A Couple of Fun Outings

There are a number of things that I've done in Israel and even more that I have yet to do. In the last couple of weeks I got to visit the Dome of the Rock for the first time. I have a number of thoughts regarding this area and one of them is that this building is quite stunning and I'm glad that I got to see it up close.

Walking along the ramparts of the Old City is also a really fun thing to do with kids (especially when they pretend to have bow and arrow fights defending the walls).

A Remote Wedding

This past weekend I got to attend (at least briefly) a wedding in Musoma. My guard for the last several years finally married his sweetheart. My housemate Sarah and I (along with some of our family members) were able to help them get married - Sarah wrote about it in a blog post here: Hongera Mr. Sakwa!

The wedding finally took place! I was very sad to not be there in person but was grateful that Sarah kept me updated all day long with pictures and I video-ed in for a portion of the wedding to congratulate Mr. Sakwa and his new bride Teo.

Here were some of the bridesmaids, I even have some video of them dancing down the aisle in celebration:

I think this is Mr. Sakwa smiling at me, knowing that Sarah is sending me the picture.

And here is the VERY happy couple!!!

Mr. Sakwa, his new wife, and Sarah:

I am so happy for them and wish them all the best!

Tu B'shvat - Happy Birthday to the Trees

It is more than arbor day, it is Tu B'Shvat. The 15th of Shvat on the Jewish calendar celebrates the birthday of the trees.

Trees were very key in the revival of the land of Israel. Many eucalyptus trees were planted towards the north to soak up swampy areas and lower the mosquito population which helped reduce malaria. Pine trees were planted in the Jerusalem area; they grow fast and make the hills all green.

Now every year on Tu B'Shvat Israelis across the country plant trees. So, we joined in! We planted several trees and bushes.

Following the planting of trees we also partook of the lovely dried fruit!

What Has The Last Week Held

It's been a busy week.

I visited Tel Aviv:

Was reminded of all the beautiful foods available here:

I found a silver and gift's shop named after me:

But most importantly spent time settling into my new home with this family. I will be helping them over the coming months as they study.