In a small village, a simple man, with many children, was bothered by the constant mess and noise in his home. So, he went to his Rabbi for help. The Rabbi's advice was strange: "Tonight, don't keep your chicken in the coop; bring your chicken inside your house." The next day, the simple man went to the Rabbi again: "The mess and the noise are even worse!" he complained. The Rabbi told him: "Tonight, don't keep your goat in the barn; let the goat sleep in your house." The next day, the Rabbi advised: "Bring your cow into your home." And so it went, until all the livestock was living in the poor man's home. In desperation, the man again approached his Rabbi. This time, the Rabbi said: "Take all the animals out of your home." The next day, the man came to thank the Rabbi: "My house is so clean and so quiet with only my children!"
A classic parable and the simple story of these past few weeks.
It was so wonderful to have everyone stay with me. But there were a lot of people and a lot of noise. And everyone had different needs. And it was a challenge for us all.
So, though there is nothing better than having my family with me. And, though everyone helped a lot and did their best to be patient and understanding. My house is suddenly a lot quieter...
Of course, I miss my family very much. And I would have been quite happy if they could have stayed longer.
Still, as the Israeli's like to say: "Haya Tov, V'Tov She'Hayah" -- It was good, and it is good that is was (but we are glad that it is over now!) :-)
Please daven (or send happy, healing thoughts) for RivkA bat Teirtzel.
With love and optimism,
RivkA
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Friday, October 5, 2007
Simchat Torah (2007)
I LOVE Simchat Torah. It is probably my favorite holiday. Despite coming at the end of a long holiday season, I look forward to the celebrations every year. I know where I want to daven (pray), and where I will have the experiences that I am looking for.
Unfortunately, the places I like to daven on this particular holiday are not in walking distance from my home (for me*). Usually, this is not a problem, since we welcome the opportunity to stay with friends. But, with my entire family here from the US, I didn't see how I would manage to find appropriate housing for everyone.
The thought of missing out on this special davening made me sad. I decided that I had to at least make the effort. If it didn't work out, then I did my hishtadlut (part in the effort). But I had to try and give God the opportunity to help me out. He did.
As soon as I mentioned that I was looking for accomodations, friends offered to host. Some lived far away, some offers were tentative, but there were offers and there were options. As Simchat Torah approached, I discovered that I was able to find hosts for everyone in a close radius to my sister's home, where we would all be having lunch, and to the shul (synagogue), where we would all be davening at night. (It would have worked out perfectly had I informed my brother, or his host, at which shul we would be davening. Ooops.)
I couldn't believe it. Even with all my guests, I would be able to daven in the places that uplift me spiritually. I would get my spiritual "booster shot." I was so excited and grateful to God -- and to my hosts!
At the last minute, we discovered that both Y & A had strept-throat. Even though A tested positive, she seemed totally healthy. However Y was really sick and could barely get out of bed. In the end, Y stayed with my sister. Y was disappointed to miss out on all the fun, but it was a treat for her to stay with her aunt. We hoped that by the next day (24 hours after starting antibiotics) she would at least feel well enough to join us for lunch. She did.
At night, we davened at Shir Hadash, a "Carlebach" minyan, with lots of ruach (spirit). Before we moved, that was our shul and I loved it -- I still do. I love the community, which is warm and welcoming, and I love the singing, which is strong and melodious. On Simchat Torah, there is LOTS of dancing, on both sides of the mechitzah (divider). And it is muvan me'alav (a given) that the women are also dancing, with a Sefer Torah. I especially love watching the women who are dancing with the Sefer Torah for the first time. It is a wonderful and inspiring experience.
In the past, I would dance and dance, without stopping. I didn't understand why women would stand around chatting, when they had the opportunity to sing and dance and celebrate the Torah.
This year, I knew things would be different. I wasn't able to really dance (no high-impact activity allowed -- due to the cancer in my bones, particularly in my hip). So, I had to be very careful. Still, A was with me and she wouldn't dance if I didn't. So, we danced together, in the slower parts of the circles.
I might have skipped dancing with a Sefer Torah if it hadn't been for A. In her sweet, quiet way, she let me know that she really wanted to dance with a Sefer Torah. She couldn't do that without me; she's still little. So I made sure to get the Sefer Torah during the second Hakafah, since I didn't know for how long I would be able to dance. I helped A to hold the Sefer Torah -- she wanted to hold it on her own, but it was large and heavy, so I also held on to it -- and we danced together. When she was done, I took the Sefer Torah and lifted it high into the air. I danced with it for a short while longer, then passed it on to the next woman, who was waiting.
I was able to dance for the rest of that Hakafah and one more. But by the fourth Hakafah, I had to sit down. It was a bit humbling for me to join the ranks of the "talkers" (rather than the "dancers"). And I did join in the singing occasionally (though it felt strange to be singing "from the outside"). Admittedly, I enjoyed talking with friends. And I am grateful to the friends who sat with me and kept me company! But it is difficult to accept that I can't dance the way I used to.
Moshe and I had the distinct honor of being hosted by the Rabbi and his family. It was a nice opportunity for us to get to know them better. In addition to being interesting people and wonderful hosts, they have a phenomenal assortment of books. Moshe looked around the library and stated: If I was locked in here for five years, I wouldn't get bored!!
