time ain't an issue.

So... I am back. Another entry to add to the mix.  I meant to post several days ago, but life has distracted me.  It's not like I've been busy or anything, but instead, have spent the measly amount of time that I have had online reading whatwhitepeoplelike.com, emailing, facebook stalking (who doesn't do it), and compiling funny things to write about my family (like how my dad does not think global warming exists..).  

I've figured out a few things.  1. I need structure. I can't handle this free time business thing for this long. 2.  OMG so many more homeless people!! and 3. I can only stand Russian TV for so long.  I've been staying with my grandparents. They're the people who raised me and I love them so much, but I'm not going to lie -- it has been challenging. My grandma thinks I'm an infant and my grandpa spends 95% of the time arguing with my grandma about the most mundane things -- the loin of pork in the fridge, his medical socks, or which Mexican soap opera (dubbed in Russian - of course) they're going to spend time watching.  

This break has been nice, but far too long.  Nomi got hitched last week.  I totally got a little bit emo watching her go down the isle.  Beautiful wedding!  Totally extravagant!  I had such a fun time!  It was the first time in a long time that Aurora, Ilana, Kira and I were together and the joy was totally contagious.  We danced, laughed and were totally jolly.  Ilana, Aurora and I were placed at the kids table -- I mean, you know, high school kids.  I spent a majority of dinner counseling this girl about her college woes. Nothing better than sharing your insights with an overly privileged, pressured youth.  Her little brother kept on asking her if she was a virgin. So awkward and hysterical.  

Now, all but a few friends have left and I am left to sit in internet cafes on my own. Israel is coming up fast.  Ten days! I am going in with a mixed attitude. I'm excited, but am so weary of everything that is to come. I hate the perception that comes with me going to Israel.  Jews are like "GREAT! GO SUPPORT THE HOMELAND!" and others assume that I am this zionist going to support this occupied territory.  I had this epiphany the other day.  There is a clear separation between the Israel that is spoken about in the Torah or in various prayers and the Israel that is actively engaged in our world today.  Politics and modernity have combined themselves to mesh both of the images into one and there needs to be a clear definition and separation.  Anyway, more on that later.  I need to go into this experience with an open mind and a positive attitude.  Every place has its positives and negatives, but of course, in this situation, I am a white, Ashkenazi Jew going to a land where I will automatically be accepted -- in one way or another. Israel is such a rich place (in every aspect of the word) and I am an incredibly privileged individual who gets the chance to experience living there -- even if for a short time.  My family is terrified, but I am excited to be traveling out of the country.  I find myself constantly criticizing the place and then defending it when I am interacting with uneducated people who make claims that do not have anything to do with anything. Anyway, as you can tell by this paragraph -- I'm confused, but searching for a better understanding of my opinion on my future experiences and the land that I will be occupying for the next five months.  Something has lead to where I am right now and I have to run with it. No fear.  Open mind.  

I'm sitting in this super upscale, yuppy coffee shop right now.  By looking at the people around me, you'd never have any idea that our country was in an economic depression.  Ironically, if you walk just a few blocks, you'll find a world filled with  homeless beggars with no teeth, no food, and no homes.  

And, I miss Eugene.  I know this entry sounds a bit emo, but I swear that I am actually not emo at all.  Super excited and ready to conquer the world!  Maybe.  I've become a bit hesitant about blogging after watching Julie and Julia last night. OMG SO BAD!  I hate Amy Adams (I think that's her name).  Totally ridiculous and totally ridiculous about blogging. Mocking my goals.  I do have to admit that because I have no access to any American TV or internet at home, I've been watching Bridget Jones' Diary on repeat simply to have background noise to everything that I do. I can recite every single word.  It's scary. No shame!  

Oh -- and I decided that I'll post pictures into this thing!  So here they are!  

Kira, me, Ilana and Aurora at Nomi's wedding!

                             

New Years 2009! SO much fun! Me, Aurora

                             

The inside of a Muni underground station. I've spent so much time here. Gotta love that $2.00 ride!