Sar-El Finland

Holiday in Israel, April 2011

2011-05-16T11:31:00.010+03:00

Tel Aviv:

Jerusalem:

In past few years I have changed a lot, I've become more aware of things. I may regret some of my acts and also writings and photos I've put on internet... Still I will save this site for people who are interested in Sar-El. But most likely my future posts will have a slightly different tone. Perhaps I will also write about my own life and situation in Israel. Politics and religion - woohoo!

Aftermath

2011-03-06T00:24:00.002+02:00

Again I am happy and proud of these three weeks with Sar-El. I will miss my new friends and truly hope we will meet again. Keep in touch. Send pictures. Spread the word.

These stories here on this blog are mostly for new people who want to know how Sar-El works and how is ordinary volunteer's life down there. But this is also in your honour who shared these experiences there with me.

We all love and support Israel. And for that reason I feel strong unity with you. We stand there together side by side. We do physical work with our own hands. We make a difference. We are example for the rest. Thank you!

IMPORTANT MESSAGE! If you find any of these writings offensive or do not want your picture here, let me know and I will remove it right away.

Last weekend in Israel after Sar-El

2011-03-05T23:15:00.011+02:00

Friday 25.2. Flea market in Yafo. What do they think, who is going to buy that crap. Only reason I went there is because it is right next to our hostel.

Best chocolate cake ever! Oh shoot I forgot the name of this place, but it is first beach restaurant in Yafo. There are couple of them right next to sea, but this one is first one of them when walking from Tel Aviv towards Yafo. Place is almost every time full.

Walk along the beach.
Later that evening my friend was really sick and had a high fever. So I left her suffering alone and went out to have fun. Oh, I'm bad.

Beit Oded free Sar-El hostel.
Scenery from Beit Oded's roof:

Saturday 26.2. It was really windy morning! I did crab few fellow volunteers with me and went for a walk in Yafo.

Old Yafo.

Yafo port. Definitely worth visit!
Go to the wave breaker! You will love it!
Especially when it is that windy. Sound of the pounding sea is amazing.

Taste the salt in your mouth!

Be careful now. Watch your skirt.
Old Jaffa hostel.
Until we meet again.

Getting drunk in some dark, dark, dark bar.
Sunday 27.2. Last day in Israel and sun was really warm already in the morning. I sat on the hostel roof talking with other residents until I was nice and red. I wont go back to cold and dark Finland looking pale.

Loveat cafe near Carmel market. I love this cafe! Now it looks empty, but it is not.
Near Carmel market. It stinks! Man fed the cats, he had cart full of these smelly goodies. Pieces of meat and bones. How lovely.
Cats all over.
Monday 28.2. We had to live to the airport at ridiculous time. Taxi was 150 shekels. Security checks were thorough. Interviews, scans, unpack bags, interviews, repack bags, escorts. Another scans and interviews, take off shoes, scans. My passport check took ages, I have no idea why. I was happy to tell about Sar-El volunteer program and they were like "oooh" and "wow".

Finally all clear. I bought this nice book, Torah stories in English.
Morning prayers.

Thu 24. Feb

2011-03-05T22:12:00.006+02:00

Rise and shine! These are our last moments here.

I will miss his humor. Sometimes even his face expression got me laughing because I knew what he was thinking.

Last breakfast. I wont miss tomatoes or cucumbers. And guess my room mate wont miss them either because here she is only pretending to take it, just for this picture.
Flag raising. Three weeks training is starting to show. Everyone was on time - and almost able to make two rows themselves. Good job!
On morning briefing we heard that grad rocket from Gaza hit Be'er Sheva and also news from Libya.

This guy is pro, he has done Sar-El 18 years. Met him on my last Sar-El here. It is funny how you every time meet people from your previous groups. We just can not stop.
Here is our boss Peggy. I will miss her organised system.
Here is our madricha Noam. I will miss her lively and sunny attitude.
Cleaning boys.
Always smiling.
Team Finland! I wonder will anyone of this Sar-El group ever have courage to visit Finland after meeting three of us.
We Sar-Elniks really like our uniforms, dont we.
Aaaaaawww...... Squeeze that fruit!
My room mates. I will miss you! *hugs* It was such a pleasure to meet you!
Bus is here, time to go!
Bye bye!
Heading to HaHagana train station, Central Bus Station and Beit Oded in Yafo.
It is only 5 minutes walk from free Sar-El hostel Beit Oded to our place Old Jaffa hostel. We did not stay in Beit Oded because doors are closed from midnight till six in the morning. I need my freedom. Old Jaffa hostel roof terrace.
Our balcony was in corner of Olei Zion and Amiad streets in Yafo.
Quick visit to Dizengoff and Rothschild streets. Pizza and beer.
Back at the roof terrace in Yafo.
Quick visit to meet a friend of a friend. Hurry back. Amazing adventure looking for a handkerchief.
Meeting other travelers at the roof. When some people got up in the morning I decided it may be a time to go to sleep.

Wed 23. Feb

2011-03-05T20:59:00.004+02:00

This is our last full day in here! I'm relieved to get out of here, I need good night sleep and my own privacy, but I'm also sad to leave all these amazing friends.

I have done Sar-El program two times successfully before, but this time it was frustrating to hang around with same people 24/7. There is no nice way to say this but from some people I wanted more and from some people I wanted less. You figure it out.

Our work station was locked up couple of times today so we had time to enjoy the sun. It was +27 and my face was all red. Pretty.

Representant from Sar-El organisation came to say few words and thank us for our devotion. He told us there is 40 army bases in Israel taking Sar-El volunteers, but these bases do change from time to time. Sometimes there is nine bases open for volunteers, sometimes twenty. Some bases take few people, some take dozens. Some bases are easy and nice, some are rough and hard. Some bases are suitable for older people, some for tough and strong youngsters. Some bases offer great food, some offer just what is needed. In some bases you work and live with soldiers, in some bases you dont interact with soldiers that much. Some has washing machines and dryer for your clothes, some has nothing.

Most volunteers come from the USA and France. He also mentioned how we are ambassadors and spoke persons of Israel when we get back home. Indeed we are. We do good PR!

Packing medical equipment as usual.
Little break.
Sing me a song!
Mr Sunshine.

Relaxing after work.
Surprise!!!! We had awesome festive dinner tonight! Both big bosses are here to thank us. Thank you!

Evening session and personal questions about us. Teams compete who knows our volunteer group better. Our team lost.
After that we had our pins, diplomas, medals, key rings - and dog tags with our names in Hebrew on them.
This is our last night. We are talking what will we do tomorrow at this hour. All the S-A-D things, ha ha!
We bought little doggie to our boss Peggy. Then we cut cute pictures from magazines and put glue all over... Voila!

Tue 22. Feb

2011-03-05T15:52:00.005+02:00

Day trips can sometimes be boring if you are staying two hours in some dusty museum displaying old tools and books in middle of nowhere. But today was interesting! We went to Israel Intelligence Heritage and Commemoration Center.

This big man, brig. general Tzur, ex-boss of Mossad, now director of IICC, told us fascinating stories. He was going to reserve duty right after this, so he had his uniform on.
He was like a rock star! People wanted to have autographs, photos, change few words with him. And yes, here I am with this great man! And thanks again Lil!
Fallen soldiers, in memory of Israeli intelligence community. Not all names are yet here, due to certain reasons. Remember, Israel has no spies!
Then we went here. Think it was a waste of time because we all think the same about Israel and it's enemies, so no need to go it through over and over again. We have all seen the same pictures and videos, and heard all these stories. We could have cut the time in here for half...

Air was poor in that small room, I had to get out. Found lovely pictures like this:
Last week's day trip schedule sucked, so this time we had more free time at Carmel market. And what did we do? Got some cold refreshments and run to the beach! Lovely! Absolutely fabulous!
Ohlalaa. We even thought not to get back on that bus...
Eventually we had to get back to the base.
For the first time evening program was optional. Exceptionally they held it outside next to our barracks so majority was attending.

Tehilla's Pomelo party! Who did this? Who try to set the pomelo on fire? No one saw a thing. Ha ha!
Weird evening. Lots of laughs.

Mon 21. Feb

2011-03-05T14:59:00.002+02:00

Another night slept poorly. It is 03.40 in the night and you hear *rustle* and *rustle*... Yes, I know, I could take sleeping pills and use ear plugs, but... Uh... Really!? 03.40???

It was raining, so we did not raise the flag this morning. We had some new comers on to our group, they got their Sar-El shoulder tags after morning news briefing.

We had 2080 syringes. Every single one needed to be checked. Lot number. Date. If the package is sterile. Then we packed them into 52 plastic bags, 40 pieces each. Everything had to be perfect, same lot numbers and dates, no extra or short pieces. Improper findings kept us alert so no chance to get numb. After everything was in order we were quite proud of ourselves.

Sunshine after the morning rain.
Think I was so tired I have no idea what the evening program was about? But I do remember our late night chat was nice.

Sun 20 Feb

2011-03-05T14:16:00.002+02:00

Another week starts! Woke up really early, the wind was blowing so hard. Quick breakfast and walked down to HaRav Kook (near Kikar Zion and Jaffa street). Hop in sherut, sit and wait until the car gets full so it could leave. Price to Tel Aviv was 23 shekels and we arrived Tel Aviv CBS in time, too early actually. But you never know how the traffic is in Israel, so better be early than late. It was nice to meet volunteer friends again. I missed almost everyone of you!

