Tag Archives: Holidays

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October 4, 2024

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fall feasts, Hizbulla war, Holidays & Feasts, israel, Israel Gaza war, israel news, israeli hostages in Gaza, Israeli-Gaza War, Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, MidEast, Politics, War stories

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It Came in With a Bang Day 362. 4 October, 2024

For the Jewish people, New Year’s Eve is not brought in with parties, balloons, champagne toasts and fireworks….well, not usually this year it was different.

I decided at the last minute to make a little Rosh haShannah Seder and meal in thanksgiving of the great miracle the previous night. Iran launched 180-200 intercontinental ballistic missiles directly at U.S., and none fell into a populated area. Many were intercepted. Many fell into the desert. The only person killed was an escaped Hamasnik from Gaza that was walking the streets in Jericho. The fact that there were no more casualties was miraculous.

Still, there was a definite pall over the holidays. Usually, the neighbors are out wishing everyone a sweet new year, people are visiting friends and families with large gift baskets of fruit and wine and sweets and flowers. Usually people are happy and the street is lined with the cars of family members who traveled to be with their parents or grandparents. It’s a time of large family gatherings here.

The high holy days, or days of awe are also a holy time, when Jewish people attend synagogue (like many Christians go to church on Christmas and Easter). Rosh haShannah is a day when G-d in all His glory and splendor is crowned King of the Universe, King of Kings of Kings. He is sovereign and reigns supreme. It is a day when sins are confessed and forgiveness is requested both from G-d and from those we have personally wronged.

This year, everyone was instructed to stay close to a protected area. No large gatherings outdoors or indoors. Many congregations chose to split up and have smaller minyanim in community centers, private homes and the like. Even though the majority of the people turn off phones, radios, and televisions during the holiday, this year we were instructed to be able to hear the instructions of Home Front Command just in case anything was happening.

The day started off somberly. So many soldiers and reservists who had been fighting in Gaza or in Judaea and Samaria were looking forward to a short leave to go home for the holidays. Four more battalions were called up on Wednesday to serve on the Northern border. We knew there would boots on the ground imminently, but it was not something that was publicized in the news or on social media.

When I first moved here and when Max went into the army, the parents were instructed to never put down in writing on social media troop movements. “My son’s unit is being moved from central Israel to the Gaza border” for example. Or “I was driving on the highway today and saw about 50 tanks on Rte 6 heading North tying up traffic.” Or “My daughter told me hospitals are preparing for a large influx of patients because troops will be moving in.” No.No.No. We do not give up any information that could compromise our position or fall into enemy hands and be used against us. I was given these instructions repeatedly.

So it was understandable when my neighbors and landlady and other people I knew were absolutely irate at the United States. At a press conference on Wednesday, Jake Sullivan, one of the president’s top advisors leaked that the Israeli response would be limited. That the army was going into Lebanon on a limited scale. Very limited troops only 4 kilometers into the very Southeastern tip. It would be just to clear out the villages there of Hizbulla operatives to remove the threat.

Is it any wonder or surprise that just at sunrise yesterday morning, 8 of our beautiful young men walked right into an ambush and were killed? And that over 30 were evacuated to the nearest hospitals for immediate treatment?

It was indeed a sad morning. But it grew more and more – I can’t even begin to find the words…exasperating? Maddening? Suspenseful? John and I were not afraid, but all day the missiles were being lobbed across the border by Hizbulla. We would listen as the red alert would go off on my phone and we would see where the next volley was headed…. Tiberias, Migdal, Kibbuts Degania, Ein Gev, Genesseret, Kfar Nahum, Korazin; Kiryat Atta, Acco, Kiryat Motzkin, Ein ha Mifratz, Kiryat Biyalik; Kfar Vradim, Terence, Madj Al Krum, Karmi’el, Shorashim…. On and on it went all through Thursday and all through Friday….and then a lull from about 2-6am this morning. New Year’s has definitely started off with a lot of fireworks and bangs.

On Wednesday, I would prepare dinner and pack for our trip until a siren came. Then I would get under a protected space. The dangerous part is falling shrapnel, so it’s pretty important to stay somewhere that your head is covered by thick, reinforced concrete, like an inside doorway or a stairwell, if there’s no time to run to a safe room. Yesterday I did not walk to synagogue. I stayed home and prayed out of my prayer book for the holidays. Later in the afternoon I did take a couple videos of incoming, but they can be rather frightening to those who are not used to this. So I will not post those. If you want me to send Amy directly, DM me…

After hearing the siren and getting an all clear, I’d go out and take photos. Some missiles were shot down right over our heads. The local police monitored the streets continually in their patrol cars. And a text would go out from the city to warn of falling shrapnel. We were instructed to call a certain number if we saw any shrapnel or unexploded rocket parts. Do not go near them as they can be deadly. Even the mayor was out, driving around and checking on people.

We were awakened a little after 6 this morning to red alerts and the volleys of missiles – usually in groups of 10-20 have been coming over throughout the day. I’ve had to stop this writing three times already to enter into our safe room. It’s exhausting physically and mentally.

You can hear the thuds at the vey end as more missiles are taken out in the distance

So, the UN still has not condemned Iran for the massive barrage. Te international community its says nothing about the pounding we are getting. We all say, that at Ramadan, Israel was urged to pause the fighting in Gaza so the Muslims could have their holy time. We complied, like idiots. But at the Jewish holy days? Not a word. We get pounded even harder. There is no call for Hamas, Hizbulla, Iran or any of the terror proxies to cease fire. It’s decidedly lopsided.

And then, we are really, really mad. At our own government. At the US administration. At Iran. Netanyahu made a statement on Tuesday that Israel would respond to Iran’s attack Wednesday night proportionally and soon. The US quickly got involved setting out lists of what we cannot strike: oil fields, refineries, storage facilities, manufacturing facilities, their population centers (we never go after innocent civilians), and their nuclear facilities.

