I Heart Jerusalem

Fail

2010-06-27T02:14:00.002-07:00

For setting a goal and attempting to stick to it, I failed miserably. I have not blogged as often as I wanted (at least once a week). The anticipation of leaving Israel, packing up my stuff, actually leaving Israel, spending a week in NYC, arriving back in LA, graduation, being virtually homeless...the excuses abound. I am sorry, and I will try harder. The truth is, I haven't felt compelled to write these past few months, which is sad. I hope I have the desire to write more. I hope...

Egypt

2010-04-11T05:06:00.011-07:00

After Tuesday's Seder, I decided that my extreme sickness wasn't going to ruin the rest of my Pesach break, and I headed to Egypt.

I took the earliest Friday bus from Jerusalem to Eilat, then walked across the border where I waited for my bus from Taba to Cairo.

After 11 cumulative hours of travel; from Jerusalem to Eilat, Eilat to Taba, and then Taba to Cairo, I arrived at my first destination. In Cairo I stayed with a Couchsurfing friend, Fady. It was a convenient time for me to visit, because he was planning on visiting Sohag and would be able to drive me halfway to Luxor.

So, my first introduction to Cairo came in the form of driving on its incredibly crowded and lawless streets. Fady showed me how offensive driving is necessary in Cairo, and that once you get used to having several near-death experiences each day, you're fine!

Four hours later I arrived in Asyut where I would hop a train to Luxor. At this point, I had seen none of the ancient monuments or historical sites that Egypt is known for, but only had the pleasure of experiencing insane Egyptian traffic conditions, sexually degrading looks and assaults from every person I passed and the inevitable confusion of being a foreigner in a culture with language that I did not understand. I was ready to see some ancient temples and tombs already! But, I was still a six hour train ride from Luxor, so I had to sit tight and try to enjoy the beauty and intrigue of daily Egyptian culture.

At the train station I was on my own, so I had to find someone who spoke decent enough English to help me buy my ticket and locate the correct train. After approaching the man working at the ticket booth and purchasing my ticket, he immediately hailed another individual to escort me to the station cafe where I could wait until the train arrived. With five hours to go, I thought I would explore the city of Asyut and get some dinner before the night train came. After finishing my first cup of tea, I picked up my things and headed for the exit. At that moment I was stopped by an officer in the Egyptian army who asked where I was going. I responded that I just wanted to walk around and get dinner. He told me that it was best for me to stay and wait in the cafe, and he would bring me dinner. I was astounded and a bit disgusted at his protectiveness and possessiveness. I guess it's difficult for me to understand how they view women in their society, considering it would be out of the question for a young girl to travel on her own, just what I was doing on my trip.

My babysitter, courtesy of the Egyptian military

So, there I sat in my train station cafe prison. Luckily, being the equivalent to someone's possession entitles you to certain benefits, like free food and drink. So, I downed 17 cups of tea and read for my religious foundations of Judaism class. Funny.

The exhausting night train ride was worth it when I arrived in Luxor the following morning. As the ancient capitol of Egypt, Luxor is chocked full of interesting temples and tombs, all of which I learned about courtesy of my AP Art History class. The photos that originally introduced me to these sites could barely capture their real life magnificence.

Luxor Temple

Luxor highlights

Queen Hatshepsut's Temple

Valley of the Kings. (Photo courtesy of Wikipedia because they didn't allow cameras inside. Boo.)

Karnak Temple

Despite having the opportunity to see all of these historically significant places, the best part about Luxor was my mode of transportation: a bicycle. For the equivalent of $2 I rented a bike that I was able to ride all around the city. The fact that Egypt is virtually void of traffic laws made the adventure that more fun. Also, I think riding a bike, as opposed to walking, spared me at least 30% less verbal assaults from the locals. Whether they couldn't get a good glimpse at my Western face or just didn't see me, I was bothered much less when riding a bike.

Apparently in Egypt Bamboo juice is big. I tried it and it's disgusting, but I can't help but be enamored at the industrial juicer that it requires. You know how I love to juice things...

Typical Egyptian toilet. The lack of toilet paper was the least of my worries.

Muslims love Christmas...?

My luxurious, $2/day accommodations at the Bob Marley hostel in Luxor

After two days in Luxor, I took the 11-hour night train back to Cairo where I would finally see the pyramids. Luckily, this trip was without my Egyptian military bodyguards.

Pyramids at Giza!!!

Giza

Sphinx

I couldn't pass up the stereotypical camel ride. Such a tourist.

I visited Ibn Ezra and the Rambam's synagogues'

My day of pyramids and Cairo ended with a night bus back to Taba, where I would return to Eilat and then finally Jerusalem. In six days, I did a total of 41 hours of traveling. Crazy? Yes. Fun? Something like that.

Although the major accomplishments of this trip may seem to be visiting so many important and significant monuments, in truth, it was actually my miraculous ability to not get ripped off. Not even once! Pretty amazing for being a tourist in a foreign, money-hungry country. I bargained to hold on to every last Egyptian pound, which is about the equivalent of 20 cents. So, with the memories of tombs, temples and pyramids, I left this trip with my dignity and dollars.

