October, 2002
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My long summer is officially over ... yesterday was the first day of Fall semester, so I thought I'd take this opportunity to let you know what's been happening here in Israel and with our latest travels.
The past few months have been wonderful, and we are taking every opportunity to enjoy life in the Holy Land. While we're still taking precautions like not riding buses or going to the big outdoor markets, we've been expanding our regular routine and able to see more of Jerusalem. For example, the city has been sponsoring a series of nightly festivals on Ben Yehuda, the large walking mall that is about 10 minutes from our apartment. They have concerts, artists, food, etc. all completely sealed off and ringed with security. They have been a nice way for people to get out and enjoy the city again, and very successful. The first time I went I couldn't believe how many people were crowded into the streets. Lots of good feeling and joy for people who have spent too long staying inside.
Much of my time has been either in class or studying, and it is paying off. I'm starting to put my language skills to work in a full courseload of Hebrew, biblical grammar, liturgy, Bible, Midrash (Biblical literature), Israeli history, modern Jewish thought, and cantillation (chanting the Torah). I'm sure that right now most of you are saying "wow, I wish I could be taking all those fun and exciting classes, too" ; ) The truth is that I'm happy to be expanding beyond the Hebrew ... it's been 10 years since I've had a full schedule of classes, and I can't wait to dive in!
Rachel Ann has been very busy with her budding computer business. She just met with her 3rd client, and is having a great time putting together video-photo montage projects. You know, the kind of thing you'd see at a wedding or Bar Mitzvah where someone takes all these photos of someone and puts them together with fun music and cool digital effects. She's very talented, and already has people saying "wow!" to her work. So if you know anyone with a big event coming up ...
The biggest news is that we just returned a few nights ago from Turkey! Yes, being in the Middle East has lots of advantages, and easy travel is one of them. We spent 8 days there, and I was completely blown away. It is a place I've wanted to visit for a long time, and it met all my expectations.
Rach just completed a website, so if you're interested in seeing our photos and reading a few stories about our adventures, please check it out:
Adventures in Turkey
http://markrachinturkey.tripod.com/index.html
I hope life is treating you well, and I'd love to hear what's new!
Love,
Mark
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