-יודע יי דרך צדיקים ודרך רשעים תאבד
For the Eternal knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.
[my translation]
Thursday, October 29, 2015
Thursday, 29 October 2015
I got up early this morning and went out for a great walk. I met a beautiful calico cat who was a little afraid at first but eventually let me pet her and purred and begged for more. She followed me for about a block. Later in the walk, a big long-haired yellow cat let me pet him, too. I also took some nice pics of the sunrise of the Jordanian mountains.
I taught 11 units (eight and a quarter hours!) of Berlitz lesson today: 9:30-11:00, 11:15-1:30, 3:00-4:30, 5:00-6:30, and 6:30-8:00.
I had a red bell pepper and a tomato and cheese sandwich for lunch at home today.
I taught 11 units (eight and a quarter hours!) of Berlitz lesson today: 9:30-11:00, 11:15-1:30, 3:00-4:30, 5:00-6:30, and 6:30-8:00.
I had a red bell pepper and a tomato and cheese sandwich for lunch at home today.
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Wednesday, 28 October 2015
I slept quite well last night, until about 2:30 a.m. After that, I don't think I slept at all, but I didn't get up until 5:00. Then I went out for a very lovely walk, and I actually wore a tank top!
At just after 8:00 a.m., I arrived at the police station as they had requested me to do last night. But they didn't get around to actually talking to me until about 9:00 a.m. The charges Me'ir is bringing against me are serious but astoundingly unbelievable: rape, punching, assault with a knife, theft. They are, of course, completely unrooted in reality. He has apparently gone mad. I refrained from saying much other than firmly denying all of them. I don't think the police believe him much either, but they have to investigate, of course. I doubt that any charges will actually formally be brought against me.
After I was finished there, I went over to Moshe's house, and he took me out to lunch at the Gulf Restaurant, which I greatly enjoyed.
After that, I went to the cell phone company (Pelephone) to cancel the phone number that I have been letting Me'ir use (at my expense). He will no longer have service at that number (he does have another one that he had before I even met him), and the phone will be considered stolen and therefore cannot be activated at ANY cell phone company.
Next, I cleared junk out of my car and took it to the car wash for a thorough washing inside and out. Now, she's looking nice and ready to be sold. Moshe put an ad on the internet and also sent me a version to print and put in the window of the car.
I was originally scheduled to teach 4 units of Berlitz lessons today, but at about 10:00 a.m. I called the office to cancel my 12:00, fearing that I wouldn't get out of the police station by then. As it turned out, I did, but it's good that I canceled it anyway. So, I only taught one 2-unit lesson: 6:30-8:00.
At just after 8:00 a.m., I arrived at the police station as they had requested me to do last night. But they didn't get around to actually talking to me until about 9:00 a.m. The charges Me'ir is bringing against me are serious but astoundingly unbelievable: rape, punching, assault with a knife, theft. They are, of course, completely unrooted in reality. He has apparently gone mad. I refrained from saying much other than firmly denying all of them. I don't think the police believe him much either, but they have to investigate, of course. I doubt that any charges will actually formally be brought against me.
After I was finished there, I went over to Moshe's house, and he took me out to lunch at the Gulf Restaurant, which I greatly enjoyed.
After that, I went to the cell phone company (Pelephone) to cancel the phone number that I have been letting Me'ir use (at my expense). He will no longer have service at that number (he does have another one that he had before I even met him), and the phone will be considered stolen and therefore cannot be activated at ANY cell phone company.
Next, I cleared junk out of my car and took it to the car wash for a thorough washing inside and out. Now, she's looking nice and ready to be sold. Moshe put an ad on the internet and also sent me a version to print and put in the window of the car.
I was originally scheduled to teach 4 units of Berlitz lessons today, but at about 10:00 a.m. I called the office to cancel my 12:00, fearing that I wouldn't get out of the police station by then. As it turned out, I did, but it's good that I canceled it anyway. So, I only taught one 2-unit lesson: 6:30-8:00.
Tuesday, October 27, 2015
Tuesday, 27 October 2015
I slept well last night but got up late this morning and didn't go out walking.
