aaaaaaaaand here we go....

After 8 days of totally unpredictable hours, no bread, and the especially creepy experience of a major city falling totally silent, normal life has returned to Jerusalem. It's like everyone and everything has been holding their breath for today. I had an interview, internet installed, and the plumber came - all of which I tried to address during the holiday, but was unable to. And I'm not sure everyone appreciates the no bread thing. Bread is a major staple in the average Israeli's diet. Like really, a huge part. So 8 days without it is huge. The stores were totally crowded with people buying all the foods that weren't sold for the last week, it was pretty funny.

So on the bus on the way home from my interview this morning, it was just me and a bunch of religious men. Like with the all black and hats and everything. And I had 2 thoughts: 1) Why do some have the peyot (the curls above their ears), but some don't? and 2) I hope my elbows aren't offending anyone. You see, their women cover up from below the elbow, below the knee, and cover their hair. So I was a little concerned that my elbows might cause some problems.

Also, I realized something else. All the men don't look exactly alike - there are different patterns on their black suits.

I went to lunch (at 6pm) with one of my roommates, and got a chance to experience Jerusalem the way the young Jerusalemites do. It was really nice, and also interesting to talk to her - her parents are superreligious and live in a settlement town. Crazy, huh? So she was explaining to me all the different kinds of religious Jews, since to me they're all the same. But the thing is, they aren't. Like the way that some have peyot and others don't. And even the styles of the hats might indicate a kind of belief system, which is kind of hilarious. To me. This roommate is an art student, so when we got home I helped her put canvas on a wooden frame. Another item to put on the list of things I have never done before.

Another important thing I learned today: there is a pub almost right across the street from my building. These are the perks when you live in the center of the city! Hah I guess even people in Jerusalem just need a beer sometimes...