Girl on the loose...Travel Journal

I cant do it!

devorahsbucketlist — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 21:16:07 -0500

I can’t write a last blog. There is no explaining how amazing this trip was. It has been the best thing I have ever done. But know this bloggers. I will be back!
Love you all
Dee xox

Betkongia

devorahsbucketlist — Sun, 06 Jan 2013 20:48:58 -0500

Hey bloggers.
The 2 of you have been amazing comin on this journey with me! Thank you.
Friday was a very quiet day. We all prepared for shabbes and last minute went to get an ice coffee from Aroma. Yum! Ill miss that place. Friday night was amazing!! The most fun shabbes ever. Saturday everyone came over from lunch and after that we packed and said out goodbyes. Very relaxed last 2 days and very emotional see you later. Was not too fun. Then everything at the airport was a big balagan! Was awful and rushed. Plane ride was not bad. And the stop over in Hong Kong was not fun! This may all be because I’m leaving though. Plane ride to Australia was extremely long but watched The Perks of Being A Wallflower again so all was right with the world! And then saw mama! Really bland blog but extremely exhausted!
Will do a last blog when I’m back on my feet!
Thanks bloggers or is it blogie. Lol I know it’s bloggers.
Dee xxx

Bitter Sweet

devorahsbucketlist — Fri, 04 Jan 2013 05:01:08 -0500

We are on the last leg of our Israel trip! Booooo! But we are back with the family! It feels like home here. Our last day in Tel Aviv for beautiful. We got up at our own pace and went down for our last breakfast at the place next door that I still haven’t learnt the name of. Such yummy food there! There is this one cereal that I ate twice while at the hotel. I was explaining it to Chagit and she told me what it was called. Kariot. All they are, are square chocolate cereal with gooey chocolate inside. So not a cereal but so very yummy. And I had a yummy bagel. After breakfast we woddled back up to our room to finish packing. After checking out we left our bags at the hotel and parted ways. I went for a little walk around Ben Yahuda, got a few things I needed to pick up before leaving. It felt good. I felt confident about where I was going. Was a nice feeling. Then we met up at the beach and had a really nice sisterly moment. We had time to kill so I walked down to the sand and just stood in the water for around half an hour just reflecting on this adventure and listening too music and just thinking about life. I know deep, right?? Was really beautiful. After both reflecting we left for Bet Shemesh. I was so excited to see my family again. Perfect way to end the trip. Our taxi driver was way too funny. I think he tried to act cool but by doing so was so funny. “im a sababa taxi driver no?” Amazing! We got to Bet Shemesh and decided to have some fun while waiting for Marcia to come home. So we did what I know best… Eat! I got my packet of Bamba and we decided to see how many I could fit in my mouth. This was a good idea until half way filling up my mouth Shayndle got a call from Marcia saying she was almost home and couldn’t take a picture of me. Then Shira comes walking towards us out of nowhere. So there I am with 9 Bamba (pb) in my mouth motioning to Shayndle to take a picture with Shira wondering what the hell we were doing. Yep. Family is forever. Hahaha. Shira was on her way to the park with her gorgeous niece so Shayns and I decided to tag along. So glad we did now. Her niece is so so gorgeous. About half an hour later Marcia and Chagit arrived home at the same time. Was so good seeing them. After big big cuddles we all shlept our heavy bags up to the apartment and caught up on the 2 weeks we haven’t seen them. I came upstairs with all my bags and thought of a way to tetris is all in to the bags. Game on! I WILL win! Came back downstairs and started looking at the Bar Mitzvah photos. They look so good! Then I got super excited cause there was a knock at the door so I though Ebo was home. And I screamed out to him and then Yair walked in! Yay to coming home from the army. Was so good seeing him. We all sat and relaxed and watched the Bar Mitzvah before heading out for what we were about to find out was an epic adventure. So before leaving for Jerusalem for dinner Shira walked in the apartment. We forced her to come with us! Yay for pressure! Then Ebo finally came home and then Butch and we were ready to leave. Walked to the bus station and waited for like 25 min for a bud that comes every 15 min. Got on and saw no seats. Was actually really fun standing in a crazy Israeli filled bus! Scary but fun. Then there was a crash on the way so took double time to get there! Oy vey. By the time we got to Jerusalem we were all starving. But happy cause Elchy was on his way to eat with us. After a long discussion about where we should eat we decided on the bus station cause we could eat what we wanted. I went to the bathroom to wash up and the bathroom ate my sheck sheck. Bloody rules! Then I had a delicious slice of pizza so was happy. Was a really nice dinner and got heaps of photos to show the family. The bus ride home was less hectic. We all got to sit next to each other and enjoyed the ride home. I started to feel really yuk on the bus ride home. I think its because I don’t want to leave but I do. Its bitter sweet. Then I conked out before I could right this blog but its done now so have a good Shabbes everyone!
Dee xox

“Yalla Yalla”

devorahsbucketlist — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 13:48:19 -0500

