Pre ISS- Skype, Cooking, Pool and other fun festivities Cohort 17

Many of us met today for a day-long retreat at Gabi's house, two days before we're scheduled to leave for Israel. After the essential schmooze time while people arrived, we had a check in, and debriefed about the Thursday parent meeting. Then we skyped with Ophir and Chelsea, who are both already in Israel. It was great to talk to them, but also difficult because of uncertainty about whether our trip will be cancelled. Later, we tried to skype with Rachel and Philip, our Junior counselors, who are also in Israel. Technical difficulties scuppered the call.

After the morning check ins and skype calls, we moved to the kitchen to make an Israeli lunch. Gabi guided us as we prepared humus, pita, shakshuka, burekas, and Israeli salad. Everything tasted splendid.

After lunch, we walked out to a pool near Gabi's house. For most of the time we had the pool to ourselves, so we played sharks and minnows, which was excellent, and capture the flag, which was fantastic.

We had two programs led by fellows after the swim. In the first one, Oren reviewed the history of the current conflict in Israel with us. Afterwards, Katie and Micah led an activity exploring misrepresentation of facts in social media.

After the programs, we went out to a park. Some of us played ultimate frisbee, while others talked. Back at the house, we ate pizza and discussed strategies for dealing with the shortened ISS schedule. Because we're leaving a week later than planned, some Moshes (leaders of the day) no longer have a day to lead. We discussed possible solutions, but we'll have to remain flexible until the ISS schedule becomes more certain.

 

As we all are dealing with the uncertainty surrounding the ISS, and Israel as a whole, it was good to come together as a group. The serious talks mixed with fun activities was perfect for reminding us that, whatever happens, we're a cohort and we're here for each other.

-Paul Cohort 17