Tel Aviv Bauhaus

2010-04-01T12:58:00.004-07:00

Today I woke up way to early to go to Tel Aviv and apply for my Egyptian tourist visa. Although I was unsuccessful in procuring the visa (damn bureaucracy), I did spend an enjoyable morning in Tel Aviv. From a cafe I noticed the interesting architecture of the city. Mostly Bauhaus, the buildings have an intriguing and unique character.

Nine measures of beauty may have been bestowed upon Jerusalem, but Tel Aviv definitely has something interesting to offer.

Yam l'yam

2010-03-28T09:58:00.003-07:00

To begin Passover break I was lucky enough to go on a hike throughout the north of Israel with Hebrew University's Office of Student Activities. OSA organizes activities for Rothberg International students like museum tours, dinners and other events. But, Yam l'yam is known as their best activity, which was clear when the registration was full just a few days after sign ups began.

Just over a year ago, you couldn't pay me to go hiking. Growing up in Lake Elizabeth, surrounded by the Angeles National Forest, I took for granted the nature that was all around me. But since coming to Israel, I have developed an appreciation for the environment, which was ignited during my first trips to the West Bank with Rabbis for Human Rights. Volunteering with Rabbis for Human Rights gave me the opportunity to travel to beautiful and diverse areas of Israel: from the lush, fertile north, to the dry, hilly south. After these excursions I could see that Israel not only offered an interesting political situation, but also incredible scenery. This is what encouraged my interest in hiking throughout Israel.

We began at Nahariya where our Madrichim gave us a hilarious theatrical welcoming to the hike. Off the shores we could see Israeli naval ships guarding the maritime border between Lebanon and Israel.

Trekking across the river countless times during the hike. My TOMS held up well.

Eli, our madrich, showing us the way

The first day we hiked to the top of the mountains in the north where we could see the beautiful skyline leading out to the ocean. These photos hardly capture the magnificent view.

Set into the valley and hillside of the adjacent mountain is the town of Mitzpe Hila, the birthplace of Gilad Shalit and where his parents still reside. Considering all of our madrichim and hiking guides served in the IDF, along with all other Israelis once they become of-age, the issue of the danger living in and serving the state of Israel was brought up.

The following day we hiked Mt. Meron, which lies within the sight of Lebanon. After the expulsion of the PLO from Jordan in the incident known as Black September, the group settled in southern Lebanon and began attacking Israel. The area where we hiked was in rocket range of Lebanon, and was hit many times during the PLO's residency in Lebanon. Israel responded in 1982 with the invasion of Lebanon that began the 18 year occupation of the region. In an attempt to stop attacks from the PLO and defeat their enemies, Israel found itself occupying Lebanon for nearly two decades and created resentment and fueling hatred from its Arab neighbors and groups within the countries, like Hezbollah. It was stunning to be hiking in an area that had so much political significance, which had suffered attacks throughout the 1980s and in the early 2000s that began such important political manuevers and strategies by Israel and the surrounding countries.

Hannah and me

Our hiking guide, Noach

Day two hike trail

At the end of the second day we bussed to a hostel in Sfat where we stayed for Shabbos. Unfortunately, my stomach didn't agree with something and I had to leave early the next day, and was unable hike the final day to the destination: the kinneret.

The purple trail shows the basic hiking path we took

Yam l'yam was an amazing experience where I was able to meet new friends, see different areas of Israel and explore moral and political questions brought up along our hike.

Couchsurfing and Hitchhiking

2010-03-20T16:55:00.005-07:00

Instead of attending class this week, I decided to go to Sderot and see an area of Israel that most aren't fortunate enough to visit. Originally, I wanted to see Sderot in order to gain a better understanding of the Israel-Gaza situation and see how life was in an area so close to the conflict. You may think that Jerusalem is the best place to see the Arab-Israeli clash, but in Sderot the issues are not occupation, they're more about qassams and bomb shelters.

The night I arrived, my Couchsurfing host, Roee, made homemade Shakshuka while I watched a football game between Haifa and Tel Aviv. There could have been a no warmer welcome.

The following day I spent hanging out with Roee and his friends in open field near the kibbutz Nir Am, which is just one kilometer away from the border of Gaza. Upon leaving for Sderot my friend Sam, who spent time volunteering there during Operation Cast Lead, said that the area is relatively safe, but I shouldn't go "hanging out in any open fields." It just so happens Roee's photo shoot that I was helping with was set in an open field-an open field quite close to Gaza.

Of course, nothing happened and I spent the idyllic day having my photo taken in awesome hippie, Israeli clothing.

The next day I was fortunate enough to meet with Jacob from the Sderot Media Center. Just by entering Sderot, anyone can notice that this is no "normal" city, with its bountiful bomb shelters and cement-walled schools. But, Jacob and the Sderot Media Center offered a more comprehensive and thorough understanding of how constant attacks from Gaza affect the daily lives of those living in Sderot. He took us to a viewpoint with a clear view of Gaza, and to a street where nearly all of the houses had been hit by qassams. Insane.

