Ein Fashcha - The Northern Shore of the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is BEAUTIFUL. The contrast between dry and wed; gren and brown; stark and lush - is just magnificent. The photos here show Ein FAshcha, Qumran, and the road back to Jerusalem from the Dead Sea - on the way to Jerusalem.

Ethiopian Jews Celebrate in Jerusalem

Each year on the 29th day of the Hebrew month of Cheshvan the Ethiopian Jewish population celebrates their holiday of Sigd. In Jerusalem the Haas Promenade is the central gathering venue for the Ethiopian Jews who reside all over the Land of Israel. This special day marks an opportunity for prayers - in essence a minor Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement). The range of people, garb and vast range of ages is apparent as the celebration flows.

Land of Israel Birkon by ImagesThroughTIme

After producing our first bencher\birkon - and selling out the first edition, we decided to create a whole new version - new design, many new photographs, and upgraded printing and binding. I wanted to show just a few sample pages - though the best way to really see the bencher is by going to the following link:

http://hosting.richpaper.com/FullServiceHtml/rebeccakowalsky/1109/

I would love to hear your comments - and - if you like it pass the word on to people who might be interested in ordering the Birkon.
Many of the photographs I had taken over the years and some of them I had to go out to 'get' for a specific page that did not have an appropriate photo. Enjoy!!

Fall Colors - the United States, NYC and Stamford, CT

My journey to the United States was informative, enriching, and simply beautiful. The colors of Connecticut, the hustle and bustle of New York City and the view of the world far from where I now live brought back wonderful feelings and memories.

Kite Festival Pnei Kedem

Chol Hamoed is a special opportunity to see the land and enjoy all the activites all over the country, here in Isreal. One day, instead of a hike I opted to see the annual Chol Hamoed Kite Festival in Pnei Kedem. I arrived late in the afternoon with the kite enthusiasts still flying high and the sun setting low. Adults and children alike took part as I took in the variety and the fun, as well as the photographic opportunities.

Sukkot Live in Greater Jerusalem

Walking the streets of Jerusalem on Chol Hamoed was full of action and all kinds of people. The decision to hitch in from home was the right one. I was dropped off near Rechavia and I headed by foot down Agron St. towards the Mamilla mall, which lead me straight to the Jaffa Gate. No cars were allowed in, just those entering by foot. There was a lot of color and activity, and despite the heat and the sun beating down, I made it to the Kotel and stood in the throngs awaiting Birkat Kohanim. Of course there was pushing and vying for a close view of the men's section where the kohanim were about to bless the people of Israel. The excitement in the air was contagious. The lulav, etrog and all realted articles were everpresent - as was the holiday spirit.

Sukkot Live in Greater Jerusalem

Walking the streets of Jerusalem on Chol Hamoed was full of action and all kinds of people. The decision to hitch in from home was the right one. I was dropped off near Rechavia and I headed by foot down Agron St. towards the Mamilla mall, which lead me straight to the Jaffa Gate. No cars were allowed in, just those entering by foot. There was a lot of color and activity, and despite the heat and the sun beating down, I made it to the Kotel and stood in the throngs awaiting Birkat Kohanim. Of course there was pushing and vying for a close view of the men's section where the kohanim were about to bless the people of Israel. The excitement in the air was contagious. The lulav, etrog and all realted articles were everpresent - as was the holiday spirit.