by Sydney F., Chalutzim Camper

Imagine you are sitting in a canoe feeling the warm sun on your face, hearing waves crashing on the shore, seeing bald eagles soar above your head, and smelling the distinct smell of river water. Being in nature with your closest friends is an incredible feeling. We had a lot of fun swimming against the current, praying by the river, and playing games. For some people the trip was easy and for some it was a challenge. Either way, it was an amazing journey.

The second morning, we were all given a series of questions to ask our canoe partner(s). In addition to the questions, a lot of us told each other our life stories. I learned a lot of new things about my canoe partner. In general, the trip was a great opportunity to talk to new people.

Another great opportunity we had was to walk around the Wisconsin Dells. Many campers bought fudge, as almost every third store was a fudge shop, and it was delicious!  It was nice to be able to hang out with camp friends outside of camp.

Looking back on the trip, it was one of the most powerful and inspiring experiences that I have had while I have been at OSRUI. Another camper in Chalutzim said, “the trip was an incomparable experience”.

Everyone in Chalutzim, no matter their previous camping experience, took something away from the 2011 Chalutzim canoe trip.