Both Biden and Harris publically stated that Israel has a right to defend itself. Israel has a right, bla bla bla. To quote from yesterday’s Wall Street Journal:

After Tuesday’s missile attack, he (Biden) is already telling Israel the targets it cannot hit in self-defense. Asked Wednesday if he’d support an Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, the President said, “The answer is no.” This is extraordinary. Even before he talks with Mr. Netanyahu, the President engages in public lobbying aimed at blocking a sovereign state and American ally from deciding on its own what is the best response to a direct military attack on its territory.

Iran attacked Israel for the second time in six months, it Mr. Biden tells Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khameni that the U.S. will help the regime protect its most prized and threatening military asset….Mr. Biden doesn’t even wait to keep Iran guessing.

If Mr. Biden won’t take this opportunity to destroy Iran’s nuclear program, the least he can do is not stop Israel from doing the job for its own self-preservation.

Kamala Harris, on the campaign trail, yesterday (Rosh haShannah) said that she would withhold the delivery of arms to Israel. She does not support any further acts of (Israeli) agression. She is burdening us with what is to be.

On another note, John went to the bank a little while ago to use the ATM and get some money for the trip. We had a siren in our neighborhood and I saw the paths and expected targets of the 14 missiles. So they were headed for my immediate neighborhood. Marc and I ran into the saferoom, heard the booms. I waited 2 minutes and then went out. John came back a few minutes later. I asked him where he was when the siren went off. He didn’t have one. He was walking between two buildings downtown when he heard and felt the booms. He saw the puffs. Everyone that was downtown just continued about their business. Most things were closed today. But there were still people out and about going. It’s just all so weird!!!

The amazing thing is how exact the pinpointed warnings are. Our bank is just 2 miles away from our neighborhood, yet we had sirens but they did not. The technology is absolutely incredible. The precision!

The other good news is that the IDF soldiers rescued a Yazidi young woman in Gaza earlier this week.Fawzia Sido was captured in Iraq by ISIS at age 11, ripped away from her family, and sold to a Palestinian jihadist as a sex slave. She was resold later that year to a man in Gaza (who was a Hamas civilian terrorist) and held there against her will for 10 years as a sex slave. After eliminating her host/terrorist, she was taken to Israel for evaluation at a medical center. The 21 year old was escorted back to her home country where she was reunited with her family on Wednesday. Hopefully the rest of our 101 captives will also be rescued soon.

For the third time since I began writing this… it’s really getting old. We had 4 more missiles intercepted and crash right overhead. So what happens if you are in the bathroom? It’s a question asked frequently here. Showers last about 3 minutes, because one never knows…. Me? I just stay where I am. When it’s my time, it’s my time. But I’m not trying to rush down marble stairs dripping wet wrapped in a towel. Nope. Just not gonna do it. TMI-

As you can see, it’s back to snaxxxx and I’m really mad about that, too. Darn you, terrorists! I’ll diet in November….

We are almost packed and are planning on leaving tomorrow night. With a hugely long layover somewhere in Italy. I just pray we will be able to get out. And no, we will be returning right after Yom Kippur. My husband has his last scans and tests. He will be cancer free 5 years now. From Stage 3.5+ to now. It’s nothing short of miraculous, and definitely something to Hallelujah about!!

Hopefully, nothing eventful will happen over the next week. If it does, we will be on top of the news at all times. I hope I don’t have to do a blog post, but if there is anything going on, I have my neighbors and friends to keep me posted. There goes four more booms. Thud. Thud. Thud. Thud. House shakes. Windows rattle. It off in the distance, so…and one last thud for good measure. Prayers no one is hurt…

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October 2, 2024

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A Great Miracle Happened Here 1 October,2024

My next door neighbor recorded this last night

Normally I’d be cooking up a storm for a crowd because tonight marks the beginning of the High Holy Day period. Rosh haShannah is a time of new beginnings, usually a time to celebrate and pray for G-d’s blessings for the coming year.

The year started absolutely horrifically as you know. We have been living under the threat of rocket fire and the loss of soldiers. We have seen the video of the rapes, the bombings, the torture and kidnappings and massacre. We have searched for missing friends. We have cried with the testimony of the returned hostages and collectively prayed for the release of those still held captive.

This past week has been nothing short of miraculous. Thanks to Israeli intelligence, planning, cunning, and daring, the IDF took out all three top tiers of Hizbulla leadership in Lebanon. I thank G-d for pulling g it all together with perfect timing, perfect intensity, and perfect ability for it all to come together.

Hassan Nasrallah was a very evil man, despite how the obituaries are portraying him. He was the mastermind behind the attack of the Beirut US army base in 1983 that killed 243 American servicemen and wounded scores of others. He was the planner of the Buenos Aeries bombing of the 1994 Jewish Community Center killing 85, wounding over 300 – as well as the Israeli Embassy bombing 2 years prior. Nasrallah, the head of Hizbulla, brought once-prosperous Lebanon down to an impoverished country. He diverted funds meant for the people and for infrastructure and put that into his war machine.

There were plans to pour over the border through underground tunnels and by sea into Israel this Rosh haShannah. The Iranian proxy group had plans to do the same type of massacre that was done in Gaza. It was called Galilee Overthrow. The Ayatollah of Iran, Khameni, vowed swift justice upon Israel for the assassination of Nasrallah.

Yesterday, missiles had been fired steadily throughout the day at Northern Israel. Our ground troops had moved in and were clearing out all the weapons storage and tunnel shafts. Hidden launch pads were being destroyed. We didn’t have more than two sirens in our neighborhood, but could hear the continuous bombing in the distance.

It was really strange. I don’t know if it was me, if I was imagining it, or if it was real, but all day long into the early evening, I would hear shofar blasts. During the time of the holy days, and the entire month previous, it is customary for the shofar, the ram’s horn to be blown. But over the past nine years, no matter how hard I listened, I rarely experienced this powerful call to awaken the spirit. But yesterday, I would hear loud bursts, then later short staccato blasts, then long, long drawn out shofar wails. It was the oddest thing.

