Aviv Day 2!

Day 2 picked up where day 1 left off. A complete immersion in the unbelievable natural wonders offered by Israel’s unique landscape which contains a stunning mix of mountains and canyons, desert and wildlife, as well as some of the most amazing photo opportunities… the boys believe the money shot perennially lurks around the corner. After a brief breakfast containing what the hostel staff like to call ‘scrambled and boiled eggs’ accompanied by what loosely resembled cordial at our accommodation for our first 3 nights, a YHA youth hostel located at Mitzpe Ramon, we boarded our thankfully wi-fi enabled bus and headed off for a short hike.

We arrived at Ein Ovdat and after a quick hat and water check we headed off into the Israeli bush for a spot of hiking. The scenery was unbelievable and the photographers of the group had an absolute field day, if it continues to amaze in such a way then the already well loved cameras of Milly and Sarah will no doubt become constant figures in the lives of Aviv group 1 participants. As we gazed up at the mountains most remarked “theres no way anyone could climb that!” But the madrichim had other ideas as Oded led the way up the rugged mountain face, albeit laiden with steps and ladders, of course after more photography at a beautiful waterfall by which we were seated and devised a set of 10 rules/ commandments for our group/family of the next 5 months.

Up the mountain we went, hiking for what I gather felt to many of the girls as hours, judging by their complaints of unfitness which were quickly followed by vows of fitness regimes which will no doubt be abandoned imminently (Yes, I’m talking about you Azi and Gabby). As we halted our ascendency, Oded regaled us of tales of tigers who apparently lived in Israel before we headed up into a cave on the cliff face which we were told was once occupied by monks of the area. The scenery was overwhelming as we reached the top, as it finally hit most that we had arrived in a country which was so important to so many, including us, and that the next 5 months would be filled with amazing memories such as the ones forged during that day.

After more photos, we re-boarded the bus and headed back to Mitzpe Ramon for lunch. After consuming a reasonably edible meal, we headed off to a nearby factory which had been converted into a dance studio. The groans were well documented on the way to the ‘dance class’ which turned out to be a surprisingly relaxing, bonding experience as we were taught numerous body exercises which helped to create control and trust in ourselves and one another. It was a ridiculously enjoyable few hours, led by a woman who could well have had her eye on Jared Engelman, the recurrent volunteer of the group, which was a nice surprise to all.

Following this we returned to Mitzpe Ramon to find a new group of 97 gap-yearers all from Canada and USA, which was a nice site to the girls who are seemingly unhappy with the measly stocks of 9 males in the group, their eyes constantly longingly cast towards any and every man in an IDF uniform they come across. A few quick chats to our new neighbours yielded the prognosis that they are some exceedingly nice characters who will be sharing our temporary home with us until Sunday morning. Following a quick round of showers we headed up to the lookout for a kabbalat Shabbat service, ably led by our resident rabbis and songbirds Jared Engleman and Adam Goldberg. Unbelievable views and a circle full of newly bonded mates, what better way to spend Shabbat! Following this, dinner was served, chicken and turkey, challah and chicken soup, a meal which reminded some of the cooking of family members and their usual Shabbat experiences.

Jetlag continually threatens to set in but I believe I have beaten it off for the day…

Anywho, day 2 is coming to its end and I cannot wait to see what day 3 and the following 4 months and 27 days have in store.

Another awesome day down, 148 to look forward to.

Jake