Can we all take a second to appreciate (mum you know how to pronounce it) the fact that I woke up at 6:30… 6:30!!! Anyway now that we have all closed our dropped jaws lets move on or as JLARD would say “moving forward” and start the day! I ran around getting ready so I could go to the breakfast bar and get cereal before our tour bus left. That’s right people! I said tour bus. We were off to Masada and The Dead Sea today! after scoffing down breakfast we met our tour guide. Man I love Israeli tour guides. He was so so funny and was wearing a llama jumper. Enough said. We started driving towards Jerusalem to pick up some more tourists. So we had our full bus and I got ready for the 2 hour drive. Yeah so the next thing I know we are almost there. I never fall asleep on busses or anything but I conked out. But I was awake enough to see camels! I want to ride one so so bad L boo! We also saw a goat thingy. Forgot what it was called but they were awesome! Our first stop was the Ahava outlet. So I got myself some yummy body products. When we got out of the bus we met our fellow tourists. So we didn’t learn each others names but we called each other by our country. So Shayns and I were on the bus with Finland, Ireland, Brazil, German and Israel. Then we were on our way to Masada or Mezada. On the way our tour guide told us the story of Masada. We took the easy way out and all took the cable cart up to the top of Masada. I wasn’t enjoying the sites as much as I did in Caesarea but the story was amazing. I had 2 favourite places. First was the bath house. Was very interesting learning about that. We didn’t give them enough credit for the things they came up with back in BC! The other was the Shule. It was incredible. The oldest shule in the world. So the story goes that the roman empire where going to take the Jewish people from Masada to Jerusalem and keep them as slaves. So the Jews had 2 options. Go with them and become slaves. (Btw why does it always happen to us?) or do the logical thing and kill themselves. Yeah still do get that part of the story but they went with option 2. According to Jewish law committing suicide is a no no. So what did they do? All the men killed their wives and kids first and then they got 1 guy to kill the rest so only 1 was actually committing suicide. Smart right? Anyway the point is that they had so much pride for who they were that they were ready to give it all up then give up their dignity. This to me is what a lot of people struggled with in world war II. That is another story though. Many many many years later they dug up a few parchments of an old torah. Now where the Shule still stands there is a man working on a new torah. Was absolutely incredible to watch. Such concentration! While there you could see the amazing view from Masada. So many Taglit groups there! Then we slowly made our way back to the bottom. Lol jokes we took the cable cart again and stopped at the food court! Yay food. An epic meal later and we all got back on the bus to go to the dead sea! I was so nervous and excited. This was number 44 on my list. It was way too surreal. Something you have always heard about but never thought you’d do. We got there and split up to get changed and met back up to float together. Was so AMAZING! I can’t even explain! My skin was so soft J I got out and put mud all over my body and got back in the water to float. Just such an amazing experience. Then we went to this other like steam room that had the sea water at 40 degree temp. Was the best. Then showered and got back on the bus. I really cant explain my feeling for how it felt. Just the bestest! On the way home we finally saw some green mountains. Israel fact: people live there. Reminded me of the movie babies where the family lived in the middle of nowhere. That made no sense but it was like a slum house on a mountain with lots of sheep. Then I fell back asleep and woke up in Tel Aviv. Shayns and I were starving so went next door for a very yummy and filling meal and came up stairs to turn in for the night. Very very very tiring day!
Almost home time!!
Dee xox

TelRusalem

devorahsbucketlist — Tue, 01 Jan 2013 14:25:47 -0500

We started the day with a plan. Start in Tel Aviv and make our way to Jerusalem for dinner. With that in mind we wanted to see a few more things in Tel Aviv. I woke up way after Shayns yet again but headed to breakfast alone. All alone. By my self. People talk about liking to do things alone. Not me thanks. Half hour later guess who comes crawling back. That’s right bloggers. SHAYNDLE! Pfft like I was going to let her sit with me after not coming. Nahhhhhhhhh breakfast was way better when she came. Solid meal. Breakfast of champions! After breakfast we went to say bye to Bec L been so nice spending time with her. PS her boy friend gets the big thumbs up from me! Incredible person. On our way back from Bec’s we got a call from Shoshana to come in to Jerusalem earlier. So plans changed a little. Instead of strolling through the craft market we dashed through! 2 buses and a tram later and we were in the old city for the last time! After doing some stuff there (being vague cause all of today was gift getting)we walked down my fave street Mamila to meet Shoshana and Sarah for lunch/dinner. Was so so yummy!! After spending some time with them Sarah came back to Tel Aviv with us and we walked home! Very relaxing day. Just getting ready for what’s to come tomorrow!!!
Speak then,
Dee xxx

End of the best year of my life

devorahsbucketlist — Mon, 31 Dec 2012 11:14:33 -0500

So far. This is the shortest blog in history because I am too busy reflecting on the year I have had. So I will leave you with this. I am wonderful. Shayndle is wonderful. And we are doing new years the way that we love to. Stay safe everyone and make sure everything you want in life happens because life is too short to not do what we want. Bring on the new year!
Love and peace out hometown.
Dee xox

