My brother and his wife practiced Judaism in what I referred to as the Conservadox division of our religion, a cross between Conservative and Orthodox. My parents and I consider ourselves Reform Jews. We don’t attend synagogue more than a couple of days a year.
I had no excuse not to go to Israel this summer. My clients could do without me for a couple of weeks, and my mom could offer her services to be on call in case of any client emergency. I have the money for the first time in my life since I’ve paid off all my school debt.
The more I considered it, the more convinced I became that I needed to go. Maybe some time away from everything is just what the doctor ordered. Just because it’s known as a Jewish Singles Mission doesn’t mean I’ll be going to meet a husband. I’ll use the opportunity to explore my Jewish roots and, hopefully, come back a more centered and clearheaded woman.
I just hope Caleb understands.
CHAPTER 22
A Year to Remember Blog
Sara Friedman’s journey to find her soul mate
June 10, 2012 I Don’t Think We’re in Kansas Anymore!
Last week, Caleb took me to his childhood home in New Jersey. With the exception of flying on an airplane (it’s a rational fear!), we experienced a lovely time. His parents graciously welcomed me into their home. I’ve always heard terrible stories about meeting the in-laws, but Caleb’s parents made me comfortable. Of course, they’re not technically my in-laws yet. I didn’t leave you out of any big announcement. We’re not engaged or married (yet). Everything is perfect between Caleb and me. We both want the same things in life-marriage and kids. We never fight. Everything is very easy with Caleb. Easy is good, right?
Despite my dislike of air travel, I am going to Israel on a single’s trip. Let me say this once and only once. Just because I’m going on a single’s trip, doesn’t mean I consider myself single. I am not on the market! I’ve always wanted to go to Israel, and I have the financial means available to me now. While I’ll miss Caleb terribly, I believe I shouldn’t deprive myself of a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit Israel. Would you? Didn’t think so!
I doubt I’ll have a chance to blog while in Israel, but I promise to write as soon as I return. Maybe I’ll even learn how to post pictures!
Until then, look for me somewhere over the rainbow!
CHAPTER 23
JUNE 16, 2012
DETROIT, MICHIGAN
WEIGHT: 187
STATUS: COMMITTED
I signed up, paid the trip in full and bought the tickets to JFK Airport in New York, where I’d meet with the rest of the congregants from Michigan to fly to Tel Aviv, Israel.
I told Caleb I had forgotten to tell him about the trip eons ago and, unfortunately, could not get my money back. He actually offered to reimburse me for the entire cost of the trip if I stayed with him. I held firm, stating I needed to get away for a while because of Missy. It wasn’t a total lie.
The Saturday before my trip, Caleb planned a special evening for us at one of the most romantic restaurants in Detroit. Set in a mansion built in 1894, The Whitney had the reputation of both culinary excellence and romantic ambiance with stained-glass windows, dark hardwood walls, sweeping staircase, and fireplaces. According to rumor, a ghost haunted one of its rooms. In all my years, I had never had the occasion to dine at it and I couldn’t wait to share it with Caleb.
I had bought a special outfit for tonight’s date. I think I did it out of guilt over my decision to go to Israel as well as the fact I’d lied to Caleb about when I booked the trip. I owed it to him to give him my undivided attention and to make the same effort in the relationship as him.
I abandoned the color black for tonight, choosing a skirt and blouse in various shades of purple. Underneath it all, I wore a matching bra and panties for our time after dinner. I figured I could wear the new outfit in Israel as well, so it didn’t seem too indulgent.
Caleb arrived at my door wearing a tuxedo. I hadn’t seen him wear it since my brother’s wedding, and I had forgotten how handsome he looked in it. It also reminded me of my mystery kiss for the first time in ages. I never did confirm he was the source, but it no longer seemed important. I loved Caleb, and nothing would change how I felt about him.
“You look beautiful,” he commented, wrapping me in his arms.
“Thank you,” I responded, lifting my lips to his for a kiss.
While we drove to the restaurant, Caleb appeared nervous, wiping his sweaty hands on his pants a few times. He let me do all the talking while he listened with an enormous smile on his face.
Both of us stood in awe when we entered the restaurant. Classical music played as waiters dressed in tuxedo’s served dinner and drinks to the patrons. Caleb gave his name and the hostess led us to our table in the dining room, elegantly lit by a Tiffany chandelier.