Shell of a Qassam rocket that hit Sderot

Smile, you're one kilometer away from Gaza!

Sderot: where the bomb shelters are nicer than the houses

Childrens' playground/massive bomb shelter

Here's a video produced by the Sderot Media Center. It offers a glimpse of the psychological trauma that Sderot residents face because of the constant threat of rockets.

The final afternoon in Sderot was spent hitchhiking to Zeqeem, a beach Roee recommended.

There, me and my travel compadre, Hannah, spent the afternoon enjoying the view of Gaza on this seemingly private beach.

Overall, my week of Couchsurfing, hitchhiking, shakshuka-eating, picture posing and conflict understanding offered a deeper experience and understanding of Israel than sitting in a classroom could have given me.

Think of this as an ode to class skipping and my bout of senior-itis.

Today in Jerusalem...

2010-03-16T14:11:00.005-07:00

Today in Jerusalem there were huge protests, and the particularly noticeable demonstrations took place in an area right near Hebrew University in Isawiya. What has been called the "day of rage" by HAMAS, Palestinians are protesting Israel's recent restriction on access to Al-Aqsa mosque and the continued difficulties arising with Israel's refusal to stop settlement building.

Not only were there protests in the city and neighboring Arab villages, tensions were also high at Hebrew University where Palestinian, Israeli and international students encounter one another, and are forced to reconcile how outside political events affect daily campus life.

While some students took this opportunity to express their political views of the occupation and the stalled negotiations between the Palestinians and Israeli parties others, sadly, took advantage of the division in opinions to display their racism and hatred. Throwing stones and inciting violence is not a productive way to advance your cause. Hopefully they'll realize that one day.

Suzy Likes Tea

2010-03-08T14:32:00.001-08:00

Admiration Station

2010-03-08T12:28:00.004-08:00

I'm beginning a new feature on my blog called Admiration Station. Basically, I'll highlight people who I look up to, for whatever reason, whether it be for what they've accomplished, what they're attempting to achieve or even the mistakes they've made that pose as a valuable lesson.

So, here's the first nominee of Admiration Station: Adam Greenberg and Tonight's Watercolor. I was lucky enough to meet Adam when he interned at TOMS in spring 2009. Before arriving in Santa Monica, Adam had participated in AmeriCorps and been a member of BioTour. Take a moment to research those organizations and you'll see that Mr. Greenberg is a little slice of amazing. But those marked achievements are not what I'm focusing on. Instead, it's Adam's current project of Tonight's Watercolor:

"Every day this year I'm going to pain a new watercolor and post it here that night; that's it. Not saying they'll be awesome, but this will be with intent for my own "me time" of meditation each day. I invite you to do the same."

Considering my conventional understanding of New Year's resolutions, a daily watercolor seemed a bit odd. But, as I followed Adam's daily creations on the Tonight's Watercolor Facebook page, I realized how truly daring this project actually is. I can barely make myself do anything every day, besides eat, poo and (maybe) brush my teeth. Adam's goal to dedicate time each day to creative expression is amazing, and unfortunately all too rare in today's world of jam-packed schedules of work and other "priorities."

Each day I look forward to seeing Tonight's Watercolor and feel inspired by Adam's dedication and creativity. Along with the original goal, Adam started selling his watercolor artwork to raise money for relief efforts in Haiti. Thus far, he's raised $400. Pure genius and pure bliss in a daily dose of art.

Thanks Adam for being the first individual highlighted in Admiration Station. Please join Tonight's Watercolor Facebook page to follow his goal and the awe-inspiring art.

Here's my favorite piece yet: Wed. 3, Mar. 2010, Vacuum Typewriter

And because I make it a point to never just appreciate the actions or ideas of others without incorporating these values into my life, I am committing to blog more. More is a relative term, especially since I went months without a single post, but I feel dedicated and inspired to express my thoughts and write more often and about the variety of topics that are scattered throughout my head. So, the first goal retained from Admiration Station: blog bitch.

How I got PTSD

2010-03-08T11:33:00.003-08:00

I've never really had a horrible experience with a hairdresser. For the most part, I have been able to find amazing artists who end up doing great things with my do. Unfortunately, this is not the case for my last visit and it has left me with hairdresser PTSD. I am now terrified to go to anybody besides my trusted miracle man in L.A., Jefferson. It only takes one time to be scarred for life:

I'll be wearing a beanie for the next six weeks until this grows out a bit.

Organize the world

2010-03-02T10:42:00.000-08:00

Anyone who knows me can attest to the claim that I am an organized person. Very organized. OCD organized. This may have something to do with my recent infatuation with data collection and organization. Considering all of the receptacles for information in our contemporary world, with social networking and SEO technology, there is a great deal of data, with exponentially more being produced each day. According to The Economist's recent article "The Data Deluge," humans will create 1200 exabytes (1 billion gigabytes=1 exabyte) of data this year. I am unable to fathom the amount of information that is, but I'm quite sure it's a lot.

I want to focus on the attempts to make sense of and organize information in a meaningful way. For a better explanation of what I'm getting at, just watch Hans Rosling's riveting TED Talk where he "Shows the best stats you've ever seen."