An Epic Road Trip

devorahsbucketlist — Sun, 30 Dec 2012 15:44:05 -0500

Early wake up this morning but after a better night that was all good. We were about to embark on the best adventure ever and didn’t even know it. I don’t think there was a way I could have pre pared myself for what the day had in store. My words in this blog won’t even do any justice to the amount of laughter and scenery that occurred today. After finishing packing up we were walked to the street by Naomi and pelly and said our goodbyes as Shayndle’s boss Yugal picked us up. This is the beginning of our epic adventure to the Arava. Yugal started to tell me some of Israel’s history as we passed through Jerusalem and through the mountains. I got very excited when I saw sheep. I’ve never seen sheep looking so Moses era like. Then I saw them. The CAMELS!!! Yay I found camels to ride! This has made me so so happy. Gentlemen take note. I like camel rides. Hahahah ok scratch that! We kept driving and I saw heap and heaps of palm trees. It was like nothing I had seen before. Then Yugal started to point out a river. It was the beginning of the Dead Sea. It was absolutely beautiful! Stupid me didn’t look up too much about the Dead Sea and thought it was like a small pond. Nope. MASSIVE! Was amazing. I can’t explain how beautiful the sights were. Then we had our first stop. Off to maccas. Yugals idea by the way. That’s when I noticed he had a limp. I asked him about it and long story short his leg is fake. We had a few story exchanges and a few giggles and continued on our adventure. As we kept going I saw a factory. Then mass piles of salt. I couldn’t believe that was all from the sea. Was unbelievable. And then I got super excited as we started driving alongside the Jordan river and Jordan was just across. That never happens in aus that you see another country from where you stand. I could very easily get use to that! The we reached the Arava! We were meeting two Australian kids doing programs in the Arava. We all went for ice cream and drove the boy back to his Moshav. I was so interested in the Moshav. No idea they even existed. Then with the girl Ellie we went to Mountain Park where is you reach the top of the hill you see the sculptures down below. So going up the trail was easy enough but none of us thought about how to get down after so I very graciously got on my bum and slid down on my butt. The rest could not do so so Ellie and Shayndle climbed down really slowly but this is where Yugal’s leg started the giggles. Yugal had a bit more trouble getting down so we made a few jokes but my laughter was uncontrollable. Then we drove Ellie back to her Moshav and started our adventure back home. Wow was this a fun and tiring adventure. Yugal decided to take us on a different route home. Dad read this carefully! We went on the old route connecting Tel Aviv to Eilat. The Scorpion trail. So I just learnt about the scorpion trail. Around 1952 I think there was a terrorist attack on an Israeli bus driving on that road. During the night the Arabs hid and attacked as the bus came around. 70 people died. They have kept the road exactly the same as it was back then. It was very weird riding the same trail. The Yugal decided to take us to the small crater. This was our first mistake. We finally found the trail but had to stop driving and went by foot. Thinking we could get there and back in time before sun set was a very very big mistake! Also Yugal and rocky roads do not go down well. I at the best of times can’t walk without tripping. Yugal ended us falling and came back up right with a massive swollen knuckle. It was horrible! But we all laughed cause we knew this was just the beginning of what was to come. After a 25 min walk up we had the tinniest bit of light left to just see the crater and we emidetly walked back. This is when Yugal decided to trell us he was blind in the dark. So we had an injured Yugal, a blind Yugal and now a lost Yugal. We were laughing so so much. Shaybdle was convinced we were gonna die out there since this has been here biggest fear since wolf creek. I just couldn’t stop laughing. On the up side on the way to the crater the scenery was absolutely breathtaking. Can not even explain. On the way home we needed petrol so with a quick petrol stop we rushed back so Yugals hand could be checked out. He dropped us off in Modi’in and we were off to Tel Aviv. The hotel we are in right now is beautiful! Think im gonna make Aliyah to this hotel. Anyway we got here. I immediately unpacked and we went next door to eat. By this time we had found out that Yugal had actually broken his knuckle and finger. But he couldn’t stress enough how much fun he had with us today. Now we are absolutely buggered!
So happy new year my 2 followers! May this year bring you the best you could hope for and ill type to you all next year!
Dee xxx

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe

devorahsbucketlist — Sun, 30 Dec 2012 03:43:11 -0500

What a horrible night! Shayndle and I kept waking up in turns. Not fun! But I slept till 10:30 and by then Shayndle had just come back from Shul. That meant Kiddish time which meant food and alcohol! Yay! So after a big bowl of the “healthiest” food ever (coco pops) I tried this coffee shnups liquor stuff and the morning started to shape up. After breakfast/ cake Dalia, Yair, Shayndle and I decided to play a few games of Rumi Cubes. Was that fun or what!!! With 3 very competitive people and then Shayndle. Very funny to watch. Then we all decided to rest before Shabbes. Problem for me is there was no electricity and no phone battery left. So I did the only thing a nice Jewish girl like me can do. Went to the one working outlet in the toilet and sat there charging my phone while talking to mum. Good times. Then it was lunch! Now anyone who has stayed at Hotel Fidler will know what I’m talking about here. Naomi knows what she is doing in the kitchen! Her food is amazing!!! My words don’t do it justice. A big thanks you to Naomi and David for letting us stay at theirs and feeding us and being good Israel parents! After lunch we all went to bed and slept till Shabbes came out. We then made Havdala and I learnt something. I know me learning. Scary thought followers but I did. So apparently if you hold the Havdala light as high as you want your future husband to be that is how tall he will be. Well we can all hope. So of course Shayndle held the Havdala candle. She didn’t hold it very high if you ask me. Then we had about 2 hours before we were going out and I miss make up too much so I spent a good hour and a half just pampering myself. Was amazing and paid off in the end. Well I think it did anyway haha. We left for Jerusalem city with another scary bus driver and waited for Dalia and Yair to arrive. So the plan was to go to The Lions Den. But it was full. So we walked and went in and out of different bars and then this happened… I lost my cool and screamed. Wow! Shock horror. But because of that I stomped back to The Lions Den with Yair who I screamed at by the way (SORRY) and guess what. I got us a table. HA! Trust the pretty girl! Yes I just called myself pretty. Once inside I made my peace with yair who was fine cause he had food in his hands and a shisha in the middle of the table and we all had some drinks. If only it was always that easy in the middle east. Can’t we all just have some food and beer and shisha at The Lions Den and then there would be world peace no? The music there was amazing and because of all the Taglit programs going on there were a million Americans. So the girls chatted at the table while I got up with a few strangers and danced. Sorry mum. This is where I met Esther and Bonnie. Esther is the craziest frum girl I have ever met. She would go crazy on the dance floor and the guy would all come up to high five her and she would be like “cant, im shomer.” Hilarious. She lives in this holy city. Then there was bonnie, the American taglit program girl. She was a blast and will be in Tel Aviv new years too. Again sorry mum. After all the dancing stopped I sat with a few guys at the bar watching the College basketball game Vegas vs North Carolina. Of course I went for North Carolina (one tree hill peace out) but it was such a close game that we were all screaming at the tv. Fun times. And then who walks in. Mine and Shayndles new friend from yesterday. Very quick hello but he knew we were gonna be there so very nice of him to come say hey. After The Lions Den we took a stroll down Ben Yehuda to our bus stop. The street is crazy on a Saturday night. Once at the bus stop on of the best things happened. There was a puppy!!! The cutest puppy in the world. Now I tried to get them to call HIM Devorah but they didn’t go for it. But I did get lots of cuddles!! Again for the third time sorry mum. I don’t think I have rabies but wish me luck. Then we were off back to Hotel Fidler where we had to clean up and pack for our next adventure.
So for the first time this trip Good morning all!
Speak to you later tonight.
Dee xox

