Israel: week 2.76

I went into the city again today, with the goal of spending the day on the beach. When I reached the city I realized I had forgotten a book, snacks and sunglasses. On the way I found a book store filled to the ceiling. After sidestepping my way through Yiddish, Hebrew, German, Dutch, and English books I made it to the philosophy section where I grabbed the first book that peaked my interest (something about Chinese spirituality). Book in hand I moved on to buy snacks: bananas, grapes, Israeli version of a mound bar, and fresh squeezed orange juice. Sunglasses were an easy and cheap find.
The beach erases the hustle of the city and I was able to relax while reading about Yin Yang. Wasn't completely a page turner, but still interesting. I do not remember the last time I was sunbathing on a beach. Bikinis and I seldom interact, perhaps because I live in Alaska or maybe because I inherited my mother's insecurity. Regardless, after two hours of laying in the sun I had two date requests and one marriage proposal. Actually in the spirit of Israeli men, they were not requests. They were commands. I need to work on my responses. Laughing and smiling does not do the trick. "Why you no like me? I good man. I marry you."

I finally landed a farm and begin on Sunday. Its near Natanya which is 30 minutes from Tel Aviv. It's a pretty big farm. I'll be working with 3-4 other volunteers, have my own room, even internet. The farm is a 30 minute bike ride from the beach, where I will most likely spend my evenings after working in the field all day. I'm so excited to start farming and feel productive again. I'll be there for 3 weeks or so, then venture up north.

Tomorrow I am in charge of the meals and am going to make Vietnamese Pho, my new favorite thing to cook.

Location:HaBanim,Kfar Malal,Israel