Dealing with Shvizut Yom Aleph

I sleep badly on Saturday nights. It takes me ages to drop off. Generally this is a result of my sleeping well on Shabbat afternoon. Despite all my best intentions, I generally find myself "resting my eyes" after a hearty lunch - I think it's something they put in the Cholent because it doesn't happen at any other time.

Sunday mornings therefore, usually see me tired and cranky when on my way to work - the concept of Shvizut Yom Aleph, is one that most Israelis get used to when they're in the army, returning to the base after a short break away being pampered at home. "Shvizut" is army slang which I'm going to translate as "knackered" (but is probably best not used in polite company) - the phrase basically sums up the fact that you'd rather be tucked up in a warm bed rather than on your way back to being shouted at by Mefakdim. Of course it translates into real life quite well - an equivalent to "I don't like Mondays" (which also involved picking up a gun).

One of the most marvellous things about Shlichut so far has been reclaiming Sundays. Dozing until the clock is into double figures, then getting up for lazy bagels and coffee before thinking about what to do in the afternoon - it never used to be an issue before Aliyah but Premier League coverage is non-existent in the US and the time difference would conflict with the slumbering bit.

I have always been a staunch defender of Israel's version of the 5 day week but since returning to the working on Friday / resting on Sunday format, I am a reformed character - preparing for Shabbat is being left in the non-working hands of Mrs G for the timebeing but once she's working we'll have to prepare in advance but I reckon it's worth it. I can have my Shabbat sleep and still get a decent night's shut eye thanks to Sundays - getting to work refreshed on Monday morning.

But I'd trade it in a moment to be in Jerusalem....

Gilly