Pat`s first shabbat

We got up and out early to take the bus to Jerusalem. We went to the Jerusalem shuk (Mahane Yehuda) to buy stuffed grape leaves, dates, and nuts. Pat bought a loaf of whole wheat bread. Then we headed south to meet some friends in San Simon. Then back to the bus to Tel Aviv. We stopped and got some malabi to go by the Carmel shuk (and punch my frequent malabi card).  She wanted to get some butter, which turned out to be a complete bust. ?????

We did some Shabbat prep, including some laundry.  I couldn't find the drying rack, so I hung the damp laundry everywhere.  Tomorrow we're up and out early to go to the Dead Sea.

Socks on the coat rack

NIS 10 Shabbat flowers

I did a rudimentary Havdalah for her (I brought a candle and stick of cinnamon, but no bruchas).

Shopping, etc.

I got out early after a fitful jet-lag night. There's a small version of the kosher grocery store near me, and I wanted to see what they had. It's a lot bigger than a Quik Trip, and I got a number of things that I needed. Very convenient. Then around the corner to the SuperPharm to load my Rav Kavs (bus fare cards). Now I can get my friend Pat here from the airport.   So I dropped off the milk, etc. and walked down to the Carmel shuk.

I was there before the tourists, so I was just dodging shop set up. I acquired olive oil, olives, mint, parsley, scallions, fresh apricots, a mango, tomatoes, cucumbers, lemons, the cheese I like, and a really big cauliflower.

I did manage to pick up my friend, Pat, at the airport. She was an exceedingly good sport about the stairs. I made us a nice fruit salad from the mango, fresh apricots and the mint.

Arrival

The plane trip was unremarkable. My suitcase was one of the last to appear at baggage claim, but I wasn't worried, just tired at looking at suitcases go round and round.  I tried to see what was up with the apartment, but I didn't see it in my email, so I started in that direction so I would be walking in the light.  A lovely young woman took my carry on up the four flights of stairs at the train station, while I took the bohemeth suitcase. Her help really made that easier.  Caught a #104 to Rothschild Boulevard.  The plan was to walk up Rothschild to Shenken and find the little street that the apartment is on.  Well, I turned on Maze which didn't help. I read the sign wrong. Time for GPS.  I tried to call the apartment owner but no answer. Then she called back and texted me the necessary information (where the key was, etc.).  GPS worked, but it's really twilight now. Key is acquired. Building is entered, but there are no hallway lights.  Ok, up is easy, except for the suitcase part.  Finally, the right key in the right door. And I'm in.

The plane

I'm on my way

I decided to simplify the US part of my trip, so I'm going through Newark instead of transferring between LaGuardia and JFK in NYC.  At least I'll save ~$30. I'm just waiting for the El Al check in to open.