the news

So. I haven't written in a while. And here I am, sitting in Ben Gurion airport, surrounded by stressed people with luggage, and this is the most time I've had to type in my computer since... since the last post I think! Definitely since before Christopher came to Israel. The quartet was gearing up in preparation for this trip we've been working towards for months now, and meanwhile I had my love here, first time in the country, doesn't speak Hebrew (then again, neither do I, almost) and so so exciting. He loves it here, and for the first time, the place feels like home to me! Well, he was here for a month. And during that time, it's hard to write about since now we're on to a new phase- but it was pretty incredible the level of connection. I mean, that was already clear in Mexico, when we met. Anyway, I'll get to the point: we're engaged! I've been looking forward to finding a way to break the news up here, but this stream of consciousness ramble will have to do for the time being. On top of having my Quartet in my Home, and the whirlwind of concerts and auditions, meetings and lessons we had, the real impression from this 2-week (!!) jaunt is the amazing love our parents and families showed me and Christopher. There's nothing I can compare to meeting someone and knowing they are GOING to be your father-in-law! Or brother in law, etc etc. I'm returning to Israel a new person, strengthened by all this new family. Also by all the love our friends have shown us, too, but unfortunately we barely got to see any friends on this trip, since meeting the families was the priority.
sigh. Living so far away really sucks sometimes.
Maybe I'll be able to give more specifics when I next write. For now I'll just include some pictures from our wonderful little trip up north. These of us were by the falls in the Yehudiyah Forest, in the Golan Heights, easily (by my lights) the most beautiful corner of Israel. The Landmines sign was not far from there, outside a field that seemed to be swallowing, or drowning, some old rusty farm trucks. The sunset was the night before, when we drove up to the extreme north to check out Mount Hermon, the only place in Israel where people ski and ice-skate.
I'll put up some more pictures soon. It's been a whirlwind back here in Israel, too, since two good friends came and stayed with me during the time before and after Christopher came. I'm dying for an Afooch, though, Hebrew (or, in this case, maybe I should say Israeli) for cappucino. Means literally "Upside-down." Sort of describes my state of mind right now! In a good way.