SUMMER 2011!!

Driving to the airport some of us were nervous but once we met each other on the plane, everyone shared the same feelings and were welcoming. Although the plane was an 11 hours long, it went by pretty fast; we talked, napped, and watched movies.
Our first shabbat was nice because it was nice relaxing from being rushed into Israel for our first times. We stayed at the Kibbutz in Machaniam. We noticed instead of squirrels, Israel has cats and dogs running around. Everyone we have met so far is really nice and understanding that we do not speak Hebrew. Many people are connecting to their Judaism and others are still finding themselves. We all manage to coordinate and find time to spend our spare time together.

Today we went on a nature walk in Tel Dan. It was fascinating. We learned about Syria and Lebanon, and how the conflicts arise between the close borders. We saw exotic birds and how essential the conversion of swamps were into agricultural land. The soldiers joined us they are very nice and open to any questions; they will be joining us for a few more days, and we love them already. Traveling up the Golan Heights really put things into perspective for us and how important the IDF is... it is not just being apart of an army, but having a special identity and pride for your country to maintain its significance. We have all gotten really close and it is only the third day. So far, birthright is an amazing experience and I cannot wait to see what else comes this week.