adventure, Ein Gedi, fun, Israel, travel, vacation

Part of the Team

In 1993, when I was on a program in Israel called Project Otzma, we went to the Dead Sea and to Ein Gedi. And I believe that this is the last time that I’ve been to Ein Gedi.

Ein Gedi, for those who don’t know, is a nature reserve right along the coast of the Dead Sea. It has two natural springs that flow with water year round and create incredible opportunities to enjoy in the heat of the day. While hiking through the area, there are many plants, birds and animals to admire, and a lot of water to enjoy.

Josh has been to Ein Gedi too many times to count since we made Aliyah 9 years ago. He’s brought his father there with the kids; he’s gone with our friends, the Shermans, at least three times; he’s taken the kids by himself; and he’s enjoyed the spot with other visitors.We even stayed right by Ein Gedi two years ago on a very last minute vacation where we enjoyed the Ein Gedi Guest House. And he took the kids through the springs twice.

Me? Well, I’ve been home pregnant, with a nursing baby or with a toddler for all of these years. I haven’t stepped foot in Ein Gedi once the entire time.

So, when we were discussing various ideas for our staycation this week, Josh and I both thought of Ein Gedi at the same time. “Oh my gosh,” Josh said, “We can finally do it!”

And so we did.

We invited the Shermans along for another adventure, packed everyone into the two cars and headed out. Within five minutes of entering the park, Yakir tripped, cried, and yelled “Pick me up.” I looked at Josh and said, “You’ve got to be kidding.”

So, I took a deep breath, pictured myself entertaining him at the park entrance for the next three hours, scooped him up and keep moving. Fortunately, the first waterfall and swimming area wasn’t too far away, and when we got there, Yakir couldn’t get out of my arms fast enough.

We had a fantastic day, basking in the fun of the falls, swimming around each pool of water and hiking through the beautiful park. It was a perfect day and I giggled each step of the way, realizing that we were reaching a new era for our family.

Zeli loves that waterfall!

Zeli and Sara

We finally made it together!

And it would be hard to say who had the most fun today.

But you can bet that I was at the top of the list.

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