Tzefat and Yemenite food and Cows oh my!

Tzohraim tovim. This morning we ventured to Tzfat in our most modest outfits to learn about Kabbalah and its history. The synagogues that we visited were Sephardic in origin, although one is used by an Ashkenazi congregation today. The difference is that the bimah in a Sephardic temple is in the middle and the Ashkenazi is at the front. In every corner of the old city you will find a commonly used, most magnificent, blue color paint, which meanings include: welcoming to the Messiah, protection from the evil eye, and a reminder to elevate your spirit. We spent some time exploring the streets of the old city of Tzefat appreciating the work of the local artisans and craftspeople . The Yemenite food bar provided fresh wraps made to order with delicious local ingredients. We ended our visit to Tzefat with fresh squeezed pomegranate, grapefruit, and orange juices from a local street vendor. Our new Israeli friend Shani made arrangements for us to visit a nearby Kibbutz with a cow farm. The pungent aroma was immediately apparent to all as we opened the door to our bus. We learned all about milking and breeding of cows. We met some of the 300 cows and 200 calves. Shani’s mother even hand delivered homemade cakes for us to enjoy. Back on the bus enjoying some amazing hummus, sesame cracker, peppers, and of course olives. Headed to Tel Aviv tonight for a rock concert and some good eats. Shalom for now! -Shelley (2/27/2011)