My husband and I just returned from a trip to New York. Initially, I had little interest in traveling due to the current situation in Israel, but my husband twisted my arm encouraged me to take a break from it all and visit family. We made sure to purchase refundable tickets, because, as anyone who has lived during uncertain times knows, one never knows what each hour may bring.
It’s been almost two years since I’ve been back in the US, but it feels like a lifetime ago. The war in Israel stands as a stark and defining marker on the timeline of my life, dividing it into two distinct periods: before the war and after. At least here in Israel, the world will never be the same. While there has been some good news in Israel’s battles with its enemies over the past weeks and months, too many chayalim – many of them fathers of large families – have been killed. It’s heartbreaking. The war is ongoing, and internal political divisions in Israel have reached a fever pitch. Leaving the country wasn’t easy when so many are still fighting on multiple fronts, and Iran continues to send threats, reminding us that they haven’t forgotten about us. But we decided that if we were going to travel, now was the time. We wouldn’t forget about what’s happening in Israel, but we needed to step back and refresh ourselves.
Upon arriving in New York, we were greeted with the news that our return flight via Delta had been canceled. When we called the airline, we were given a choice: We could wait ten days to be placed on an El Al flight, or we could receive a refund for our return tickets. Since we’d bought inexpensive tickets, the refund wouldn’t cover even a fraction of the cost of a new one-way ticket home on another airline. Ten days was far too long to be away from home. We tried to beg respectfully request that the airline find us a flight. Just two seats. We’d sit anywhere, even in the cockpit if necessary. We promised to be quiet and not cause trouble. But no one could help. We were placed on a waiting list for a new flight.
While waiting for an update, we began the more relaxing part of our trip. It was wonderful to see friends and family who had been so supportive throughout this challenging year. After all the phone calls and messages, we were finally able to share our experiences in person. Our cousins offered us their holiday apartment on the Jersey Shore, and we gladly accepted. Although we’d spent many hours stuck in traffic surrounding the Jersey Shore in the past, we had never actually visited. We’d heard about it from friends, but never understood the appeal. Now we do.
We didn’t even feel the need to go anywhere. We just wanted to relax and do nothing. Spending time in the apartment with the soothing sounds of the ocean in the background was exactly what we needed. Each wave seemed to wash away another layer of tension. It was perfect. We didn’t rush around trying to pack our days with activities. Instead, we took it slow, letting our schedule develop organically. The only acceptable pressure was to have to decide where to eat, as there were so many great restaurants and cafes to choose from.
Though we didn’t stay up to watch the election results, what we saw was satisfying. Watching Donald Trump accumulate the swing states was a form of entertainment in itself. Hopefully, he’ll help us achieve our military goals.
The warm weather – unusually so for this time of year – was a blessing. We strolled along the boardwalk, wandered past grand mansions, and explored the pier. We were completely relaxed – not chilly, but chilled in the sense of peaceful tranquility. I left my diet at home and indulged in delicious ice cream and cheesecake.
My favorite restaurant was Grandma’s Cheese Café on Second Avenue in Long Branch. Known for its homemade Syrian string cheese, I was charmed by the café’s décor and welcoming atmosphere. The café is housed in a quaint, pink-and-gray building, with pink chairs and tables outside on the patio. Inside, more pink greeted me – from the walls and ceiling to the flowers, salt shakers, n’tilas yadayim cup, and even the “Asher Yatzar” card. The words “You look amazing” were written in pink on the bathroom mirror. I felt like a Barbie doll in a pink paradise. It was the perfect spot for me, as I’ve never outgrown my love of pink.
Despite the travel hiccups, I’m glad we got away, and I’m happy to be back. On the airplane, mothers are told to put oxygen masks on themselves before putting them on their children so that they will be able to properly care for their children. Similarly, I feel that this trip strengthened me and will help me deal with the challenges our country is now facing. I hope my more relaxed state lingers, and we will hear only good news.
Please continue to daven for the recovery of the wounded, the release of the hostages, and the success and safe return of all chayalim and security personnel.
Suzie Steinberg, (nee Schapiro), CSW, is a native of Kew Gardens Hills and resident of Ramat Beit Shemesh who publishes articles regularly in various newspapers and magazines about life in general, and about life in Israel in particular. Her recently published children’s book titled Hashem is Always With Me can be purchased in local Judaica stores as well as online. Suzie can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and would love to hear from you.