Last night, shortly after dinner, we got word that Iran was planning something, maybe for later in the night. Stay near a shelter. Listen to the messages of home front command. Nothing else. OK.

Confession: when I was younger I used to smoke cigarettes. At times of extreme stress, I get the pressing urge to go buy a pack of cigs. This time, no. But it would be nice to have some popcorn while we waited. And if we had to wait through Saturday (would our flights be cancelled?), it would be great to have some snacks. Lots and lots of crunchy snacks.

So, I sent John to the store to buy snacks and went upstairs. Within 3 minutes of his leaving my whole screen started lighting up like never before. It wouldn’t stop. Dimona!!!!athey are after the nuclear plant! Tel Aviv!!! Jerusalem!!!!Beersheva!!! I started hearing sirens in the far distance so ran out on the mirpesset (our rooftop patio) to see what was going on….

It looked like an alien invasion! Seriously like something out of a sci-fi movie. Unbelievable. They were coarsing through the sky like a pack of mad hornets, but no sounds. All heading south. I didn’t see one Iron Dome interception as we usually do.

OK. So at that point, I was a bit jumpy because I didn’t know what was coming next. I ran inside and sent an urgent prayer alert to my three friends back in the States. “It has begun. Please pray for us. We are under attack.” We only had about a three minute warning. Marc, who lives with us, quickly made tracks for the saferoom. I told him to look out the window first. His jaw just dropped, mouth gaping open. Then the multiple pound, resounding booms echoing through the valleys, bouncing off the mountains. And the faint red glow miles to the south.

Then all was quiet. Whew!! That was a close one. My battery was at 3%, so I plugged in my phone (didn’t even think about the emergency power pack) and went out on the balcony. All was incredibly silent except for the neighborhood children excitedly speaking to each other next door. I began to pray and thank G-d loudly for His protection. Then I began to sing. Sing!! sing!! With my frog voice croaking loudly hymns of thanks and praise.

Then it started up again. They came by the hundreds. Like a meteor shower. Sailing past from north to south over our heads. I heard the alarm on my phone as it went off and wouldn’t stop. This was the big one. It was headed for the population centers of central Israel. I’m really trying to describe, but I just ant find the words. It was powerful. It was horrific. It was beautiful. I was not afraid. Somehow, I knew G-d would protect us and I just prayed. Loudly.

Craaaaaap!!!, John!!! Where was John??? Why did I so selfishly send him to the store? Was he still there? Did he hear and see what was going on above us in the night sky? Was he, by now, on his way back home???

Then the lights. Orange red glows coming from the South. The thuds. The ground shaking and convulsing. The booms. It was literally a wall of blasts and shockwaves that rocked the entire country. All at once, one after the other. Holy cow!!! Then silence. My neighbors and friends all started sending each other texts. “You OK? “ “Will there be more?” “Is everyone safe?” “Do you need anything?” “Hey, I got some great videos! “Can we come out of the shelters? I think we should all stay inside our safe rooms for the night.”

Watch until the very end! (Eva was excited and held her phone the wrong way, but-)

The videos and news started getting posted online at a rapid clip. Lots of spectacular “fireworks.” Our very good friends were enroute to celebrate the holidays with their kids and grandkids in Kfar Sava. They had to pull over on the side of the road as the sirens wailed. It was incredibly frightening and real for them.

John returned just a few minutes after it all went down, laden with bags of popcorn and pretzels and chips and crackers. There were about six people in the grocery store still doing their holiday shopping. As there were no sirens, no one seemed phased. An IDF soldier was standing near the bomb shelter smoking a cigarette when he left the store. That was all. He was completely unaware that anything had happened. We drive an old car that lunges, so he didn’t notice if there were thuds or rumbles.

Miraculously, there was only one fatality. A refugee from Gaza, a Palestinian man was hit by a falling missile. Several people had to be treated for minor injuries as they fell rushing to a protected area. More than a few were treated for shock and anxiety. Several windows were blown out near the desert. A restaurant in Tel Aviv was hit by falling shrapnel.

Other than that, no military bases were hit and rendered inoperable. Ben Gurion Airport closed for about an hour, then re-opened. It was reported that 181 intercontinental ballistic missiles were launched from various sites across Iran, coming at Israel in waves. It took only 12 minutes, average for them to reach their intended targets. The later report has been revised to upwards of 400 missiles I three separate waves.

From our friend, “the general:” The dimensions and mass of the ballistic missiles are built in such a way that even if the explosive warhead is eliminated during interception, ore 5an half a metric ton of various burning components such as metal, engine, fuel tank, and reinforced structures still remain in an altered trajectory. This usually results in substantial destruction and collateral damage upon impact. “

Basically, it comes down to this. The Chanukah message. “A great miracle happened here.” Ness gadol haya po.” נס גדול היה פה!

So we celebrate His miraculous protection. This incredible miracle. Were the missiles all intercepted? The US said they shot down 12. Jordan intercepted 37. And Iron Dome? David’s Sling? So far I have heard no word. It doesn’t matter. We dodged a big one. It’s incredible.

I was not going to do any cooking. We are still in the major grieving period for John’s father’s passing. We leave Saturday night, right after Shabbat. With this huuuuuuge long layover in Italy. We will arrive in DC Sunday night. Extended family members and friends are begging us to stay. To move back to the US. We are incredulous. There is no way we will leave this country at this time. It is a Land of Miracles and we are witnesses to history.

I got up early to shop and cook for the rest of the weekend. John and I will have a small celebratory Rosh Hashanah Seder with all the symbolic foods. We will pray for a better year. May our enemies be defeated. May we enjoy new life (one of our daughters is expecting again!) May we be the head and not the tail. May we enjoy a year of G-d’s blessings and abundance. May it be a sweet year of only good news. May any bad judgements, decrees or laws against us be nullified. May all those who seek to harm us flee. May our names be inscribed in the Book of Life for 5785.