I decided NOT to go to the WIZO meeting today because I just wasn't feeling up to it.
I spent the entire afternoon and evening with the police, mostly at the station. Don't ask! But also don't worry -- everything's okay.
When they released me, I walked to where my car was parked and then drove home. So, I got my walk in, after all, and it was mostly uphill, to boot. :-)
I have decided to sell my car (I need the money), so if anyone wants to buy a wonderful 2011 Fiat Panda, just let me know.
I decided NOT to go to the WIZO meeting today because I just wasn't feeling up to it.
I spent the entire afternoon and evening with the police, mostly at the station. Don't ask! But also don't worry -- everything's okay.
When they released me, I walked to where my car was parked and then drove home. So, I got my walk in, after all, and it was mostly uphill, to boot. :-)
I have decided to sell my car (I need the money), so if anyone wants to buy a wonderful 2011 Fiat Panda, just let me know.
Monday, October 26, 2015
Monday, 26 October 2015
I got home late last night after accompanying my friend to the ER. I then slept for about 2 hours and woke up. I was basically unable to sleep any more due to serious worrying, which, in this case, I didn't succeed in turning off in my mind. I still believe that all will be well eventually, but it's NOT now, and I don't know how long it will be until it is.
I was scheduled for 6 units of Berlitz lessons today (3 classes), but the middle one turned out to be a late cancellation because this student's microphone wasn't working: 11:00-12:30, 4:30-6:00, and 6:00-7:30.
I had a vegan schnitzel sandwich and Brussel sprouts for lunch at home today.
I was scheduled for 6 units of Berlitz lessons today (3 classes), but the middle one turned out to be a late cancellation because this student's microphone wasn't working: 11:00-12:30, 4:30-6:00, and 6:00-7:30.
I had a vegan schnitzel sandwich and Brussel sprouts for lunch at home today.
Sunday, October 25, 2015
Sunday, 25 October 2015
I got up early enough this morning to get in a nice walk. Last night we set our clocks back, and I had deliberately gone to bed later to be ready for the new time.
I did the weekly grocery shopping this morning at Shufersal, spending less than 50 shekels.
I ate a simple lunch at home today.
Between 2:00 and 3:00 p.m. today, a winter storm arrived here in Eilat with STRONG winds, and we got our first real rain of the season. There was even some lightning and thunder!
Around 5:00 p.m., I called my friend Me'ir, and it's a good thing I did. He had apparently gone out on his rooftop balcony when the wind came up to take a video of it, but he had slipped and fallen, and one of his glass patio tables had blown over and fallen on top of him and broken. When I called, he had been lying there for about 2 hours! Luckily, his phone was there with him (he had been using it to make the video), and so he was able to answer. It was also fortunate that his door was unlocked so that I could get in. The glass didn't break into sharp splinters, so there were also no cuts or blood.
I managed to help him up and into the apartment, but he was complaining of a lot of pain in his left leg and his head. We called the Maccabi nurses' hotline (and had to wait and wait), and they sent an ambulance out to take him to the hospital. I followed in my car.
At the ER, they did a CT scan and determined that he had suffered a concussion. They gave him pain medicine and sent him home with instructions to stay at home and rest for a week. I didn't get back to my place until about 11:30.
I did the weekly grocery shopping this morning at Shufersal, spending less than 50 shekels.
I ate a simple lunch at home today.
Between 2:00 and 3:00 p.m. today, a winter storm arrived here in Eilat with STRONG winds, and we got our first real rain of the season. There was even some lightning and thunder!
Around 5:00 p.m., I called my friend Me'ir, and it's a good thing I did. He had apparently gone out on his rooftop balcony when the wind came up to take a video of it, but he had slipped and fallen, and one of his glass patio tables had blown over and fallen on top of him and broken. When I called, he had been lying there for about 2 hours! Luckily, his phone was there with him (he had been using it to make the video), and so he was able to answer. It was also fortunate that his door was unlocked so that I could get in. The glass didn't break into sharp splinters, so there were also no cuts or blood.
