Tiyul Shnati

One of the important hebrew phrases to know when living in Israel and having children in the school system is Tiyul Shnati. A tiyul is a hike or trip and shnati comes from the root shana, which means yearly. So every school has a tiyul shnati - an annual trip to somewhere in Israel.
It is an informal time for students and teachers to enjoy the beauty of Israel for one or two nights.

For most kids, it is a time of great fun! As it should be.

This morning NED and MB left the house with backpacks full of clothes, food, bedding and hope for a good time.
MB had her hair in about 40 braids, a sight not to be believed.
NED was a little less excited, but promised to try. Convincing her to go was challenging. When one friend decides she doesn't want to go, they all decide. But we were not going to give in this time. And she went! With a half smile.

They'll be back in three days - tired and dirty. And hopefully full of stories and memories of a great experience!