GOOD's Transparency department aims to organize information into evocative and beautifully designed diagrams, so the assembly of statistics into excel sheets and cliche pie charts becomes obsolete.

And the most lofty goal concerning data is none other than that of Google. Their mission statement boasts their attempt "to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful." Not a single company, country or cause, but the world's information. That entire world. That's amazing and I want to have a part in it. Whether production of data, organization or (hopefully) synthesis, I want to be involved in this massive human experiment that has seemingly unimaginable implications.

Venting about elementary respect

2010-02-27T08:35:00.001-08:00

Walking around L.A. I would receive an occasional cat-call or honk from the typical drooling gardner or construction worker. Annoying, but not impossible to ignore. Who knew that moving to the "holy land" and my subsequent travels would result in the fiercest sexual harassment I have ever received.

Wikipedia defines sexual harassment as "intimidation, bullying or coercion of a sexual nature, or the unwelcome or inappropriate promise of rewards in exchange for sexual favors."

Some may think this explanation is a bit broad, but as a girl any sort of unwanted attention from men, in whatever form, can be the most uncomfortable and frustrating interaction. And these past few months in Jerusalem have shown me just how jarring it can be.

Walking around in East Jerusalem is not as peaceful as it should be with nearly every man honking, screaming and starring. Now, I don't want to stereotype, but most of the time these are Arab men and their culture of objectifying women is reflected in their social interaction with even complete strangers. Going to the grocery store or for a jog can be an emotionally traumatizing experience when you hear "sweetheart," "slut," and even "I want to fuck you" screamed every few moments.

Now, living in East Jerusalem and dealing with sexual harassment is difficult, but on my trip to Morocco I encountered the mecca of Arab men "swooning" for my female attention. On my 100 meter walk from the hostel to the center of town in Marrakech me and my friend Margaux were harassed by at least fifty men. And these guys were the worst: with the most sexually disgusting remarks, physical gestures and even pulling at us! Morocco was beautiful, but the men and their behavior leave something to be desired.

Although I know this blog will most likely not reach the ears and eyes of those exhibiting such behavior, I just felt the need to write it. Whether for my own personal gratification or just to explain such experiences to those on the web. I just hope that respect for women can be valued more in all cultures, and some day a female's walk to Mr. Zol in Jerusalem won't include a barrage of sexual comments from creepy men.

Me+This is the World We Live In

2010-02-25T01:50:00.000-08:00

Here's my post on This is the World We Live In about my thoughts on human rights and the Arab-Israeli conflict and my experience in Israel and with Rabbis for Human Rights.

"Human Rights from the Bottom Up"

Rabbis for Human Rights

2010-02-22T01:25:00.000-08:00

By only reading this blog you'd probably assume that I was some empty, LA girl studying in Israel-eating too much challah and having too much fun. Thankfully, I do have other concerns and decided to focus my energy into volunteering for a cause that I care all-too deeply about: the Arab-Israeli conflict.

With an organization called Rabbis for Human Rights, I periodically go to the West Bank to assist Palestinians cultivate their land. See, since the second Intifada they are unable to work on their property without notifying the IDF. This can be a difficult and convoluted process, so the rabbis help the Palestinians coordinate with the IDF and the local police and then accompany them to their property. Their work not only allows the Palestinians to continue to live within the structure of the Israeli occupation, but it also helps to protect them from settler violence. Although this isn't the case with most Jewish settlers in the West Bank, there are a few violent settlements that have created a great deal of fear within the Palestinian communities living in Area C of the West Bank. But, when accompanied by Rabbis for Human Rights and their Israeli/American/Canadian/etc. volunteers, the Palestinians are less likely to be attacked or harassed and can go about their normal agricultural work.

The first time I went to the West Bank with Rabbis for Human Rights I wasn't sure what to expect, but thought I'd be helping a family from Nebi Salah plant olive trees. That's until the settlers confronted us.

This video shows the intimidation we faced from the settlers and how rabbi Yehiel handled things in a peaceful manner.

Since this initial incident, I have been to the West Bank with the organization several more times. I will periodically post photos and stories of other, successful visits and what I've learned from my experience.

Not in Israel

2010-02-15T00:50:00.000-08:00

For the nauseatingly long seven week break, I decided to go to Spain and Morocco. Spain, because I wanted to visit a few friends, and Morocco because I had never been and my travel companion, Margaux, wanted to go.

Overall, Madrid was great but Morocco...Well, let's just say that the food was good.

Plaza Meyor in Madrid. This was just a few minutes away from my friend Ariel's apartment. In my opinion, the most beautiful part of Madrid.

Nothing in Spain is Kosher. NOTHING.

The Ku Klux Klan have infiltrated Segovia

Pantone apartments in Cuzco

My favorite thing about a culture is their desserts. Spain offers churros and a cup of melted chocolate. Freaking delicious.

