Dear faithful readers of the Arayot blog,
HI THERE. Hope all is well!!! We are on our way to finishing up week two of second session and as per usual there’s so much going on!
Sunday night was Erev Casino. We played all different types of card games and got to eat some candy at the end. Monday we got into our weekday routine with Sadna, Rikudia practice, and free swim.
Monday night marked the beginning of the saddest day on the Jewish calendar, Tisha B’av (the ninth of Av). The entire camp gathered in the Ben Tzvi to read Eicha (the Book of Lamentations) and sing sad songs. We also watched a meaningfully somber tekes (ceremony) organized by chanichim from aydat Maalot. The next day was equally melancholy. We spent much of the day pensively reflecting on the destruction of the Beit Hamikdash as well as other tragedies that have befallen the Jewish people.
Tuesday night we broke the fast with the traditional (to camp) meal of salmon and delicious cheesecake. By Wednesday we were ready to leave the sadness of the nine days and listen to music in the chadar ochel. Wednesday was a pretty chill day in general. We learned how to meltz and went to normal afternoon peulot, including free swim! Then it was time to shower and get ready for a wedding!
Our dear madrichim Noah “Navigan” Avigan and Shanya “Shani” Berkowitz were married Wednesday evening by Rabbi Richie (so you know it’s real) in the Beit Midrash. There was not a dry eye in the room and everyone danced afterwards.
Now we are preparing to leave for our overnight and hike to take place tomorrow at Mount Monadnock. We’re so excited to explore and experience nature together.
Check back Monday for more details on our adventures this summer.
B’ahavah,
Aliza and Will
Co-Roshei Aydat Arayot