In the morning, we (my mother, sister-in-law, and I) davened at Shirat Sarah, a unique women's tefillah group. For me, it was like coming home. I felt embraced by my friends and community. Before we moved, I used to daven there regularly (tefillot are approximately once every 6 weeks). My girls "grew up" there, and that's where Y had her Bat Mitzvah. (more on that another time)
During the year, the tefillot at Shirat Sarah are very traditional (sans d'varim she'bikedusha). But on Simchat Torah, the women can be as creative as they want with their Hakafot. This year, most of the Hakafot were unconventional, but not very radical -- instead of singing and dancing, there were many different divrei Torah. Though I really love dancing, it was gam zu l'tovah (all for the best), since I was able to sit for most of it. Still, I would have liked more dancing. Since the make-up of the Hakafot is determined by who volunteers to lead them, I volunteered to lead a more traditional Hakafah next year (b'li neder).
There was some dancing during one of the Hakafot, and A really wanted to dance with a Sefer Torah. There were three Sifrei Torah, and one was quite little (and light). I gave that one to A, and she was able to hold it by herself. She looked up at me with the sweetest smile and said "this is why I like coming to the women's tefillah". I thought my heart would burst with joy and love.
I read "V'Zot HaB'racha" in the main room, and A was by my side for much of the time. Earlier, on the way to shul, she asked if she could stand with me and told me that she likes hearing me read Torah. It was very special for me.
It was harder than usual to stay standing for so long. But I love reading and I love enabling other women to read and to get so close to the Sefer Torah and to HaShem. I was "called up" for the last "aliyah", with all the children. It was a real honor and very meaningful to me.
That moment, under the canopy of a tallit, immediately surrounded by all the children, and within a larger circle of women who I know daven for my refuah (recovery), I felt so close to God.
If I was a more learned person, I would quote a pasuk (Torah passage) here. Suffice it to say that I am grateful to everyone who helped make it possible for me to celebrate the way I wanted. And I am grateful to God, for all the gifts He gives me every day.
Please daven (or send happy, healing thoughts) for RivkA bat Teirtzel.
With love and optimism,
RivkA
Unfortunately, the places I like to daven on this particular holiday are not in walking distance from my home (for me*). Usually, this is not a problem, since we welcome the opportunity to stay with friends. But, with my entire family here from the US, I didn't see how I would manage to find appropriate housing for everyone.
The thought of missing out on this special davening made me sad. I decided that I had to at least make the effort. If it didn't work out, then I did my hishtadlut (part in the effort). But I had to try and give God the opportunity to help me out. He did.
As soon as I mentioned that I was looking for accomodations, friends offered to host. Some lived far away, some offers were tentative, but there were offers and there were options. As Simchat Torah approached, I discovered that I was able to find hosts for everyone in a close radius to my sister's home, where we would all be having lunch, and to the shul (synagogue), where we would all be davening at night. (It would have worked out perfectly had I informed my brother, or his host, at which shul we would be davening. Ooops.)
I couldn't believe it. Even with all my guests, I would be able to daven in the places that uplift me spiritually. I would get my spiritual "booster shot." I was so excited and grateful to God -- and to my hosts!
At the last minute, we discovered that both Y & A had strept-throat. Even though A tested positive, she seemed totally healthy. However Y was really sick and could barely get out of bed. In the end, Y stayed with my sister. Y was disappointed to miss out on all the fun, but it was a treat for her to stay with her aunt. We hoped that by the next day (24 hours after starting antibiotics) she would at least feel well enough to join us for lunch. She did.
At night, we davened at Shir Hadash, a "Carlebach" minyan, with lots of ruach (spirit). Before we moved, that was our shul and I loved it -- I still do. I love the community, which is warm and welcoming, and I love the singing, which is strong and melodious. On Simchat Torah, there is LOTS of dancing, on both sides of the mechitzah (divider). And it is muvan me'alav (a given) that the women are also dancing, with a Sefer Torah. I especially love watching the women who are dancing with the Sefer Torah for the first time. It is a wonderful and inspiring experience.
In the past, I would dance and dance, without stopping. I didn't understand why women would stand around chatting, when they had the opportunity to sing and dance and celebrate the Torah.
This year, I knew things would be different. I wasn't able to really dance (no high-impact activity allowed -- due to the cancer in my bones, particularly in my hip). So, I had to be very careful. Still, A was with me and she wouldn't dance if I didn't. So, we danced together, in the slower parts of the circles.
I might have skipped dancing with a Sefer Torah if it hadn't been for A. In her sweet, quiet way, she let me know that she really wanted to dance with a Sefer Torah. She couldn't do that without me; she's still little. So I made sure to get the Sefer Torah during the second Hakafah, since I didn't know for how long I would be able to dance. I helped A to hold the Sefer Torah -- she wanted to hold it on her own, but it was large and heavy, so I also held on to it -- and we danced together. When she was done, I took the Sefer Torah and lifted it high into the air. I danced with it for a short while longer, then passed it on to the next woman, who was waiting.
I was able to dance for the rest of that Hakafah and one more. But by the fourth Hakafah, I had to sit down. It was a bit humbling for me to join the ranks of the "talkers" (rather than the "dancers"). And I did join in the singing occasionally (though it felt strange to be singing "from the outside"). Admittedly, I enjoyed talking with friends. And I am grateful to the friends who sat with me and kept me company! But it is difficult to accept that I can't dance the way I used to.
Moshe and I had the distinct honor of being hosted by the Rabbi and his family. It was a nice opportunity for us to get to know them better. In addition to being interesting people and wonderful hosts, they have a phenomenal assortment of books. Moshe looked around the library and stated: If I was locked in here for five years, I wouldn't get bored!!
