Tag Archives: rosh hashannah

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October 4, 2024

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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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October 24, 2023

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War Stories 24 October, 2023

Many of the Hamas terrorists from Gaza who perpetrated the heinous and barbaric attacks on 7 October have been caught and are systematically being interrogated. Most were “civilian” men in their teens and twenties.

They were given pills to take before the incursion began and to continue to ingest as needed. Pocketfuls were found on each prisoner. They turned out to be Captigon, a synthetic amphetamine type drug which suppresses appetite, improves focus and alertness, but also fills or clouds actions- thus enabling those under its effects to commit the most bloody acts of violence. It was used by ISIS during their 2015 campaign.

Also, each group or hit squad that entered Israel was given a GoPro body camera to film the atrocities and stream live to TikTok, then fed to AlJazeera and Memri. The attackers were instructed to kill showing no mercy. To kidnap the young and the elderly. If they brought people back to Gaza they were promised a new apartment and a $10,000 stipend.

That day 1400 Israelis and internationals were murdered. Over 233 we’re captured and carried away to Gaza. It has become an international event. 10 Thai workers were executed. The Israeli ambassadors to Thailand and Nepal have come to claim its country’s bodies in a moving memorial service at Ben Gurion Airport. There were Argentinians, Brazilians, Mexicans, Russians, French, Australians and South Africans. 23 nations other than Israel affected.

These are just a few faces of the kidnapped children now being held in conditions that only G-d knows. Posters have been put up in public squares throughout the world…. And have been ripped down numerous times by pro-Palestinian sympathizers. (We located our dear friend, a lovely American Israeli artist who had been a concert-goer. A friend found her post on Facebook for me. Instant sigh of relief!!!)

In the days immediately following the massacre, many many people, mostly American, refused to believe this had happened- that it was all fake news or greater conspiracy., A I generated photos. Despite news reports that were dismissed as “staged” the rumors of this being an intricately crafted hoax to distract people from what was really happening in the world.

As for Facebook, the Hamas terrorists were instructed to take their victims’ cell phones and laptops. To have them bring up their Facebook, Instagram and TikTok livestreams as well as their WhatsApp. They called the ones they loved most to plead for their lives. And the torture and killings were broadcast live to their families and to the world. This was also orchestrated by Hamas to put fear into the hearts of the world.

Yesterday journalists from around the world were shown a video made covering over an hour from the time the terrorists left Gaza. On paragliders, motorcycles, truck, van and foot. It was GoPro footage and filming from the dashcams taken from the victims’s cars and home security cameras. There could be no mistake. It was brutal. So brutal that several reporters held their heads in their hands. Some retched. There were reports from those that prepared bodies for burial. The world must know.

(OK. So I’m actually in staging area of the hospital now. Getting ready to enter OR. They finally found staff enough and room. I will try to write more in explanation and wrap up todays post soon. ) Until then I bid you peace-

KIDNAPPED!!!
Thai Ambassador to Israel bringing countrymen home

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October 1, 2019

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Craziness

Some say it’s the European model. Most explain it as an effect of socialized medicine. Add to that cultural and religious idiosyncrasies and I call it craziness.

If you read my last blogpost, you’ll know where I’m coming from (read it now to catch up). John was hospitalized a couple weeks ago, undergoing major abdominal surgery. Even though we were at the highest rated medical center in the MidEast, medical care was still very different from the US in many ways.

Because we have socialized medicine, the doctors and nurses make nowhere near what they make in the States. So, the care is very basic. No frills. No extras. The patient is monitored and given medications, IVs are given, drains and bags changed. That’s about it for nursing care. Most people have a designated caregiver who stays with the patient throughout their hospital stay. It’s a bit on the crazy side.

I was the caregiver for my husband. I fed him and helped him out of bed. I supported him on his walks around the hall; showered him; changed his bed linens (I brought pillows and blankets, towels and washcloths from home… through experience). When he needed something from the nurse, I went and got it… all typical for the caregiver. Things nurses or attendees would do elsewhere. As there was no TV, I would read to him (Mark Twain’s Innocents Abroad) and raise or lower the bed.

Following last weeks’ debacle on Shabbat when I was caught in a world where everything was closed, I started panicking Sunday night. Perhaps it was exhaustion from sitting/sleeping bedside in a plastic chair, but my imagination was running fast and free. The High Holy Days we’re fast approaching. Friday and Saturday Shabbat followed by Sunday through Tuesday Rosh HaShannah. Yikes. What would that look like at the hospital? I’d be trapped in all respects!

All transportation would be down. All shops, stores, restaurants would be closed for five days. They would be on a skeletal nursing staff… I found out later there would be four nurses and one intern on the floor per shift. The only food for the caregivers would be that which was brought in by friends and relatives beforehand. What would I do?

There was talk on Tuesday about placing stable patients on “khofesh” or vacation/break/holiday from the hospital. So, if John was stable enough, he would be allowed to go home on “vacay” so to speak. Thursday evening until Wednesday morning. He’d still be admitted. Same room. Same everything. He’d just get to go home. I’m completely serious. It sounded like pure craziness.