Shannah tovah u’metukah 🍯🍎🍷

📖 שנה טובה ומתוקה. גמר חתימה טובה. ✍️

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October 1, 2024

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On the Cusp: A New Year. 1 October, 2024

For most here in Israel, and for Jewish people around the world, we stand at the cusp of a new year. The past year, 5784, is coming to an end. And what a year it has been!

My husband and I have welcomed two beautiful new grandchildren into our family and have been present to congratulate our son on his graduation from university. We have been able to travel to Florida for a very short family reunion: it was the first time in almost 15 years that all of our children, their spouses, and our six grandchildren were able to be together for quality time. It was the first time several of us had the opportunity to meet one another. This past year saw the addition of new friends and new opportunities.

However, it has also been a horrific year fraught with the brutal invasion of Hamas terrorists into Israel, butchering, raping, burning and pillaging the land to the South of us. Over 240 were taken captive into Gaza terror tunnels: men, women, children, even babies, 2 of whom are still there today. Israel entered into a war being fought on five fronts.

John and I did what little we could at first – preparing meals for the troops; taking up basic necessities for those who left everything to defend their country; keeping a written log of events as they transpired; and helping the IDF troops receive the necessary helmets and ceramic vests they were lacking. We attended funerals and comforted the mourners. We mourned the fallen soldiers in our community…five so far. And we have also attended weddings. And engagement parties. And I’ve known so many women who have had new babies.

I’ve seen the determination and resilience of a people who value the gift of life this year. People who have left their homes and families to fight for their survival. There is a saying here….”My dentist has a secret life as a tank commander. My son’s teacher is a paramedic. Our baker has another job as a border patrol officer. And my daughter’s ballet instructor is a paratrooper.”

Our hotels, once full with visitors and tourists are stuffed to the brim with displaced families. Many of our national parks are closed due to danger of attack. Our tourist destination, once vibrant with pilgrims and vacationers now stand empty. Businesses have shuttered due to lack of customers. Yet, hopefulness remains in the air. Tomorrow. Next year….

Families have been wrenched apart as fathers are called up to serve in the Reserves. They leave behind their young children and often wives who must pick up the slack of their own work, a family business, the house work and raising the kids. It definitely takes a toll emotionally and psychologically. Yet the people are strong. Whenever someone can lend a hand, they are quick to do so. With the help of G-d, we are holding each other up.

This has been a year of prayer… for our government, our loved ones, the hostages, the soldiers, those who mourn, for our safety and our victory in eradicating evil. Many who have never lifted their hands heavenward, made a challah, studied Scripture, lit candles, attended religious services, recited Psalms, are doing so now. There is a definite turn towards the Divine. This has been a year of increased spirituality and faith.

This past year, I have tried to write the facts of what is happening in this part of the world – to counter all the misinformation and propaganda. I have also written from my personal experience. I want you to be able to experience what we are going through as if you were here with me. Perhaps give you a different perspective.

I have been thankful for my husband’s sense of humor. He is always able to de-fuse even the most tense of situations (we have been hearing the Iron Dome take out Hizbulla missiles fairly close to us all morning and he is making fun of my jumpiness). He makes fun of our enemies ineptness as well as my own. His comedic impressions and wisecracks are always welcome.Nothing is serious. Nothing is too sacred to make fun of.

We have made new friends. And we have lost friends along the way who have disagreed with us politically or religiously. But time is way too short to hold grudges or to harbor ill will. For Jewish people, this marks a time of introspection, of getting rid of unforgiveness, of being aware or one’s faults and flaws. It is a time to resolve to do better. To be a better, more loving, more caring human being. And to leave the rest up to G-d. We can all learn from that.

At the time of this writing, I look on the devastation wreaked by Hurricane Helene over the people of North Carolina and the Southeastern US. It, too is horrific. A war zone, as one would say. My heart and my prayers go out to them. I read that Iran is putting together a very nice surprise missile for us in the foreseeable future. And I see the uncertainty in the world.

My prayer is that this coming year will be a time of renewed faith and hope. I pray that the captives will be released, the wars and natural disasters will come to an end. I pray it will be a year of healing – physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. O Lord, hear us. Have mercy on us. Heal us. Keep us close.

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September 16, 2024

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Bits & Pieces. Day 346. 16 September, 2024

It’s been a couple weeks since my last posting. So much has been happening just within our own household. We came back from ‘vacation’ to a dust covered home but no real work done. After vacuuming as much as possible, we were able to sort through all my son’s effects…. Accumulation of years of army, university, and life. We packed him up into two huge suitcases and sent him off to England.

The next day the shiputznikim’ returned to begin the process of mold removal from the walls and ceilings and of re-painting. John and I moved all the smaller furniture and items and boxed up all the items from desks, tables, counters….we covered everything in layers of plastic. The Israelis do nothing of the kind, and when the workers walked in they were absolutely dumbfounded. They just had never seen and could not believe. I know they think we Americans are most definitely mishuggah. But these guys don’t even wear protective masks.

The construction work was done in three whole days. Despite insurances of complete cleanliness, there was shmutz all over the house. We even took down curtains to wash, so cleanup could be streamlined. Then came the intense cleaning, dusting and mopping room by room (I still have two rooms to go), which began in earnest. Yesterday, our friend from Virginia, who is an ice hockey and other sport coach, came to live with us through the end of December. He stays in Max’s bedroom, so that whole floor with Marc’sbedroom and bathroom were all ready. Our bedroom and the kitchen is sparkling now. Almost ready for the holiday season-

In more exciting things to report, we had three separate Iron Dome interceptions in our immediate area last week. Hizbulla in Lebanon has been sending over scores of rockets and katbam, suicide drones laden with explosives into the North. Mostly they have fallen in fields, causing brushfires. Any that are destined for army bases or civilian populations are taken out by Iron Dome. Last Tuesday, we heard the loud boom! and rushed outside to see the contrails. Right over our house. Praises be to G-d for His protection. It was not scary. Just a little bit of excitement for the afternoon. We are safe and not afraid in the least. It made for a pretty cool video:

John’s father, Poppa, has been moved to hospital hospice in Florida. He is resting comfortably, but it’s a very volatile situation. Every day we wait for the news. He will be flown from Florida to Northern Virginia, where the family lived for over 30 years. poppa will have a full military burial at Arlington National Cemetery. Funeral will be in N.VA. I am finding hotel for us all and John is looking into airlines.