In the morning, we (my mother, sister-in-law, and I) davened at Shirat Sarah, a unique women's tefillah group. For me, it was like coming home. I felt embraced by my friends and community. Before we moved, I used to daven there regularly (tefillot are approximately once every 6 weeks). My girls "grew up" there, and that's where Y had her Bat Mitzvah. (more on that another time)
During the year, the tefillot at Shirat Sarah are very traditional (sans d'varim she'bikedusha). But on Simchat Torah, the women can be as creative as they want with their Hakafot. This year, most of the Hakafot were unconventional, but not very radical -- instead of singing and dancing, there were many different divrei Torah. Though I really love dancing, it was gam zu l'tovah (all for the best), since I was able to sit for most of it. Still, I would have liked more dancing. Since the make-up of the Hakafot is determined by who volunteers to lead them, I volunteered to lead a more traditional Hakafah next year (b'li neder).
There was some dancing during one of the Hakafot, and A really wanted to dance with a Sefer Torah. There were three Sifrei Torah, and one was quite little (and light). I gave that one to A, and she was able to hold it by herself. She looked up at me with the sweetest smile and said "this is why I like coming to the women's tefillah". I thought my heart would burst with joy and love.
I read "V'Zot HaB'racha" in the main room, and A was by my side for much of the time. Earlier, on the way to shul, she asked if she could stand with me and told me that she likes hearing me read Torah. It was very special for me.
It was harder than usual to stay standing for so long. But I love reading and I love enabling other women to read and to get so close to the Sefer Torah and to HaShem. I was "called up" for the last "aliyah", with all the children. It was a real honor and very meaningful to me.
That moment, under the canopy of a tallit, immediately surrounded by all the children, and within a larger circle of women who I know daven for my refuah (recovery), I felt so close to God.
If I was a more learned person, I would quote a pasuk (Torah passage) here. Suffice it to say that I am grateful to everyone who helped make it possible for me to celebrate the way I wanted. And I am grateful to God, for all the gifts He gives me every day.
Please daven (or send happy, healing thoughts) for RivkA bat Teirtzel.
With love and optimism,
RivkA
* There are young madrichim (youth group counselors) who walk to Homat Shmuel from Kagtamon (and farther) every week. And we've had friends who have walked over on Shabbat. But I can't walk that far -- certainly not in time for shul! :-}
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Chemo Day: Kids' Day at the Chemo Ward
"no rest for the weary"
(my mom always says this, so it seems like it must be a quote from somewhere)
Radiation ends and chemo resumes.... no breaks for the holidays....
At least, not for Chol HaMoed... (the Oncology Day Ward is closed on Chag & Erev Chag)
Tuesday was a marathon day for me: all three drugs (bone drug, vanilla-bean, and Herceptin) plus hydro-cortizone (to prevent/minimize an allergic reaction to the Herceptin).
I knew I would be there for a long time...
A few weeks ago, the social worker in the Oncology Day Ward suggested that it might be helpful to my children to see what chemo day is like. Chemo day on Chol HaMoed seemed like the right time... the kids wouldn't miss school and they could come for just part of the morning.
We had planned Tuesday to be a "down-time" day, so I figured that someone would bring the kids home and someone else would hang out with me for the day. After all, my home is filled with family members...
But, since we did double-duty at Ir David the previous day, we didn't go to the Southern Wall Excavations as planned. So I suggested that the family go to the Southern Wall Excavations Tuesday instead. I didn't mind missing this, as I've been there many times.
Moshe worried about leaving me alone for chemo, but I assured him that I would be able to entertain myself. I'd bring a good book, watch some TV, chat with other patients.... I'd be fine.
However, when Y heard that I wasn't going to be going to the Southern Wall Excavations, she announced that she didn't want to go either (she's also been there many times). After some discussion, Y chose to spend the day with me. We both appreciated the opportunity to have time together.
So, I packed my bag for the day and included games, snacks and treats for all. I wanted it to be a positive experience (as much as possible).
When we got there, the kids prompty began playing cards. When something interesting finally happened, it was hard to get them to stop playing and pay attention. During the few times that I wanted them to see something, they were barely interested. Part of me was happy that they weren't phased by what was going on, but the other part was hurt that they barely seemed to care...
Of course, whenever I pulled out snacks, they all put away their game....
What can I say? Despite all attempts to raise angels, I have normal, healthy kids. (ThankGod)
I am just grateful that they enjoy each others' company so much and are so happy playing together.
The doctor, though busy as usual, was very friendly when he passed by and noticed my kids. He asked each to introduce him/herself. Later, I discovered that MD would have like to ask the doctor some questions. It hadn't occured to me that my kids would actually have questions for the doctor. Next time, I will have to arrange for them to have a real meeting with the doctor. Live and learn...
Over a few hours, the kids got to see each stage until I was all set up on a comfy-chair with my IV. Then there was nothing else to see, so Moshe took MD and A home to go touring with the family.
As soon as everyone left, Y and I set up backgammon and began to play. We played for a while, until my friend K came by. Then Y pulled out her book to read, while K and I chatted. When K left, Y had enough backgammon, so we played Scrabble. Somewhere in the middle, we ate Greek salads for lunch. Our lunch options were limited since there was no Succah. Luckily, we both love salads.
The Herceptin went slowly, since I still have a reaction to it, but we finished just before 4:00. Luckily, another woman with whom I have become friendly, was ready to leave at the same time. So we got a ride to the train station with her and her husband.
Maybe tomorrow I'll tell you about the train ride.....
Please daven (or send happy, healing thoughts) for RivkA bat Teirtzel.
With love and optimism,
RivkA
(my mom always says this, so it seems like it must be a quote from somewhere)
Radiation ends and chemo resumes.... no breaks for the holidays....
At least, not for Chol HaMoed... (the Oncology Day Ward is closed on Chag & Erev Chag)
Tuesday was a marathon day for me: all three drugs (bone drug, vanilla-bean, and Herceptin) plus hydro-cortizone (to prevent/minimize an allergic reaction to the Herceptin).
I knew I would be there for a long time...
