Terrific Tuesday!

It has been another busy day here at camp! I suspect your hanichim (campers) came home a bit dirty today. As a camp director and parent, I tend to believe that is a sign of a great day at camp!

This morning, at Outdoor Cooking with farmer Noah, the hanichim (campers) learned to harvest veggies from the garden and make a salad. Some of the campers were a bit hesitant to eat the salad but I am thrilled to share that everyone took at least one bite. One of the hanichim asked Noah where to buy the dressing because it was just so delicious.

We have Noah’s very secret recipe to share – shh, don’t let go viral:

We continued on our theme of Brachot today!

What’s Jewish about gratitude? So many things! In Judaism, hoda’ah means gratitude or being thankful for what we have. But there’s also a phrase, hakarat hatov, which extends beyond simple gratitude to “recognizing the good” all around us. Hakarat hatov is something kids often practice pretty naturally when they’re little. For babies and toddlers, everything is new and amazing! As kids grow older, it’s hard to keep that sense of wonder.

There’s a Jewish tradition that encourages finding 100 blessings each day. Modeling gratitude and practicing hakarat hatov helps children (and us grownups) remember to be thankful for things in our life beyond material possessions.

It has been amazing to watch the hanichim practice hakarat hatov in action! I’ve already been so impressed with our hanichim as they try new activities, meet new friends, and embrace the Ramah Ruach (spirit). Working with the tzevet here at a brand new camp, I am constantly amazed at their ability to pivot, to be entrepreneurial, and most importantly, to engage with your kid(s). They are a blessing to our community – strong Jewish dugmaot(role models).