I learned how to put the medicine in the little cup on the mask and give breathing treatments by nebulizer …. every four hours. No biggie. I used to do this with my son when he was little. Next came learning to give subcutaneous injections of blood thinner… once a night in the thigh to prevent embolisms. I can do this. Also intramuscular injections of another medication. Emptying a drain, a little plastic hollow donut attached to a tube inside the abdomen that sticks out of Johns side like a pocket watch on a chain and fob. Sheer craziness.

There were a couple more unpleasantries, but I learned everything I needed. A bit of IV morphine was given before he was “disconnected” and we were off. Backseat. Pillows to tuck in. Two hour car ride. Into the house. Up two flights of stairs. Into the bed. We made it. John was wiped out but home.

I had picked up catered meals for two weeks. I had an emergency nurse on speed dial on my phone. I had all the meds and all my instructions. I could do this! At least we were home and I could get some sleep in my own bed, take a shower, and enjoy a proper meal. And Max was home most of the time to help as well.

My parents always wanted me to be a doctor. For once, I felt like one. As of today, all is well. The patient is resting comfortably. I even snuck out of the house to go to synagogue yesterday for the New Year service.

The synagogue a block from my house is Sephardic/Moroccan. I had never been to such a place. Most of the old prayers and liturgy I remembered were there, but the melodies chanted and sung were completely unfamiliar. There were many additions to the services…. I really loved it. Even though there were separate men’s and women’s worship sections, all the ladies participated wholeheartedly. When I lost my place in the prayerbook, several different women were more than glad to help me out. It was a totally memorable experience and I cannot wait to return.

Tomorrow morning, first thing, we pack John back into the backseat with all the tubes and lines attached. The drive back down to Sheba should be uneventful… I can do it in my sleep by now. I have no idea how long he’ll be there. I’m thinking not more than a day or two since he’s already been home and all went well. Still, this entire process has been sheer craziness for me.

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September 25, 2017

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Recipes & Ideas for the Fall Feasts

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It’s a few days after the observance of Rosh HaShannah, the Jewish New Year – and I’m finally beginning to catch my breath. John & I had just returned from two weeks in Europe, and I was having five extra guests plus my son (on army leave) over for dinner. I wanted a really pretty table and menu with a minimum amount of hardship. Plus, we would be celebrating a traditional New Year Seder here in Israel.

For the centerpiece, I used my Rosh HaShannah seder plate which I got at Shalom House in Tarzana, California. Underneath I laid (silk) fall leaves with grapes and chestnuts (I picked off the ground in Geneva & will cook later) surrounding the plate. I decided to use my autumn colors tablecloth so I didn’t have to iron my good white damask one. Gold trimmed placemats, my autumn (meat dishes) china, and we were almost good to go. Hollowing out a few tiny acorn squash and inserting a tea light in each one was inexpensive, easy, and really lovely.  I put a hostess sized Tamar Gourmet Preserves or Chutney at each of the guests’ plates.

Now for the traditional foods and their meanings: the Seder Plate contains nine symbolic items, each associated with a blessing. The first is a pomegranate. I discussed the symbolism of the pomegranate in my last blog post. May the 613 arils remind us of the commandments in the Torah, so we  can have a holy year. Scallions or leeks are used to remind us of the whips of taskmasters and oppressors. May we never come under the rule of oppressive dictators and Pharaohs again. Amen! A gourd: may our good deeds in the coming year be as numerous as seeds of the pumpkin. The head of a fish (I use a paper one) so that we may always be the head and not the tail in the year ahead. A beet or carrot. Some of the words in Hebrew form the meanings or word play for the symbolism. They just don’t translate into English well. Also, each community has their own tradition – go with me on these. The beet (or carrot). May G-d in His mercy keep our enemies far away from us. A double Amen as we live in a very uncertain world these days. Black eyed peas: a few traditions on this food. One is that our enemies will be turned back; another is that the eyes of G-d, the angels and holy ones watch over us to guard us and guide us throughout the year. Dates. I discussed the significance of the date palm (tamar) last post, but may we bend under troubles and not break, as other less supple trees during storms.

I really love these sticky, sweet fruits for so many reasons. As an object lesson, think on the date palm. They bend: they give when pressure is applied. When an intense wind storm hits, they drop their fruits. I like to think of myself as being especially fruitful during a hard situation. Yes, sometimes I lash out and can be pretty miserable; but like the date palm, that’s when I want to be spreading the most help, the most cheer, the most optimism to others. Going with the flow, accepting what I have no control over, and being as positive as possible.

The next food, perhaps the most famous combo associated with Rosh HaShannah is apples and honey. May we have a sweet year. A year of health!!! A year of joy!!! A holy year. A year of prosperity. A year of peace!!! And lastly, the wine and the challah. From Rosh HaShannah through Simchat Torah we use a round bread, not the traditional braided one. The roundness is to remind us of many things – the cycle of the year and the cycle of life. The fact that G-d has no beginning or end. He was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be. Also, the rounded loaf looks like a crown. During this season we crown Him King of our Lives.

