Update from Haifa

Tricia just sent this...

I arrived back from Greece yesterday morning at about 2:00 AM to a very quiet airport. As you might expect there are fewer folks coming into Israel, although surprisingly the plane that I was on was about ¾ full.

We are working in places that do not face the bay/sea-the direction from which the bombs come. We are near bomb shelters as well and when the sirens go off, we usually have a minute to get to the shelters. People in general are in good spirits and most are handling it pretty well. Anjali is staying with us temporarily as it makes her feel safer. She and Alex are both doing well. Alex isn't in the Acca area as it is a bit more exposed, so they have brought in all of the staff from that area and they are working on the Arc, which is pretty safe. My office is also temporarily moving there as well as most of the people are there. The bombs themselves are a bit like throwing a big brick. They are heavy and carry some small pellets but do not carry any explosives or anything that ignites so actually do minimal damage. Thank God they are pretty low tech. They are also coming for the most part during the daylight hours so it makes it easier to stay safe.

In general, people are optimistic that this will be over soon. Your dad and I feel that now is when we are really needed and anticipate that it will not last long, so are not thinking of leaving. We will contact you often to try to keep you posted about our safety.

Hanging out in the bomb shelters is actually fun as people gather and play cards, pray, sing, watch the news, joke around-generally connecting with others which is pretty comforting. I wish that you could feel my hugs to you-at times like these when you are worried about someone, there is nothing better than a good hug. Know that we are fine and love you and send you hugs. Try not to worry.

Much love,
Mom