First Full Day of Machatz

With MBIers getting a taste of Kibbutz on their various Kibbutzim, varied but similar experiences are being had by all the MBIers. I am going to try to list some of the many different activities the MBIers are taking part in. Some of the activities done on one Kibbutz will be done later in the week or possibly not at all. Overall the Machatz(Kibbutz) has and will be a memorable one. Most of the MBIers have Kibbutz families who are again providing a new insight into Israeli life and culture on the most basic level.

Last night was a fun night to get to know the Kibbutz and the Israeli Kibbutzniks that are the same age as the MBIers. Today continued the cultural exchange through a variety of activites. On one Kibbutz the MBIers set off for a great hike along Nachal(River) Ziv and ended up sleeping out near the Jordan River and will do some more hiking tomorrow.

Other Kibbutzim had more relaxed days with hikes planned for tomorrow. One Kibbtuz had a dance party at the Kibbutz Disco tonight which was a fun look into Israeli music and the Israeli integration of Western culture and music. Another group took part in an Israeli culture night to learn more about what's new and cool in Israeli music as well as eating delicious humus among other Israeli foods.

Many of the Kibbutzim had time to go swimming today in the Kibbutz pools which often are quite lovely and fun to swim. Two of the Kibbutzim had fun night of "al haesh"(on the fire) or barbequing by the fool while meeting and spending time with the Israelis their age. Many of the Kibbutzim had activities led by their madrichim(counselors) and also gave the MBIers that chance to catch up on some sleep as they were aware of the busy schedules of MBI and the relaxed atmosphere often found on Kibbutz.

Tomorrow several groups are taking part in their avodah(work) projects, with waking up early and heading out to the banana and lychee orchards. One group is taking a jeep trip through the Golan. Many of the groups are going on tiyul tomorrow at the Kinneret where the MBIers will get more time to swim, sun and sleep out on the beautiful banks of the Kinneret. It is a great mix of fun, relaxing, and ultimately a slice of Kibbutz life in Israel today.