A few weeks ago, the social worker in the Oncology Day Ward suggested that it might be helpful to my children to see what chemo day is like. Chemo day on Chol HaMoed seemed like the right time... the kids wouldn't miss school and they could come for just part of the morning.
We had planned Tuesday to be a "down-time" day, so I figured that someone would bring the kids home and someone else would hang out with me for the day. After all, my home is filled with family members...
But, since we did double-duty at Ir David the previous day, we didn't go to the Southern Wall Excavations as planned. So I suggested that the family go to the Southern Wall Excavations Tuesday instead. I didn't mind missing this, as I've been there many times.
Moshe worried about leaving me alone for chemo, but I assured him that I would be able to entertain myself. I'd bring a good book, watch some TV, chat with other patients.... I'd be fine.
However, when Y heard that I wasn't going to be going to the Southern Wall Excavations, she announced that she didn't want to go either (she's also been there many times). After some discussion, Y chose to spend the day with me. We both appreciated the opportunity to have time together.
So, I packed my bag for the day and included games, snacks and treats for all. I wanted it to be a positive experience (as much as possible).
When we got there, the kids prompty began playing cards. When something interesting finally happened, it was hard to get them to stop playing and pay attention. During the few times that I wanted them to see something, they were barely interested. Part of me was happy that they weren't phased by what was going on, but the other part was hurt that they barely seemed to care...
Of course, whenever I pulled out snacks, they all put away their game....
What can I say? Despite all attempts to raise angels, I have normal, healthy kids. (ThankGod)
I am just grateful that they enjoy each others' company so much and are so happy playing together.
The doctor, though busy as usual, was very friendly when he passed by and noticed my kids. He asked each to introduce him/herself. Later, I discovered that MD would have like to ask the doctor some questions. It hadn't occured to me that my kids would actually have questions for the doctor. Next time, I will have to arrange for them to have a real meeting with the doctor. Live and learn...
Over a few hours, the kids got to see each stage until I was all set up on a comfy-chair with my IV. Then there was nothing else to see, so Moshe took MD and A home to go touring with the family.
As soon as everyone left, Y and I set up backgammon and began to play. We played for a while, until my friend K came by. Then Y pulled out her book to read, while K and I chatted. When K left, Y had enough backgammon, so we played Scrabble. Somewhere in the middle, we ate Greek salads for lunch. Our lunch options were limited since there was no Succah. Luckily, we both love salads.
The Herceptin went slowly, since I still have a reaction to it, but we finished just before 4:00. Luckily, another woman with whom I have become friendly, was ready to leave at the same time. So we got a ride to the train station with her and her husband.
Maybe tomorrow I'll tell you about the train ride.....
Please daven (or send happy, healing thoughts) for RivkA bat Teirtzel.
With love and optimism,
RivkA
Touring with the Clan
With only two days of Chol HaMoed available (since Tuesday is chemo day), it was a challenge to decide what to do with my family.
Remember: we are talking about my ENTIRE extended family: my kids, who have seen almost everything in and around Jerusalem; my sister, who has seen a lot; my parents, who have been here a lot, but haven't done much touring; my brother who has been here once or twice, done a fair bit of touring, but still hasn't seen much; and my brother's wife, who is in Israel for the first time!
And, don't forget, my brother's two little kids, who aren't yet interested in hearing about our fascinating history and amazing archaeology.....
Well, we packed it in!
DAY ONE: (Sunday)
Our shul went to Herodion, and we joined the group.
It was fun to be on tiyul with members of the community. It was a spontaneous trip -- put together on Friday and announced in shul on Shabbat. About 25 families participated. It is so nice to be part of an active and cohesive community!
My kids and I had visited Herodion this past Chanukkah (we had a great tour from one of the on-site guides) but Moshe and everyone else had never been there. Plus we were interested in viewing the recent discovery of what might be Herod's tomb...
We travelled in convoy on the new road (open to Jews only during certain hours). It was cool to be part of such a long convoy! The drive took only 10 minutes, instead of the 35 minutes, round-a-bout route that we took during Chanukah.
Before visiting Herodion, we drove another 5 minutes to visit members of our community who, about two years ago, moved to Ma'aleh Rechav'am.* They wanted to actively support the fledgeling community that the government was (and is) threatening to destroy. They live half-time in Homat Shmuel and half-time in Ma'aleh Rechav'am (sort of like families who live half in Israel, half in the US -- but with a shorter commute!)
Then on to Herodion.... A member of our community, who works for the Antiquities Dept., and is a serious Jewish History buff, was our guide.
It was a challenge translating in real time for my family, but I think I did an okay job. I enjoyed the tour and learned a few new things too.
Nonetheless, I am forced to admit that my father was correct: I should have been our guide. Between the language barrier and running after my cute, 3 year old nephew, it would have been better for everyone (except, perhaps, for Moshe) to have a less academic tour that was more geared to our families' needs.
Apparently, though it would take another day to learn that lesson....
DAY TWO: (Monday)
Moshe and I both wanted to visit Ir David (The City of David). Over the past two years, there have been some amazing new archaeological discoveries (in addition to the discoveries of 15 years ago), which we both wanted to see. Moshe had never been there and I hadn't been there in a number of years.
A few months ago, I missed the special enrichment day organized by Migdal David (The Tower of David Museum) for its tour guides. I have been a guide at Migdal David for over 15 years (on and off). Migdal David always gets the best guides to guide us, and I was disappointed to miss the day at Ir David.
My father wanted me to guide our family. Despite the previous day's adventures, I again thought it would be better to join an English tour with one of the on-site guides.