Reina Sofia that I visited a few times. And by a few, I mean six

After Madrid we went to Marrakech and Fez

We soon realized that there wasn't much to do in the day and at night even less, considering our status as young, American girls. So, we got a job serving at the local food stall. I'm not kidding. Here's our work

We were paid in olives

Me and Margaux doing our favorite activity in Morocco: eating

We ordered everything in the restaurant. It cost 3 euros

One of the 45 mosques I visited in Fez

Let's just say we weren't so sad to leave Morocco

And we were even happier to return to Israel

Vacation (again)

2010-01-05T00:40:00.002-08:00

Thus far, what I've gathered from my study abroad experience is that the objective is really to have fun. How have I arrived at this conclusion? Well, my classes are generally the most easy courses that I've had since high school. For example, I have received three "A+" grades on papers-something that just wouldn't happen at UCLA. Also, we have an unimaginable amount of vacation time. Three weeks in the fall and seven weeks in the winter!?! Then there's Purim, Pesach, Memorial Day...

Essentially, I love studying abroad and I love Israel.

Chanukah

2009-12-15T23:48:00.000-08:00

Forget Christmas, I want Chanukah

Here are my reasons

1) Christmas: 1 day. Chanukah: 8 days! By the sheer numerical statistics it's better

2) Latkas are better than turkey and green beans

3) During Chanukah in Israel, you get sufganiyot

Look at how happy Blaise David is. His face alone is a case for Chanukah

But finally, the reason Chanukah beats Christmas is because it's not based on a story of a false messiah, and wrapped up in a modern story about a fat man in a red suit.

This is the World We Live In

2009-12-05T00:14:00.000-08:00

My friends Brooke and Levi are coming to Israel. Yay! But they're not coming as tourists, instead as activists. They will be traveling throughout Israel, Asia and Africa over the next year to document those making the bold attempt at changing the world. They will be highlighting a variety of causes including poverty, veganism, environmentalism, human rights and the list goes on...

You can follow their journey at http://thisistheworldwelivein.com/

Yeah, they're kind of bad ass

Friends=Family

2009-11-30T00:27:00.000-08:00

Yes, we're all born into a family with a mother, father and in the case of most people (excluding me), there's also brothers and sisters included in the equation. More fascinating than the clan we're born into is the people around us that we choose as friends. I can recall the strong and seemingly undying love and devotion I had for my group of friends in junior high and how that has changed, grown and matured into the relationships I have now.

This post is dedicated to the friends (family) from the past and the close ones I have now.

<3 of Israel

2009-11-19T07:00:00.004-08:00

Here's some of the things that I love about Israel:

Pomegranates. I even bought a juicer from the Old City so I could make pomegranate juice at will.

The Temple Mount and everything else in this country that I was only able to read about in books before coming here. I'm so fortunate to be here.

Shabbat dinner. Whether it's in the kfar or at someone's house, it's the best night of the week.

Challah. Plain challah, with hummus or challah french toast. It's all so good.

Friends! I have met the best people who I know I'll be friends with for a long time.

Food in Bags

2009-11-01T00:45:00.003-08:00

In Israel you'll find a variety of foods that, in the U.S., are located in boxes or cartons, but here are in bags. Weird? A bit. Fun? Definitely!

My favorite food-in-bag: Choco b'sackeet

Visitor

2009-10-25T01:38:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited for my closest friend, Blaise David Lipman Embry, to visit in December. We'll be traveling around Israel, Jordan and Egypt. What a little Hanukkah miracle.

End of Ulpan; beginning of Holiday

2009-10-15T23:21:00.012-07:00

Literally 12 hours after I took my final Hebrew exam on September 24th, I was on a plane to Munich! On my two-week trip I visited Munich, Paris, Prague and Berlin.

Paris bike tour

Paris

At the Musée d'Orsay with one of my favorite Manet paintings

Xavier Veilhan's installation at Versailles. In my opinion, the most beautiful piece of art in the entire place.

Prague

Monument to those who lost their lives and sanity because of Communism

Giant metronome

My Prague hostel

One of my favorite place in Prague: the Kampa Museum of Modern Central European Art.

View of the river from the Kampa Museum

Creepy babies

Me and creepy baby

Creepy babies on the TV Tower

Quaint little town outside of Munich

Post-Octoberfest crowd in Munich

Berlin with the best tour guide ever-Zach!

Berlin Wall: 20 year anniversary of its destruction

Jewish Museum in Berlin

Museum Island: my heaven

Seeing the Gates of Bablyon was quite possibly one of the happiest days of my life

Pergamon in Berlin

Favorite Modern Art Museum in Berlin: Berlinische Galerie

Berlinische Galerie

Memorial to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust

Inside the Holocaust memorial

I had an amazing time in Europe visiting museums, monuments and some friends I made at Hebrew University this past summer.

Holiday

2009-09-25T08:59:00.002-07:00

Thankfully, Hebrew ulpan is over and now I'm on holiday. I'm actually at the Munich airport right now waiting for my train to Paris. Here's what I'll be up do for the next two weeks:

Friday, September 25-Tel Aviv to Munich
Saturday, September 26-train from Munich to Paris
Saturday, September 26-Thursday, October 1: Paris
Thursday, October 1-Tuesday, October 6: Stockholm, Sweden
Tuesday October 6-Friday, October 9: Berlin, Germany
Friday, October 9-Fly from Berlin to back to Tel Aviv

I'll be sure to post all of my photos and experiences once I'm done.

