January in Jerusalem, Israel, could be cold, dark and wet. But this year the weather has been mild, with sunny days and cool nights. Perfect weather to get out and walk on Jerusalem streets. Sadly, not good weather for farmers.
In the Talpiot neighborhood, the sun was shining over this old drab building painted with vivid colors.
I had gone to find the mural hung in support of Iranian women. The large banner is to be in this Jerusalem location for six weeks and then move on to another Israeli city.
The vivid Talpiot murals have increased over the years and graffiti has become a popular artistic expression along with the Jerusalem building and construction boom of recent years.
Not everything in Jerusalem is as it appears.
This building might seem like a slum, and yet it is located in a popular and increasingly expensive neighborhood.
Meters away from the Train Track trail, popular for walking and cycling.
And this street in Jerusalem is a considered major thoroughfare.
Shabbat morning three Arab women were having driving lessons, on this street at the same time. One teacher was wearing a hijab, something that I hadn’t seen before.
In Jerusalem, it’s possible to find time to pray, almost all day and all night.
You can also purchase a snack, drink, or pair of tzitzit from the vending machine at any time of day.
You never know what you will find next on the Jerusalem streets.
The bus stops are decorated with cute posters for a warm winter in Jerusalem. And it has been a very warm winter indeed!
The flowers are bursting with color.
It’s hard to walk down Jerusalem streets and not stop and notice.
This week I have constantly been impressed at the colors and variety.
But most of all, a sign of how warm it has been, the almond trees are in bloom already well before Tu B’Shevat – even before Rosh Chodesh Shevat.
I went on Friday to check out the almond blossoms and passed by Beit Hanasi, the Israeli President’s Residence. Five layers of barriers were in place on Friday afternoon, all ready for anti-government protesters on Saturday night.
I checked out what was happening, and put together this video.
Remember Balfour Street from the previous protests? It was open to pedestrians during the protests and for many months.
Oh, the Jerusalem streets. What will happen next?
“You took me and my daughters 7 years ago and we loved it! Hopefully on our next visit!” was the comment I woke up to this morning in an email. Was that the best cancelation comment ever?
When will you see the real Jerusalem streets?
