Staying in Touch: T -2

Karen, Me and Vivi

We have two days left in Israel and are making the most of them. Today, we pursued some much needed R + R and headed to the aqueduct beach in Caesarea. The beach was mostly deserted with the exception of a few jelly fish! We were joined by the Shemesh's along with Vivi Edri, and two of her boys Dunn and Yarden. Dunn is Adam's classmate and they were thrilled to see each other. Vivi is super sweet and kind and we were very glad to meet up with them. Spending time with friends so far from home is a treat like no other. After all, we're in ISRAEL!

Andrew, Gabe and Adam,
Along with Kobe and Dunn

The kids spent a good amount of time in the water exploring the break water, rocks, fish and what little reef there is. They dug in the sand, played games and really had a great time enjoying each other's company in an open environment and with unscheduled activities.

By mid-afternoon we parted with Vivi and family, as they had other plans for the remainder of their day. So we wished them good travels for their stay through August. Karen and family along with our family went to visit the antiquities in the Caesarea harbor and to have a later afternoon lunch. Caesarea is one of my favorite places in the world. I love the contradiction of the ancient and the modern, the ability to return to a place marked by history (world history as well as my own personal history), the beauty of the beach, and being able to sit seaside, while enjoying a fabulous meal, enjoying stunning views, with my family (and friends) by my side. The kids explored the old city once more (even if this was their 2nd or 3rd time there during this trip) and had fun telling their friends about what there was to see.

Perly, Gabe and Eduardo.

So much time was spent enjoying Caesarea that we didn't have enough of it left to go back to Mome and Leah's to shower before parting to Kiryat Yam north of Haifa to visit with Gabe's cousin Perly and family. So as sandy and sun-kissed as we were, we dusted ourselves off and headed north - the showers needed to wait! The empanadas and coffee were delightful and having an opportunity for the kids to see how Gabe enjoyed seeing his cousin (her husband Eduardo was Gabe's camp counsleor as well), was priceless.

We hope that in the last few weeks we have shown Andy and Adam the reaches of our family and have connected them to Israel as Jews and Zionists. Our family tree is branched out in many directions and that Andy and Adam hold an important place on our branch. We hope that their view of the world has broadened and know that at this age, their memories will carry forward with them. Earlier today they asked if they could come back to Israel every summer. (Not the first time I have heard this in the last few weeks). When I asked them what their favorite part has been so far (I ask almost everyday), Andrew replied ALL OF IT! Let's see what they say tomorrow!