I love the new round challah cover I just bought for the holidays in Budapest last week. It was made by a 93 year old woman who somehow survived during the Holocaust and now works at the Dohany St. Synagogue. She’s a lively, chatty old soul – but has had to slow down over the years due to her failing eyesight. She now uses a machine instead of sewing by hand, but either way, this is a beautiful piece I’ll treasure always. It says in Hebrew “Sabbath Peace and Holiday Happiness.”

During, the holidays, I try to keep to a healthy diet, using as many of the fall fruits and veggies – Israel’s Seven Species, and incorporating as many of the symbolic foods as possible. Because there is so much cooking this time of year, I also try to make things as simple as possible. Hope you can try a few of these as well during your fall feasts.

BLACK-EYED PEA SALAD, ITALIAN STYLE                      parve, serves 8

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Ingredients:

  • 2 cups uncooked black-eyed peas or 1 large package frozen peas
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 orange bell pepper
  • 1 yellow bell pepper
  • 1 green bell pepper
  • 2 large stalk celery (or 6 tiny Israeli stalks)
  • 6 large scallions (green onions)
  • 1 small bunch flat, Italian parsley, minced
  • salt & pepper to taste
  •  Italian dressing (I make my own using 4 Tbsp red wine vinegar; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/4; 4 cloves smashed garlic; 1 tsp oregano; 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1 tsp sea salt)

Soak the dried peas overnight, covering with boiling water. Drain, rinse, then cook in salted boiling water 15 minutes. Let simmer for 1-2 hours or until softened. Drain & rinse well. Drain again.                                        You can save yourself all the extra trouble by using defrosted frozen or drained & rinsed canned black eyed peas, if available.  Place peas in a large bowl. Cut up veggies into a small dice. Add to bowl. Pour the Italian dressing over top. Before serving, mix in the minced parsley leaves. Garnish with parsley leaf and the top of a pepper. Refrigerates and keeps well for leftovers. Can be served as a hearty salad lunch or as a side with either meat or dairy. Protein packed!!!

HARVEST QUINOA SALAD                                         parve   serves 6-8

I love quinoa. It’s gluten free and great for special needs diets; so versatile and easy to prepare!

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Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked, fluffed quinoa (cook according to package directions)
  • 1/3 cup dried sweet pitted cherries
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions (scallions)
  • 1’4 cup sliced almond pieces
  • 1/2 cup roasted butternut squash or pumpkin cubes
  • 1/2 cup dressing (if in US, Brianna’s Blush Wine Vinaigrette is amazing!!!!! If not, recipe follows…

Cook the quinoa according to package directions to yield 2 cups. Fluff and set aside to cool in large bowl. Halve and de-seed a butternut squash or small pumpkin. Place on baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, salt & pepper. In  220*C/450 *F oven, roast the gourd for about 15-20 minutes until tender. Let cool. Add dried fruits, sliced scallions and almonds to quinoa. Mix gently to incorporate. Cube the flesh of the squash/pumpkin into small bite sized chunks and add to quinoa bowl. Mix gently. Pour dressing over top, and mix in. Can be served room temp or refrigerated. This makes tasty leftovers – if there are any!!!

Dressing: Blend well-

  • 1/4 cup canola oil
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/3 cup blush or rose wine
  • 2 Tbsp red onion juice (I use my garlic squeezer to juice my onion) and remaining pulp
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 Tbsp honey or sugar
  • 1 tsp ginger juice (squeeze fresh) – optional
  • 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg -optional

 

              ROASTED FIGS ON BABY GREENS                    parve      serves 6

Another easy one, that is raving delicious! I cook the figs with all the other items I’m roasting that day, running the oven only once….

On a foil-lined cookie sheet, halve washed figs. Drizzle with small amount of olive oil, salt & pepper. You can also add a tiny bit of balsamic vinegar, but only if it’s sweet (3-5 coins on packaging). Roast at 220*C/450*F oven for 10 minutes.  In large bowl, put pre-washed mesclun or baby green salad mix. Lay the roasted figs on top SAVE THE JUICE!!!!!! Add a few thinly sliced purple onions to the top, and sprinkle on some candied pecans.

Dressing: pour the reserved fig juice into a small bowl. Add a bit of olive oil, salt & pepper. Squeeze in 2 Tbsp onion juice (I use my garlic press) and pulp. Blend well & pour over salad just prior to serving.

SHOESTRING VEGGIES SALAD

This is also quick and easy. It’s very colorful and oh so good for you. Can be served at any meal. The veggies can be bought pre-prepared and mixed or you can run the fresh veggies through a food processor. I use my mandoline slicer –

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  • 3 medium red beets, peeled, raw, and julienned
  • 2 large carrots, peeled, raw, julienned
  • 1 large kohlrabi or jicama, peeled, raw, juilienned
  • 1/3 cup Brianna’s Blush Wine Salad Dressing if in the US. If not see recipe for the dressing above in the Quinoa Salad.

Enjoy, my friends. I hope your Fall Feasts are sweet – filled with family, friends, good food & good music. And in this holy season of introspection before Yom Kippur, the Day of Atoning:

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