I returned to Bethlehem for a second Christmas celebration – that of the Eastern Orthodox. I didn’t realize that the Eastern Orthodox (which includes Russian, Greek, Ethiopian, and Syrian, among others) is celebrated 13 days after December 25th; this church follows the Julian calendar and not the western Gregorian.

How strange to write this date! I went to the Chihuly exhibition at the Litvak Gallery yesterday. I was only familiar with his work from visiting the Bellagio in Las Vegas where his work is displayed on its very high ceiling, so it was nice to be able to view his art up close. I was especially impressed by the larger pieces. Very interesting start to the new year! If you’re here in Tel Aviv and want to check it out, you can until April: http://litvak.com/dalechihuly_Biography.asp