Return of the (s)mac(k)

Yes, I am blogging again, which can only mean that I have once again left the cozy confines of the US of A for locations abroad (or it could mean other things I suppose...but I digress). Anyhoo, I am in Jerusalem for Year 4 of my HUC rabbinic education. For those who are wondering, it is not usual for students to spend any year other than their first in Israel, but due to a variety of circumstances, the powers that be are enabling me to do this. So as was the case the last time I did any 'serious' blogging, this will serve as a repository (depository? supository?) for various stories, ideas, thoughts and barely coherent ramblings that I encounter or imagine over the course of the coming year. I will also try to include some pics or other visual aides from time to time. I hope these posts will serve to be at least mildly entertaining or thought provoking, or if nothing else provide you with excellent fodder with which to mock me the next time we meet. As always, I welcome any feedback/responses unless otherwise noted.
I would now like to depart from my prepared remarks to tell you about how I invented the terlet....