<3

Facebook

2009-09-13T13:01:00.002-07:00

Facebook is a really easy way to see recent pictures and status updates. Even if you don't have an account, you should be able to view my entire profile at facebook.com/suzypanda

Presents...?

2009-09-06T21:32:00.002-07:00

Packages make me happy:

Suzanne Smith
Scopus Student Village
2 Lohamei Hagetaot St.
Building 6, Floor 7, Apt. 1, Room 2
97880 Jerusalem, Israel

Nonbeliever

2009-09-05T01:10:00.005-07:00

This weekend I went on a self-guided walking tour around East Jerusalem with some friends from ulpan. I went through the most amazing markets, saw slaughtered animals that still had their tails (so glad I'm a vegetarian), and some hard-core monks along the path Jesus supposedly walked before crucifixion. Once we were through the Damascus Gate and averted being ran over by several cars, buses and people, we found ourselves at a garden once deemed the burial site of Jesus' body. So the four Jews, one "non-practicing" Christian, and one atheist quelled our curiosity by touring the place that some people think is where the son of god was buried; no big deal. The issue with this landmark, the Garden Tomb, is that from the mid 19th century people thought it to be the burial site, but has since been debunked by archeologists, as not the actual tomb of Jesus. As our Jerusalem travel book says, "The claims for it as the burial place of Jesus Christ have been dismissed by archeologists, but that does not seem to deter the coachloads of Christian pilgrims who flick here each day..." Clearly, it didn't deter us either.

We were lucky enough to be given a tour by a British volunteer, who was sure to mention that Jesus Christ is his lord and savior. Thanks Roy, thanks a lot. Upon finding out that we were "nonbelievers" (non-Christians), Roy became excited to show us the illegitimate birthplace of his messiah and hope that we would "feel" something upon entering the tomb. From then on, the tour was punctuated with remarks of religious intolerance and ignorance from our tour guide, making me nearly vomit in tomb of Roy's "lord and savior." This experience reminded me that I was in fact in Jerusalem, one of the most holy places in the entire world, that also comes with the most insane people. As to be expected, the tiny stone tomb that has been delegitimized as the tomb of Jesus Christ, our lord and savior, did nothing for me and I'm still an atheist. Phew.

From there, we visited a beautiful cathedral, another church where we accidentally witnessed someone's funeral, and then the former headquarters of the Palestinian Authority, which is now being used by the United Nations. We have yet to complete the walking tour, so hopefully next weekend we can pick up where we left off, sans proselytizatoin.

Damascus Gate

Damascus Gate

Israeli Wal-Mart

Excuse the lack of personal pictures. I should be able to start putting more up soon, once I get a new battery charger for my camera that I seemed to have left in DC.

<3 Music; <3 DJ AM

2009-08-29T20:51:00.004-07:00

For the past three years, I have been lucky enough to live in the best city in the world. In Los Angeles I found my best of friends and had the best of memories. I have been exposed to art, music and information that would have never been available to me elsewhere, and for this I am forever thankful. Of the most important elements of my daily life was music. Falling in love with electro music as a dancing 18 year-old at the crappiest club on Hollywood Blvd. was a life changing event. From then on I went to every club possible, spent hours each day on music blogs, and even got a radio show on UCLAradio.com.

Going out nearly every night and seeing countless talented DJs who made me smile bigger and dance harder: life couldn't be more perfect.

With all of the unbelievably happy times had dancing to the beats of prophetic DJs, yesterday was by far one of the most tragic days, with the death of DJ AM. I've seen DJ AM spin countless times in Los Angeles clubs and at huge music events: Banana Split, Coachella, EDC and Spin the Bottle. I knew that no matter what lame performer Dim Mak scheduled for Banana Split Sundays, AM would be there to start everyone dancing or to shut down the club at 2:30 am with everyone demanding more. He was an amazing artist who could make anyone dance, and I am so fortunate that I had the opportunity to witness his talent. My condolences go out to his family, friends, Los Angeles and the world who will truly miss this unique DJ.

Thank you AM, for making me dance.

Please, listen to his mash-ups; I can guarantee you'll like, even love it:
http://www.myspace.com/djamone

Suzy is so pissed

2009-08-26T07:54:00.004-07:00

Here's a video I took while at a restaurant in Tel Aviv with my friend Brianna. I hope you can hear the dialogue over my incessant laughing.

This Week...

2009-08-19T15:36:00.010-07:00

Lots has happened in the past seven days. Last weekend (Thursday) I went to Tel Aviv right after Ulpan Hebrew class. I spent some time doing research at the Tel Aviv University library and then explored the city.

One of the many outdoor art installations at Tel Aviv University.

The most amazing breakfast of eggs, cucumber salad, camembert and homemade cherry jam from a restaurant called David in Tel Aviv

It was nice to be in a place where there's not millions of orthodox Jews making you feel like the ultimate sinner. The following day I spent on the beach in Tel Aviv which is definitely one of the most beautiful places on earth. The water is 90 degrees and everyone is in speedos.

