The Feigelsons

So I promise not to speak of ice cream flavors and therefore can avoid all unnecessary redundancy. 

We've spent the last two days in Safed, Zafed, Zefat, Sefat (spelled differently on every map, gps and sign) with the Feigelsons.  The kids spent the majority of the time in the pool where Ben and Jonah took on an orthodox lady (in full bathingsuit garb)(head to toe clothed) and her son.  It is a toss up who was more competitive -- Ben or her.  When she made him cry, he shamed her a bit and she backed off.  If she didn't have an extra 150 pounds on him, it might have been a more fair game.  But only in Israel.   The other kid was trying to drown Jonah in the nicest possible way. 

Micah was a trooper - it turns out he had an ear infection and was pretty miserable (that after a weekend of stomach flu).   He really thought it was unreasonable that his mommy and her friend should insist on going to the art colony in 9000 degree weather.  He was probably right.  But he was definitely doing better today rather than yesterday. 

For me, selfishly, it was wonderful to be Natalie and was only sorry I couldn't actually spend any time talking to her when Sarah wasn't listening.  Sarah was only sorry nobody wanted to play pretend.  Jonah was willing - but only if he could be the cubs in a 5th game in the world series.  In watching Ben and Jonah - I've decided all boys are airheads.  I can't believe girls have gotten the short end of that description for too long.  In fact, Ben acknowledged to me  . . and I quote . . . "Boys are idiots, mom.  Except me.  I'm a huge idiot."  Ben and Jonah got seperated from us in Safed (which is basically like a medievel maze made out of Jerusalem stone, (so everything looks the same)).  Fortunately, Natalie and I saw the humor of the situation and actually weren't worried.  We stayed put and waited for them to find us.  It only took about 5 minutes.  That was the unfortunate part. 

Ben has a playdate with a kid from camp tomorrow.  Camp has not been an overwhelming success.  It hasn't been complete failure - but it has defintely been work.  I can't help but wonder if CJDS is too socially safe for the kids.   Not that I'd wish social uncomfort on anyone -- but maybe they'd see making friends as needing work and investment - not merely physical proximity.  Without help from the counselors (who I'm guessing are not Jill-like in making kids connect or feel safe), my kids floundered a bit.  Sarah tried teaching the kids hand games - it is working somewhat.  The soccer kids are not at this camp and I think Ben is slightly out of his element.   We'll see how tomorrow's playdate goes. 

Anyways . . . I'm off to bed.