Shalom from Israel!

Bus 237- Chicago has arrived without any delay in Tel Aviv, Israel after a 9 ½ hour flight from Newark, New Jersey. Aside from the 7 hour time difference and the feelings of exhaustion that have come and gone, our trip has taken off without a hitch. The excitement of being in Israel has been running through our veins for many hours and look at who has made it, all forty-seven of us including the Israelis (Yael, Gal, Michal, Asi, Asaf, Lior, and Evyatar), our guide (Yotam) and our leaders (Erica and Jane). We have already accomplished so much and it has only been 2 days. Our first day after traveling for a full day started with the rejoicing in song and dance at the airport. Packing up the bus and heading north led us to ocean wind, a sandy beach, the Caesarea aqueduct at Sdot Yam, and our first lunch which was provided to us. It was yummy. Followed by the waterfront which would be one of many that will be seen, our next destination was the Poria lookout. Later in the afternoon, our sleeping arrangements were provided by a wonderful kibbutz in Chukuk. Our first group dinner was wonderful, group activity kept us all busy, and we bunked with 2 other members of our 47-person group. Today, started off bright and early with breakfast at the kibbutz and a gorgeous hike in Gilabun. Followed by the treacherous hike along the mountain side, we drove to Katzrin as we independently bought lunch. I must say that the Falafel and Coca-Cola (waith cane sugar) here in Israel is by far the Best In The World, but that is also according to the restaurant owner. I among my peers would have to agree. After lunchtime, we headed to Mt. Bental, Poets’ graves at the Kinneret cemetery, and dinner back in Chukuk. An eventful day has come to an end, but tomorrow is a new day and holds many new adventures. Iron Numbers everyone. Layla Tov.