Greetings from the Motherland!
These blogs are not being posted as often as I would like, as there is no internet services on the army base. Today I have snagged some wireless connection at the hostel: Beit Shmuel in Jerusalem.
The rudest awakening was logging onto Google and seeing Hebrew; was this sweet revenge for tapping into the wi-fi of an Israeli organization? 45 minutes later and with the assistance of a perfect stranger,I was able to locate the English button!
I arrived a week ago and was assigned to the Matzrap Army Base, which is located just outside of Tel Aviv. Remember Girl Scout camp? Well, this is not quite as luxurious! The room in the barracks that I share with four other women is basic at best:the mattress is 3" thick, the sheets are so narrow that they don't tuck in and the blankets are scratchy.Where is my 300 thread comforter cover? This is the first time in my life that I have slept with earplugs. Talk about snoring - it is not as melodious as the Colorado Quintet!
The morning after we arrived, outfitted in my very old uniform, we were told that the Brigadeer General of the Army, who is also the Surgeon General, would be inspecting the base. This entailed two full days cleaning the base in preparation for his visit! Picking up cigarette butts was the most disgusting...enough said. This base is the only medical supply base in the country. I like being on a base that prepares "helping" items,knowing that the soldiers will have what they need. We prepare and pack medical supplies for the soldiers.
We worked our first week and have landed in Jerusalem for the weekend. The evening of our arrival,there was a shooting at one of the Yeshivas. Six young men were gunned down by a single shooter who was then killer by one students, who is also a soldier. The most amazing thing is how young the soldiers are. The funerals are scheduled for this morning.
Off to explore the city, just want you to know that I am safe and enjoying the adventure!
6 comments:
Hi JoJo.
Great fashion statement. Love your photo and most especially seeing you in the land of Israel.
Shalom from your sis.
Love,
Gail
Hi JoJo,
You make that uniform look styling!
Richard and I are so proud of you.
Keep up the great work and keep us posted. Shalom Candi
Hey Joanne..love the outfit...is that Chico's or Jill J? Glad to hearthat most of the experiences are really positive...remember scratchy blankets build character. Miss you...Joy
Hey Jo -
Well... looks like you have certainly found adventure in 2008!
I am still laughing at you in uniform! That look will definitely clash with your new bike! Although, I think your helmet would match. Sounds like you may need one there!
Good to hear from you!
xxoo
Aria (and Joanie)
Jo
Bring that uniform home....I'm sure we can get pads for it and u can wear it on this year's C2S
BE SAFE!
Love from the Doughertys
Even this doesn't get you out of sweeping the C2S route...
What an amazing experience you must be having. We can't wait to hear more. Stay safe. We'll be thinking of you often.
Stacey & Steven Asbell
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