Things dont always go as planned. Specially in Israel. We had our group ready to go. We went down, guided by our madrichot. Waited downstairs. And then we had to go up again because we had no bus. Finally after many hours we got a bus ride with some tired soldiers. We spent half of this day waiting at the bus station.

After we got back to our base we went almost straight to lunch. I had one minute to change my uniform on, because I did not want go with my skirt and high heel boots. Whoa, I was fast!

Laundry day.

Tehilla and Noam do their best to keep us happy and smiling! They were so adorable, cute, cheerful and funny - you can not be grumpy when they are around.
At work we finished one project and start another one. Packing medical bags with Peggy.
Look at this rain! After work some active people took sweepers and push water away from our barrack doors. Thanks guys!
Evening session was fun and educational games again, woohoo. Madrichot made a big map of Israel and surroundings on the floor using tape. Then teams answered questions and placed city and area names on the map. Pomelo! Mango!

Some of us stayed up late, we had pretty lighting conversations about those things you can not do in the base. S-A-D.

Sat 19. Feb

2011-03-05T13:20:00.004+02:00

After breakfast we went to Jerusalem Great Synagogue, it is on King George street near our hotel. We took prayer books and climbed up into women's section. There was cantor singing along with a choir of at least 20 men. Place was huge, quite different from our own little synagogue. And very hot!

After the service we went for a walk. Here is our hotel:

Little street near Kikar Zion.
King George street.
Close to Mea Shearim. We could not go there this time because I had trousers on.
Italian synagogue on Hillel street. I was here before.
Independence park:
We were lying down and enjoy the sun.

Next to Independence park is Mamilla pool. It is one of the three water pools build by Herod the Great during the first century BCE. It is connected by an underground channel to Hezekiah's Pool in the Christian Quarter in the Old City. Later Christians were massacred at the pool in 614. With rains pool hosts ecosystem of crabs, frogs, insects and birds. Interesting.

From the pool came a dog. No, two dogs. Three dogs. Four dogs. Many dogs. Oh my.. They just kept on coming!

Quiet city:

Trams are ready to go! They are testing it right now, and soon it will be open for passengers. Jaffa street on Shabbat:
After sun went down it was freezing cold outside! And the wind... Hrrrr...

Fri 18. Feb

2011-03-05T12:58:00.003+02:00

Yesterday I was up over 24 hours so I slept most of the day. Blah.

Friday evening we went to the wall. Couple prayers, touching and kissing the wall. Overwhelming - as always.

There were hundred of soldiers next to the wall - singing and dancing. It was amazing! All these young men and women... Wow! I can not describe the feeling. If you have not been there on Friday evening, you should go and experience it yourself!

I have no pictures of that because you can not take pictures on Shabbat. And no need to remind you dress properly and cover your bits.

Thu 17. Feb

2011-03-04T15:49:00.006+02:00

Again woke up too early. Lady with her rustle plastic bags... *rustle*

We sung Hatikva at the flag raising today. Well I did not sing. I never sing if adults can hear it.

After morning briefing we gave our present to our madrichot Tehilla and Noam, because some of us were leaving already. Some people went cleaning. But there is no use cleaning the toilets at this hour, they will be dirty again at noon. Inspection takes place before we leave early afternoon.

Working.

Since some were leaving today, girls handed out their Sar-El pins and diplomas before lunch. Also t-shirts, baseball caps, key rings and medals. Nice gifts.

Guess how hard it is to get almost 30 people together at the same place for a group photo. Someone is always missing. Finally we took group pictures. Sun in our eyes, stupid grind on our faces.
Almost ready for the weekend!
Bus took us to CBS like usual. It also goes to HaHagana train station and free Sar-El hostel, Beit Oded, in Yafo. Next to bus station, on David Tzemach street there are sheruts, shared taxis. We were going to Jerusalem this weekend. Fellow volunteers came with us. Sherut ride Tel Aviv - Jerusalem cost only 23 shekels.

Our hotel in Jerusalem. We thought it was ordinary hotel room... But it was apartment! Double room cost 99 US dollars per night. Highly recommend it! Lev Yerushalayim, 18 King George street. Corner of King George and shopping street Ben Yehuda.

Zion square = Kikar Zion. I had to go to internet cafe on Jaffa street. My grandmother's funeral was soon and I wrote a letter to be read there.
Russian bar. Not sure which was kitchen and which was toilet, but at least we found men's toilet.
Arabic bar. Free booze for us.

But I would say, not to mention you are doing volunteer work for Israeli army.

Wed 16. Feb

2011-03-04T15:23:00.002+02:00

I have trouble getting enough sleep. Woke up too early. Not all people can be quiet and considerate when five women sleep in same room. Oh well, what can you do.

Work today was quite frustrating. Had to use all the power in my fingers to get these medical bags closed. Some were too difficult to do alone. Help!

We finished this project and could not start a new one without right equipments.

So we had to change work station. Working with Peggy was real pleasure. Everything was very clean and organised. Not one piece was ever missing or extra. There was a system. System which worked out really well. Now we went to work at two different stations run by men. It was chaos. Rush, rush, rush without sane plan. Pieces missing. And if you have to put a little piece into already sealed and closed plastic bag, there is no point cut the hole bag open, is there? Little hole would do just fine. No. Uh?

Evening session was about Ha'apala, Aliyah Bet, immigration to Israel during 1934-1948.

I'm tired. I miss talks with one new friend.

Tue 15. Feb

2011-03-04T14:35:00.008+02:00

Full day trip! Here we are ready to go.

Guards with us
First stop: Weizmann institute of science in Rehovot. Chaim Weizmann was Israel's first president and also a scientist.
My year

First computers were huge.

Agricultural school and museum.
This is one weird tree!
Little flowers
Synagogue

Museum

Wine cellar, we went down, down, down. And it was cold.
Little something to warm us.

Lunch time. But no food for vegetarians. Only turkey and tuna sandwiches. Great.

Quick stop at the Carmel market. Means cold drink and strawberries.

And when we are suppose to be back to the bus, you better be back to the bus. Really! We dont want to wait you.

Itzhak Rabin Center. View was amazing!

Behind bars:

While we were inside, this weird fog / dust came out of nowhere.

We came back to base just in time for dinner. No evening session today, we said we are too tired to play games.

Madrichot Noam and Tehilla were singing a lot. Nice!
Even if it is warm during the day, the nights are still cold.
Evening walk before bed time. I'm already half asleep.

Mon 14. Feb

2011-03-04T14:17:00.003+02:00

Yesterday these hilarious men from Chicago gave us something special. Hats, chocolate and lots of kisses. So today at flag raising we wear our hats with proud! Thank you Al, Al and Al! (Michael, Richard and Al)

We were working hard but yet we were first people at lunch. Some man gave us desert, I was wondering who he was and why he did it. Too bad I was so surprised I did not see who he was.

After the lunch we were lying in the sun. Time flew too quickly, I could stay there forever. But duty calls.

Since it is Valentine's Day we had dating game in evening program. It was not an ordinary dating thing, this lady was suppose to be a man, and all the men were women. Except one because he was gay. After this we had discussion groups. Whole thing took two hours.
Because of the S-A-D rules we have no sex, alcohol or drugs in the base. Sometimes we have to do other silly things to keep the spirit up!

Sun 13. Feb

2011-03-04T13:57:00.003+02:00

After the weekend group meets at CBS Sunday morning 9.30. Nice to see everyone again, I missed you! Then we walk downstairs, enter soldiers' area and go to our bus which takes us back to our own base. Home sweet home.

Enjoy the sun every time we possibly can:

My mate at work, this boy was so young and skinny.
Dont you just love green?
Evening program was sort of a Hebrew lesson. We had four teams and we had to place Hebrew body parts.

Sat 12. Feb

2011-03-04T13:39:00.003+02:00

Lazy day. Afternoon at the beach. Some people wear bikinis, some wear warm sweaters.

Walk to Yafo.

Jellyfish!
Yafo, clock tower. Toasts here are really good. But I still have not figured out how do they come up with their prices. I take exactly the same bread but the price is different every time...
Jerusalem boulevard in Yafo, still under construction.

Lets have some cake before we go sleep.

Fri 11. Feb

2011-03-04T13:12:00.002+02:00

Lovely sunshine! We went to Dizengoff Center food court to eat some spicy rice and veggie things. My friend bought Orange pre paid sim card for her phone. I recommend you to do that because it is more cheap to send text messages and make calls from Israel to Finland. You can buy and recharge in Orange shops and almost in every kiosk. Just be careful what do you recharge, time or money, and can you send messages as well as make calls. Some take extra fees and some does not.

King George street. Next to the dog park there are dogs looking for a new home. So cute, wish I could take couple of them with me!
After a little day nap we got ready to go out. This one club I used to go last summer was not the same anymore. Last time I went there we had cool and bizarre theme parties. Now there were Russian prostitutes.
Have you seen Carmel market during the day? It is crowded, noisy and full of... everything! Here is Carmel market during the night. Creepy.

Thu 10. Feb

2011-03-04T12:42:00.003+02:00

Everybody on time at the flag raising. Nice rows of volunteers and soldiers.