I managed to help him up and into the apartment, but he was complaining of a lot of pain in his left leg and his head. We called the Maccabi nurses' hotline (and had to wait and wait), and they sent an ambulance out to take him to the hospital. I followed in my car.
At the ER, they did a CT scan and determined that he had suffered a concussion. They gave him pain medicine and sent him home with instructions to stay at home and rest for a week. I didn't get back to my place until about 11:30.
Saturday, October 24, 2015
Shabbat, 24 October 2015
Some strange noise outside woke me up in the night last night, and I didn't get back to sleep for some time. When I woke up, I felt quite tired and then slept a bit more. In the end, I didn't go out for a walk at all.
I enjoyed watching last night's BCC (Beth Chayim Chadashim) services this morning.
I ate a simple lunch at home.
I completed week 4 of my Swift programming class today, getting a perfect score on the quiz on my first try. Then I continued tinkering around with some of the stuff I learned.
Just before dark, I walked over to the green strip and sat there for a while enjoying the evening. Then I walked up the strip and back home down our street.
Other than those things, I just relaxed at home today.
I enjoyed watching last night's BCC (Beth Chayim Chadashim) services this morning.
I ate a simple lunch at home.
I completed week 4 of my Swift programming class today, getting a perfect score on the quiz on my first try. Then I continued tinkering around with some of the stuff I learned.
Just before dark, I walked over to the green strip and sat there for a while enjoying the evening. Then I walked up the strip and back home down our street.
Other than those things, I just relaxed at home today.
Friday, October 23, 2015
Friday, 23 October 2015
I got up and had a nice walk this morning. It's still perfect weather for walking shirtless before sunrise here.
Later, I also walked down and bought challah for Shabbat.
I taught only 2 units of Berlitz today: 11:00-12:30.
I ate a simple lunch at home.
In the evening, I lit candles, drank a bit of sweet red wine, and ate a little challah to welcome the Shabbat Bride.
In this time of brutal attacks on the Jewish people, I leave you with the first 3 verses of Psalm 27:
Later, I also walked down and bought challah for Shabbat.
I taught only 2 units of Berlitz today: 11:00-12:30.
I ate a simple lunch at home.
In the evening, I lit candles, drank a bit of sweet red wine, and ate a little challah to welcome the Shabbat Bride.
In this time of brutal attacks on the Jewish people, I leave you with the first 3 verses of Psalm 27:
יי אורי וישעי ממי אירא
יי מעוז-חיי ממי אפחד:
בקרב עלי מרעים לאכל את-בשרי
צרי ואיבי לי המה כשלו ונפלו:
אם-תחנה עלי מחנה לא-יירא לבי
אם-תקום עלי מלחמה
בזאת אני בוטח:
The Eternal is my Light and my Salvation. Whom shall I fear?
The Eternal is the Fortress of my life. Of whom shall I be afraid?
When the wicked came to eat my flesh,
My foes and my enemies, they failed and fell.
If they set up camp against me, my heart will not fear;
If war comes upon me,
Even then will I trust.
Thursday, October 22, 2015
Thursday, 22 October 2015
I got to bed late again last night and so got up too late (again!) to go out for a morning walk.
I taught only 4 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-10:30 and 5:00-6:30.
I ate lunch at home, and the rest of the day, I just tried to relax.
I taught only 4 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-10:30 and 5:00-6:30.
I ate lunch at home, and the rest of the day, I just tried to relax.
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Wednesday, 21 October 2015
I got to bed late last night and so got up very late this morning and didn't go out for a walk.
I went to an appointment with my family doctor this morning to talk about one test whose results were outside of the normal range. My PSA level is too high. So, he referred me to a urologist, with whom I have scheduled an appointment on the 3rd of November.
I ate lunch with Me'ir today at the Gulf Restaurant.
I wasn't scheduled to teach ANY Berlitz lessons today, but I got called in as an emergency replacement about 20 minutes into a 2-unit lesson when the teachers cord to recharge her laptop wouldn't work and the battery was about to die. So, I got 2 unexpected units: 2:00-3:30.
