Well, we ate like 18 times. AND visited Machne Yehuda.
Machne Yehuda is a market place. Since I can't post my pictures go here:
CRAZY MARKET!
Vendors are yelling...there is fresh produce everywhere. Words cannot describe the madness.
It was quite simply fantastic.
In between stopping for Israeli chocolates, which I will expand upon shortly, we were able to explore at our own pace a market place that functions as the heart of a community. People come together here, especially before Shabbat, to stock up and catch up.
Due to the high traffic area, the market was a frequent target for terrorist attacks during the Second Intifada. I will say that I felt completely safe at all times -- and was only worried when forced to walk on the streets due to overcrowding. If you have seen how Israeli's drive, you would understand :)
While exploring the market, we found an artist's cooperative Pri HaAdama. I bought most of my souvenirs here! The store is run by artists and several folks have their artwork available for purchase. AMAZING.
As I was typing this I found a link to a video on the store: Hole in the Wall
Ack. Ok, back to the candy. SO MUCH CANDY. Literally every other stand in the market place was candy oriented. Lots and lots of candy. Wildly popular options during this trip was the chocolate pop rock bars and anything Kinder-ish. (insert kinder bueno or kinder eggs)
Because I am unable to truly describe the sheer deliciousness albeit bizarreness of aforementioned candy, I have brought some back with me to America. FDA WARNINGS be damned! So if you are interested in some, stop by Ulrich.
After the market place, we went back to our hotel. The entire community was shutting down for Shabbat. Streets were being fenced in (so that cars wouldn't drive in Orthodox communities), elevators were stopping on every. single. floor. so that orthodox guests would not have to push the button for their door. It was incredible! It was such an eye-opening experience to be in Jerusalem for the Sabbath.
Seth and Rachel were able to lead Shabbat services, which is always very moving.
We then gathered together for ONEG in the lobby of the 7th floor. Oneg (which I think I'm remembering correctly) means enjoyment. Typically after shabbat we get together and enjoy each others company, make fun of Seth and/or Alissa, and play games. I was thrilled that we were able to continue the tradition I've only experienced in Pennsylvania.
We were quite the crowd in the lobby. Every single time someone stepped off the elevator they would gasp as they saw this unruly crowd gathered in a tiny common space. It was memorable. And of course, it should be mentioned that we ate. A LOT during oneg. Because that's how we roll.
Friday was a day that started off with such darkness in Yad Vashem, it is incredible to think that it ended in such happiness and enjoyment (oneg). In between the dark and the light, we were able to gather together and hear prayers that millions have heard for thousands of years. We drank from a kiddish cup that was full to the rim, symbolizing that our joy should be "full." And it was. But I couldn't help but think of all the faces I saw in Yad Vashem.
This Shabbat was unlike any other. I will never forget it.
Lo Nishkach -- לא נשכח
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