When we arrived at Ir David (on Succot, this is an adventure in itself), we discovered that there were two seperate tours, one for "first-timers" and one for people who are already familiar with the site.
In deference to my parents and my brother's family, we chose the first tour, but that didn't include the new excavations. So, after the first 2 1/2 hour tour, we joined the second tour! (paying twice!)
Well, the second tour was well-worth it. Our guide, A, (who, coincidentally, is the husband of Moshe's cousin), was excellent. It was a real treat to have him as our guide.
After returning home, exhausted, my father and brother both told me that the second tour would have sufficed.
My father was correct... again.
There was about 70% overlap in material and I could have guided the sites that the second tour didn't cover.
One of these days I'm going to learn to listen to my parents.
Please daven (or send happy, healing thoughts) for RivkA bat Teirtzel.
With love and optimism,
RivkA
Remember: we are talking about my ENTIRE extended family: my kids, who have seen almost everything in and around Jerusalem; my sister, who has seen a lot; my parents, who have been here a lot, but haven't done much touring; my brother who has been here once or twice, done a fair bit of touring, but still hasn't seen much; and my brother's wife, who is in Israel for the first time!
And, don't forget, my brother's two little kids, who aren't yet interested in hearing about our fascinating history and amazing archaeology.....
Well, we packed it in!
DAY ONE: (Sunday)
Our shul went to Herodion, and we joined the group.
It was fun to be on tiyul with members of the community. It was a spontaneous trip -- put together on Friday and announced in shul on Shabbat. About 25 families participated. It is so nice to be part of an active and cohesive community!
My kids and I had visited Herodion this past Chanukkah (we had a great tour from one of the on-site guides) but Moshe and everyone else had never been there. Plus we were interested in viewing the recent discovery of what might be Herod's tomb...
We travelled in convoy on the new road (open to Jews only during certain hours). It was cool to be part of such a long convoy! The drive took only 10 minutes, instead of the 35 minutes, round-a-bout route that we took during Chanukah.
Before visiting Herodion, we drove another 5 minutes to visit members of our community who, about two years ago, moved to Ma'aleh Rechav'am.* They wanted to actively support the fledgeling community that the government was (and is) threatening to destroy. They live half-time in Homat Shmuel and half-time in Ma'aleh Rechav'am (sort of like families who live half in Israel, half in the US -- but with a shorter commute!)
Then on to Herodion.... A member of our community, who works for the Antiquities Dept., and is a serious Jewish History buff, was our guide.
It was a challenge translating in real time for my family, but I think I did an okay job. I enjoyed the tour and learned a few new things too.
Nonetheless, I am forced to admit that my father was correct: I should have been our guide. Between the language barrier and running after my cute, 3 year old nephew, it would have been better for everyone (except, perhaps, for Moshe) to have a less academic tour that was more geared to our families' needs.
Apparently, though it would take another day to learn that lesson....
DAY TWO: (Monday)
Moshe and I both wanted to visit Ir David (The City of David). Over the past two years, there have been some amazing new archaeological discoveries (in addition to the discoveries of 15 years ago), which we both wanted to see. Moshe had never been there and I hadn't been there in a number of years.
A few months ago, I missed the special enrichment day organized by Migdal David (The Tower of David Museum) for its tour guides. I have been a guide at Migdal David for over 15 years (on and off). Migdal David always gets the best guides to guide us, and I was disappointed to miss the day at Ir David.
My father wanted me to guide our family. Despite the previous day's adventures, I again thought it would be better to join an English tour with one of the on-site guides.
When we arrived at Ir David (on Succot, this is an adventure in itself), we discovered that there were two seperate tours, one for "first-timers" and one for people who are already familiar with the site.
In deference to my parents and my brother's family, we chose the first tour, but that didn't include the new excavations. So, after the first 2 1/2 hour tour, we joined the second tour! (paying twice!)
Well, the second tour was well-worth it. Our guide, A, (who, coincidentally, is the husband of Moshe's cousin), was excellent. It was a real treat to have him as our guide.
After returning home, exhausted, my father and brother both told me that the second tour would have sufficed.
My father was correct... again.
There was about 70% overlap in material and I could have guided the sites that the second tour didn't cover.
One of these days I'm going to learn to listen to my parents.
Please daven (or send happy, healing thoughts) for RivkA bat Teirtzel.
With love and optimism,
RivkA
* Ma'aleh Rechav'am, named after Rechav'am ("Gandhi") Ze'evi, was founded on three principles: Jewish Labor (our friends built everything themselves, including the back-breaking work of moving stones for their large, and beautifully, cultivated garden), No Fence around the Yishuv (artificial border, placing the community in a cage), and Co-Existance between religious and secular Jews (we are all part of one nation and need to live together as part of a unified community).
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Radiation: DONE!
A linear accelerator -- sounds like something out of Star Trek -- but that's the machine that is used to irradiate tumors. Bizarre.
There's a whole subculture down in the depths of Machon Sharrett, the cancer ward of Hadassah Ein Kerem. This is the only place in Jerusalem for radio-therapy, so cancer patients from all over meet here.
And, unlike chemo, radiation treatment is daily, so there is a sort of fraternity created by the daily contact.
During my first few days, I met an interesting Anglo man. We had a really nice chat. For a few days running, we got there around the same time. It was nice to see a familiar face. I even met his son one day. But then we didn't meet up again. I hope the next time I see him, we will be at some simcha -- we 'll look at each other, and it will take us a second to remember how we know each other...
I also met a really nice Israeli woman. She is young (younger than me), and has three small kids. She has a tumor in her head... But she has faith. She is sweet and quiet and kind of funky. And she is strong. On top of everything else, I learned that she used to live in Gush Katif, and that she and her family had been kicked out of their home during the expulsion. I met two of her sisters and her husband. Her husband, who was struggling to find work, is now home full time -- caring for his wife and his small children. One nightmare after another...