Good food, good meat, good Shabbes lets eat.

devorahsbucketlist — Fri, 28 Dec 2012 14:30:48 -0500

“Friday, Friday, gotta get down on Friday” – Rebecca Black. This is very true in Israel. We started the day off not feeling too good cause neither of us got a good nights sleep but with Shabbes there is only rest . so we got out of bed and went to the shuk! Holy mother the smell was amazing. The fresh challahs and baby rogalech!! On the way from the bus stop to the shuk we ran in to Noam and Rivka. I think they may be mine and Shayndle’s all time favourite couple. Really lovely people from Canada that are cousins with our cousins. Once in the shuk I HAD to buy pomegranates. They were so delicious! One of my favourite fruits now. Thanks Israel. From the shuk we decided to go to Ben Yehuda because what else is there to do in the city of Jerusalem? So of course we started by seeing Dalia in her shop and then I walked down to the t-shirt shop to buy a few things. This is where I met another new friend. He needed help finding the right necklace for him so being a good shopper I helped him! Then Shayndle came in and met my new friend and we all walked and talked till we had to go home. This is what I know. He is 1 of 14. Lives in Canada. Is almost going the opposite way to where Shanyns is headed and loves girls. So with that in mind we left and never looked back. Nah just kidding. We will probably end up seeing him again. Once we were home we got the table ready for Shabbes and Shayndle got all ready and went off to Shul while I slept. Then got up for dinner and am now busily typing to my 2 followers.
Good Shabbes everyone and laylatov.
Dee xx

The Chamber of Secrets!

devorahsbucketlist — Thu, 27 Dec 2012 16:17:07 -0500

The Chamber of Secrets!

We saw Shoshana!

devorahsbucketlist — Thu, 27 Dec 2012 16:15:56 -0500

Just so you all know I have started writing today’s blog at the Kotel. Now that all my anti Zionist bloggers have left I will tell you what was in store for today.
Had a happy wake up with a hypo. Yay diabetes. So I grabbed the “first” thing I could see, coco pops. Continued to stuff my face with Itiel’s barmi cookies! They are so good!!! And fell asleep to the Simpsons. Perfect morning no? The next thing I know is its 12:00. Apparently during that 3 hours Shayns got up, went for a jog, read a book and put our washing on! Legend. We left the house at 1:00 with out either of us eating lunch… Roockie Grinblat mistake by us! We rode the bus to Ben Yehuda and walked Down to see Dalia at work. After a hug and kiss we decided it was a good idea to walk down to central bus station. Yeah not when hungry is that ever a good idea but I did find Fifty Shades of Grey in Hebrew. So weird! So we ended up taking the tram 2 stops and finding where to eat. By then my bladder was worse than my stomach so I ran to the bathroom while Shayns ordered. Israel fact. Did you know you have to pay a sheck to use the toilet! Not ok Israel!!! Brilliantly I saw a soldier push backwards on the turny thing and squeeze through for free. Today’s hero’s people! Squeezing through pay toilets! Walked back out to see Shayns had bought Chinese. Kosher Chinese. Only in Israel. So what did I do? Kosher Maccas time! Wasn’t as good but probably because it was kosher. Because everyone that knows me knows I’m allergic to kosher. While I was getting my nutritious meal two soldiers came up to our table and asked to sit with Shayndle. She said that I was coming back so they left. Go figure the guys see me and leave but could have been an epic win for Shayns there. After
Finishing our meals we went to a few stores and got the best nose rings and went on the craziest tram ride ever just to get back to Ben Yehuda to see Shoshanale! Was amazing see her! For all you Shoshi fans she looks amazing and is doing amazing and is cooking for us next week. Legend! Oh and shout out for being my number 1 fan! Xoxo. Moving on we went to see Dalia again before walking towards the old city for our underground Kotel tour. On the way I had to go back to Mamila St. It’s like Melbourne in one street! So with a new coffee vanilla frappa In hand we walked down to the old city. Shayns took me a different way down. Was beautiful with lots of old walls and paths. What we didn’t know was that a whole year level from a school up north were on a field trip to the Kotel. So while walking we ended up in the school line! i guess we looked the part. We made it to the Kotel and I finally made a kvitle and had my moment and walked away with Shayns to wait for our tour to start. We saw our year level again but this time In a massive circle and they started to dance and sing and show so much pride. It was beautiful. Gave me chills. While watching the kids do there thing we started talking to the security guide that had been travelling with them. Yay to a new friend. I think the best thing I have ever heard happened on the way to the tour. We passed the sink that is used to wash at and a 5 year old behind me went up to it and said “look it’s the chamber of secrets.” Best kid ever! I have attached the photo of this wash station. Then the Kotel tunnel tour started. Was very very very small. That’s all I can say. Not too fun for claustrophobics. But in all seriousness it was very amazing. I felt very different being there than being next to the Kotel on normal level. I felt as if the tour was historic for me more than a spiritual connection especially being so close to The Foundation Stone. But I guess I had my moment at the Kotel and that was it. For all you Simpsons fans who have seen the Israel episode our tour guide was exactly like the tour guy in that episode! Was amazing! After leaving the Kotel we got to the little group of cafes and restaurants and all I heard was Gangnam Style blasting from the cafes. Perfect way to leave the old city. We walked back down Mamila to a restaurant called Rimon. Kosher milchik restaurants are def the way to go from now on. Would have never normally had a hot chocolate with my pizza at a non kosher milchik restaurant. Just saying. After dinner we went to the Superpharm which is just a chemist just a missive chemist. Bigger than chemist warehouse! It was like heaven! So of course I bought an eyeliner and a blush. And then we went home. I’ll leave you with this :Shayndle can’t lock a door.
Good night. Dee xox