We are in quite an interesting position. ElAl is the only airline that currently flies in and out of the country due to the ‘war’ – but I suspect much of this is contrived nonsense that amounts to BDS (Boycotting, Sanctioning and Divesting) from Israel. Either way, finding a flight out is nearly impossible. All flights everywhere are booked for the next two weeks. Even going to Europe first and taking a connecting flight seems impossible. We are believing G-d will sort out all the details for His perfect timing and for all the loose pieces to come together.

What else is news here in Israel? Would it shock you to know that Palestine (the PA) has been officially admitted to the UN? Would it be a surprise that 29 more members of UNRWA were just discovered to be Hamas terrorists, having taken part in keeping hostages or training young children to be fighters? Or that the Brits have halted the military shipments Israel contracted with and bought from them? They include spare parts for helicopters and jets as well as smaller ordinance? Sinwar, head of Hamas, has said he will release all terrorists if the IDF will let him go free and promise not to target him in the future.

In the meantime, both John and I have a serious case of brain mush. I sent him to the store yesterday with short list of needed ingredients. It included a small head of cabbage for a salad I wanted to make. He came back with 4 large cabbages. What to do? I spent the day preparing for holiday season early… it should take us from Rosh HaShannah through Sukkot. I got out my crockpot and made the most delicious deconstructed stuffed cabbage. It cooked all night on low, and this afternoon I have 6 tubs filled to go into the freezer.

Deconstructed Stuffed Cabbage (meat)

I made enough for an army and it freezes beautifully. Will keep for up to 6 month, so I’ll have enough for company and for a couple winter meals too. This is my mom’s old recipe but without all the work of boiling cabbage leaves and stuffing them and all the fancy. It’s mouthwateringly delicious. A little sweet, a little tangy, meaty, with just the right amount of heat, it fires on all engines.

  • Ingredients:
  • 1 kg (2.2lbs) lean ground beef
  • 2 heads of cabbage, core removed and shredded
  • 2 brown onions, chopped
  • 6 cloves minced or crushed garlic
  • 1 1/2 cup basmati rice
  • 1/4 cup brown raisins
  • 1/3 cup yellow raisins
  • 1 medium knob of fresh ginger
  • 1 large can crushed tomatoes with juice
  • 2 TBSP sweet paprika
  • 2 tsp dry mustard powder
  • 1/4 cup silan (date honey)/ or regulate honey
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Brown the onions and ground beef. Transfer to large crock pot. Add shredded cabbage, raisins, rice, and can of tomatoes. Mix thoroughly. Incorporate all spices. Mix in silan or honey and water. It will all cook down. Turn crockpot to low heat and let cook for 6-8 hours. Remove lid and stir, adding more water if needed. Let cool and transfer into freezer safe boxes. Serve with green beans or peas and applesauce.

What else have I been making? We are eating a vey Mediterranean diet after splurging on all that food during our trip to the States last month. I am also using what we have seasonally. My husband’s favorite of all favorites is an appetizer I served two Shabbats ago. He wants me to make it regularly now. It’s extremely luxurious, yet deceptively easy to make. It’s a whipped feta that uses only a few ingredients….and oven roasted olives. Oh my goodness, oven roasting your olives takes them to an altogether new level! I was lucky to get a photo after we polished off half the dish. Once you start, you can’t stop eating it. Serious crack, this is. And an amazing way to make a delicious first impression when entertaining or for a pot-luck.

Oven Roasted Olives on a Bed of Whipped Feta (dairy)

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups olives…a mix of black, green, kalamata (try not to used canned olives)
  • 1 lemon
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • Handful of fresh thyme sprigs
  • 1 cup feta cheese
  • 4 ounces of softened cream cheese
  • 2 Tbsp honey
  • Zataar (Middle Eastern spice),optional
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 1/4 cup extra Virgin olive oil

Preheat oven to 200*C/400*F. On a large parchment lined baking tray, scatter olives with 2 cloves sliced garlic, and a few sprigs of thyme. Cut the lemon into slices. Lay half over the olives. Sprinkle with the olive oil and bake uncovered for about 15-20 minutes until the olives release their flavor.

In the meantime, in a medium bowl, whip the feta and cream cheese, and the honey. Add in some grated lemon rind and the 2 remaining garlic cloves, crushed. Incorporate well. It should be very smooth and glossy. it will stay good in the fridge for 3-4 days.

When ready to serve, spread the cheese mixture into an oven proof dish. Scatter olives and lemons on top. Microwave for 45-60 seconds until melts and fragrant or place in 170*C/350*F oven for 10-15 minutes. Scatter toasted sesame seeds, thyme sprigs and/or zata’ar on top. Serve with challah, crusty bread, pita or crackers.

Last week I found some Belgian Endive at the market, so I used what I had at home to create a yummy, no-fuss, elegant Shabbat appetizer. it’s crunchy, cheesy, slightly salty, a wee bit sharp, and a tad sweet. So easy to throw together, room for creativity (add some chili flakes, drizzle some honey) and a nice presentation.