This was sad morning for me. I grieved my grandmother, could not hide my sorrow inside anymore. Thank you madricha Noam for taking care of me! You were so nice, kind and nurturing. Told me funny stories to make me feel better, took me to shekem (little kiosk) and gave your coat to keep me warm. Thank you thank you thank you!

Finally I went to work. It was raining a lot that day.

After the lunch I let the word out about my grandmother and everybody wanted to comfort me. It was nice but it made me cry even more.

After a while I somehow managed to stop crying and here we can see a little smile, ha ha!
Bus took us from the base to Central Bus Station. Volunteers Jane and Lil were so kind to keep me company until my friend arrived from Finland. Thank you ladies, appreciated very much!

Met my Finnish friend and we went to our rental apartment. It was reasonable price, in corner of HaYarkon street and Ezra HaSofer, close to beach and Carmel markets.
Girls' night out.
On our way back it was raining so hard! Glad I had my friend with me.

Wed 9. Feb

2011-03-04T11:55:00.003+02:00

Flag raising was amusing today. This nice lady was raising the flag but unfortunately half way there her hat drop off. Flag was in half pole - she did stop raising the flag - and bend down to get her hat. Lady was concentrated getting her hat back on and in the mean time soldier next to her finished the job. It was absurd. Slow motion and silent comedy.

On morning briefing we heard about rockets from Gaza and Israeli air strike.

Working with big medical bags as usual. If my boss has to go somewhere, she locks up the doors. So lots of free time today.

Here is our dirty toilet:

And shower:
Never seen this dirty and messy coffee room. Who does this? If you leave food or sugar on the table there will be mice and ants. If you use a cup, is it so hard to wash it afterwards?
Our long term volunteer's room:
I feel good. Other volunteers are really nice and the sun is shining. Happiness!!! There is Israeli news in English on TV every day at five pm. I went to tv-room and four people were sleeping the news. Army life is hard. I almost fell asleep during the dinner.

First week is almost finished. At the beginning everyone get along just fine. People are polite and smile a lot, getting to know each other. After few days little groups are formed, by the rooms, by the working stations, or by the personal interests. I hear secret talks behind people's back and try not to involve. Humor and tolerance is what you need here. Try not to judge if you dont know all the facts.
Evening sessions were about Israeli inventions like instant message technique, memory stick, cherry tomato, epilator hair remover, uzi machine pistol, pill camera, water dripper and stories behind these inventions. Here one volunteer stands for Israel and girls, madrichot, tell about Israel's water situation.
One volunteer has been in Sar-El for seven weeks, we made little collection and gave him a going away presents. He also got his Sar-El pin and diploma. He was a happy camper.
Later we did some cleaning and packing, weekend will start tomorrow.

Tue 8. Feb

2011-03-04T11:10:00.003+02:00

Oh yeah! Flag raise and everyone is on time! Good work!

This morning was special, because morning briefing was in big activity room. We got our blue Sar-El shoulder tags with nice hard bunches. Thanks for the bruises Tehilla.

Major Sharon came to thank us Sar-El volunteers. Volunteers make a big difference at this base. But there is also other volunteers such as disabled youngsters and retired old ladies.
These days lunch in this base is really good. Many, many different kind of salads, fruits, bread, hummus, small roasted potatoes, pasta, rice or cuscus, almost every day there is chicken of some sort and sometimes other meat like meat balls - always vegetarian option as well.

Here relaxing after lunch:
I did my laundry but had to hang them dry in my room because of the dark clouds. Three times today people asked me if I'm OK since I look kinda sad. I said everything is all right. I dont want to think about sad things, or my distant family or death.

Today is truly a special day! One of us volunteer has her birthday and there was surprise party for her!

We were singing happy birthday in Hebrew and playing funny games again. Some people fell asleep during the games. Hilarious!
Lesson of this evening: in Israel you can make a fool out of youself, you can get into embarrassing situations - and it is not serious - just LAUGH!
Thanks for the nice party!
At night mosquitos bite me. Boohoo.

Mon 7. Feb

2011-03-04T10:13:00.002+02:00

After breakfast we raise the flag with soldiers and you need to have a hat on your head. I can not believe how some people have the nerve show up late to the flag raising. Think it is very disrespectful towards the soldiers, other volunteers and flag raising ceremony itself.

After flag raise we have morning briefing next to our barracks. Short review of news and daily schedule. Division of labour took a long time. Again waste of time, could be avoided with little effort and strict orders. It was late Monday morning and we still have done any work. Oh well, what ever. It is Israeli time... No rush, take your time.

At last we got in to work. I was packing small medical kits for combat flyers. After lunch I was packing big medical bags with every possible medical things in them, surgery stuff and heavy drugs. Because of the drugs we seal the bags immediately. Everything is double checked and has to be counted at least twice. No room for mistakes!

Whoa, it is hailing!

Our room:

It was raining so hard there was pool in front of our room.

Evening program did teach us the difference between average American and Israeli life cycle.

We talked about how young Israelis get drafted to the army, how are the long and difficult tests and who will be placed where and who do not go to army at all and civil service.

Also madrichot told us history and beginning of IDF and what does different colors of berets mean.
I dont sleep so well anymore, my bed makes horrible squeaking sound every time I move. My mates snore and phones ring in the middle of the night. Sigh.

Sun 6. Feb

2011-03-04T09:45:00.005+02:00

Did not sleep so well. Or felt so hot either. I was cold, thirsty, shaky, excited. New goup of Sar-El volunteers always meet at the airport Sunday morning every three weeks. So I took a bus number 46 from Jerusalem street to outside CBS and then walk Levisky street to HaHagana train station. Bought a ticket and went down to the platforms. Southbound train was just about to leave and without thinking I did hop on. Oh shoot! It was wrong train! I got out in Lod Givat-Aviv. Had to wait one hour to get back to HaHagana. How can I be so stupid.

This time I was more careful and managed to get in on the right train. Finally met Sar-El co-ordinator and all the other volunteers at the airport. I was safe.

Our base is the same small medical equipment base, Matzrap, I was before, it is inside the bigger base Tel HaShomer, near Tel Aviv. All getting to know surroundings etc took so long we did not work at all. Waste of time I say.

Evening program is always some sort of education about situation or history of Israel or the army. These girls, our madrichot Noam and Tehilla, made real effort to make everything fun fun fun, woohoo! I was suffering. Quiet, shy Finnish people do not do funny games.
First the rules. Rule of S-A-D! No sex. No alcohol. No drugs. I was wondering did something happen earlier because never before they point these things so strongly. Later I heard some people got kicked out because of drinking.

Volunteers got to know each other by fast pace introducing game, like speed dating kind of thing. I almost break down when we had to talk about our families, I try not to think about my granny and really do not want to talk about families right now.

There is water shortage in Israel, but still I found water taps leaking in the shower after some volunteers. Should pay more attention to this. We learn about army uniforms, upper button has to be open, only if dead they button it up, to mark dead soldiers at the battle field, so no confusion who is dead and who is injured.

Travel day to Israel and first weekend before Sar-El

2011-03-04T08:38:00.005+02:00

Thursday 3. February. Really early wake up and heading to Helsinki-Vantaa airport. Film crew was waiting for me, they made airport reality show and I was one of the passengers. I thought it would be a good idea to talk about Israel and Sar-El. Most embarrassing moments of my life!!! Bimbo alert! I was so nervous I blew up the whole thing. For sure they will use all humorous, silly and stupid scenes on their show. Bummer.

Flights were delayed but still managed to change planes in Vienna. Finally landed in Ben Gurion, Tel Aviv. I thought nothing could beat the embarrassment of that TV-filming, but then I walk through Ben Gurion arrivals hall my skirt rolled up on my waist. Oh well...

Took a train from airport to Tel Aviv. Trains leave from the ground floor at airport, left side. You buy a ticket (14,50 shekels) before entering the platforms and then go down and hop on to train. Ride takes about 10 minutes to HaHagana train station in Tel Aviv, it is next to the CBS (central bus station).

Short walk to CBS, at first I had no idea which way it was, but just follow green stream of soldiers! Go in through security check and took a bus number 44 to Yafo. Usually I stay in Old Jaffa Hostel, here is few pictures:

Friday 4. February. Slept 12 hours like a baby in a dorm (10 girls). Weather felt cold and I was glad I brought my woolen socks with me. Breakfast is included, there is coffee, tea, bread and jams on the roof terrace. It was raining a little bit but still went outside for a walk. I've walk Yafo-Tel Aviv beach promenade so often, this time decided to go south, Yafo-Bat Yam.

When I was coming back a car stop next to me. This man introduced himself. 45 years old, divorced, two kids, not looking for a marriage, has a cottage in Holon. I was like WHAT! And then I realize he wanted sex. Oh no! I will never out again alone.
I had some strawberries and listen to conversation next to me. These Danish girls went to visit West Bank and they had brochures from some organisation, they did not want to take this material with them to the airport as the were leaving. So this man from Berlin agreed to post booklets for them. Uh...

Saturday 5. February. Last night I went early to bed and slept 13 hours. Sleeping is the best thing I know. Now weather is better and no need for a coat. I met this boy from Australia, he wanted direction to Yafo port so I went with him.

This was so cool! We climbed through a wall to wave breaker! It was so nice, you people have to go in there! Amazing and beautiful!