Similarities

devorahsbucketlist — Wed, 26 Dec 2012 18:30:16 -0500

Has anyone ever noticed the similarity between the Warsaw tram lines and the Jerusalem tram lines? Very similar. Maybe it’s the people or the Jewishness but there is something else to it. Maybe I should explain how I have seen the Warsaw tram lines.
Had a very good night’s sleep in hotel fiddler. Haha. Was a very warm welcome to their lovely home. We had a little shluf in and started out day. Took a weird looking bus that went through streets that didn’t look like it would fit so my eyes were closed most of the way. We got to the Ben Yahuda bus stop and trammed all the way down to Yad Vashem. Wow was that place over whelming. There were a few parts that really caught my eye. In one section the room was full of information about time just before the war had started or just when it had begun and a young boy names Dawid’s diary was displayed on each section that was mentioned in room. So when they wrote a piece on men being called for slave labour they showed a section of Dawid’s diary. Made it very personal. Then there were the Warsaw tram tracks. Was very very over whelming to think of how many people had walked across it that aren’t here with us anymore, how many Jews were marched and forced and beaten on those tracks. So much history in this 3 meter brick floor. The gutter also made me think of all the heroes that survived by hiding and fighting and passing on information through those gutters. Moving along I started to tear up because I am so close to such a disaster that thinking about it doesn’t make sense and then I came across a letter. It was from a kid to her mother. It pretty much said that I hope you are ok and that we will survive and get through this. Not only did that tear me up inside knowing that she thought even on a train to a camp that she would live but that her mother would see it or even thinking of your mama at a time like that. Just made me ache. Then I read the name of the kid. Hannah Goldberg. Now I know it wasn’t Buba who wrote it but that sent chills down my spine! I know what Buba went through and I know it could have been much worse but it hit so close to home. There was one more thing that hit me deep. On one side of the room was all of the horrible things going on outside of Auschwitz and we hit a train track and cart and a big picture the Auschwitz entrance and was a lovely sunny picture and when you walk behind the picture you are “in” Auschwitz. And all the horror that went on and the picture on the other side was black and white and just showed sadness. Was brilliantly made and made me feel almost lost. A very unique and fyll on experience for me. Then of course we reached the areas where my heroes were shown and I started to cry more. We have the famous Mordechai Aneilewicz, Yitraz Zuckerman, Marek Edelman, Dr. Janus Korczak, Oskar Schindler and of course my favourite forest brothers Tuvia, Zus and Aseal Bielski. It made me think about what I would do during the war. No one can ever say unless they were put in that position but I had to think about it. It started when Shayns said to me “you would have hated him (Hitler).” Of course I would have. But that hate would have made me fight. I asked Shayndle what she would do. She explained how she would try to survive by hiding. I thought about her answer but the only thing I could come up with was to fight. Do anything I could because I would have know I was going to die. Whereas Shayndle said she probably would have been naive to the whole situation and have faith till the last moment. I would do anything I can till I died and take a few out with my death. This very scary thought made me think of the latest war in Israel and gave me a greater understanding as to why people stay in the army. At the moment I had never felt more proud to be cousins with Yair. The bravery he has to stay and fight for what he believes in. For his countrys protection is something I will admire forever. To all soldiers who fight for what they believe in. “When They Summon Us to Battle, We Are There by Day or Night” – The Palmach anthem, Zrubavel Galid For all people who fight for what they believe in. Ending my Yad Vashem trip on that note I felt very down. We walked through some of Mount Herzl. The amount of grave stones there was a little bit too over whelming at that moment for me. I had to leave. Too much sadness. But not before passing a very special woman’s grave stone. Golda Meir. Shayndle explained to me what kind of woman she was and what she had done for Israel and it gave me so much pride to be a woman! Girl power!
So after such a hectic adventure I was drained! Physically and emotionally but it was only 12:30 so on we went. Back up to Ben Yahuda st where we had some amazing pizza! Big Apple pizza! Can I count that as being in New York? Haha. Shei Shei if you read this I saw you double!!! He was like mini you! Even Shayndle swears by it! After pizza went for a bit of a shop and finally got that rain coat I have needed for ages! Yay for shopping. Best kind of therapy there is. We slowly made our way to the old city but instead of going through the side streets that I love so much we went through the Arab shuk. That was crazy intense. Not as loud as the Jewish shuks around but still hectic! We finally made it to the Kotel and Shayns and I split up. I went to put some messages in to the Kotel while Shayndle booked our underground tour for us! Yay! While at the wall I saw a bit of a fuss going on. As I got closer I saw a bride. She was dovening before getting married. It was actually beautiful!! She looked gorgeous and her sisters and relatives all around her and as she left they sang for her. Made me appreciate Judaism even more. So after that we got back on the road and headed home. Well I forced Shayndle to come back with me. She could have kept going for hours but I am EXHAUSTED. Oh and tip on doritoes here. The green packet is NOT original flavour! I repeat not original flavour. My mouth learnt that very important lesson today. So after about a 2 hour rest we were off to Jerusalem again to meet Dalia and her new hubby Yair. Went back to there’s and had a delicious dinner, watched their wedding and laughed alot! The way back was not so funny! Caught the buss to the stop we needed and thought we would catch our bus on time… yeah that didn’t happen so we waited and waited and waited. An hour later we took a taxi with 2 other girls waiting with us. So now I am literally falling off my feet. Big big day!
Love you mummy!!!
Dee xox

