We are so excited to write this first blog post because it means that after many days of preparation the kayitz (summer) has officially begun. Yom Peticha (opening day) went swimmingly as all our madrichim (counselors) got to meet the chanichim (campers) for the first time, completing our mishpacha gedola (big family). With all the wonderful parents having left and the dutiful buses having driven away the real fun began. While touring the camp and discussing our tzrif (bunk) rules, the chanichim began to imagine the incredible month they are sure to have. After a delicious schnitzel for aruchat erev (dinner) we had our first peulat erev (evening activity) in which we introduced the chanichim to each other and their madrichim by way of a round robin of circle games.
Today was our first full day of camp and, for the first time in Yavneh history, the chanichim began their chuggim (electives) straight away. From bishul (cooking) to siuf (fencing) every gef (an affectionate term for a Gefen kid) began to learn the ropes of their new chug. This afternoon the gefs had the opportunity to see even more of camp beginning with an iconic tour of camp’s water fountains and ending with an hour on the adventure course. We ended the evening with peulot lfi tzrifim (bunk activities). The banim (boys) had “erev elemental” in which they battled to see which of earth’s three elements (wind, bird and citrus) was the most powerful. Meanwhile the banot (girls) were split between “erev birthday” and “erev bunk buddy.” A lot of fun was had by all. As I type the gefs are all in bed with a full stomach and a full heart.
All of the madrichim are incredibly excited for the week ahead. Some highlights will include an afternoon peulah on the Aqua Kef which is the new water challenge course. We will also have a tsoharayim meyuchad (special afternoon) on Thursday which will be known as Yom Founders. On this day we will officially inaugurate Gefen as the newest eydah (unit) at camp. We will play old timey games and end the afternoon with a celebratory nish nush (snack) and party. Finally, we are all really excited to introduce this year’s Zimriyah songs to the gefs in the coming days.
That’s all for now but there is much more to come soon!
B’ahava,
Allie and Sam