The past week

 This past week has been normal, if there is a real normal in the short time I've been here. The kids are mine from breakfast to lunch at 1pm, then I'm off until 4 and with them till 6, more or less. Jeffrey, Lucy, and I are getting into more of a routine: swimming at the beach (although there's jellyfish now!) or pool in the morning, playing UNO and other games until lunch, then having reading and park time in the afternoon. They love to play hide and go seek and as I'm always the hider, I've found the most elusive places on the beach. =) I thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon together yesterday as they were both in such good spirits and wanted to climb everything.
 
Some other favorite activities: pedicure time! Lucy and I have given some of the diggers a massage and polish after a long day. She really enjoys making things beautiful.

Dancing! I tried to upload some videos but they may have to wait for a better connection. Jeffrey is starting to break dance and I'm trying to learn some of the choreographed dances to Israeli songs that the entertainment team here at the Dan Gardens has been teaching the kids. At first Jeffrey and Lucy were so embarrassed when I joined in the dancing but now they want to learn our favorite "la la la" dance too.

So, much more time to myself and it's been great to socialize and read more. I'm more of an extrovert that I've thought as I'm choosing to spend time with people rather than be alone reading. I'm not sure whether its the environment where everyone/thing is new or what but regardless, I'm really enjoying the social aspect of the dig.

As far as reading, I'm re-reading Quo Vadis (wonderful book!) and starting Forgotten God by Francis Chan (and co-authored by a family member Danae Yankoski!). Forgotten God is already very thought provoking and convicting. Highly recommend.

Nicole and I, laughing over poses in our crazy Jerusalem pants.

view from the beach near the hotel. Going to miss it.

Off to the mall this morning to buy glue for crafts and essentials for the trip home! Can't believe we leave in 3 days, still processing all that has happened and all that I've learned. Been so thankful for Nicole, and all that I've been able to verbally process with her about parenting and a few challenging situations. Again, more to come...