Wedding

This last weekend was the best weekend I've had so far. We were invited to a Palestinian Christian wedding on Saturday. The rituals were nearly identical to an American Christian wedding, but with a few differences. The wedding ceremony itself, as far as I could tell as it was in Arabic, was identical. A bride in a white dress, a groom in a tux, a maid of honor and best man (no bridesmaids or groomsmen), and flower girls and ring bearers were all present. The reception was held in Jericho at the Intercontinental Hotel. It was like a mini version of a Vegas hotel complete with pools and vegetation galore, in the middle of a desert. The reception began with everyone waiting for the bride and groom's arrival. They were greeted with fireworks and dancing as they entered. The food was delicious and the live band was great. I'm seriously considering having an Arab-style wedding if and when that day comes... Sunday we were invited to Ma'ale Adudmin for dinner with a Jewish family. Ma'ale Adudmin is the largest Israeli settlement with 37,000 people, complete with swimming pools, several schools, a mall and other conveniences. It is settlements like this that are at the center of peace negotiations at the moment, so being there felt a little eerie. However, once we were in the family's flat, it felt like any other home with any other good family. I can see where it would be difficult to remember that settlements such as these are a breach of international law. Conversation at our dinner was incredibly informative. We learned a great deal about Jewish holiday tradition and current culture. The family had 5 children, all of whom had either served in the IDF or doing national service - national service being volunteering for 2 years after high school in nursing homes or at schools. Completing this service means that the former soldiers are eligible for the social security, public healthcare and everything else that is provided by the government. I also found out that these services come at a cost: a 65% flat rate income tax. Additional there is a 16.9% VAT tax (the same as a sales tax) added to all goods. The family we were talking to was so pleased that they were finally able to purchase their first home at the age of 58. After our visit to the settlement, we went to Tybeh, a local Christian village for Oktoberfest. Tybeh is home to Palestine's only brewery. I recommend trying the beer if you see it, it is delicious. Thanks for reading!!
Mom will try and post a few pictures that I emailed her.