August 17, 2005. Today begins the official evacuation of settlers in Gush Katif that have not left willingly.

Started off with a test in Hebrew....was pretty challenging but i am optimistic I did ok. Afterward we listened to the morning news and translated them (will explain about them later) For the last section of class we sang with all the other Hebrew classes, I love Israeli music!

Went to Emek for lunch with Courtney. On the way saw some girls rallying against the disengagement. Met Courtney and went to Aroma, had a nice sandwich. On the way out saw a parade of "orange cars." Found the Mechola ballet studio where I may take some classes. Came home and am off to a interpretive prayer class through dance!

Was interesting experience with the famous Reform Cantor, Bonia Shir's wife. She does this program of teaching dance movement as a release of violence in a poor part of Cincinnati where most of the students come from very unstable lifestyles. Different but I think it is a really great idea for the children!