We are about a week into our incredible experience in Israel. I have so far felt a wave of emotions especially on our first couple of days. When I got off the plane I missed my family more than ever. Yet feeling a little scared and homesick I was very open and mindful to being in my homeland. Since arriving at AMHSI I have filled beyond with joy by the kids I have met and my amazing Madrichim (Advisor).

On our first week we got to meet our teachers and go to all of our new classes. I enjoyed all my teachers. For our Jewish Studies class we went on a Tiyul (trip) to the south of Hod Hasharon where our school is located. On the Tiyul we learned about the seven fruits of Israel (Dates, Pomegranates, Olives, Wheat, Barley, Grapes, Figs.) We also learned about the 4 D’s that show a good land. The 4 D’s consist of Drink, Dine, Defense and Drive. Those things all have their own meaning. For example, to know you are in a good land you should be able to get to the trade routes easily, hence, where drive comes from. Another big one is defense, you must be able to have high ground and good places to hide and fight back in the case of you attacking or being attacked.

Friday before Shabbat we had a lovely fantasy football with the boys. This was a really funny and good bonding experience between all of us to start of the trip. My number one main goal for this trip is to win the fantasy league.

Alright that was a joke but as I said in my last blog post I want to become a better writer. I feel as if that goal will not be that hard to achieve with my good teachers hear at HSI. Not only do I want to become a better writer, I want to improve me being a student overall. Over the past few years my grades have decreased a little at a time and to me this is my experience to bring those grades back and become the best student I can be.

My last goal here at HSI to come away with an extremely open mindset and attitude. I have been trying to do this for a long time. For example, I know that I’m going to have to go hiking during my time here in Israel, so at home I would be very annoyed and complain a lot. While I’m here though I want to try being excited and open to trying new things and doing things I don’t like.