The incredible journey

Elad and Daphny have always wanted to live in New York City.  Something to do with Woody Allen films, I believe, and with Daphny getting into theatre school and Elad's job transfer their wish came true!  It was obviously a little bittersweet to wave goodbye - bitter for us, sweet for them - but we gave them a fitting send off with a big meal at an Israeli hummus restaurant in Palo Alto.  Then it was back to their house with a van and a fun trip to Goodwill, followed by loading them and the pets and heading to the airport.

I don't think I will ever attempt to travel with animals.  The usual bureaucracy is cranked up exponentially, with form filling, cage checking, extra hours needed before check in, etc.  Not that the people at the desk made it any easier, suggesting that there were too many pets on the flight already.  Elad's nervous breakdown was only marginally avoided.

Finally it was all done, and we said goodbye to Noozie, Fry and Nimitz (who all garnered a lot of attention from passers-by in the airport) before a final coffee with their owners.  Good luck in the big apple, E&D!  It's not like you're leaving the country, so we'll see you again soon.

Big Jewish family meal.

Noa doesn't think the hummus is quite as authentic as in Tel Aviv.

And Arbel agrees.

Later, all the family at the airport.

Fry: not a happy cat.

The pets wanted a free upgrade, but this is what they got.

Goodbye, and come back to the best coast soon.