Yom Ha'atzmaut

Today we celebrated Yom Ha'atzmaut, Israel's Independence Day. Our young country turned 62 and I wouldn't be far off if I said that the whole of Israel's Jewish population celebrated with a barbecue or picnic and hike! After the sadness of yesterday's Yom HaZikaron memorial day, the day when we remember Israel's fallen soldiers and victims of terrorism, today was the day to celebrate the Jewish state and our ability to live here in safety and security.
For several years now we have met with the same group of friends - British friends, several of whom now have Israeli spouses - who all moved to Israel at roughly the same time, after meeting in London with the very same desire to move to the Jewish State. We are scattered throughout the country but meet up on this special day for a day of good food, good chat and even a good hike.
Today was no exception and, after our sausages and steaks, and a veggie burger for me, we took a short hike in Wadi Dolev, in the Jerusalem mountains, to Mearat Hateomim, or the "Bat Cave". This large natural cave, nearly 100 meters in length, is home to a large fruit-bat population. Once inside, the humidity, the sounds of dripping water and the stalactites offer quite a magical atmosphere, though the fact that my kids ran ahead with our torches meant that my husband and I had great difficulty seeing where we were going!
Happy Birthday Israel! Once again we have enjoyed your beauty and discovered what a special little country you are.