Flowers in a pool for those who died in battle in water. Yom Hazikaron, 4th of Iyar 5766. Very special day here. Had a memorial service at HUC before heading to the Gymnasia in Rehavia which was established in about 1910. The school has many teachers and students who were lost in battle or terror in Israel and so they hold a ceremony to remember them. Afterwards, Sarah, Dena, Jess, Jen and I went to Mt. Herzl and saw a ceremony for those who died as victims of terror and walked around the cemetery. The pool above was very touching. It was so interesting to see a Jewish cemetery full of flowers since that is not a Jewish tradition. Upon entering you could receive a Yarhzeit candle, flowers, drinking water, and blessings for reciting at the grave.

YOM HAATZMAUT IN ISRAEL! HAPPY 58th BIRTHDAY! Hours later the sadness ended and happiness erupted as we celebrated Israel's birthday. Went to Cacao for dinner in the Cinamateque and then to Sally's to her roof to see fireworks. Saw several very distant fireworks and some closer up from Har Herzl and the Sheraton. Afterwards we walked to Ben Yehuda where we saw insane crowds of young old and the like. Lots of shaving cream everywhere and a live band. Stood there for a bit and then walked home. As we walked by the Sheraton fireworks shot off the roof and we had an amazing show. (As Sarah would say we were where they would have blocked off entry in the US!)