Tip of the wave breaker:
Enter via this and climb flat rack and ladders to get in:
Old Yafo:
After this pleasant adventure I met old man (he said he was 112 years old) from Scotland and we had couple drinks. Finnish and Scottish know how to drink.
I also received a message from Finland my dear grandmother died.

BYE BYE!

2011-02-02T18:03:00.003+02:00

Before my leave I did contact representants here in Finland and Israel. Booked flights and cheap hostel for my first weekend. Doctor check up and filling the forms. Packing!

Here is everything I need for 3½ weeks in Israel. Have no idea yet does it all fit into my backbag. Coat, hat, handbag, boots, walking shoes, flip flops, bathing suit, two towels, my own bed sheets, five long sleeves, three t-shirts, four tops, skirt, trousers, five knickers, five pair of socks, two bras, two tights, wool socks, pyjamas. Also make up, personal hygiene stuff, three copies Sar-El papers, magazines to read if bored, Hebrew homework, notebook and pen, two phones (one Finnish sim and one Israeli pre-paid sim), sunglasses, camera, chargers for phone and camera, detergent to wash clothes. What else. Nail clippers, sticking plaster, medicine for headache, yarn and needle, my old Sar-El pins and shoulder tags, few shekels.

This is it! And guess what. Finnish TV is going to film my departure and arrival at the airport. Me on telly, yeeeii!

Summer 2010

2011-01-16T11:56:00.033+02:00

Never made it to "Standing together" due to some misunderstandings, but here is bunch of random pics from summer 2010. Cant believe I have not post these earlier.

Few things has happened since my last post. I'm now converting to Jewish. Dont ask. No comments needed. And I will go back to Sar-El in February 2011. Nice.

More stories coming soon! Visit this page again in March. *wink*

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Tel Aviv.

Cheap wine at the beach.
Jerusalem old city walls.
Old Jerusalem.
Jerusalem old city.
Jerusalem old city.
The wall.
I just love old rocks and stones.

Jerusalem, Ben Yehuda st.
Entering the wall.
Golden menorah.
Old Jerusalem.
Synagogue build up again.
Jerusalem old city.
Tower of David near Jaffa gate, Old city of Jerusalem.
Jerusalem.
Dead sea and +45 celcius, too hot for us.
My car! Eldan is the company if you want to rent a car in Israel.
Near dead sea.
Must be hard life out there.
Ummm. Should I be driving here. I'm at the wrong side of the fence. LOL!

Like some sort of space ship thingie far far a way.
Wheels on fire. Driving in Israel is very easy. Just go with the flow. Fast!
Typical electricity work.
Pink.
Jaffa.
Jaffa.
Jaffa clock tower.
Sea shells.
Jaffa beach.
Tel Aviv, Dizengoff st.
Tel Aviv beach.

Carmel market, Tel Aviv.
Tel Aviv.
Red.
White.
Little late night snack.
Beer time.
Fresh juice, pick whatever you want.
Tel Aviv, me and my daughter.
Kikar Dizengoff.
In front of post office near Kikar Dizengoff.
Morning coffee at home.
Going to a theme party.
It is hot! Candy is melting.
Tel Aviv, Dizengoff st.
Tel Aviv, somewhere near Carmel market.
Tel Aviv, there is gays everywhere!
Tel Aviv, Herbert Samuel st. across the beach.
Tel Aviv, Frishman st.
Playing a fool at home.
Me.
Burberry.
Tel Aviv, Domino pizza in corner of Frisman st near the beach.
Predator.
Did not eat this.
Chocolate cake.
Frishman st.
Mike's place.

Near Mihmoret, north from Netanya.
Cactus ranch.

Yad Vashem.
In Jerusalem you can end up in weird places having a cup of hot tea with very strange people! Beware! Hard to get rid off!
Jerusalem Jewish quarter.
Jerusalem.
Jerusalem old city near Jaffa gate.
Jerusalem old city.
Jerusalem Lion.
Dead sea.
Dead sea mud from under the stones.
Dead sea.
Dead sea, Ein Gedi.
Tel Aviv from Jaffa.
Ein Gedi, Dead Sea.

Near Dead sea.
In middle of nowhere on our way to Dead sea.
Woods near Jerusalem.
One of our alley cats.
Jaffa.
Jaffa, wishing bridge.
Jaffa.

Tel Aviv, Shlomo Lahat beach promenade.
Tel Aviv.
Jellyfish sting.
Tel Aviv.
Jellyfish sting.
Beer time again.
Wine time.
From our flat & balcony.
Still alive.
Ha ha.
My friend, me, my daughter.
2000 years old street in Jerusalem old city.
Ein Gedi Dead sea.
Heading down to Dead sea.
Dizengoff st, Tel Aviv.
Cross sea, only 20cm of water. Weird.
Jaffa!
Tel Aviv, Allenby st.
Jellyfish.
Tel Aviv.
Tel Aviv, Frishman st.
Our balcony.
Lake Kinneret.
Lake Kinneret. Picture taken from the sea level!
Golan heights.
Golan heights.
Our little hitchhiker from Tiberias to Katzrin, very nice young man.
Near Jordanian border. Soldier drove onto road side bomb.
Jordanian border.
Silk floss tree, Hamat Gader, on Jordanian border.
Old ruins, Hamat Gader.
Gharial, Hamat Gader.
Alligator park Hamat Gader on Jordanian border, near Lake Kinneret.

Near the border. Drive carefully!

Like nothing else.
Nahariya, my old home town.
Lebanon border ahead.
Rosh Hanikra, Lebanon border.
View of Israel from the northern border, Rosh Hanikra.
Akko tunnel.

Akko.
Shopping.
Tel Aviv.

Red.
Tel Aviv, Frishman st.
Tel Aviv, Dizengoff st.

Wounded soldiers from flotilla

2010-06-19T10:50:00.003+03:00

Unfortunately this year Sar-El is out of the question for me. My 11 yo daughter is with me the whole summer in Israel, and for Sar-El she would have to be 15 years old. This week I started to wonder is there something else we could do together while staying in there.

Standing Together -organisation cheers up brave soldiers by delivering snacks, pizza, ice cream, clothing and other goodies for them. But the best thing smiling volunteers can offer are notes of support and gratitude from people all over the world. Ok - sounds good to me, so I sent them an email. I told who I am, what have I done before, what could I do this summer and why do I want to do that.

Next I received a heart warming phone call from Israel. They did welcome me to participate in their action in July. Just a day before Standing Together volunteers did pay a visit at the hospital where the heroic soldiers wounded in flotilla incident were! And the first letter they did read for them was my email from Finland. I never thought they would use that email on that purpose - but I'm really glad my words could make THOSE soldiers really happy. Now they know we support them. We are standing together!

I'm going to be in Israel for five weeks and if I have some interesting stuff to post here I will do that, even if it is not actually Sar-El related. Standing Together is planning a visit to soldiers on Egyptian border. Stay tuned! ;)

Fri 10.07

2009-09-13T18:40:00.000+03:00

It was still night when I took taxi to the airport. I said to driver I have no hurry and I have to spend as much time as I can so we went to fill up fuel. After that he drove like a madman. Israelis dont know how to drive slow or how to speak quietly without swinging their hands.

I did try to sleep at the airport but did not manage to do that so when finally get into plane I fell asleep instantly. I usually dont miss breakfast or lunch but this time I did. Zzzzzzzz.....

Now I've been home for months and already planning my next visit to Israel, which will be 26. June - 1. August 2010. I hope this story of mine does help people who are going to do Sar-El for the first time. It is excellent program! I love Israel!

I apologize at heart if my statements, writings or pictures do offend some of you fellow volunteers at any way. If so, contact me and I will remove whatever you may find insulting. I still have not contacted any of you, because this blog was not ready. Now I will send link to everyone of you! Thank you so much for making my summer unforgettable! Shalom!

Thu 09.07.

2009-09-13T17:54:00.000+03:00

Not able to participate flag raising, since we already had civilian clothing and not everyone had their hats on. Cleaning and inspection.

Here is Nachshon, our Madrich. He did great job taking care of us adults behaving like preschoolers. He never forgot to ask us personally are you ok, do you need anything. He was truly great and I hope to meet him sometime again.

This is David the truck driver.

He gave me very special gift. I never got a can of fish before as a present.

Took all our luggage with us. Bus took us to Ben Gurion's house in Tel Aviv. He was the first prime minister of Israel. Strange man as I learn in his house, which is library today. You can actually come here and read his books. There is plenty of them!

Then it was time to say goodbyes and give hugs as everyone went their own ways. I left my backbag to a friend's hotel room and went for a lunch and to beach.

Sparrow without a tail looking for crumbs.

Lunch near the beach.

Then back to my friend's hotel room, take shower, leave my bag at hotel lobby and went out again. I did not have my own room since was leaving at night. Not so smart thing to do. Some rest would have been nice...

Evening walk at the promenade.

Cake with berries and ice cream, delicious! Strawberry margarita is my absolute favorite. This one was quite strong, I felt drunk after only one drink. I have to get into this restaurant next time. LOL

Wed 08.07.

2009-09-13T17:21:00.000+03:00

It was our last day at work. We would be having our Sar-El half day trip tomorrow morning before our three week program would end.

We did sing Hatikva at flag raising, it was nice.

