I just read a beautiful quote from Rabbi Dr. Lord Jonathan Sacks z”l: “Nature is not the final word, for nature itself was created by a being who stands outside it and who, by making us in His image, gave us the power to stand outside it.” This is so beautiful and in line with the lessons of Chanukah. …
The Kedushas Levi writes that when a person searches and prays for something for a long time, and then they find it, the initial gratitude and excitement is so intense, it’s like a great light. With time, the intensity of the feeling fades and the person gets used to having the thing they were looking for for so long (like …
This time of year there are a zillion gift guides everywhere. I find that when I look at most gift guides for women, I’m not into most of the suggestions. For fun, I made a list of gifts I would actually appreciate. (They seem to mostly be acts of service). gift card for massage or facial makeover + the …
In Meeting Your Half-Orange, Amy Spencer talks about visualizing different scenes from your future life with your husband as part of the fourth step of the half-orange process. I’m visualizing the Chanukah party I’m going to host (next year) with my husband. I’m adding details, from our work schedules that night to the menu, paper goods and activities. I’m frying …
I love seeing menorahs in other people’s windows. It is such a happy sight and it makes me feel warm and cozy. And it reminds me not of the Chanukah miracle exactly, but of a generalized sense of peace and gratitude for the good things in life. In keeping with the idea that Chanukah is about not only open …
I’m excited for Chanukah to begin next week! Some years it just sneaks up on me but this year I’m ready. A quick reminder of one of the better-known answers to the question of why we celebrate eight nights of Chanukah if the miracle was only for seven (after all, the oil was expected to last through that first …
I just wanted to say a quick and heartfelt thank you to all of you who have been coming, reading, commenting, emailing and sharing. I really appreciate each and every one of you. My blog is so meaningful and therapeutic for me and it wouldn’t be the same without knowing I am reaching real people. Your insights and questions add …
Hi, all. I’ve been listening to optimistic music a lot these days — it’s really helpful! I keep playing Yaakov Shwekey’s “A Toast to Life” on a loop, and also “Kol Haneshama.” Another good one is Joey Newcomb’s “Thank You, Hashem” (of course)! When I want something slower, I love “We Are a Miracle.” (Yes, I am a Shwekey fan, …
Over the past year and a half I’ve baked a LOT of challah and the only reason I’ve been able to keep going is by keeping to one rule: it doesn’t have to be perfect. Every week I make my dough when I have time, and I knead for however long I can, and I let it rise for however …
Back when I posted the survey (Pesach time), someone asked if I could write about my relationship with my younger married sister. At the time I wasn’t ready to share but now more time has passed and I would like to. I’ll begin with where we are today which is: Our relationship is completely normal (thank You, Hashem!! more …
