6:30 AM. I wake up, look at my phone and realize that I am waking up before most of my friends back home have even fallen asleep. I have to admit that freaked me out a little. No worries in mind though, as I knew of the great day they had planned for us. After breakfast in the hotel we headed out to the Kineret for a team building activity. We were split into three groups and given empty oil barrels, bamboo, wooden planks, and string. The goal was to build a raft in 45 minutes and race to a pole and back in the water. This was great fun as it brought out a good competitive spirit in all of us. It helped us get comfortable being and working together with everyone on the trip. Next, after lunch, we were off to do a water hike through the majrase river. With water up to our waists, splashing, and slippery rocks, it gave us a chance to laugh, have fun, and once again get comfortable with the others on the trip. After the water hike, we went over to one of the separated beaches on the Kineret. We had lots of fun in the water and it was a great way to cool off from the scorching heat. It’s amazing how fast a t-shirt can dry in the hot sun. After swimming we got changed out of our wet clothes and went to the food market in Tiberias where got a chance to buy ourselves a little snack. From there we went to a fun boat cruise filled with music, dancing, and bongos. Everyone had a great time. Following the boat cruise was a delicious Israeli meat dinner. From there we got on the bus and headed back to the hotel for the night. We did so much exciting, fun things throughout the day. It was a great way to kick off TJJ 2016 and I’m excited to see what’s up next.

– Jared Silver