And, we're off!!

It's hard to believe the day is finally here. My family and I are off on an adventure to explore the land of Israel for my bat mitzvah. If you know my parents, you know I’ve grown up hearing about the miracle of Israel since I was old enough to eat my first falafel. Now it's my turn to see the land and its historic sites, meet the people, taste the hummus, and experience all of the things I've only heard and read about.

It is especially meaningful for me because during the first week of our trip, we will be traveling with both sets of my grandparents, my aunts, uncles, and all of my first cousins - nothing could be more special.

I also know that because we’ve chosen to celebrate my bat mitzvah in Israel, there are many many people we love dearly who will not be with us. That’s one of the reasons we’ve created this blog - we hope this small glimpse into our adventure inspires you and serves as a reminder to celebrate the many miracles that are around all of us!

Photo 1: Arrival at Ben Gurion Airport

Photo 2: Me showing mom how to take a proper selfie with my own selfie-stick arm

Photo 3: Mom, Dad, and I just realized this is really happening!

Photo 4: Our first falafel at a roadside stand suggested by our driver - I'd give it an A but need more to compare it to!

Photo 5: An awesome sunset my Dedushka caught just before we sat down for dinner up north near Kfar Blum

And now, as the title of the blog says YALLA — which in Hebrew literally means, “Let’s Go!”

With love,

Liya