To Infinity and beyond

devorahsbucketlist — Tue, 25 Dec 2012 13:51:01 -0500

No actual reason that the blog is called this today. just really felt like being buzz light year! Up up and away! This may be the shortest blog ever! Woke up at 12:00 this morning/arvo. Had cake for breakfast, packed, had left over steak and noodles for lunch, packed more and left for Talpiot. New adventures! Yay!! We had a lovely dinner with the Fidler’s and now its time for sleep! Too much of an emotional rollercoaster for me.
See ya on the flip side
Dee xox

With great power comes great responsibility

devorahsbucketlist — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 17:54:49 -0500

I named the blog this today because over the weekend Yitzi mentioned in his speech for itiel that now that he is at the age of Bar Mitzvah he is now an adult and being an adult comes with alot of power so what did he do? He quoted Spider man. Couldn’t have thought of a better quote myself. “with great power comes great responsibility.” Just perfect. So today was the Barmitzvah party! Had another sleep in. Starting to think my sleep pattern is changing here a little bit. Anyway after the whole grooming process I take in the morning I went out with Butchlaben. Was really nice and fun. Went to get a few gifts for people in Ramat Bet Shemesh. Very different place to everywhere else in Israel. Maybe wasn’t the best idea to wear a tshirt and leggings to such a haredi place but I wore superman tshirt so I was safe. No one was going to harm me! Im SUPERMAN!!! After an hour there we got back and straight into getting ready mode. so being me I straightened my hair, straightened shayndles hair, did shiras make up, did my make up and got dressed all just in time!! The barmitzvah was fantastic! So much dancing I thought my legs were going to fall off. I felt like I was in a family video because we never get to celeberate with the Gelbars! Last day in Bet Shmesh as well. Can not wait to go back out and travel Israel. Miss going on our adventures and I feel like I haven’t seen Shayndle in days!!
Anyway I am legit sleep typing and we are opening presents and I have to wash my brushes and take my face off and ahhhh. But its all ok cause Shira is next to me!
Nighty night
Dee xox

New kicks and Guy Penis

devorahsbucketlist — Sun, 23 Dec 2012 16:22:23 -0500

Hey bloggers
What a day! Had a beautiful sleep in and woke up to an empty house. Well almost empty. Yair was here. Oh o…. nahhhhh it was fine. Was a really good day. Came down stairs to yair watching the weirdest movie ever. Word of advice. Never watch a Lindsey Lohan movie post drug days and if the movie is called ‘I know who killed me’ stay away from it! After feeling totally tripped out from that movie we went on an amazing adventure in Bet Shemesh… hahahahaha adventure. Bet Shemesh. No. But was still fun! Went to a couple of shops and went to get yair new new kicks. Very awesome if you ask me. We ran into Marcia in the area and drove home. I felt dead after. Before going upstars to have a shluf I heard the school bell. I cant even tell you how weird it was. It sounded like an ice cream truck was driving past. Was hilarious! Had a small nap and woke up to a very relaxed house. Then everyone slowly started coming home and I was the one to get louder. Oops. Oh well. You either love or hate me. Then at the dinner table Itiel kindly told us that the news repoter Guy Pines (pronounced penis) had a daughter named Mai. Mai Pines. Enough said.
Later on Chagit and I took a nice stroll to Shira and Elch’s apartment. Was really beautiful.
And that sums up my day!
Night mum!
Dee xox