On Friday I returned to Jerusalem in time to wash the sand out of my hair and go out with my friends in Jerusalem. It had been 12 days since I had been to a dance club, so it felt particularly good to go out.

Some of my wonderful friends from school!

Other things I've done this week:

1. Salsa dancing with 150 Israelis and instructors who speak only Hebrew-fun!

2. Not completely failing Hebrew, which is some sort of miracle.

3. Utilizing public transportation several times, in both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. I'm so pleased I was able to learn the Tel Aviv bus routes all by myself!

A few of the many bus tickets from my various trips.

4. Registering for fall classes: Hebrew (not my choice; I'm forced to take it), Cultural Identity in the Arab-Israeli conflict, Palestinian Culture, and hopefully, if I'm accepted, a research internship at the Truman Institute in Jerusalem. The Truman Institute is a private think tank working toward the advancement of peace, focusing primarily on the Middle East. I would be working on one of their many projects ranging from international studies, like the Obama administration's approach to the Arab-Israeli conflict, or domestic issues such as the role of women in the Palestinian community. I am sooooo excited about the opportunity to work with the Truman Institute, and it's something that wouldn't be possible had I not come to study in Israel.
Here's a link to their website if you want to find out more about the organization: http://truman.huji.ac.il/about.asp

5. And finally, tonight I went to a yoga class with one of my friends from Hebrew Ulpan. There's a gym near the campus that has a reasonably-priced membership plan, but we wanted something other than a treadmill. It took us a while to figure out where exactly the studio was located, and once we arrived, we realized it wasn't actually a "studio" but a Jerusalem community center with only five people in the yoga class. Let's just say the overhead lighting, wreaking yoga mats and pedestrians yelling outside wasn't the most chakra-pleasing atmosphere. Next week we're on to another studio!

Panda Bear in Israel

2009-08-10T08:19:00.003-07:00

Some of you may not know, but I had a show the past year on UCLAradio.com called Panda Bear. I played electro music and talked about music events in Los Angeles, while my co-host would DJ live. I had a great time hosting a show, and was sad to end Panda Bear when I left LA. But now I think I'm going to be able to continue my show in Israel!

I'll send you details soon, and try to schedule the show so everyone on the other side of the world can hear it.

Falafel!

2009-08-09T10:27:00.004-07:00

Today after class I went to Ben Yehuda, the center of West Jerusalem, with my friend Brianna from San Diego. Bought a pair of sandals to wear around my dorm, some Q-tips and finally a straightener so my hair will no longer look like a fuzz ball. Along with the shopping we ate falafel, which was not only a delicious meal, but also incredibly cheap. Just 17 shekels for 1/2 falafel and juice; just $3.99!!!

Falafel is now my new favorite meal.

The sandals I bought today. Quite funny if you understand my political views.

Brianna gave me this bracelet. Maybe I can fit in better.

Shabbat Shalom

2009-08-07T06:35:00.007-07:00

It's Shabbat (Saturday), the final day of the Jewish week, which is the day of rest. So nothing is open, no taxis run, you can't use elevators and basically there's nothing to do. Even though it may seem boring, it's actually quite nice. I'm forced to sit at home and do my homework and read the news and just RELAX.

Last night, for our first Shabbat evening in Israel, the Madrichim (student counselors/RA's/something like that) planned a dinner for us at the Regency Hotel near the school. It wasn't too formal or conservative, but I still got to use the "Shabbat clothing" Mom bought me. I made sure to bring with me some conservative skirts and shirts that I would need when I go to the religious parts of the city, like where the Western Wall and the Old City.

Here's me wearing in a skirt that goes below my knees-amazing!

Shabbat dinner was amazing and I'm looking forward to many more.

I finally went food shopping this past week, which wasn't as frightening as I thought. Although I was really limited in what I could get, because I wasn't too sure what exactly it was, I think I did a decent job. Here's some of the stuff I got. Notice the branding elements that identify the Corn Flakes. So thankful for that!

Finally Here

2009-08-04T22:10:00.005-07:00

Well, I'm finally in Israel!

I arrived in Tel Aviv at 2:10 am and waited for the sun to come up, then took a Sherut (a shuttle-like taxi) to the school. I didn't know where I was really going and no one on campus seemed to know where the International school was either. But finally, as I was wandering around with my 100 lb. luggage, an Israeli offered to help me to the school and carry my luggage!

On Monday I went to bed at 4 pm and slept 14 hours.

I have a dorm with two Americans, Eric and Shifra, one Israeli, Hachmity, and an Arab-Israeli who I have yet to meet. I have my own room and share the two toilets, one shower and kitchen and living room with everyone else in the apartment. The place wasn't the cleanest when I moved in, but luckily my roommate Shifra shared my views and we decided to scrub it clean last night.

I got to wonder around the school and the perimeter all day Tuesday. And by wander, I mean be completely lost. Haha. I'm getting the hang of it now. But like Jerusalem, the layout of the school is a bit confusing and resembles nothing of a grid. Thank goodness for my roommate Shifra who knows this city, and the country, like the back of her hand. Although she's American, she spent the last year in seminary in Israel (which she got kicked out of-ha!), and has been here many times before that.

