Mayhem at the Shuk

Let's go to the shuk! Apparently we picked the busiest day of the week to go. The onset of Shabbat is the craziest market day in Jerusalem as everyone prepares for the holy day. However, we needed to experience this at least once and it was crazy mayhem. I took this video when we first entered, so it got worse in the smaller alleys.  People forcing their way to the front of the crowd at a vendor stand, vendors yelling to draw attention to their goods, crowds of pedestrians unable to move forward because a vendor has decided to plant himself in the middle of the already narrow lane. With most prices written in Hebrew and my lack of experience with the Shekel currency, I found myself confused and overwhelmed while trying to buy the simplest vegetables. But we managed to get through and hold onto our sanity and even enjoyed a fresh market falafel on pita. Becoming accustomed to the smallest things in a new culture can be both frustrating and exhilarating at the same time. I am realizing more and more how complex this city and culture are and the adjustment will take alot of time and patience, but it makes for an interesting ride!
Speaking of ride, the Jerusalem Light Rail took its maiden voyage today with passengers enjoying free passage for the next two weeks. It has taken 10 years to get this train system built and running and will hopefully lighten up the overly congested roadways through town. We felt as if we were a part of history making in the life of Jerusalem as we too joined in for a free ride.
Everywhere we go we meet Israelis who are so friendly and especially when they find out we are Canadian are eager to engage in conversation and give us their own take on this great city of theirs. Three in particular having been in Jerusalem for over 35 years each, all shared a common opinion, that it can take a lifetime to know the city and you never grow tired of it. I get the feeling they are right!