My boss really liked me. Ha ha!
Almost empty courtyard.
Almost full courtyard.
My working station for several days. I did pack and seal hundres and hundreds small medical kits.

Since it was our last evening we were having pizza party! Together we gather up money, made order and some of us walk to the main base gate to pick up piles of pizza and soft drinks.

Pizza is always good! And no need to mumble or count how many slices some are having since some kind person paid more as treat for others. Yummy!

Tue 07.07.

2009-09-13T17:04:00.000+03:00

Pretty young thing from US was a real heartbreaker. Guys went crazy with her and they were buzzing all over looking for her. I think it was hilarious. Here is couple kids we met.

This man has done Sar-El 76 times. Amazing!
My roomie has a matching shirt.
Look what we found from shekem, small kiosk. It is easy to make friends.
Evening activity and time to get our diplomas. Everyone told why has come here. It is obvious we all support Israel and want to help - so no need to mention that. Try something different for a while. I state my reason to be here: Israeli men are good looking. Ha ha!

Mon 06.07.

2009-09-13T16:15:00.001+03:00

Next door neighbors start to talk out loud 06.00. How nice to wake up almost one hour before you have to. Still people dont show up to flag raise on time. *sigh*

Bread, eggs or pies, sometimes cereal, vanilla or chocolate pudding, cottage cheese, yogurth or sour cream thingy, jam, tomatoes, cucumbers, instant coffee. Very typical army breakfast.

Lunch time! Bread, fruits, many different kind of salads and vegetables...

spicy tomato sauce, hummus or tahina...

more salads...

couscous, rice, potatoes or pasta...

and meat, fish or vegetarian dish. All this food is from one single lunch, so we definitely got some good food to eat!

Our tv-room is dairy only.

Doing laundry. I heard there is not washing machine in every base, so you have to be prepared for everything. There is not always soap so you might want to bring some of your own.

We were given form of 13 questions to fill so in the evening meeting everyone had ready answers on their papers called "My House". Question were like this: Three books that will definitely be in my house are ____________ or My children will be raised in a ______________ or My house will be __________ . Then we did discuss various things. Among other things we did learn about free abortion and adult's circumcisions in the army. How fascinating.

Sun 05.07.

2009-09-13T15:29:00.001+03:00

Said goodbye to my friend as she was going back home. Then off to work. From Harav Kook, Jerusalem, I took sherut to Tel Aviv Central Bus Station, cost 22 shekels, took 1 hour 20 minutes since the morning traffic in Tel Aviv was quite jammed. Arrived at the meeting point McDonalds 08.27 and this time everyone was almost on time. Again we had some new people in our group.

Heard rumors about oink flu at the big base.

Me and my team did voluntarily work one extra hour, we were good girls!

Here is our new group, we are from Australia, Finland, Belgium, South Africa, USA and Canada.
Time for our evening meeting! One of us was late and one did not show up at all. Hmm, guess for some it tooks few more weeks to know the schedule, ha ha. We were talking about Aliyah - Jewish immigration to Israel. History and beginning, how it is today and who can do it, what it takes to move into different country and what benefits will you get. No wonder there is so much immigration from poor countries... And most interesting part comes here: If you marry a Jewish you can live in Israel but you are not making Aliyah. If you come to Israel with visa you can not move into Israel and convert. You have to convert in your own country first and we know that is not easy thing to do. But if you are willing to go through with all that (takes one year minimum) they will pay your flight to Israel, you need to go to ulpan - hebrew language lessons for 5 hours a day, 5 days a week, for 5 months. If you are under 30 they will educate you. There is also some benefits, like with apartment amenity, money, taxes and healt insurance.

Sat 04.07.

2009-09-13T14:37:00.000+03:00

This morning we did not get breakfast so we just took instant coffee and eat our own food since we had some yogurth, cheese and crackers in our fridge. Later on I hear that sunday morning there was no breakfast either and my friend had to wake receptionist up - he was sleeping! I think that is why we did not get breakfast on saturday morning... Receptionist was certainly not Jewish so keeping shabbat was not the case. LOL

Then we went to Italian synagogue, if I remember right it was on Hillel street. It was my first time, I was very excited and curious. Even I did not have a clue what was going on or what was they saying it was very special. There was special prayers and bar mitzva. After a while poor boy was so pale almost green I was afraid he was going to faint. After that we had kiddush outside. Wine, fruits, all kind of pasteries... Very nice! Thank you Irina for taking me there!
Walking in the old city. Have to say I absolutely hate those aggressive salesmen. Dont be so slippery when try to sell me something, dont yell at me, certainly dont touch me. It is better if you dont even look at me. Ha ha, it is better that I stay away from those over eager quarters, uh it is disgusting. Some of them try to get on a date with my friend. I luv yuu, yuu buutiful, wat ar yuu doink tonicht, cal me, we go out.

If they get too close or too pushy just tell them you are not here to buy anything, you came to praise to lord! Works every time. If you try to fool them by speaking Finnish they might even know what you are saying. They have met few Finnish people here before.

We visited few different churches, really not my thing but it was interesting to see how it was.

Little walk as waiting shabbat to end, then we went to dinner with our friend. She was also at teachers' seminars in Yad Vashem.

Fri 03.07.

2009-09-13T14:10:00.000+03:00

Shopping at Ben Yehuda and Jaffa streets. Wow it was fun.

I've been carrying these postcards so long, was very happy to get rid of them.

Later walk in a park.

They say crane is a national bird of Israel:

Noisy rave party and very drunk people just before shabbat near Ben Yehuda and Luntz.

Thu 02.07.

2009-08-06T19:04:00.000+03:00

Weekend is coming! Breakfast, flag raising, three hours of work, then cleaning the rooms, toilets, empty the fridge, pack our stuff, take shower, have luch, ready go go...

My roommates, Texas ladies were quite a laugh! =D
What to do with a kitten? Put it in your purse and be quiet.
Who's bra is this?
Guess if it hurts when that man above sits on your toe? She needs ice!
Some of us are leaving after two weeks. Get Sar-El diploma, pin and contact list. Keep in touch people!
Bus took us to Tel Aviv central bus station. Best way to get Jerusalem is take a sherut from east side of the bus station, Tzemach David street. It is fast, cost only 22 NIS per person and it takes us right there were we want to go. Jaffa street near Zion square is under construction so sherut stops at Harav Kook nearby. We are staying at Hotel Habira again, one small block away. Here is our room.

We get settled in and prepare to go out shopping. Then I notice my purse is missing! I cant find it! All my money, cards, credit cards, licences and everything - gone! I try to tell receptionist so he could call "sherut / taxi centre" or what ever to explain my purse has left to Tel Aviv - Jerusalem -sherut. He does not understand. He says he is not going to call, sheruts to Tel Aviv leave around the corner. I could punch him! Aaaarrgghh!

We run to Harav Kook. It is a miracle!!! Our sherut is right there, backing from the parking lot. We yell, shout and bang his windows. Finally he stops and opens the door, looking at us like we were mad. I tell him my purse is on the back seat, did not bother to wait his response but rush on the back. And there it is! I found my purse! It is truly a miracle! I feel very blessed and start to cry. I'm so happy and lucky!

It took about two and a half weeks to get stamps from the post office. Workdays we were at the base, on weekends post offices are closed. They close on friday at one o clock. It was not easy, I tell you that, ha ha. When the most important task in done we went to shop in old town, then back to hotel. Then more shopping on Ben Yehuda and having falafel.

Wed 01.07.

2009-08-06T18:05:00.000+03:00

It is time for our day trip! We were ready to go few minutes before nine. Ok... We did drive one kilometre inside the base and then sit in the bus for 40 minutes before we move forward. On Sar-El trips we need one armoured guard for ten people, and we were a big crowd and needed a second guard. That is why we were waiting for so long. We had some more volunteers from other base nearby. Together we visited tank museum.

Tank museum is at Latrun, near Mini Israel.
Gee it was hot.
Merkava 4. What do I remember of it? Only small things. Surface is rough so dirt attach to it for camouflage. Thick explosive armor. You get in from the back. Joint is the weakest part, there is small balls hanging from the chains, if hit by a missile it will explode when hit the balls, before it hits the tank itself.
Oh lalaa.
Memorial with names.
One of the memorials inside. See faces of those statues, they are all the same, one fallen soldier.
Time to move on. We had lunch at Abu Ghosh. They say it is best humus in Israel.
Mount Herzl. National and military cemetary.
Again it was so hot we could barely stand up.
Rest in peace Michael Levin.
Our superb bus driver.
Jerusalem, near old town. Notice the fence far away.
Little pray at Western Wall.
Took our fellow volunteers back to their base. I was there last year and had to get out of bus and take a look how it is today. Nice covered paths you got there now! We got back to our home just before nine. I was tired and smelly.

Tue 30.06.

2009-08-06T17:11:00.001+03:00

Today I was working inside with The Ladies. Israeli army is extraordinary. IDF gets help from volunteers who can be foreigners, retired senior citizens or disabled persons. It is amazing, we are not fit as real soldiers but we can do what we can to help Jewish state. Some armybases could not manage without volunteers, our work is important!

Here below is that poor kitten. Other cats reject it and one of our volunteers got quite touch with it. Dangerously too much! At army base it is not allowed to feed the cats! Imagine how it is to keep a kitten in a box with you. We found and did call some sort of animal shelter which would take this abandoned kitten when we get out of base on next thursday.

