Early March

---

The weeks are passing by very quickly here--I can't believe that it's already the middle of March. A week or so ago, my six-month anniversary since my arrival in Israel passed. It's unbelievable!
The second semester is going well. I am liking my classes--Hebrew, Arabic, Rabbinic Literature, Literature of the Shoah, and Intro to Special Education. They're all interesting and challenging in different ways.
Two Thursdays ago I saw a fantastic Israeli film here at the dorms called, "The Syrian Bride." It takes place in an Arab town in Northern Israel close to the Syrian border and grapples with the question of land owndership and the dividing of communities. I would highly recommend it.
I spent last weekend in Akko with a friend of mine from my last trip to Israel. She's also in Israel for the year, participating in a Habonim Dror movement program. Akko is a beautiful city, and one of the oldest cities in the world that has consistently had people living in it. We had a nice walk through the old shuk and ate lunch on the beach.
Just this past Thursday a Young ARZA/Kesher group of college students from the States came to Israel for a short trip, and they came up to meet us in Haifa. It was nice to talk to students our age who are involved in Israel activity in a different way.
Friday night our group went to a small town not far from Haifa called Zikron Yaakov. Established in 1882, it was an early settlement and has been preserved to look fitting of that historical period ever since. We went to a Progressive synagogue for services and walked around a bit afterwards. The community was warm and welcoming and we all had a good time.
All of us took a walk to the nature reserve that backs campus this afternoon and had a potluck picnic in the park. The weather was beautiful, and I'm sure that it will only continue to get even nicer.
Purim's right around the corner and we're all looking forward to it. The whole country will be very silly! I'll be sure to take some pictures.
I hope that everyone is well and enjoying the beginnings of springtime. Be in touch!

---

Comments

[Zoe]

plans?
Hey MARIIII i miss youuuu... what are your plans for next year and stuff? will you still be in israel maybe hopefully.. because i will be there!