A Very Special Shabbes

devorahsbucketlist — Sat, 22 Dec 2012 13:46:14 -0500

Hey bloggers
Hope you missed me. It has been a HECTIC 2 days! So since arriving in Bet Shemesh it has been a wild rollercoaster of emotions. The first night here was a bit restless. Not the best night’s sleep. Getting out of bed I started to feel nervous about what the next few days were going to be like. I had my cousin Itiel Zeev Barmitzvah Saturday morning. So I was nervous for him and excited and then I knew I would be meeting Ariella and Shalchvet and keeping Shabbes and to top it all off I felt very emotional being at a family simcha without my family especially Buba and Zayda who are loved so much by Butch. I decided to stay busy Friday before Friday night when the whole party would start. so after getting out of bed I sat down to breakfast with Yair. I love that I can say that. I’ve missed that kid so much! After Chagit said she was going to go get her hair done so naturally I wanted to check out the hair dressing salon. Wasn’t too bad. Very very different. While I was there a beautiful acoustic version of ‘Call me maybe’ came on. Really beautiful. And then the best song ever came on!!! ‘Can’t live if living is without you’ aka Ken lee. Ebony I know you aren’t reading this but you were all I could think of! I giggled so much. After we get home we have some lunch and then all need to get ready by 4:00 for Shabbes. I got in the shower and maybe almost got stuck in there and rushed out to get my make up ready. That’s right people! My first make up job in Israel! Ok maybe not a job so much as me beginning my family to let me do their make up for the Shabbes. But it worked and they looked beautiful so I am happy. I love make up so much. Before heading off to shul we took some lovely photos and headed off to light the Shabbes licht. Sitting in shul I saw ariella and Shalchevet walk in. I was in love at first sight! She is the most gorgeous little girl in Israel! And her Cheeks!!! I just wanted to bite them! Just before the service finished Ariella and I left to go to the dinner hall and had a very nice chat. That was the beginning of many religious chats that night. Dinner was incredible. Being with the family and greta food with all the joy and singing was really lovely. After dinner I decided to see why people decided to live the lifes they lived in a religious way. I did this because for the first time I was the minority, not the majority. I won’t bore you all my 2 bloggers with the details but it was very very interesting. Words that will stay with me for a long long time. During the meal we played this game. It was a really good idea of a game. We all got a road sign and had to come up with a blessing to do with the sign for Itiel. it was an amazing game. Can’t even explain what some of the answers were. Oh can I just mention here that at shul I looked like the girl from the breakfast club! Very Allison. With full bellies we walked home and went straight to bed.
Horray for a proper night’s sleep! Woke up feeling great! Got ready for Shul fairly quickly, ate breakfast and left to hear the man of the hour Doven. Can I say at this point that I knew it would be a mega long day without my phone. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE family time but I love having my phone on me! Heard Itiel read from the Tora and was so so proud! Ebo is growing up so much. We got so much Laffy Taffy to throw. Not the safest thing to throw but yummy to nash on. In fact I am eating it now as I type! Anyway getting off topic. Again like Friday night I left early with Ariella to talk more about religion. Lunch was just as amazing as dinner! Maybe even better. I mean there was schnitzel! How can I complain! There were a couple of speeches made over the lunch and a few songs sung. Very shabesey. Ate way way way too much!! After lunch we went for about a 20 min walk and went straight back to shul to have our 3rd meal before shabbes came out. I think I may have put on 27 kilo but all for a good cause! As soon as shabbes came out I ran to get my phone with yair and played with Shalchvet. So many photos were taken it’s not even funny. Buba you’ll be proud. Now it is 8:30 and I think I am ready for sleep! Nice relaxing day tomorrow with yair before another hectic day on Monday! The big party!!!
Hope everyone back home is well and that my 2 followers are still reading this blog.
And please please excuse this horrible blog entry! Im not sure that any of it even made sense!
Nighty night. Dee xxx

Soldier Home!

devorahsbucketlist — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 04:41:58 -0500

Who knew it could be that windy in Tel Aviv. Was crazy! Could hear the wind all night. The waves were huge! Great surfing weather. We had a very chilled morning. Got up and started packing to leave The Maxim. We went down to the amazing buffet breakfast but I was a good girl and didnt eat the rogalech. I’m starting to regret that! We finished packing and getting ready for the day and check out. Pamper time! I got a lovely pedicure and manicure. Was exactly what was needed for such horrible weather. With pretty nails we went to eat at my fave cafe Adraba. I highly suggest the French toast! A stroll back to the maxim, a diabetic site change and a taxi and we were headed to Bet Shemesh! Can I just say I was a total dork and my heart was pounding just because I was going to see my cousin coming home from his base!!! We settled in and relaxed a bit and then Yair came home! I may or may not have jumped on him…. Ok I did. After that we all sat Down for a lovely dinner. Elchanan and his beautiful wife Shira joined us. I love meeting new family. And that’s pretty much how our night went. Just relaxed with the family.
Till next time,
Dee xxx

From two to three to four

devorahsbucketlist — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 15:26:29 -0500

So if I told you I woke Shayns up at 2:30 crying in my sleep would you judge me? Yeah so that happened. Don’t even know why. Unfortunately Shayns didn’t get back to sleep but I did! Yay me.
Around 8 we went down stairs to have an amazing breakfast. Yes though rogalech are going to be the death of me! I unfortunately said bye to Mr.smith today as well but all is pretty awesome in the world so we live and learn and move on. After breakfast we took the bus and train to Caesarea were we met up with our beautiful new friend Mor! Oh and on the train there was a beautiful little ranga kid with bright blue eyes. Sorry ranga! From the train station the 3 of us took a taxi to the Caesarea ruins. I’d like to announce that the taxi driver used his indictors… Is this a bad time to say he was using his phone though? Oh speaking of phones I have an Israel fact. People serving in shops are on their phones 24/7. Keep chatting as you pay for things! I love this place!!! Getting back on track we arrived at Caesarea ruins. Was absolutely incredible. Will have to post pictures to understand what I mean because my words don’t do it justice. The view, the stones, the atmosphere were all amazing! I maybe took a picture of myself pole dancing on an old pillar… Maybe. Ok I did. From the ruins we went to a cafe by the sea. Also an amazing view. From there Mor’s friend Matan called and said he was coming to hang out. So 3 turned into 4. We walked a little around the beach area with the old ruins and then went off for an adventure! We had 3 women, 1 man, a 4WD and music. We were set. So Mor and Matan decided to take us to this beautiful spring. An amazing journey to get there with beautiful views and what happens… The spring is empty. We stood there for about 15 min laughing and play some good old fashioned ‘double double this this’ we continued on some dirt tracks and hills. We passed a beautiful little river and waterfall. Again my words don’t do it justice. Was breathtaking. On the way to the train station I had a realisation. A scarecrow is called a scarecrow because it’s made to scare crows! How did I never put that together!!!! Don’t judge me! Then we hopped back on the train and headed to Tel Aviv. A train and bus ride later and we were back on Ben Yahuda st, did a few things and back to the Maxim we go!
After about an hour rest we got back up and soldered on to dinner with Bec again! Was lovely as always even though I zombie my way through the meal. But on the more exciting end we found Gideon Preiss’s doppelganger! No joke the scariest look alike I have seen!! Was incredible. So after that excitement we went to Bec’s boyfriend’s apartment and head to an ice cream shop. Because I am sleep typing I will not explain the uneventful journey that was. Off to Bet Shemesh tomorrow. Not before getting our nails done of course.
Hope the 2 people reading this blog are still enjoying it!
Night, Dee xox