NOTICE: Israel is full of stray cats. They are skinny, have diseases and are always pregnant. You have to realize that before you come to Israel. You can not save them all. People dont care about cats in here. No one likes cats in here. I personally think all stray cats should exterminate without pity. You can not help them.

Our evening activity is a documentary movie called "Hero in Heaven". Very emotinal, again we are all crying. Michael Levin from US deciced to move to beloved Israel and join the front line combat unit in IDF.

YOU CAN'T FULFILL YOUR DREAM UNLESS YOU DARE TO RISK IT ALL -Michael Levin

Here he is:

Mon 29.06.

2009-08-06T16:22:00.000+03:00

After breakfast we will raise the flag, and cause it is monday we will do it with soldiers. Only four of us volunteers were on time. We were standing in line with the soldiers and our fellow volunteers start to show - up one by one. Dragging their feet across the square, slowly. Everybody is waiting. No one is happy, except chatting and giggling volunteers who are late. Excuses, excuses. I never saw anything like this before. Live and learn.

We get blue Sar-El insignias to wear proudly on our shoulders - or to leave them to the laundry room like trash. *sigh*

"Cutting water".
It is fun and easy, you dont have to think anything.
Be careful or you will get wet!
At the evening meeting there is 27 (or so) of us. We are having quiz about Israel. Two teams, it is chaos! Questions are quite difficult atleast for me. But luckily others are more wise. They get so excited they can not keep their mouths shut, they yell answers right when it pop into their minds even if it is not their turn. It was fun, but our team did loose.

When we get back to our barracks it is really dark and we almost step on to tiny black kitten. I call one of the volunteers to take it back to trash bins where all the cats usually are.

Sun 28.06.

2009-08-05T15:59:00.000+03:00

Oh, my sunburns did not feel so well this morning. Had cherry jogurth and chocolate bar for breakfast. It was short walk from Old Jaffa Hostel, Olei Zion, to Jerusalem Bulevard. We took bus number 46 to Central Bus Station and we arrived little bit too early. Madrich and all volunteers were suppose to meet there 08.45 at fourth floor, in front of McDonalds. And little did we know, last ones arrived 09.45. But hey we are in Israel, time is different here... After that we had to wait for our bus...

Madrich lead us through corridors and halls, we were going down, and down, and down. Then we arrived to a secured place where all the soldiers wait for their transportation. We were the only civilians. It was kinda cool be in there with all those soldiers. We were of of them. Almost.

We finally got into our base, our home, and first thing I did was take a nap. Then went to lunch and take a nap. After one o'clock it was time to work.

We have some new volunteers and roommates with us, and many of them speak only French. Our french speaking madricha was somewhere else. Evening meeting was really frustrating because we did not understand french and they did not understand english. We found someone in our group who could translate, but he was not very sharp or focused. He did not listen or understand what was he supposed to say, and he was too shy to go speak up in the front. Rather he was mumbling from the back.

I felt like screaming, I wanted to run outside. I never had these kind of feelings before! I could not take it people are late, dont do want they should do, are messy, unpolite, ignorant, talk behind others back, are disrespectful to others - or the army, are sloppy workers, dont care how their uniform look, loose their keys for their rooms and what ever. I try to calm down and keep in mind that in volunteer work you meet so many people from different cultures, we all have different traditions and style. Everyone is unique. Calm down, breathe.

Then we talked about kidnapped soldier, Gilad Shalit. This is allegedly his letter from about two years ago:

"I am the soldier Gilad, son of Noam Shalit who is captured by the Izadin El Qasam. Mother, father, my sister and brother, all of my friends serving in the I.D.F, I send my love. I miss you here from jail. It's been a whole year of imprisonment and my physical condition is becoming worse. I am in need of urgent treatment in the hospital. I am sorry by the lack of care by the Israeli government and the I.D.F. It is clear that they have to obey their demands so I will be released, especially as I was a soldier in a military operation and not a drug dealer. As I have parents, my mother and father, Palestinian prisoners have parents and families and should therefore be released. I have great hope in my country and government and hope they will be interested in mine. Gilad Shalit"

We discussed if this really is his writing or not, and why do we think that. We talked about Lebanon, Gaza, kidnappings, soldiers, criminals, terrorists, values of life. Palestinian prisoners can study a degree and meet their family while in jail. Gilad can not. While ago Israel released many criminals and murderers, and in change got back two dead bodies. Alive Israeli soldiers have never been released.

sat 27.06.

2009-07-13T20:00:00.000+03:00

What a lovely view, I love Mediterranean sea. Saturday morning is quiet. People are jogging on beach bulevard and some of them stop to have breakfast with their friends.

We were disappointed with restaurant next to white restaurant Honey Beach, cant remember what was the name of that place, maybe Marina something. Waiter was horrible and her sister was no better. Walking around with her sunglasses on, did not know how to be polite or smile. We read the menu, try to order, and every time she said: no we dont have that. Only coffee and sort of an omelet. Poor one. Even the orange juice tasted bitter. We never go there again.

Honey Beach restaurant was much better, service was good:
Looks nice:
I could live here:
Restaurant manager was sweet darling:

We went to the beach and forget the time. I was all red. It was too much for my pale Scandinavian skin.

Evening we had 40 minutes walk from Yafo to Tel Aviv:

Facing Yafo:

Hare Krishna in Tel Aviv beach, what a happy people they are LOL:

Dinner and beer at Mike's Place near US embassy. Live music and drunken men.

Nice sunburn. It really hurts.

fri 26.06.

2009-07-13T19:25:00.000+03:00

It is shopping time before shabbat begins! We walk from our hostel to Jerusalem bulevard to get some money from ATM. I almost lost my faith, it was the fourth ATM which finally gave me some money! We wandered somewhere to Eilat street and had quite odd breakfast. It was fatty pastry, with spinach and cheese filling, boiled egg on top of it. Very filling indeed, no need to eat for the rest of the day. From Jerusalem bulevard near the sea we took a bus number 25 and went to Dizengof centre. This is King George, near Dizengof:

Dizengof centre is big shopping mall, two buildings, both of them have many many many floors. So much places to spend your money on...

While walking on Dizengof street I found this very tired man:

Post office closes by 13 on fridays. Remember that if you need to buy stamps... Finally we had enough of shopping and drag ourselves back to our hostel. Off to the beach where we met our fellow volunteer. Man without shoes - cause he is afraid someone might steal them while he is swimming. We did try to assure him no one would take his stinky shoes but he likes to travel light...

Aaww, poor man. ATM took his card, he has no money or shoes. I did not know should I laugh or cry.

thu 25.06.

2009-07-13T18:36:00.002+03:00

It is thursday! Volunteers' weekend starts from thursday afternoon!

During the flag raising I was wondering how hard can making a line be for a group of adult people. Sure we are not in the army, but maybe we can stood up straight, form a nice lines and keep our mouths shut for couple of minutes. But no.

Again work work work HARD. I did my own job while keeping an eye what other people do, so they dont make mistakes. I almost scream and shout them to pay attention what they are doing. If we pack medical kits and something is missing, someone might die because of our mistake.

Ah, as a strong woman, I also did some men's work, moving and lifting big boxes. Our boss is funny, he always says to us when it is time to quit working: "please, five more minutes and then you can go". Note! It is five Israeli minutes, in Finland it would be like 20-30 minutes. They have their own time in Israel.

After lunch and shower bus takes us to Tel Aviv central bus station. Now we are on our own for the weekend. Free Sar-El hostel, Beitoded, on Jerusalem bulevard in Yafo, is under serious repair works and we can not go there. We will see if the nickname Betteroffdead is history when it opens again some day. So we go to Old Jaffa Hostel again. There has been some sort of mixup with the dates we booked, and we have to wait till the evening to get our room. Atleast we get the first night free! That is very good news.

Warm stuffed bread from the clock tower, walk to the beach. Then I wander around Yafo alone, eat fruits, peanuts, chocolate cookies and have some wine. These birds made really weird noise:

Hostel's roof:

Market place in the evening. Lots of people, stuff, noise till 01:

Our tiny room. It was so small I kept on bumbing on the walls and furniture. Bathroom was so little I had to take my clothes off in the shower cabinet. I could not move if I shut the bathroom door. Yes I know, I really must loose some weight.

wed 24.06.

2009-07-13T17:39:00.000+03:00

We are having day off! All soldiers and workmen are rewarded and having fun at swimming pool. First we had opportunity to go on a trip to Tel Aviv, but since not every volunteer wanted to go, so no one could go. How fun is that.

We woke up before six in the morning. Turns up one elder lady had fall and hurt herself during the night as she went to bathroom. For some odd reason poor lady went back to bed, where other people found her covered in blood. Madrich took her to hospital, whole full day experience with lots of waiting, test and scans. Apparently she took sleeping pill and forgot to mention about it to doctors...

Anyways, we are all by ourselves this day. Raise the flag, do some cleaning. Fellow volunteers are getting cranky with each other. I see lots of bitching and rolling eyes. Whispering and making secret alliances. Like we were in primary school. *sigh*

Madrich left us some papers to learn hebrew. One of the hebrew speaking volunteers offered us a lesson but not all wanted to hear her. I tried to learn but hebrew is so hard. I know only few words and phrases. We went to shekem to spend some time.