In the evening just before dark (but after the sun had disappeared) I walked over to the green strip and sat there for a while. Then I walked up to Harim Rd. and walked a ways on it before returning home.
I went to an appointment with my family doctor this morning to talk about one test whose results were outside of the normal range. My PSA level is too high. So, he referred me to a urologist, with whom I have scheduled an appointment on the 3rd of November.
I ate lunch with Me'ir today at the Gulf Restaurant.
I wasn't scheduled to teach ANY Berlitz lessons today, but I got called in as an emergency replacement about 20 minutes into a 2-unit lesson when the teachers cord to recharge her laptop wouldn't work and the battery was about to die. So, I got 2 unexpected units: 2:00-3:30.
In the evening just before dark (but after the sun had disappeared) I walked over to the green strip and sat there for a while. Then I walked up to Harim Rd. and walked a ways on it before returning home.
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Tuesday, 20 October 2015
I slept well last night but woke up with quite a headache and just generally not feeling very good. I delayed getting up until quite late, but I still went out and walked for about half an hour.
As usual, I enjoyed today's English speakers' meeting at WIZO.
Me'ir and I had pad thai for lunch at Togarashi today (at Mercaz Big).
I taught 4 units of Berlitz lessons today: 3:00-4:30 and 4:45-6:15.
As usual, I enjoyed today's English speakers' meeting at WIZO.
Me'ir and I had pad thai for lunch at Togarashi today (at Mercaz Big).
I taught 4 units of Berlitz lessons today: 3:00-4:30 and 4:45-6:15.
Monday, October 19, 2015
Monday, 18 October 2015
I got up early this morning and went for a nice walk. It was a bit warm, even though I was shirtless, especially since it's already after the middle of October.
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-10:30, 11:00-12:30, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
I had half a can of beans, a tomato, and some red cabbage salad for lunch at home today.
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-10:30, 11:00-12:30, 5:00-6:30, and 7:00-8:30.
I had half a can of beans, a tomato, and some red cabbage salad for lunch at home today.
Sunday, October 18, 2015
Sunday, 18 October 2015
I got up early this morning after a good night's sleep and went for a lovely walk, shirtless, returning home just after 6:00 a.m.
I left all the windows in the apartment open last night and didn't even close them until nearly noon today. This weather is great!
I did the weekly grocery shopping this week and managed to spend a total of less than 40 shekels (about $10).
I ate lunch at home today and spent the entire day here, as well. I kept myself amused with iPad games, a book, and YouTube videos. I've found a number of interesting shows on YouTube, such a TestTube news, The Good Stuff, Geography Now!, and a few others. Most are largely for entertainment, but sometimes I do learn some interesting facts.
I left all the windows in the apartment open last night and didn't even close them until nearly noon today. This weather is great!
I did the weekly grocery shopping this week and managed to spend a total of less than 40 shekels (about $10).
I ate lunch at home today and spent the entire day here, as well. I kept myself amused with iPad games, a book, and YouTube videos. I've found a number of interesting shows on YouTube, such a TestTube news, The Good Stuff, Geography Now!, and a few others. Most are largely for entertainment, but sometimes I do learn some interesting facts.
Saturday, October 17, 2015
Shabbat, 17 October 2015
I got up and walked to the outdoor gym this morning and worked out a bit there before walking back home. I wore a tank top because it seemed a little cool out, but I took it off before I got back home because I was getting a little too hot.
I watched the recording of the BCC (Beth Chayim Chadashim) service from last night this morning. Two of my friends, Bracha and Davi, were leading and were celebrating being together for 36 years.
The rest of the day, I just stayed home except for a short walk to the green strip in the evening. I played games on my iPad and watched YouTube videos, including a really interesting hour-long one from the BBC about Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II, the 2 longest reigning monarchs in British history.
I watched the recording of the BCC (Beth Chayim Chadashim) service from last night this morning. Two of my friends, Bracha and Davi, were leading and were celebrating being together for 36 years.