Hi my name is Devorah and I’m a shopaholic.

devorahsbucketlist — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 14:23:20 -0500

Let me start with a few things I have missed out on.
1. Bus drivers are scarier than the taxi drivers. Decided to keep my eyes closed during the bus rides from now on.
2. Everybody calm down! I found the kosher Maccas! As long as the sign is blue it is kosher!
3. The hotel has a tiny elevator. I’m not over exaggerating like I normally do right now. With our bags and us we just fit in. You have to shut the door and then the lift doors close. Very titanic if you ask me.
4. Totally became bffs with a Haredi girl! Wasn’t too bad! She had like 8 siblings and won’t try kosher Maccas but apart from that we were pretty similar! Well tattoos and piercings aside.
5. Everyone smokes here. But like everyone!
6. Apparently Shayndle has been talking about this drink called Limonana. Apparently I also don’t listyen to her. So hey guys! There is an awesome drink called Limonana that tastes like
7. Charlie’s lemonade!! So so good! Divi you would love!
8. Every time a car moves near me I flinch. Totally funny for Shayns but I am in fear of my life here people!!! They are scary ass drivers!

Now that we got that out of the way I will share today’s adventures.
It started with a bang. Literally. Shayns walked into the bathroom door at like 5:30. Way too funny!!! Then I decided to trip my way in but the day went up from there.
We missed our buffet breakfast so went down the street to cafe Adraba. Amazing food but again it was all what you eat with like cheese and wine. Haha so with coffee in my system (which is never a good idea) we set off the shuk! Unfortunately for my pocket there were quite a few amazing shops on the way. Soooo 2 rings, and 2 pairs of boots later we arrived at the shuk! Can I just add in that the boots are awesome and yes mum I actually did need them! And my rings are pretty!!!
Oh and take note people. We were walking down the street and I read out a sign that said love u. Shayndle felt very flattered and said it back. I then continued to tell her that I was reading from the sign. But I love her so no harm done there! The shuk was crazy! Exactly what you think a market full of Israelis would be like! FINALLY got my jam donut for the year and thought I was going to explode! Dave if you are reading this blog I took a picture of a massive massive baklava stall! After that Shayns and I decided to stroll back to the hotel but of course there were shops on the way back! We found ourselves outside a shop and walked in to buy some things and guess what people?? The shop was love u! I know freaky right. Ok maybe just to me! And everyone can calm down now. I found the sex shop! Door wide open for everyone to see. Did you know they made crotchless panties? Anyway that’s an entry for my late night blog. So a cardigan and food shop later we made it back! We took a well deserved rest in the afternoon before getting a call from Bec. For all you Bec fans out there she is looking amazing and doing really well. And mum we will send you the photos tomorrow! So we went out to dinner at Dr Shakshuka. What a place and a half! Food was amazing, really awesome atmosphere. And what was right next to it? Dr Shisha! So I got myself some goodies and im set for home now!
And thats the day I went broke but on the upside Yay to no public transport!
Sleep for the weak now.
Good night. Dee xox

4 buses, 2 trains a tram and and 3 taxi's later

devorahsbucketlist — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 14:17:49 -0500

Hey bloggers
What a day!!! So being the idiots we are we jam packed our day and went on an adventure of a lifetime!!!
Started with a Shayndle poking my face and a phone call to mum. the usual morning for us. Then We went down to the buffet breakfast. Wow! What a mixture of foods! I mean I love olives at the best of times but fr breakfast… I don’t think so. And the rogalech! I am never eating aviv rogalech again. These were like heaven in your mouth!!! So after breakfast our adventure began. We got on a bus to see our first victim. The bus took us to the train station. The train station took us to a bus stop. The bus took us to the wrong stop. We walked the wrong way for half an hour, caught a taxi and…. We made it! So we saw mamas cousin! Was really lovely seeing family. Israel fact: stray cats everywhere! saw the cutest kitten. wanted it!! Makes this whole trip worth it. Then we decided to head to Jerusalem. I’d like to add here that Israelis over react to the cold! Was totally fine! The bus ride to Jerusalem was beautiful. I got separated from Shayns but put my head phones in and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Was really a sight! Finally made it to Jerusalem and felt so overwhelmed. Was like the city in the train station and when you leave the building it’s exactly what you think Jerusalem would like. It’s now known to me as a magical place that makes awesome pizza! I know kosher pizza is the best?!! So we started to walk and go through the shuk and weaved our way in and out of different streets. Ps dad saw a sanfran 49ers kippa! And Zayda I saw coffee halva! May have been the best I’ve ever had.
So we keep walking and eventually make it to the old city. Maybe my fave place in the world now. I’m in love. The stones are beautiful. And then there it was… The kotel. Don’t even know what to say, was very overwhelming and beautiful. Ill leave it at that. After our emotional encounter we slowly strolled down mamilla mall. And that’s when one of the top best 5 moments in my life happened.. The MAC store. I started to freak out. How could shayns have not told me there was a MAC store here! I had my freak out and went inside, Started talking to the makeup ladies, ask the price of the foundation and almost fainted! Not only was there a MAC store but it was cheap!!! Spent a good half hour coming up with a wish list and telling the girls that ill move here if I can get a job in there store! Totally made the day even better! Went straight on the tram in Jerusalem to the bus stop. The bus to bet shemesh took forever!!! Traffic was horrid but totally worth it to see my beautiful family!!! They have all grown up so much! A taxi, train and another taxi ride home later and we are spent!!! And now shayns is poking me again so I’d say the day has come full circle.
Sleeeeep time! Night bloggers!
Dee xxx