Congratulations Dad!

I got a call from my dad just after the Memorial Day weekend with some really exciting news. He and Dixie got engaged! We are so happy for him and are thrilled to welcome Dixie to the family!

Israel, May 2009

We just got back from a two-week trip to Israel last week. It felt like we could have easily spent another couple of weeks there; the three of us couldn't get enough of the almost perfect weather, amazing food, wine tasting and quality time spent with Moises' parents (they will be living there for the next year and possibly permanently). Asher took in so much while we were there from all of his new experiences and spending time with his grandparents. He came back saying a dozen new words and tricks.

Port of Tel Aviv

We took an afternoon to walk along the board walks lined with nice restaurants and cafes.

Here we sat at a cafe where Asher met an adorable, energetic puppy. He was so excited over her and all of a sudden she decided to show her affection by pouncing on him and smothering him with kisses!

Our Evening Out

It was so nice for Moises and me to go out at night for dinner and drinks with the peace of mind knowing Asher is in good hands, with Zaideh and Babi.

Breakfast at the neighborhood cafe

We ate breakfast at this nice little cafe a few times.
We met Shaul, Moises' dad's cousin, for breakfast a couple of times.
There was a pet shop conveniently located across the square from the cafe. Zaideh is taking Asher over there to go check it out.

A couple of days in Jerusalem

Wandering through some neighborhoods with no automobile access while taking time to smell the flowers and bird and cat watching.





Stopping for a snack right next to the Tower of David


Our night in Jerusalem was in the beginning of our trip when Asher was still getting adjusted to the time. He was cranky from being over-tired and teething so Mom had to get creative on entertainment. He definitely got a kick out of seeing himself in the mirror with a shower cap on.



The Western Wall (above photo)

We went through the tunnels of the Western Wall that were recently excavated (amazing thing to see). It was an hour and a half long and Asher did really well. By the time we got out Asher fell asleep in the carrier.
The Streets of the Old City

Lady's Man

In just about every restaurant Asher would strike up a conversation with all the cute waitresses. More than once he got picked up out of his high chair to walk around the restaurant with them.

In this cafe the waitress let Asher play with this cow from their display case.

Zaideh and Asher's Tour of all the Parks

One of Asher's highlights was visiting all the parks with Zaideh.

The Beach

Unfortunately it wasn't quite warm enough to actually go swimming. He still loved it.
A must see video: Zaideh showing Asher the waves when an unexpected big wave comes in...

Please Do Not Disturb!

This is Asher's "Please Do Not Disturb" look that he gets before he falls asleep.

Natanya

On our way to the Galilee, we stopped to get a coffee and check out the view in Natanya.

Fish Lips

He's been practicing hard on this...and I must say, he's gotten pretty good at it!

In the Galilee...

...we stayed at this really cute cottage/ranch. Each room was like a mini cottage house with its own yard, back porch and even hamoc.
The view from our cottage.

Pony Riding

Asher was in heaven! He went crazy over all the horses they had at the ranch.