Update

Dear Ones,

I began my surgery rotation at the beginning of the week. Got to watch a gastric banding surgery for weight loss this week. It was really interesting. I'm fascinated by the amazing things we can do with science but really not interested in learning to do the surgeries myself. So, it's a more relaxing rotation which is nice for a change.

Well, the air raids continue. We had a day off and I was just getting relaxed and here they come again. I realize that I am becoming more tense as this drags on which is not what I expected. Naively, I expected that I would become kind of "used" to the sirens going off and moving into the shelter but that is not what is happening. I find that each time the siren goes off, my adrenalin seems to shoot higher. It's an interesting phenomena but one I would be willing to for-go in order to have peace again. There are rumors of ceasefires but the last several the Israelis have called in order to allow in humanitarian aid, the Hamas folks have used to shoot rockets. So, it's hard to tell if it will be an effective ceasefire or a one-sided one.

I can't begin to give you an opinion on this mess. There are several sides, several views, several opinions. All I know is that I don't know enough about the situation, living here is difficult right now, and war is a terrible thing for all involved. Below is a picture of Gaza. On the left is a white smoke trail from a rocket being fired by Hamas. On the right are structures burning after an Israeli air strike.

I do appreciate your continued prayers and encouragement. I am getting tired and know that without the support of friends and loved ones at home, things would be much more difficult. So thank you.

Blessings,
Peggy