Yom Kippur in Israel

Shalom Chaverim(friends),


Wow. I am still in shock over the amazing two days I just experienced. Israeli's have told me that Yom Kippur in Israel was a remarkable day and that I was so lucky to be able to observe it here, but I had no idea it would be so meaningful. As a fairly secular Jew, I have never really fully observed Yom Kippur. Especially growing up in Indiana, being the only Jew in my school no one would even know the day was any different. But being here in Israel, everything shut down as the sun descended and you could feel the Chag(holiday) in the air. My wonderful roommates David, Shanee, and myself went to Janet's apartment in Herzliya to eat the pre Chag meal. Janet is an amazing lady who helped us in finding our apartment. In the evening we walked around the center of Herzliya. All the children were out in the streets on their bicycles and everyone was walking in the streets. No cars anywhere. Later in the evening we went to Herzliya Pituach to the beach. This was my first time back to the beach since my last time in Israel, three years ago. It was a long walk, but once we reached the sea I was in awe. Standing barefoot in the sand with the Mediterranean water rubbing up against my feet I couldn't believe I was actually there. This is what my Dad would call a "Shekianu moment" I stood gazing into the Sea feeling so grateful for my opportunity to be here in Israel at this pivotal time in my life. Awestruck, standing there you would never know there was any conflicts in the world. For those of you who know me, you know I am a pretty serious, worried person most of the time, but as I gazed into the sea and up to the stars I felt the most relaxed and happy in such a long time. The rest of the Chag our threesome rested and had many discussions. I wish I could have taken pictures of these amazing days, but no technology is allowed, which really made the time memorable. While it was difficult to fast, especially with no drinking, when the sun came down and we all broke the fast together, what an indescribable feeling. As  I sit here writing, I can't help to smile. While life here is not easy and as I continue to learn the language, I couldn't be more happy and grateful to be here. Mom and Dad, I love you both so much thanks for letting your crazy girl follow her heart. Until next time.
Shana tova!

Love,
Hannah Yael

The amazing Janet     

                                                                   Classic Israeli     dish-Shakshuka

 My lovely roommate, Shanee

 Our threesome 

First post from Israel!

Hi friends!
I am writing today from my apartment in Herzliya! It has been a couple crazy days here trying to get settled, but I am very happy to be here. There is still a lot to do, but thankfully I came early and have until mid October when school begins. Herzliya is a beautiful city and I cannot wait to explore more, as well as to see more of Israel. I must point out the contrast to the Israel we see on TV, and the Israel I see walking along the streets of Herzliya. I just returned from a very nice mall in the city, that has H&M, American Eagle, and Office Depot. People stroll around like any other western society. People don't worry about the serious external conflicts surrounding their country because there is nothing they can do but go on with their lives normally and enjoy everyday like anywhere in the world. Well, it's time to go make some Israeli dinner(love the food here!). Until next time.

Love,
Hannah Yael

 Around Herzliya

 Our Street

 My lovely roommate Shanee and I at the mall in Herzliya

 walking in the city

Headed to the airport!

Hi friends!

Thank you for the comments and views of my blog so far. I just wanted to say one last hello from America. I am headed to the airport now and will arrive in Israel Saturday afternoon! Long day of traveling ahead of me, but I am so ready and excited! There will be things I will miss about America, but traveling and experiencing other cultures around the world is how I have come to appreciate everything we have in this country as well as to never take anything for granted. Stay tuned for the next post from Israel :)

Love,
Hannah Yael

                                               Shalom to all my family, friends, and readers!

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog. This Friday I am heading to Israel, after almost three years! It has been way too long, and I am so excited to be returning. This time, for a bit longer and a very different experience; another experience of a lifetime. I will be attending Raphael Recanati International School(IDC Herzliya) receiving my Bachelor of Arts in Government. While I leave Friday, school does not begin until mid October, so I will have almost a month to get settled in Israel. For those of you who have spent time in Israel, you know how beautiful Israel truly is, but for the many who have not had the opportunity, my goal is to show the world what Israel has to offer for everyone, and what a beautiful country it is. I hope I will be able to illustrate Israel's beauty through my eyes. While today I write from my home in Indiana, be tuned for the next post from Israel.

 Love, Hannah Yael