December 6, 2001

Being trapped has its advantages. Usually, the University folks split for their weekend (Thursday and Friday), but since they can't get in and out easily, we roped them in to hanging out. We walked around Zababdeh a while, doing some shopping as we did so. It was interesting, because people in Zababdeh are generally aware that there are now foreigners living here and nearby, but rarely are we seen in big groups. We drew a lot of attention, and it was clear that people were very, very grateful to see us all. Our students at the school got a kick out of trying to practice their English on the ajaanib (foreigners).

The view of Zababdeh from the University.

We then went back up to the University to do some singing and had dinner at the new nameless cafe there. While dining on shawerma and kharouf, and a dessert of fresh fruit and argile, we got a text message from the Germans - not only did they make it into Israeli-controlled West Bank, they also made it across the Green Line (the 1967 Armistice Line), and even through customs and onto the boat out of Haifa. It can be done...