Noa and I have been in Israel now for 8 days, and we are loving every minute. Savta Ruthy is making Noa all kinds of food. Upon arrival, Noa was greeted by a big basket full of toys, puzzles, and books. The only downside is for me to see what Noa is missing out on back home with one grandma in AZ and the other here in Israel. I have been spoiled as well with extra time to read and sleep and enjoy local coffee shops. The weather has been fabulous (high 70's), so Noa only needs one layer. She has also enjoyed playing outside in the sun and chasing the cat (tsitsi) and dog (lucky). Last friday (which is first day of Israel's weekend), we went to Arana (waterfront mall with restaurants) and ate brunch outside. Noa ate nearly everything Savta offered her until she was full and then she fed the birds, which mezmerized her for at least a few minutes. Guests have been popping in almost every day to visit Noa. Her friend Eitan came over and brought her a balloon and chocolate and even gave her a hug and a kiss before he left. I felt like Noa had grown a bit as she sat in the kitchen with Eitan (16 months) and they both ate grown-up food (salad, cottage cheese, and an omellete). Noa stood on her own for the first time yesterday or the day before. i was quite surprised because she doesn't seem that stable yet on her legs. she is, however, quite the climber. you should see how she conquers the stairs. her tecnique and determination are both cute and impressive. i believe she started saying, "bye bye" before we came, but she is saying it more consistently now. today, we went to downtown natanya for a few errands. Noa enjoyed the shuk (an outdoor market), where she tried and succeeded on a few occasions to touch and sample all the colorful vegetables and fruit on display. She also ate falafel and seemed to like it. she is not at her best, though, and we are not sure why. she had a fever for a few days and she is a little fussy. i wouldnt say she is sick, but the fever and fussiness is lingering. who knows. pics to follow.