Shekem is the place to meet soldiers. And we sure did. My roommate was gorgeous hot Italian chick. Do I need to say more. Men went crazy about her. I'm not familiar with this jewish custom to set up couples and be so awfully direct on these dating issues. Live and learn. We sit on the bench, having icecream and men start to gather around. Man who is in charge for catering food in five army bases wanted to take us into his office and have a cup of coffee. I wanted to say few words about breakfast and dinner but I could not, cause he was so nice person and really proud of his work.

Since we are alone and half of us is French, we had French speaking madricha for a while:

This man is responsible of keeping our dining room kosher:

Look at the cats! They know there is food. But do not feed them or you will be kicked out from the base! I will tell you more about cats later.

It is really hot and my shirt smells terrible. In the eveving we saw a movie named Defiance. Daniel Graig as Tuvia Bielski and Liev Schreiber as Zus Bielski. Very good movie about jewish partisans in the Belarussia forests. Based on a true story.

tue 23.06.

2009-07-13T17:07:00.001+03:00

Meeting the big boss:

Again sorting out medical bags outside, packing bags inside. We did work hard. I see some people rather talk and laugh than work. I think we are here to work, not to have a holiday. You can be lazy on the beach if you want.

Special guest tonight! We are meeting ex-navy commander, here on the back, having a sip of water:

He told us really interesting, long story about war operations - incredible scouting and fighting in Red sea, Eilat gulf and Suez canal. I was ashamed some volunteers did sleep! Not only one or two, but atleast four! Snoring here and there, heads nodding, drool dripping. It was their loss. Poor man said: "let's put lights on, so I can see who are sleeping and who are awake"...

Mon 22.06.

2009-07-13T16:20:00.000+03:00

At this base we raise a flag with soldiers on mondays and thursdays. Other mornings we do it by ourselves. You dont get to see soldiers so often here in this medical base. There is only few of them in our work stations. Lunch time they come to eat, but during breakfast and dinner there is only couple of soldiers. If you want to meet them, go to shekem. It is small shop/kiosk inside the base where you can buy food, snacks, soda, juice, icecream etc. Usually soldiers are very friendly and curious about you, they ask where do you come from, and why do you want to help Israel.

This morning we get to hear safety rules and had to sign paper we understand these rules. I got my army boots, they are pretty warm and sweaty...

This day's work is outdoors! Sounds bizarre but we are "cutting water" - fun fun fun! Actually we open medical kits, take out expired hemohes bag and slash it open with a scalpel. Toss bag into huge box and other equipment into other box. After that we opened really old medical bags and sort them out. Cleaning. We get more new people joining us. Here we are packing new stuff:

After lunch we had visitor. General Aharon Davidi, founder of Sar-El came to tell us a story. It was the same story as I heard last year, about young French volunteer who's legs was cut off in accident, but that did not stop her. Davidi wanted us to know how he admires her determination and percistence. He is a busy old man, meeting hundreds of volunteers and telling stories for them.

Special dinner tonight with soldiers! They are rewarded - and we are invited. Usually when you eat with soldiers, especially when officers are present, you should dress up in your uniform. Apparently some volunteers dont know this. Other thing is taking photos. You should not take pics of officers without asking permission. Speeches, promotion, speeches. Soldiers got backbags and volunteers got small led-lights. Dinner was good!

Evening meeting was about IDF history, how it all started. And how IDF is today. What it is like to join in the army. What can you do in the army. What if someone is not suitable for service. We learn many things. Our madrich is very good, he did not tell a story about IDF but he made it sound interesting by telling his own story - how he did join the army and how he experience it.

Sun 21.06.

2009-07-13T15:35:00.001+03:00

Meeting Sar-El people in the morning at Ben-Gurion airport. Interesting to sit and wait in arrivals hall and guess who else might come to Sar-El. Sign up and line up is such a chaos! Cant belive how people dont realize they have to have three sets of papers, ready and stapled together and wait in line. How hard can it be. Program coordinator Pamela Lazarus had her hands full with papers and disorganised crowd. If arriving groups continue to grow this method will not work for long. Hmm, maybe it is just me, like to keep things strictly in order.

This year my base was medical base near Tel Aviv. Accommodation, showers and tv-room was better than last year's communication base had, but food wasnt so great this time. They dont prepare food in the base anymore, they have catering. Lunch was good though!

Shared my room with four other ladies. Privacy? Dream on!

We arrived just in time for lunch. Then we got our fancy army uniforms. If you think you will find shirt or pants that would fit you perfectly, you are wrong. They are all wrong size! And have everlasting stains or repair patches on them. Pants will propably fall down if you dont find belt to go with them. One lady brought her own uniform, you can buy them online - I was so jealous, her uniform was new, clean and right size.

After that it was unclear what we should do. So we went to work. I had only sandals on me so I could not do anything. I thought I did not need workshoes last year, so why now. Eventually I was putting little string on paper labels. Oh how exciting. It was my bad, cause it says on the Sar-El packing list page: "you have to have closed shoes with you, workshoes, sneakers or whatever". Then it appears we were not suppose to work before safety instructions.

In the evening meeting we had introducings and time tables. After we finished more people arrived. After three hours of sleep and 20 hours long day I was ready for bed!

First week in Israel - with kids

2009-07-13T12:28:00.000+03:00

We were in Yafo first 5 days and then in Jerusalem for 3 days. I escort my kids and my finnish friend back to airport early on sunday morning (actually it was night), wait, wait, wait and meet Sar-El crew over there.

Old ruins of first and second temple, Old City, Jewish quarter in Jerusalem:

My daughter. She had tears in her eyes when we arrived in Israel, she was so happy to be there:
Yafo beach. There is everything, running dogs playing around, horses, kids, garbage and waste. Swimming is not allowed cause of strong currant. Or meduzas, jellyfish. This is totally different from near by Tel Aviv beach:
Alga shoe, looks funky and funny:
Israeli electrical work is quite interesting:
Yafo, facing Tel Aviv:
Excellent land mark in Yafo, old clock tower where everything is near by:
My son does not like travelling so much:
Except sea is fun even if sand gets in your pants:
Apple pie and vanilla icecream. Honey Beach restaurant, Yafo:
At Kotel, Jerusalem:
Supermarket is always open, Jerusalem bulevard, Yafo - and there is also several ATMs. (Cheap whitewine 20,90 NIS /bottle) And if you want to go from Yafo to central bus station take bus number 44 or 46 from Jerusalem bulevard. Or from Yafo to Dizengof shopping centre take bus number 25 from Jerusalem bulevard:
Our hostel in Yafo was Old Jaffa Hostel, 13 Amiad street. From central bus station (floor 4.) take bus number 44 or 46 to the old clock tower. Small cosy rooms, cheap, not fancy but clean enough. Always hot water in showers and toiletpaper in toilets. Roof top is excellent! Water fountain, lots of big green plants, shades, places to rest, meet people around the world. This hostel has many different kind of room options. Some rooms have own bathroom, aircondition (some have only fans), some have TV or fridge or own balcony. You can even sleep on the roof if you want. Communal kitchen, internet, nice service. No panic, you might bump into small mice in your room. Kids under 10 yo dont have to pay. I like Yafo more than Tel Aviv. Yafo has more character! Taxi from Ben-Gurion airport to Tel-Aviv/Yafo is 120-150 NIS.

Our hotel in Jerusalem was Hotel Habira, 4 Havat Zelet street (near 40 Jaffa street). Breakfast included from 8 till 10, if the receptionist is awake LOL. Rooms and beds are bigger and better than in Old Jaffa Hostel, all rooms have TV and fridge, some rooms have own balcony. Room for one is 250 NIS, for two 350 NIS, for three 450 NIS and for four it is 600 NIS. I really like this place because of excellent location - right next to Kikar Zion. Sherut, shared taxi, from Tel Aviv (you can find them on Tzemach David street, next to Tel Aviv central bus station) costs only 22 NIS and it takes you right to Kikar Zion. But right now Jaffa street is under construction work so all sheruts go to Harav Kook (it is very near by). From Kikar Zion there is good shopping street Ben Yehuda, ATM, pharmacy, post office on Jaffa street, four supermarkets and some of them are open on shabbath too, so as McDonalds. And few bars too, like Dublin. Or Putin (Russian bar) and Old Friend (heavy metal) on Jaffa street. Short walk to the old city and religious area Mea Shearim. Sherut at night from Jerusalem to Ben-Gurion airport is 50NIS.

Going back!

2009-05-02T09:23:00.000+03:00

After my last trip it was very obvious I wanted to go back as soon as I could - and do Sar-El again. This time I will take my kids, 8 and 11, with me. My daughter cant wait until she is old enough to participate in Sar-El, but few more years to go! Ten years ago she was a baby, living in Israel for a while. Sure she can not remember it, but sees pictures and hear stories, she also has special interest in Israel which has been noticed by her school teacher as well.

First we are having one week holiday, staying in Yafo for few days and spend weekend in Jerusalem. I want them to see how Jerusalem is during Sabbath. When they are leaving back to Finland with my friend, I will meet other Sar-El volunteers at the airport.

This time I'm not having huge, heavy suitcase with me, filled with clothes and items I really dont need after all, medium size backpack will be just fine. Two long skirts, shorts, few t-shirts, one long sleeve shirt, underwear, sunglasses, camera. What else do I need, it is only four weeks! =)

Back home

2008-07-22T13:57:00.000+03:00

I was really tired.

