I think I came across Robin’s blog via the different photo memes we both take part in, probably through Ruby Tuesday (Mary’s meme). I have always been impressed by the quality and often also the originality of her photographs. Thank you Robin for your contribution to this series of interviews and for the beauty you share with us on your blog.
Can you introduce yourself in a few words?
Hi, I’m Robin. I was born and raised in the US (New York) and made aliyah twenty years ago, right after my college graduation. My husband and I have two kids who were born here and speak better Hebrew than I ever will (and mine isn’t actually that bad). I’ve got a passion for photography (and blogging) that I’m working to turn into a serious sideline now that a recent layoff has given me a chance to reevaluate where my life is going. Anything you want to know, just ask. I’m an open book.
What is your religious background (if any)?
I grew up conservative but now view myself as secular.
When and why did you decide to make aliyah?
I was in college when I first began thinking about it seriously, but the original seed was planted during a high school summer tour to Israel (USY Pilgrimage). I came because this is the greatest adventure the Jewish people have had in two thousand years – and I wanted to be a part of it, and I was lucky enough to have a boyfriend (now husband) that felt the same.
Where in Israel do you live and is there a special reason you live there?
We live in a small city in central Israel, 8 miles (14 km) from Tel Aviv. We used to live closer in but moved a bit further out for more affordable housing. This was our outermost limit though – my husband bike commutes to work in Tel Aviv and 8-10 miles is about as far as he was willing to go.
When and why did you start blogging?
I’d been a blog reader for a while and in November of 2006 I decided to get in on the fun myself.
Have you been surprised by the way your blogging activity has evolved over the years?
Very much so. I started out as a mommyblogger, then the blog evolved into more of a forum for my writing, and then the past few years it did another 180 as I discovered a passion and talent (that I am now turning into a business) for photography.
To what extent do you feel your blogging activity reflects on the global perception of Israel?
I try to put a different, more honest and open spin on things. The reality of Israel is not what you see on the 7 o’clock news. I use my words and my images to showcase the majesty that is here once you step away from the headlines – the Israel that contains a proud heritage, a beauty that makes your heart beat faster and a spirit that makes you stop and stare in wonder – but like any loved one Israel can also make you utterly exasperated at times, wanting to stop and bang your head into a wall until the politicians running the place regain their senses.
What post(s) are you most proud of?
You pick, I can’t decide.
Among your most recent shots I like this one, this one and this one but the best thing is for the readers to go and see for themselves.
Would you care to share a blog or two you enjoy?
I love Jerusalem Hills Daily Photo – Dina always finds something new and interesting to share, and Stacey of Is There Any Mommy Out There writes so beautifully that she regularly reduces me to tears – of both laughter and emotion.
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Robin Epstein
Fine Art & Nature Photography
Shop – Etsy Shop
Blog – Around the Island
Hannah's Nook 