Among a few of the patients, there was a kind of "chevra", who took care of each other. The first one to arrive would sign in everyone else, so the late-comers wouldn't have to wait. (Everyone is assigned a radiation room. When you get there each day, you sign your name on a list, which is hanging on the door to the radiation room. Then you are called in on a "first come, first served" basis.) It was not "fair" to sign in anyone else, but it was a clear sign of caring for people who were strangers not so long ago. (it might have bothered me more if they were on the same list as me).
By the end of my ten days, I finally figured out the routine: Don't waste time on parking. If there are no parking spaces near Machon Sharett, go to the lower levels and take the shuttle bus up. If you have a "tav necheh"(handicapped parking permit), park in the special lot and take the special shuttle. Then, don't wait for the elevator, take the stairs down and sign in right away. For every person who is signed in before you, there is approximately a ten to fifteen minute wait. Once you are signed in, relax. Nothing else is in your control.....
In the ten days I was there, I only waited a really long time once. Most days, I waited only 10-20 mintues. One day, I didn't even wait at all. The last two days of my treatment were Erev Chag and Erev Shabbat. It was really empty on Erev Chag. And Erev Shabbat the place was practially deserted.
The technicians who operated "my" room were very nice. They were pleasant and answered any questions I had. I requested to come in on the Erev Shabbat, so I could finish up my treatment, and they were very accomodating.
Moshe came with me the last day and, by that time I was quite comfortable there. I invited him to come in and see what goes on "inside". I showed him the neat baskets on the bottom shelves that have our names written on them and hold our sheet (the technicians line the "bed" with a sheet and re-use the same sheet for each person -- how environmentally conscious!). But, that's not really what interested him....
The excitement was the machine itself, the linear accelerator ....
Not quite as exciting as Star Trek, but still pretty cool.
Please daven (or send happy, healing thoughts) for RivkA bat Teirtzel.
With love and optimism,
RivkA
There's a whole subculture down in the depths of Machon Sharrett, the cancer ward of Hadassah Ein Kerem. This is the only place in Jerusalem for radio-therapy, so cancer patients from all over meet here.
And, unlike chemo, radiation treatment is daily, so there is a sort of fraternity created by the daily contact.
During my first few days, I met an interesting Anglo man. We had a really nice chat. For a few days running, we got there around the same time. It was nice to see a familiar face. I even met his son one day. But then we didn't meet up again. I hope the next time I see him, we will be at some simcha -- we 'll look at each other, and it will take us a second to remember how we know each other...
I also met a really nice Israeli woman. She is young (younger than me), and has three small kids. She has a tumor in her head... But she has faith. She is sweet and quiet and kind of funky. And she is strong. On top of everything else, I learned that she used to live in Gush Katif, and that she and her family had been kicked out of their home during the expulsion. I met two of her sisters and her husband. Her husband, who was struggling to find work, is now home full time -- caring for his wife and his small children. One nightmare after another...
Among a few of the patients, there was a kind of "chevra", who took care of each other. The first one to arrive would sign in everyone else, so the late-comers wouldn't have to wait. (Everyone is assigned a radiation room. When you get there each day, you sign your name on a list, which is hanging on the door to the radiation room. Then you are called in on a "first come, first served" basis.) It was not "fair" to sign in anyone else, but it was a clear sign of caring for people who were strangers not so long ago. (it might have bothered me more if they were on the same list as me).
By the end of my ten days, I finally figured out the routine: Don't waste time on parking. If there are no parking spaces near Machon Sharett, go to the lower levels and take the shuttle bus up. If you have a "tav necheh"(handicapped parking permit), park in the special lot and take the special shuttle. Then, don't wait for the elevator, take the stairs down and sign in right away. For every person who is signed in before you, there is approximately a ten to fifteen minute wait. Once you are signed in, relax. Nothing else is in your control.....
In the ten days I was there, I only waited a really long time once. Most days, I waited only 10-20 mintues. One day, I didn't even wait at all. The last two days of my treatment were Erev Chag and Erev Shabbat. It was really empty on Erev Chag. And Erev Shabbat the place was practially deserted.
The technicians who operated "my" room were very nice. They were pleasant and answered any questions I had. I requested to come in on the Erev Shabbat, so I could finish up my treatment, and they were very accomodating.
Moshe came with me the last day and, by that time I was quite comfortable there. I invited him to come in and see what goes on "inside". I showed him the neat baskets on the bottom shelves that have our names written on them and hold our sheet (the technicians line the "bed" with a sheet and re-use the same sheet for each person -- how environmentally conscious!). But, that's not really what interested him....
The excitement was the machine itself, the linear accelerator ....
Not quite as exciting as Star Trek, but still pretty cool.
Please daven (or send happy, healing thoughts) for RivkA bat Teirtzel.
With love and optimism,
RivkA
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Playing in the Rain: a memory
When I was a kid, I loved to sit on our front steps in the summer rain. My mom would open the front door and tell me to "come inside, before you catch pneumonia!" But I loved sitting out there, on the stoop. And I would sit there until she discovered me, and made me come inside, where it was warm and dry......
Now I live in Israel, where there are no summer rains. In Jerusalem, the rain falls in the winter; the rain is cold and chills you to the bone. Here, winter rains really can cause pneumonia, or, at least, a really nasty cold.
Two years ago, there was an "early "rain. The weather was still warm and the rain reminded me of the rain of my youth. The rain fell in early October (or maybe even late September)...
