New Sounds and Smells: Quality time with Shaina and Derek’s Adopt a Family

(Omer on Stage)

On Tuesday night, Shaina, Derek, and I went to see Shaina’s Adopt-a-Brother (Omer) who is also Derek’s Adopt-a-Cousin who is also Adina’s Brother-in-law perform in concert in Beer Sheva. Got the family connection? It seems that people in Israel don’t really have family friends just really LARGE extended families. Talk about Jewish Geography!

(Hodaya, Shaina, Derek, and Me at the Bar)

At 10pm, we got picked up by Derek’s Adopt-a-Sister (Hodaya) and Shaina’s Adopt-a-Sister (Dana) and headed to Beer Sheva. Take into consideration this is after I volunteered for 10hrs straight earlier in the day. Despite the late concert starting time, all of us were excited to partake in the Beer Sheva nightlife. Before the band took the stage, American Top Hits were being pumped out of the bar speakers. It reminded of local bars back home where cover bands pack the house throughout the weekend.

The band came on a little after 11pm and the dance floor quickly filled up. The music was catchy and upbeat. Currently, one of their singles (“ Little Girl“) is being played on the radio. I had a great time at the concert despite the fact I did not understand A SINGLE WORD. I have never really had an experience like that before and it definitely opened my eyes to Israeli Pop Rock Music.

(Making the Mufleta)

The following night, Shaina, Derek, and I went to Shaina’s Adopt-a-Family’s home for Mufleta and Shfinge. Both of these delicacies are eaten for dessert after a meat meal. The mufleta is similar to a crepe and has honey drizzled on it. The shfinge is like a fried doughnut and then coated with honey. Shaina’s Host Family, which is actually Adina’s Real Family, made these desserts in front of our eyes in a matter of minutes. My taste buds were definitely intrigued by the sweet taste of honey mixed with the mild taste of the dough. The Moroccan hospitality never let up (…as expected) and I was offered seconds and thirds. We were also given Moroccan Tea, which is made from lemongrass and mint. It was awesome spending time with Shaina and Derek’s adopt a fam these past two days and my senses are definitely falling more in love in Moroccan food.