Takeoff from Prague:

At home in Finland everything seems strange. Hollow. Pale. Passive.

Sar-El was one way to spend my holiday. To help, participate, support and meet new people.

I miss back to Israel.

fri, 18 july

2008-07-22T13:20:00.000+03:00

Breakfast and shopping. When we arrived to Allenby street, there was police cars blocking the way:
Police did clear the street. What is going on? No one speaks english. Maybe they suspect a bomb:
Robot inquires if it is a bomb, perhaps just a bag or empty cardboard box:
Better safe than sorry:
Everything OK:

Too bad, later that day I saw my friends for the last time and did not say any proper goodbyes, I hate it. Before midnight I took taxi from Beitoded to airport, cost 120 shekels, 22,8 euros. I feel sad. Fun stops here. I'll bet no one understands me at home.

thu, 17 july, pt. 2

2008-07-22T12:58:00.000+03:00

Work is done and now it is time to have fun! I look horrible but I feel marvelous!

We had some fun moments in the beach.

After I got sand all over me again I went to meet one of my facebook friends. Had excellent chicken sandwich and orange juice. Yummy.

thu, 17 july, pt. 1

2008-07-22T12:31:00.000+03:00

Last hours in base.

You should have seen this guy in his multicoloured pyjamas:
Our fearless leader:
Cleaning time! Inspectors are coming today:
Girls at our work shop did thank us. They ask if I could stay and work for them because I work hard and learn fast. We did thank them as well, we were glad to help them and this country.

Big boss. Thank you.
My room, all packed and ready to go.

wed, 16 july

2008-07-22T11:59:00.000+03:00

Our last full day in base. I dont want to leave. Not yet.

Flag raising:
Me testing innumerable helmets:
Our barracks. My door first on left, room number 5:
Saying goodbye to sweet girls we met was hard, and brought tears in our eyes. But here we are smiling:

At evening meeting we got our group pictures, contact lists, diplomas - in deep appreciation for volunteer work in Israel. We did raise small offering for our fearless leader.

Last sunset in our base. Even though it looks like a prison:

tue, 15 july, pt. 2

2008-07-22T11:38:00.001+03:00

Mazkeret Batya:

Blooming trees were beautiful but it was way too hot and boring. Best part of this day was having falafel with friends in Bilu juction shopping mall.

tue, 15 july, pt. 1

2008-07-22T11:02:00.000+03:00

Wow it was hot day! At work we clean up places a little bit. I did heat plastic soft covers to helmet's earphones, my fingertips were burning. After lunch we went for half day trip. First to Weizmann science institute, where sadly we did not get to see any science stuff but Israel's first president Chaim Weizmann's (1874-1952) home museum instead. Oh well, it was OK.
Staircase in Weizmann's house is beutiful:
Garden:
Looking good!:

Next to museum of Mazkeret Batya. Now I got bored. Old house, old items, too much blabering, it took ages and I did not get anything from it. Old potty:

mon, 14 july

2008-07-22T10:33:00.000+03:00

This morning there was that tall officer present during flag raising. He does not speak english but he likes us volunteers. Soldiers are scared of him, because strict discipline. Again he wanted to see straight lines and soldiers had to move back and forth to make him happy. Ooh I like that man! OK, finally everyone stood still and it was extremely quiet. One of our volunteer's phone started to ring. I wish I could disappear.

Here is our shelter work shop before cleaning:
Me working on helmets:
There is bees everywhere. All you need is drop of juice on the table and they come out of nowhere. At evening meeting we talked about propaganda, how centain media twistes information and pick and choose facts. Some ignorant people who does not know real facts or has never been in here, can easily get wrong impression about Israel. All I can say is dig the truth up, then you will know.

sun, 13 july

2008-07-22T10:05:00.000+03:00

We had to be at Ramla bus station by ten. Pizza for breakfast. It was a good weekend, some left their stuff in hostels, wallets underneath matress or phone chargers in somewhere. We got three new people more in our group. Back to work with helmets again. From our small base it is few minutes walk to dining room in big base:

Big base:
Green parrots:

Doggie in our base:

sat, 12 july

2008-07-22T09:14:00.000+03:00

In the morning our kind taxi driver took us to place where we could get sherut to Tel Aviv, he had something else to do. We paid him 250 shekels, just because he was so nice to us. I also have his addres so I can send him postcard from Finland.

Few minutes walk from our free Sar-El hostel, in old Jaffa, near clock tower is good place to eat for 18 shekels, about 3 euros. We came here every day to have warm stuffed bread.
On Allenby street we usually meet our funny and crazy friends. Sit down and relax. Watch people come and go. Stare those sexy brown eyes. *melts* Have a beer or few. They also bring food on the table so we can play Fear Factor!!!

Think I will move to Hawaii, hare krishna!:
Little green pet:
Toilet in that bar on Allenby is the worst I ever seen! There is no proper door and it is so small I can barely get my big ass in. Smell is absolutely terrible, indescribable. No toilet paper - or seat. And it is dirty. Phew!
At some point things started to get little bit too wild for me on Allenby street, so I took a taxi and went to Beitoded. Some rooms have air condition, some dont. Men sleep on third floor, women on fourth. Matresses and pillows are dirty and I dont think they wash those sheets after use. On fourth there is also big roof terrace. Here is my room:

fri, 11 july, pt. 4

2008-07-22T08:45:00.001+03:00

We were trying to get in Tel Aviv. Late at friday evening we took sherut from Nahariya to Haifa. Driver said there is no other possibility to get from Haifa to Tel Aviv but take a taxi. We did not think it was a good idea, and decided to stay in Haifa for the night. Called our friend, but no answer. Great, what now? Sleep in the park? In beach? No way! We waved taxi to stop, asked could he take us somewhere cheap hostel or hotel just for one night. Taxi driver was really nice man, he drove us around Haifa for free and took us to his home to sleep for 150 shekels. His family was in Paris at the time. He had three storey house in hills. We got the ground floor for ourselves with two bedrooms, furnished and all equipments. We almost could not understand how kind and helpfull he was. We got hot shower to wash that sand away and soft bed to sleep. View from his terrace:

In the middle you see black area with no lights. Huge green and blue tanks are fuel, so there have to safe area around them in case something would happen.

Living room in upper floor, really nice:

fri, 11 july, pt. 3

2008-07-21T22:31:00.001+03:00

On some sort of pier we sat on a bench - enjoy the view and sun. Then we went too close to water and huge wave splash onto us! Wow it was fun!
We were in Nahariya, sabbath begins soon, no buses or trains, no place to go. So what do we do? Eat Pringles and drink cheap white wine!
Sun sets down. We went swimming. Crazy idea but it was really fun!
If you went to stand into water high to your ankles, wave comes and wets your chest. Back current was so powerful it knocks you down. And remember, swimming is not allowed here.
I got sand in my pants. All my clothes and stuff like phone and camera are wet. Fine, salty sand sticks on your skin and it does not come off. It is dark and we dont know were to go. Brilliant.

fri, 11 july, pt. 2

2008-07-21T22:08:00.001+03:00

Here used to be UN-house where all UN-people met each other, had parties every week, go to finnish sauna and get our mail and everything. Today there is no light blue United Nations flag on the pole:
Seems like this house is sold to apartments. I saw many postboxes and kid's bikes on the yard. Here used to be rows of tables and benches. No more parties and fun:
Nahariya beach:

Lebanon border is close:

fri, 11 july, pt.1

2008-07-21T21:36:00.000+03:00

I told you before I lived in Nahariya for a while, eight - nine years ago. Now I wanted to visit that beautiful town again and see all those places I used to go. Me and my finnish Sar-El friend hop into train from Tel Aviv to Nahariya, it cost 39 shekels, 7,5 euros, and took about two hours because it did stop on every station. Here is my old grocery store:
Little square in middle of the town. I wrote and sent all postcards here for my friends:
"River" splits the town in half:

This is the house I use to live:
Did not dare to knock on my old door and see who lives there now.

thu, 10 july

2008-07-21T21:05:00.001+03:00

I skipped breakfast again. After flag raising we gave Bratz balloon to our birthday boy. It was nice! So cute! After lunch starts our weekend! We got a ride to Ramla bus station, where everyone wondered away. I went to shoe store! Two pairs of shoes only 150 shekels, 28,70 euros. Then we took a bus to Tel Aviv - just sit down and enjoy of free time. Then I saw it! Tiger cub! No, it cant be tiger? Is it a cat? What a cool cat! It was awesome!
View from the roof of Beitoded, Jerusalem street, Tel Aviv:

wed, 9 july, pt. 2

2008-07-21T20:45:00.000+03:00

At dinnertime we stop near big mall. Some went to eat, some shopping, some had refresments. I had to run back and forth in few shops to look for a suprise for our birthday boy, fearless leader. I ended up buying Bratz helium balloon for him. But since it was suprise I had to hide it somehow - and where can you hide big balloon? Under my skirt? I asked the man who sold it to me if he could put it in plastic bag. He did not find bag big enough, not in his shop, or two other shops either. I was getting nervous, our bus would leave in two minutes and I was alone somewhere in a strange mall with hebrew speaking man who could not hide my balloon. I had to run to get in that bus.