Sand, Sunsets, and Shabbat

As part of the OSP (Overseas Student Program) here at Ben Gurion University, there have been a few planned trips so that we could get to know Israel. The first of several was an afternoon trip to Machtesh Ramon (more commonly known as the Mitzpe Ramon Crater). While it is known as a crater, Machtesh Ramon was created by a fold in the rocks and the eventual run off of the sandstone underneath the top layer.

View from the outer rim

Our hike went through the center of Machtesh Ramon, and while it was still pretty hot late in the afternoon, it was absolutely beautiful. We sat in the sand and contemplated the reasons why in Hebrew, the word for desert (midbar) is derived from the root medeber, which means to speak. The hike was timed such that as we were finishing, we were able to see the sun set over the desert ahead of us. It was a gorgeous view and even though the hike ended on an uphill, it was totally worth it.

After the hike, we returned to a campground where a bonfire and delicious meal of poike was waiting to be prepared for us. To pass the time, Abby and I decided to run down and up the adjoining ridge to get more pictures of the sunset before it ended completely. And when I say run, it was more like sprinting with the threat of a few broken ankles on the mostly loose rocks. But it was worth it and it was a great view over the whole surrounding area. All in all, a pretty great day even though it meant not getting back til well after midnight.

The next day ended up being pretty relaxed as we had gotten back so late the night before and since it was Friday, everything closed around 4:00 in the afternoon. Also through the OSP office, Abby, Melanie, and I got paired up with a student who lives near the university who was opening up his apartment for Friday night Shabbat dinner. The three of us joined Chen and a few of his friends for dinner that started out a little awkward, but ended up lasting long into the night as we hung out, talked, and completely lost track of time. Saturday was much of the same as just about EVERYTHING is closed on Shabbat. Luckily the pool was open, and since Chen lifeguards there, Abby, Melanie, Sam and I went to the pool to see Chen and his friends again as well as relax and do our homework in the sun. Seeing as it's the only thing open on Shabbat, I think Saturday pool days are going to become a common occurrence unless I'm actually travelling on Saturdays. 'Til next time world!