The rest of the day, I just stayed home except for a short walk to the green strip in the evening. I played games on my iPad and watched YouTube videos, including a really interesting hour-long one from the BBC about Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II, the 2 longest reigning monarchs in British history.
Friday, October 16, 2015
Friday, 16 October 2015
I didn't sleep very well last night (and don't really know why) and so got up late and didn't go out for a walk. I did walk down and buy challah for Shabbat, though, of course.
I taught 5 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45, 10:00-11:30, and 11:30-1:00.
I just stayed home all day today.
In the evening, as the sun dipped below the Eilat Mountains to the west, I lit candles, drank a bit of sweet red wine, and ate a bite of challah to welcome the Shabbat Queen. The instant I start singing the blessing after lighting the candles, I can feel the difference.
This has been a tough week for Israel, especially for Jerusalem. As far as I know, we haven't had any terrorist attacks here in Eilat, but we can still feel the anxiety and pain of our people. And so I leave you with Psalm 121, the original Hebrew and my translation:
I taught 5 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45, 10:00-11:30, and 11:30-1:00.
I just stayed home all day today.
In the evening, as the sun dipped below the Eilat Mountains to the west, I lit candles, drank a bit of sweet red wine, and ate a bite of challah to welcome the Shabbat Queen. The instant I start singing the blessing after lighting the candles, I can feel the difference.
This has been a tough week for Israel, especially for Jerusalem. As far as I know, we haven't had any terrorist attacks here in Eilat, but we can still feel the anxiety and pain of our people. And so I leave you with Psalm 121, the original Hebrew and my translation:
שיר למעלות
אשא עיני אל-ההרים מאין יבא עזרי:
עזרי מעם יי עשה שמים וארץ:
אל-יתן למוט רגלך אל-ינום שמרך:
הנה לא-ינום ולא יישן שומר ישראל:
יי שמרך יי צלך אל-יד ימינך:
יומם השמש לא-יככה וירח בלילה:
יי ישמרך מכל-רע ישמר את-נפשך:
יי ישמר-צאתך ובואך מעתה ועד-עולם:
A song of ascents
I will lift my eyes to the mountains; from where will my help come?
My help is from The Eternal, Maker of the sky and the earth.
God will not let your feet slip; your Guard will not slumber.
See here! The Guard of Israel will not slumber and will not sleep.
The sun will not strike you by day, nor the moon by night.
The Eternal will guard you from all evil, will guard your soul.
God will guard your going out and your coming in from now until eternity.
Thursday, October 15, 2015
Thursday, 15 October 2015
I got up early this morning and got in my full regular walk. I still didn't need to wear a shirt or even a tank top, but it won't be long now before I will have to.
I went in this morning for routine blood tests. A few minutes ago, I got the results, and, not surprisingly, all were normal.
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 10:30-12:00, 12:00-1:30, 3:00-4:30, and 5:00-6:30.
I ate lunch at home.
I went in this morning for routine blood tests. A few minutes ago, I got the results, and, not surprisingly, all were normal.
I taught 8 units of Berlitz lessons today: 10:30-12:00, 12:00-1:30, 3:00-4:30, and 5:00-6:30.
I ate lunch at home.
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Wednesday, 14 October 2015
Last night my right foot began hurting for no known reason, and it was still hurting when I got up this morning. Perhaps walking on it wouldn't have made any difference, but I decided not to take the chance, so I didn't go out for a walk.
I taught only 5 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45, 10:00-11:30, and 4:00-5:30.
I ate grapes, cheese, and crackers for lunch at home.
In the evening, I began watching the videos for the 3rd week of my course about programming in Swift (Apple's new language for iOS and Mac OSX programming). Now things are beginning to get more complicated as we learn the more advanced features of Swift. It's good, though.
I taught only 5 units of Berlitz lessons today: 9:00-9:45, 10:00-11:30, and 4:00-5:30.
I ate grapes, cheese, and crackers for lunch at home.
In the evening, I began watching the videos for the 3rd week of my course about programming in Swift (Apple's new language for iOS and Mac OSX programming). Now things are beginning to get more complicated as we learn the more advanced features of Swift. It's good, though.
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