After my campus tour yesterday evening, we had an orientation and a shopping trip to get necessary items for our dorms. With how much time she's spent in this city, Shifra even knew the mall like the back of her hand!

And now today, I begin my first day of class. I'm only taking Hebrew courses, five days a week, for the next two months. Which will definitely be useful considering I know almost none.

Here are some photos from my dorm and the school. Excuse my amateur html formatting skills. I swear, I'll get better.

Kitchen in the dorm, view of Jerusalem from the front of school,
view from my dorm room window, view from my window at sunrise, my room!

Aerosvit

2009-08-01T03:35:00.000-07:00

I’ve been on this flight for nearly 8 hours now and although I woke up early and it’s super dark in the cabin, I can’t sleep to save my life. Partially because I’m uncomfortable and just over sleeping in front of large groups of strangers, but also because I made this amazing mix of 125 of my favorite songs. My ipod is now on shuffle and I’m having the greatest evening/morning/afternoon. Going from PST→EST→Ukraine/Israel time has really fucked me up.

DC-->JFK-->Ukraine

2009-08-01T03:27:00.000-07:00

Off to JFK to continue my journey to Tel Aviv. So, that’s a taxi, a bus, a shuttle and finally a plane. Couldn’t get a ticket on one of the luxurious Bolt buses (wifi, outlets, leg-room), so I had to settle for a Greyhound (dripping air-conditioning, seemingly intoxicated driver, and essentially the worst experience ever). Oh well. I somehow made it to JFK with a generous 20 minutes till my plane began boarding. Thank goodness my airline Aerosvit, a Ukrainian air service, is the most obscure carrier and had barely a line. Not being able to understand the flight attendants, who spoke solely Ukrainian, was one of the only downfalls.

Now, I’m headed to Kiev, Ukraine. I’ll arrive at 11:50 am Ukraine time; basically 10 hours ahead of LA. Wait for a a few hours, and board El Al to Tel Aviv!

2009-07-29T03:13:00.002-07:00

Well, I woke up incredibly early after ten hours of sleep and did all things tourist at the capitol. The National Archives, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, blah, blah, blah. The Smithsonian museums, particularly the gardens and greenhouse, are amazing. Lots of outdoor sculptures by Oldenburg and Lichtenstein, which were the best.

The American Gallery of Art was probably the best part of my time in D.C. It offered a vast collection of modern art by some of my favorite individuals, including Judd, Ruscha, Oldenberg, and Rothko. Along with my typical favorites, there was also dozens of Calder mobiles, ranging in size and medium. A specific room caught my attention, with over ten smaller Calders in a semi-dark space. In this setting, each of the mobiles existed along with the mirror of it’s distinct and animated shadow, forming a second sculpture on the wall that twisted and changed as the mobile slowly moved.

That night, MacKenzie and I celebrated her job offer with a proper eveing: a carafe of wine and dancing at 18th Street bar in the city. Great fun, especially since I somehow found some of the only Persians in the city who were kind enough to teach me some Farsi. Too bad I’m not studying at Tehran University.

The next few days in DC were spent exploring other parts of the city, seeing Secretary of State, Hilary Clinton, in a dashing orange pant-suit, drinking at least 80 oz of slurpee and dancing on the bar at McFaddens. MacKenzie graciously treated me the entire night since she had a $50 bar tab from winning a beer-chugging contest, naturally. My time in DC was amazing (thanks MacKenzie, Sean, Ms. Clinton and the rest of the TAMU people), and I hope to visit again soon or work there, whichever comes first.

Suzy goes to Washington!

2009-07-28T14:40:00.001-07:00

I depart from LAX on the first part of my week-long journey to Tel Aviv. Before arriving in Jerusalem, I visited one of my most dearest friends, MacKenzie. We interned at TOMS Shoes together last summer and quickly realized that we were soul-mates: with our above-average intelligence and love for margaritas, I always say that MacKenzie is me, had I been born in Texas.

Tuesday morning was bitter-sweet. While excited for the next year, I’m going to miss so many people in LA and the city itself. Thankfully, being essentially unemployed for the past six weeks allowed me to spend time with everyone. The life-changing event that was EDC, beach trips, and the numerous Control Fridays and Banana Split Sundays with all of the people that I love have undoubtedly made these past few weeks the best time of my life.

But alas, it’s time to find fun outside of the 310 area code. Peace LA

With over 100 lbs of luggage, I arrived at Dulles on Tuesday evening and made what turned out to be a treacherous journey to Arlington, VA where I would meet MacKenzie. Sobbing at the bottom of the ¼ mile escalator that stood in front of me at the red line station was not my greatest moment in life. But somehow, without the help of anyone else (because no one offered!), I finally made it to my destination. That night ended appropriately: at 9:00 pm Eastern time (6:00 pm West Coast time!) after a 32 oz. Raspberry margarita. Did I mention I hadn’t slept in two days. Well, that may have been the reason for my early bedtime.