Dear Anita. I wasn’t sure what your marital status was but I’m happy to hear that you have a husband. I hope he treats you well. I thought it would be fun to put one of my “Jamie” photos as my avatar. This is my favorite one although I have to be honest in that it was taken about 12 years ago when I was in my late 40’s. I’ve always felt and dressed way younger than my actual age (this is a prom dress). I guess I do still have a lot of my inner young self that wants to be expressed.

You wondered what I like to do. One of by biggest passions that started in childhood and continues to this day is riding a bicycle. I love bike riding! Yesterday morning it was so nice out and I went on a 35 mile ride through the quiet countryside. Those 2 hours I spent riding was exhilarating and peaceful at the same time. My mind clears, I take in nature, and I feel like I don’t have a care in the world. I really feel like this passion is what made it possible to live with shame all these years. Instead of feeling bad all the time, I had something that could make me feel good for at least a few hours a day. This was a much healthier way to block out the pain rather that turning to drugs or alcohol. I’ve seen people a lot older that me still ride a bike so I’m going to keep doing it as long as I’m physically able.

At what age did you leave Israel? Do you like living in the US? I hope you are enjoying your day Anita. I took today off work because the weather is still so nice. Talk to you soon.

Jim/Jamie