Over the past six or seven years, as my family grew up, Purim in my house changed. It became quieter, more orderly and peaceful. There’s no preschool megillah of Esky Cook illustrations strung across the dining room doorway, no smiling Queen Esther and scowling Haman gazing at the proceedings. (Apparently this really dates us.) There are no cap-guns and pop-snappers …
I’m the one who keeps track of everyone’s birthdays and anniversaries in my extended family. I don’t really remember when this started but at some point a few years ago, I sent out a group email to get all the dates and put them into a calendar which I emailed around. Everyone loved having all the dates in one place …
I recently started making this sandwich as an after-work snack for me and my sister. It’s so easy and delicious! The pesto adds great flavor. Makes: 2 sandwiches (or 1 sandwich with an avocado half on the side) Ingredients: an avocado, lemon juice, salt, pepper, basil pesto, shredded mozzarella cheese, butter, and 4 slices of bread Directions: In …
I recently started a new job. My sister and I went down to Miami Beach for a vacation during the break before my new job. We were there from Tuesday morning through Thursday evening. We were blessed with perfect weather, mid-80’s by day, sunny and not a drop of rain. We sat at the beach for three days straight, watching and …
This time of year, I always love to fantasize about how I’ll dress up my baby or toddler for Purim. These are a few costumes that melt my heart… Bunny rabbit (above) 2. Peacock 3. Madeline (here is a similar dress) 4. Turtle 5. Flapper I hope these made you …
There are lots of books on dating out there that come well-recommended. These are two that I’ve read, purchased, and continue to refer to and lend to friends. I think that a great dating book will encourage introspection and a growing awareness of your own strengths, weaknesses, needs, and wants. Both of these books fit the bill. They’re also very …
I just listened to an interesting shiur about Parshas Shekalim by Mrs. Shira Smiles (free registration on Naaleh required for access to the entire shiur). I really enjoy Mrs. Smiles’s shiurim. Her style is a combination of intellectual and inspirational; she usually teaches a deeper understanding of the mitzvos with lots of textual sources (source sheets available in the Naaleh sidebar). Here …
I wanted to take ballet lessons for the longest time. A few months ago, it occurred to me that there was no reason I wasn’t taking them already. After all, I wasn’t busy with college work anymore and my evenings were generally flexible. I mentioned my interest in ballet to a friend and she was on board right away. We …
I read a short story printed in this past week’s Family First, “The Gardenia,” by Shayna Friedman. My younger sister (also shidduch-age) read it first, and she wasn’t sure if I should because it made her so sad. (Well, I did anyway). Briefly: the story is a vignette about a (self-described) older single who goes to the wedding of a …
It can be so hard when someone close to you starts dating someone seriously, and then suddenly there she is, putting a ring on it. In the midst of everyone’s excitement, you’re left feeling lonely and unsure of how to navigate your relationship. A change in dynamics can trigger a waterfall of emotions. You might be feeling insecure and anxious …