Stuffed Endive Boats (dairy)

Ingredients:

  • 1 head Belgian Endive
  • 1/4 cup blue, Gorgonzola, goat or feta cheese… I used blue
  • 3 very small scallions, minced
  • 1/4 cup dried, unsweetened cranberries
  • 1/4 cup roasted (smoked) almonds, chopped
  • Balsamic vinegar
  • Honey
  • (Chopped apple or pear would also make a great addition to this for your Rosh HaShannah table)

In a medium bowl, mix the cheese crumbles, nuts, scallions, and cranberries (also fruit if you wish). Arrange 2-3 leaves of endive on plate to form a boat. Stuff the endive boats with cheese mixture. Drizzle Balsamic vinegar and honey lightly overtop. Serve immediately.

In other parts of the world,our son called last night to say he had unpacked his things in his dorm in London. It’s an ultra modern building and he’s on the 13th floor. No superstitions there. Max had just come from the widely advertised Orientation and Get Togerher BBQ. BBQ. Like we’re from the US. That means Brisket. Burgers. Dogs. Ribs. We’re also Israeli. BBQ. Asado. Kabobim. Shishlik on giant skewers. Marinated pargiot/chicken thighs.

Welcome to UK wokeness. It was a smorgasbord of plant based vegan material. No meat. Some grilled tofu. Undistinguishable planks of plant based 3-D generated stuff. Soylent green???? No. The WEF has designated this year a year of high protein manufactured chemicals and plant stem cells. All cafeteria foods will be vegan by design. Welcome to 2024-2025. I’ve no doubt Max will be doing quite a bit of pub and such.

So, until next time. Settling into autumn….

Blessings and prayers for deliverance for the 100 hostages still captive.

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June 10, 2024

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Milk & Honey

We’re leaving shortly for a few days in Yerushalayim. Meeting a friend from Vienna with a few Israelis thrown into the mix! We will be celebrating the holiday of Shavuot, which is the Feast of Weeks. Most of us have been counting the fifty days between Passover (when the Children of Israel were liberated from Egypt and Pharaoh) and Shavuot, which is when all of Israel gathered at the foot of Mt. Sinai and Moses received the Ten Commandments from G-d. It also marks the death of King David.

One of the younger set of our group suggested we all hike down to the Kotel (Western Wall) at 4am for sunrise at 5:30, then hike up the mountain to David’s Tomb. Ummmmm, no thanks. I’ll pass on that one- but we will have some time in the Old City…just a little later in the morning. Then comes the feast. A picnic/party is planned for Teddy Park with lots and lots of dairy.

It’s customary to to dress in white (I told John I feel like a stay-puff marshmallow) and enjoy nature, especially decorating the home with tons of flowers and wearing flowers in a wreath around your head (again, the cute young people) as it’s the beginning of summer and the Old Testament barley harvest, which is still celebrated today. We eat tons of dairy – several different reasons on this one: Moses was given the Torah, the Word of G-d is associated with spiritual nourishment or milk; we live in the Land of Milk and Honey; it has a lot to do with Kosher laws, which are too complicated to discuss on this platform. So there! Let’s eat-

ROASTED BEETS SALAD

I use a mixture of white beets, golden yellow beets, chioggia beets and red beets that I grow in my garden. It makes a gorgeous, colorful, and healthy dish. Add in pickled red onions, which I always have on hand, some herbs and creamy goat cheese with a drizzle of balsamic. Wow! Really easy dish. Packed with nutrients.

Ingredients:

  • 8 beets of varying color (if you can find the different varieties, if not, use red beets)
  • 2 large sprigs fresh rosemary
  • Fresh thyme
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Pickled onions (recipe follows)
  • 1 small log goat cheese
  • Balsamic vinegar

Preheat oven to 200*C/400*F. Peel beets, cut in quarters, place in heavy aluminum foil. Sprinkle with olive oil and a tiny pinch sea salt and fresh pepper. Add in the rosemary sprigs and a few fresh thyme sprigs. Close up the foil and roast on a baking sheet for 30-40 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool. Place in serving bowl. Sprinkle on top about 1/4 cup pickled onions. Dot with chunks of goat cheese. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the top of the salad. Throw in a few extra thyme sprigs and marigolds petals for extra color.

PICKLED RED ONIONS:

Thinly slice 1 red onion. In a (covered) bowl, combine 1/3 cup white wine vinegar, 1/4 cup water, 1 tbsp pickling spice, 1 TBSP honey or sugar. Add in onion. Cover and let marinate in fridge for at least an hour before using. Great on salads and sandwiches or on the side with cheese and crackers.

MEDITERRANEAN SUMMER SALAD

Another easy one to make. Very filling with protein as well. This looks as fabulous as it tastes, is great to pack up for picnics or outdoor barbecues. It’s a great side for grilled fish and chicken, as well as being a win for the vegetarian crowd.

Ingredients:

  • 1 500g jar (Cara Mia) artichoke hearts marinated in oil and Italian spices
  • 1 can chickpeas
  • 1 small red/purple onion
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup torn basil leaves
  • Sea salt & freshly ground pepper
  • 1/4 cup thinly shaved Parmesan cheese

In a serving bowl, dump the entire contents of the artichoke hearts, oil and all. Drain the can of chickpeas and rinse well in a colander under cold water. Drip drain.Add to serving bowl. Add in halved tomatoes and thin slices of onion. Sprinkle on basil leaves, salt, pepper, and additional Italian seasoning, if desired. Top with thinly shaved Parmesan pieces.

THE BEST OF SUMMER SALAD

Another beautiful summer platter that we just love. It’s colorful and delicious, wholly satisfying as it combines sweet, salty, savory, crunchy and creamy. I serve this with grilled fish… beautiful for a potluck!

