Take Me Out

It’s actually about 3 a.m. on Sunday, July 10 right now, but I’m just getting around to putting my blog entry together and I’m dead set on making sure I make an entry every day.

Today was a very laid back day. Even though it was Shabbat, there were plenty of things open around us. I wasn’t feeling all that hot this morning, so I slept in rather than head out to synagogue, which I had intended. A 5 a.m. wake up call – in the form of a tension headache – can really start the day on the wrong foot.

So, I took the opportunity to get some sun at the pool. After about two hours up on the 16th floor (yes, it’s a rooftop pool), I am sufficiently “lobster-fied.” In a day or two, it’ll turn golden brown, and then in another day or two I’ll be back to my pasty-white self.

We also took in some time this afternoon in Herzilya, which is a beautiful beach town that was packed with sunbathers from around the world. There are a number of hotels right along the water and very little visible sand along the water. And, I finally had a chance to get in my first falafel … even though I can get falafel at home, it is NOTHING like eating fresh falafel in Israel. Though it’s been five years since I savored it, it was well worth the wait.

Tonight’s adventure took us on a brief tour of Tel Aviv and Yafo. Unfortunately, it was not what we expected – an hour walking tour with about two hours to relax in Tel Aviv, checking out the bars and clubs. Instead, a bad tour guide, traffic in Yafo, and a few Team USA members who went AWOL along the way lead to much abbreviated free time period in Tel Aviv. We basically had enough time to go to a bar – we found one that was literally on the beach sand, and plan to go back when we have a chance – have one drink, and then head back to the bus. Another drink at the hotel, and a few games of Sheish-beish (backgammon), and I’m up to bed.

Tomorrow we have the huge welcome party for all the athletes and team personnel. Should be many photo opportunities and a great chance to trade pins and other goodies.