A few weeks earlier, on September 5th, I had my first surgery to remove breast cancer. Baruch HaShem (Thank God), I had family and many friends who helped me during that difficult period. One of my good friends, B, really wanted to help also. But she lives on a kibbutz in Emek Beit She'an, and there was nothing I needed from someone so far away. We went to my in-laws for Rosh HaShannah. Then we stayed home for Yom Kippur; and we broke the fast with my sister, who made all of our family's traditional "break-fast" foods. Succot was three days later, and I didn't know what we would do. I was still recoverying, and very weak. There was no way I could help put up a Succah in our new home, and I wasn't up for camping or hopping from friend to friend, as we had done in past years.
Suddenly I realized that B could help in a way that no one else could.
I called her and asked if we could come for Succot, for Yom Tov and a few days of Chol HaMoed. We would use the kibbutz as our base and go on day trips in the area. The Kibbutz makes a giant Succah, so B's family wouldn't need to go to extreme trouble to host us, and it would be a real experience for the kids to see how the kibbutz celebrates Succot. I would get to spend time with a really good friend and my family would get a real vacation, without too much effort on my part. It was a perfect solution, and B and her family were only too happy to host us.
Perhaps another time, I'll write about the beautiful kibbutz succah, or kibbutz succah hopping, or our visit to the Beit She'an antiquities, or the friends we ran into.... But this post is about the first (or maybe it was the second) day of Hol HaMoed:
We planned to go to Sachneh (Gan HaShlosha), a local park, with natural hot springs. But, that morning, the sky was cloudy and we had to cancel our trip. Sachneh would not be safe if there was thunder and lightning. Not surprisingly, our kids were disappointed. We were having a difficult time coming up with an exciting alternative plan. We took the morning slowly.... maybe the weather would change and we'd be able to go after all...
Sure enough, mid-morning, it started to rain. But there was no thunder, and no lightning.
The day was warm, and the rain was just the way I liked it.
My eyes lit up and I told my kids: "Go out and play in the rain!"
They looked at me as if I landed from out of the sky. "But Ima, it's raining!" They chimed.
"I know," I responded with a grin, "go run in the rain and jump in the puddles!"
"But we'll get our clothes wet!" (whose kids were these???)
"So put on bathing suits" I countered.
That actually seemed to work, and they changed into bathing suits. But when they oppened the door, they were too embarrassed to walk outside in their bathing suits (they were all of 7, 9 and 11). But the "door" had been opened....
"OK, get out of your suits and put on your clothes." I commanded, "Don't worry about getting your clothes wet. Afterwards, you'll change into dry clothes and we'll wash and dry the wet ones." They were beginning to consider it....
It took a bit more convincing, but eventually I got my kids out of the door. They were hesitant at first, but then nature took over. They walked, then ran, then jumped and rolled through many puddles. They played outside for at least an hour. And when they came in, they wanted to share every detail of their experience.
They had made up a dance, which they performed for us.
And they met a very concerned kibbutznik, who was worried about these wild children playing in the rain. "You should go inside", she scolded my kids, "Your mother wouldn't want you playing in the rain". "It's okay," they answered, "our mother is the one who told us to play in the rain." I wish I could have seen that lady's face! But I saw my kids' faces and they were beaming!
We all had a great laugh!
Then, while the kids took hot showers, Moshe and I scoured the neighbors' video collection and found Star Wars.
Perfect.
We spent the rest of the afternoon, warm and dry, watching Star Wars and eating popcorn.
A perfect ending to a perfect day!
Please daven (or send happy, healing thoughts) for RivkA bat Teirtzel.
With love and optimism,
RivkA
Now I live in Israel, where there are no summer rains. In Jerusalem, the rain falls in the winter; the rain is cold and chills you to the bone. Here, winter rains really can cause pneumonia, or, at least, a really nasty cold.
Two years ago, there was an "early "rain. The weather was still warm and the rain reminded me of the rain of my youth. The rain fell in early October (or maybe even late September)...
A few weeks earlier, on September 5th, I had my first surgery to remove breast cancer. Baruch HaShem (Thank God), I had family and many friends who helped me during that difficult period. One of my good friends, B, really wanted to help also. But she lives on a kibbutz in Emek Beit She'an, and there was nothing I needed from someone so far away. We went to my in-laws for Rosh HaShannah. Then we stayed home for Yom Kippur; and we broke the fast with my sister, who made all of our family's traditional "break-fast" foods. Succot was three days later, and I didn't know what we would do. I was still recoverying, and very weak. There was no way I could help put up a Succah in our new home, and I wasn't up for camping or hopping from friend to friend, as we had done in past years.
Suddenly I realized that B could help in a way that no one else could.
I called her and asked if we could come for Succot, for Yom Tov and a few days of Chol HaMoed. We would use the kibbutz as our base and go on day trips in the area. The Kibbutz makes a giant Succah, so B's family wouldn't need to go to extreme trouble to host us, and it would be a real experience for the kids to see how the kibbutz celebrates Succot. I would get to spend time with a really good friend and my family would get a real vacation, without too much effort on my part. It was a perfect solution, and B and her family were only too happy to host us.
Perhaps another time, I'll write about the beautiful kibbutz succah, or kibbutz succah hopping, or our visit to the Beit She'an antiquities, or the friends we ran into.... But this post is about the first (or maybe it was the second) day of Hol HaMoed:
We planned to go to Sachneh (Gan HaShlosha), a local park, with natural hot springs. But, that morning, the sky was cloudy and we had to cancel our trip. Sachneh would not be safe if there was thunder and lightning. Not surprisingly, our kids were disappointed. We were having a difficult time coming up with an exciting alternative plan. We took the morning slowly.... maybe the weather would change and we'd be able to go after all...