Ingredients:

  • 2 large nectarines
  • 2 large peaches
  • 3 large (heirloom) tomatoes
  • 6 radishes (I use a variety of red and white)
  • Extra virgin olive in
  • Sea salt/black pepper
  • Balsamic vinegar, 1TBSP
  • Silan (date syrup) or honey 2 TBSP
  • 1/4 cup shelled pistachios
  • Torn basil leaves, fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 large Burrata (mozzarella) ball
  • Optional: purslane leaves (high superfood in antioxidants)

Preheat oven to 200*C/400*F. Cut fruit into quarter slices, place in foil, sprinkle with a tiny bit olive oil and sea salt & pepper. Wrap tightly and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool. Reserve the ‘juice’ in a separate small bowl. Just before serving, arrange a platter with the fresh burrata in the center. Around the mozzarella ball, artfully arrange the tomato and fruit slices. Sprinkle radishes around and sprinkle the nuts over the top. In a small bowl with the reserved fruit juices, add in the Balsamic vinegar and the silan or honey. Add in a pinch more salt and pepper. Mix well and pour over the top, especially over the cheese ball. Scatter some thyme and basil leaves over the top and serve immediately.

    A couple of weeks ago, I wrote about an engagement party we went to. After we sat down at our tables, the salatim were served. These are a bazillion little dishes of salads served like tapas with fresh vegetables or bread/pita. it’s a very typical MidEastern thing. You can expect to have at least six different types of eggplant: mashed roasted eggplant, baba ganoush, eggplant in barbecue sauce with roasted veg, caponata, spicy eggplant dip, etc. Then there are the cabbage dishes, both red and white: cabbage in mayonnaise, cabbage with salt and lemon, pickled cabbage, roasted cabbage, etc. The pickled vegetables of all sorts- tomatoes, turnips, carrots, corn, you name it and they’ll find a way to pickle it. And all kinds of different versions of tabbouleh. And the fishes. Smoked salmon for the boring Ashkenaz, fish in spicy tomato sauce, pickled fish pieces, smoked trout tails…Then there was THIS!!! I have absolutely no idea what the name of it was, but my friend and I sat eating it by the shovel full. I promised her I’d deconstruct it and send the recipe out. So Gila, this one is for you- enjoy!!!

    Ugly but Amazingly Refreshing!

    I have no idea what to name this one. It just looks kinda gross. But who’da thought? Something this ugly could be so delicious you can’t stop eating it. Maybe I should call it crack salad??? It’s really inexpensive to make, especially if you grow your own herbs. It’s incredibly densely packed with nutrients. Low cal. Filling. Satisfying. Light and refreshing on a hot summer day. Great for the urinary tract (TMI!)

    Ingredients:

    • 1 bunch parsley, washed, remove longer stems (2 cups, processed)
    • 1/2 bunch fresh mint, washed, leaves removed from stems
    • 3 small scallions/green onions.
    • 1 Granny Smith apple
    • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
    • 2 TBSP red fruit or raspberry vinegar
    • 2 TBSP silan (date syrup) or honey
    • 2 TBSP water

    In a food processor, pulse the parsley and mint leaves until chopped up really well. Place the chopped leaves in a serving bowl. Very thinly slice the white/light parts of the scallions and add to bowl. Add in the dried cranberries. Finely chop the apple and add to the mixture. In separate bowl, combine the vinegar, sweetener and water and stir thoroughly to combine. Pour over salad. Mix all ingredients well to coat. Cover. Refrigerate for an hour and then serve.

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    December 12, 2022

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    food, Holidays & Feasts, israel, MidEast, Recipes

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    Welcoming the Light

    Almost three months of travel!! We went to England (at the time of the Queen’s funeral) which was indescribably lovely. The occasion: to meet my daughter’s fiancé – who is every bit the quintessential Victorian gentleman – and his family. We fell in love with them all!! So much fun touring the Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Staffordshire areas. Then my husband and I toured the Lake District of Northwest England, home to Wordsworth, Coleridge, Beatrix Potter, Charlotte Mason, standing stones, and the natural beauty of mountains and lakes just as the leaves were beginning to turn: it was a dream! Our son met us and it was on to Scotland with its castles, whiskey distilleries and highlands. We visited friends in the Highlands, toured Pluscarden Abbey and the Highland Heritage Center (Outlander!) and learned so much about the history and culture of the Scots. Later that month, our daughter got married in St Andrews, Scotland. We were amazed at the family and friends who came from California, New Jersey, Ohio, Virginia & Maryland, Italy, France and Israel. I’m sure I left people out. The wedding itself was the most holy, meaningful, thoughtful ceremony with gorgeous music provided by Tristan’s sister, a trumpet player with the London Phil and my daughter, an opera singer. And the reception was nothing less than an outpouring of love with everyone in attendance helping put it all together the day before and during…. I’ve never experienced such a coming together of friends and families from both sides.

    After the wedding, we flew to Los Angeles to welcome our oldest daughter’s newborn baby into our family. The latest little blessing was named after my father and is the easiest, best baby I’ve ever seen. My husband and I were blessed to be able to take him overnight for over a week, and it was pure joy and love. It was hard to give him back. We visited our other daughter north of LA and stayed with a couple super fun grandkids while my daughter and her husband were at work. It was warm enough for my husband to take them swimming, and we watched them, too, for a week. Super fun. We now know every Superhero in the Marvel Universe and can sing Baby Shark in our sleep. On to Seattle to visit our youngest daughter and her wonderful family. Heavy frost on the ground each morning and a brilliant display of color as G-d’s majesty was on full display made for glorious walks with our other granddaughter. The last couple weeks was spent relaxing on a small island off the coast of Northern Florida visiting my husband’s 95 year old father and the Dunbar Clan there. Family, food and football marked our American Thanksgiving in the States.

    Unfortunately, my back started to give out again in Los Angeles, limiting our visit to just family in our hotel room. Next time we shall see our friends in California. It finally gave up the ghost in Florida and the 12 hour flight back to Israel was intense to say the least. It’s interesting that we usually have no problem traveling in Europe or America on our Israeli passports or telling people where we are from. There’s so much antiSemitism now and anti-Israel bias that we used our U.S. passports exclusively and told people we were form Los Angeles. Not a lie, but…. How sad is it that there is so much division, mistrust, and baseless hatred in the States currently!!! I’ve never experienced anything like it before. And that it a topic I shall cover in my next blogpost after the holidays – but for now let’s celebrate!!!

