October 3, 2000

The clashes continue throughout the West Bank and Gaza, despite the promise earlier today of a cease-fire. Israelis are blaming Arafat for the chaos. School has been cancelled until Saturday as a sign of mourning, and Abuna Louis also does so for the childrens' safety - some come from other villages and from Jenin, where there have been reports of some minor clashes. The phrase for the day is calmly chaotic, as conflict stays away from Zababdeh, but affects our day to day life anyway.

Marthame joins our friend and his children for a little music.

Jamming from East and West.

And, as always, life goes on, as evidenced by a visit to our friend. We joined in some music with our friend playing the ‘oud and his children singing, while Marthame flailed along on guitar.