Sure enough, mid-morning, it started to rain. But there was no thunder, and no lightning.
The day was warm, and the rain was just the way I liked it.
My eyes lit up and I told my kids: "Go out and play in the rain!"
They looked at me as if I landed from out of the sky. "But Ima, it's raining!" They chimed.
"I know," I responded with a grin, "go run in the rain and jump in the puddles!"
"But we'll get our clothes wet!" (whose kids were these???)
"So put on bathing suits" I countered.
That actually seemed to work, and they changed into bathing suits. But when they oppened the door, they were too embarrassed to walk outside in their bathing suits (they were all of 7, 9 and 11). But the "door" had been opened....
"OK, get out of your suits and put on your clothes." I commanded, "Don't worry about getting your clothes wet. Afterwards, you'll change into dry clothes and we'll wash and dry the wet ones." They were beginning to consider it....
It took a bit more convincing, but eventually I got my kids out of the door. They were hesitant at first, but then nature took over. They walked, then ran, then jumped and rolled through many puddles. They played outside for at least an hour. And when they came in, they wanted to share every detail of their experience.
They had made up a dance, which they performed for us.
And they met a very concerned kibbutznik, who was worried about these wild children playing in the rain. "You should go inside", she scolded my kids, "Your mother wouldn't want you playing in the rain". "It's okay," they answered, "our mother is the one who told us to play in the rain." I wish I could have seen that lady's face! But I saw my kids' faces and they were beaming!
We all had a great laugh!
Then, while the kids took hot showers, Moshe and I scoured the neighbors' video collection and found Star Wars.
Perfect.
We spent the rest of the afternoon, warm and dry, watching Star Wars and eating popcorn.
A perfect ending to a perfect day!
Please daven (or send happy, healing thoughts) for RivkA bat Teirtzel.
With love and optimism,
RivkA
Medical Update: Radiation & Hip Pain
Background:
For a few months now, I have had some discomfort in my left hip. Recently, my hip has been hurting more. It bothers me a lot at night, when I am trying to fall asleep. Sometimes the pain is severe and it can be painful to walk or, in extreme circumstances, even to stand.
There is a concentration of cancer in my hip and, due to the increase in pain, the oncologist recommended radiation. He consulted with two top radiologist at Sha'are Zedek Hospital and then suggested that I meet with Dr. Vigoda, who is the head of radiology at Hadassah. Hadassah Ein Karem is the only facility in Jerusalem for radio-therapy.
Update:
On Sunday (Sep 16), my oncologist called me midday and said "Vigoda can see you today. Go now." So, I dropped everything, called Moshe and we went to Hadassah.
We were seen fairly quickly (only a half hour wait) by Dr. Sapir, who was young, very nice and smiled! Dr. Sapir consulted with Dr. Vigoda right away and then, to our surprise, arranged for me to have the "simulation" (where they determine the area to irradiate) and begin radiation immediately. We didn't have to wait, or come back two different times, or anything.
Moreover, though he told us that it would take about half an hour to get the results of the simulation , the results were ready in less than 15 minutes and then I went straight to the first radiation treatment.
The treatement only takes 5-10 minutes. It's amazingly fast. But I need to go every day.
On Monday, I went in and there was only one other person there. It took longer to park, than anything else!
But today, Tuesday, I arrived about a half hour later and waited almost two hours! That was exhausting. Luckily, my friend JB took me and we had plenty to talk about. (working/staying at home/ADD/kids...)
I will receive radiation for 10 days. During this time I don't get chemo. But, the way it falls out, I only miss one week of chemo, because next week was an "off" week. Oh well, no vacation this time.
Anyway, I just finished day 3 of radiation.
Hopefully the pain will go away soon....
Please daven (or send happy, healing thoughts) for RivkA bat Teirtzel.
With love and optimism,
RivkA
For a few months now, I have had some discomfort in my left hip. Recently, my hip has been hurting more. It bothers me a lot at night, when I am trying to fall asleep. Sometimes the pain is severe and it can be painful to walk or, in extreme circumstances, even to stand.
There is a concentration of cancer in my hip and, due to the increase in pain, the oncologist recommended radiation. He consulted with two top radiologist at Sha'are Zedek Hospital and then suggested that I meet with Dr. Vigoda, who is the head of radiology at Hadassah. Hadassah Ein Karem is the only facility in Jerusalem for radio-therapy.
Update:
On Sunday (Sep 16), my oncologist called me midday and said "Vigoda can see you today. Go now." So, I dropped everything, called Moshe and we went to Hadassah.
We were seen fairly quickly (only a half hour wait) by Dr. Sapir, who was young, very nice and smiled! Dr. Sapir consulted with Dr. Vigoda right away and then, to our surprise, arranged for me to have the "simulation" (where they determine the area to irradiate) and begin radiation immediately. We didn't have to wait, or come back two different times, or anything.
Moreover, though he told us that it would take about half an hour to get the results of the simulation , the results were ready in less than 15 minutes and then I went straight to the first radiation treatment.
The treatement only takes 5-10 minutes. It's amazingly fast. But I need to go every day.
On Monday, I went in and there was only one other person there. It took longer to park, than anything else!
But today, Tuesday, I arrived about a half hour later and waited almost two hours! That was exhausting. Luckily, my friend JB took me and we had plenty to talk about. (working/staying at home/ADD/kids...)
I will receive radiation for 10 days. During this time I don't get chemo. But, the way it falls out, I only miss one week of chemo, because next week was an "off" week. Oh well, no vacation this time.
Anyway, I just finished day 3 of radiation.
Hopefully the pain will go away soon....
Please daven (or send happy, healing thoughts) for RivkA bat Teirtzel.
With love and optimism,
RivkA
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