    It’s holiday time in Israel again, and this year the days are concurrent on the calendar as we welcome the Season of Light in the Holy Land. During the darkest point the of the year, it’s a time of great rejoicing and light. The Jewish people are celebrating the victory of the Maccabees over the Greco-Syrians in 150 BCE and of the Rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, which had been defiled. There was only one small cruze of oil found to light the giant menorah. Only enough to last one day. The first major supply chain shortage. To bring the pure olive oil from the Galilee to Jerusalem would take a week. Miraculously, that little bit of oil lasted eight full days until more oil could be had. Therefore, the celebration of Chanukah lasts eight days and nights. We light our chanukkiahs, our nine- branched menorahs, eat fried foods and jelly-filled donuts, sing songs, play dreidels, spinning tops, and have fun.

    Northern Israel is where the majority of the Christians live. Most are Maronite Catholics. The Aramaeans who dwelled in the Galilee region alongside the Jews, and with many Jews in that area, followed Jesus as their Messiah two thousand years ago. They became the first Christians. There are also Greek Orthodox and Byzantine rite Catholics up here. Today, they are full Israeli citizens with all the rights and privileges that offers (except they serve in the army only voluntarily and are exempt from property taxes). The Christian towns of Fassuta and Ma’Ilya and the city of Nazareth are all lit up with Christmas trees and decorations. Christmas markets have just become a thing. And tourism to the area is growing as many of the more secular Jewish population are drawn to the celebrations.

    These Christian families are celebrating the birthday of the One who proclaimed to be the Light of the World. As a Jew living in the HolyLand (home to Christians as well as Jews), Jesus was worshipping and celebrating Chanukah at the Temple Mount in the gospel of John. So, in light of unity, we celebrate a common ancestry with each of our Festivals of Light. The Christians here commemorate Christmas differently from Europe or America. Many erect huge nativity scenes in the living rooms of their homes or apartments. Sometimes, they move out much of the furniture, spending much of the Advent weeks building rocks and deserts, inns and villages in miniature with a crèche or manger scene as the focal point. From the midst, the Christmas tree (a more modern tradition) rises.

    We have Lebanese Christian friends in Tiberias. Paula makes many varieties of cookies, cakes, puddings and sweets for Christmas. (Their apartment is the above middle photo. You can see the elaborate scene they made – and if you can look out the windows, you will see a magnificent view of the Sea of Galilee at night). My favorite cookies, which are actually kosher, dairy, are the techineh and rose water balls. Melt in your mouth delicious. One bowl. They can’t be easier to put together. I’m making a batch now and can’t wait until they come out of the oven. These cookies freeze well, so I’ll be sure to have them around when my son and his friends come home for Chanukah.

    Techineh (tahini) Rose Cookies

    (Makes about 50-60 cookies)

    • 3 cups flour
    • 1 cup sugar
    • 1 cup techineh (tahini)
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • 6 tsp rose water (found in large supers or MidEast stores)
    • 1/2 tsp cardamom
    • 1 stick butter, room temperature
    • optional: sesame seeds, dried rose petals (MidEast markets sell them)

    Preheat oven to 150*C/3255*F. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Mix with you hand until the dough sticks together nicely. Form into balls a little smaller than a ping pong ball – about the size of a large walnut. You can roll some in sesame seeds at this point. Space on parchment or slip at lined cookie sheet and bake for 15 minutes. C when they come out of oven, you can gently decorate with pieces of rose petals, dried, organic. Or dust with powdered sugar, sanding sugar or leave plain.

    The next recipe is from Lily Cohen. Lily moved here with her husband and three children from just north of Paris about two years ago. They are fairly secular Jews living in Herzliya, a suburb of Tel Aviv. Even though the boys, ages 9 and 11, do not wear a kippah (yarmulke), they were constantly getting bullied in school because of their name. Etienne was on his way home, when he was beaten up by a throng of other boys, kicked numerous times, pelted with stones. The family decided it was time to leave. Daniel, the father, was a fairly respected university professor, and he, too, was feeling the effects of antiSemitism. Now the family is thriving. My son was invited to dinner at their house and called me absolutely RAVING about Madame Cohen’s delicious brisket. I have always made my brisket smothered in onions and a tomato sauce. Very heavy. This is a much lighter, dare I say, French version. I will definitely serve this for Chanukah this year. Can’t wait!!! It’s become my new favorite way to make a brisket.

    Lily Cohen’s French Brisket Au Jus

    Ingredients:

    • 1 4 pound (2kg) brisket
    • 1 cup beef broth
    • 1 cup white Zinfandel wine (or white grape juice)
    • 1/3 cup strong Dijon mustard
    • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
    • 2 tsp dried tarragon
    • 1/2 tsp rosemary
    • 1/2 tsp thyme
    • 1tsp sea salt
    • 1/2 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
    • 7-9 shallots, thinly sliced
    • 10-12 mushrooms, sliced medium fine
    • Sear brisket in skillet over high heat on all sides until browned. Sauté shallots and mushrooms in leftover brisket drippings, adding a little oil if needed. In large bowl, stir Dijon into broth incorporating well. Transfer meat to a Dutch oven or baking pot. Pour mustard broth over. Add in wine or grape juice and seasonings. Cook, covered, at 325*F/150*C and bake 25 minutes per pound (50 minutes a kilo). Add in shallots and mushrooms over top in last 15 minutes. The natural gravy is fantastic over the brisket or rice. I’ll be pouring mine over potato latkes.

    No matter what feast you will be celebrating, I wish you a happy, healthy and peaceful one. Thank you for your continued readership and I shall see you in 2023.