Living the Amazing Race

Shana Tova Umtuka!

2011-10-04T17:18:00.000-07:00

Road Trip Canadian Rockies and Pacific NW

2011-10-04T16:17:00.000-07:00

Floating Tent Miracle!

2011-09-09T21:09:00.000-07:00

Thank You Hashem for the great miracles at Seaside.
I woke up in a floating tent! It was very exciting and I just enjoyed it..the thrilling moment.. and wanted to hold on to that sensation forever.. to float into eternity..but soon thoughts of "my reality" came to mind that I needed to take action and get out before the waves sweep me and carry me into the ocean and then some fear made its way in. B"H I got out.. my stuff got wet.. but I was totally safe.. (I woke up just in time..) and didn't lose anything.. the waves carried away some stuff but soon after a sincere search and prayer.. and the willingness to believe in miracles everything re-appeared right in front of me. I set up camp a little further up on shore and went back to sleep singing tehillim and praise to Hashem for the great miracles! and promised to blog about it..
The next day I saw the warnings signs - Tsunami up.

The Shabbos of Vision in Calgary - Dad is there wherever you want to see Him..

2011-07-24T21:37:00.000-07:00

Shabbos Chazon in Calgary
Menachem Av

You'll find אב --your Dad wherever you open your eyes to see Him..

I was a little in a sad state personally thinking a lot about my dad - losing him -- it was the Shabbos before his Yahrtzeit.. and parallel to that - thinking about losing our connection with our Father with Tisha B'av coming up..
The talk Shabbos Day in Shul by the guest speaker on the topic of Kibud Av VaEm didn't add much to my mood -- it awakened and made those feelings stronger.
And then something caught my eye - I was totally surprised -- and started shaking --there was my father right in front of me-- comforting me -- I'm always with you wherever you are..

Right after the talk, people were making their way to the dining room for "Shalshodis".. While everyone was waiting on line to wash.. I picked up a magazine from the rack. I wasn't paying much attention.. my mind was somewhere else.. thinking about my Dad-- and there he was -- I opened the magazine up to a page that had a picture of my father. The magazine was actually a publication which I was involved in producing... but this was from three years ago?!? There have been other publications since then. It stayed in the rack all the time so when I would make my way in Calgary that Shabbos I would get the message! I'm always with you -even in far out Calgary - just open your eyes! Our Dad אבא, merciful father אב הרחמן is always with us! May we have that vision! Amen! and really know it! and really experience and see it with our physical eyes -- with the coming of Moshiach and וקומו שוכני עפר

הנה אנכי שולח לכם את אליה הנביא לפני בוא יום ה' הגדול והנורא: והשיב לב אבות על בנים ולב בנים על אבותם

The magical place of Yellowstone!

2011-06-20T17:07:00.000-07:00

BH made it to Boulder!

2011-06-03T13:04:00.000-07:00

Thank G-d I made it to Boulder!
Thanks so much for all the wonderful people who gave me rides, making this trip an awesome journey!
Thank You!

Snowy NY

2011-01-26T22:42:00.001-08:00

some cleanup treasures

2011-01-18T22:37:00.000-08:00

some old treasures I found during cleanup.

winter soup

2011-01-17T22:13:00.000-08:00

Sing a Song!

2011-01-14T02:29:00.000-08:00

by Rebbetzin Chana Bracha Seigelbaum
Devorah’s Song

Devorah, she judged Israel in this time…Come and see, two women of this world who said song and praise to G-d in a way that no man in the world ever did! Who were they? Devorah and Chana… (Zohar, Part three, Page 19/b). Rav Aviner explains that the highest level of speech is Shirah – song. Like the Song of the Sea, it conveys reality from an expansive, all encompassing, deepest perspective. The righteous King Chizkiyahu lost his opportunity to become the Mashiach because he didn’t recite Shirah (song) over the miraculous fall of the enemy of Israel – Sancheriv. His lack of song was due to his inability to raise himself above the events that took place in his time. Devorah preceded him, and taught us a model for praising Hashem for His miracles in the highest way of song. According to the Shelah, King Chizkiyahu actually did recite song, but only after the miracle of victory. When he was in danger, although he trusted Hashem completely, he refrained from singing to Hashem. Devorah’s song, on the other hand, was preemptive. She sang her song of triumph, prior to the actual victory, and through her emunah she brought about the miraculous victory. In the same way, the emunah of the Jewish women in Egypt brought about the redemption. They packed their drums because they trusted that Hashem would perform miracles for them, and they prepared to praise Him in song, music and dance. The song of Devorah contains secrets and multiple hints for hastening the redemption and the arrival of Mashiach. The phrase ביום ההוא – “on that day” (Shoftim 5:1), which Devorah mentioned in her song parallels the verse: “And Hashem will be King over all the earth: on that day Hashem will be one and His name one (Zechariah 14:9). This teaches us that reciting this song is a segulah (remedy) for the redemption both personal and for all of Israel.
Sing a Song!! It's going to be so so amazingly good and it is!

fennel art

2011-01-11T14:34:00.000-08:00

sweet potato berry citrus salad

2011-01-09T17:00:00.001-08:00

sweet potato chips baked in oven (water, oil, sea salt some seasoning - nutmeg, cumin, paprika)

lots of fresh herbs basil, parsley, scallions
sweet tangy red berries

dressing: oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, wine, sea salt.

very very tasty!

green goddess dressings with vegetables

2011-01-05T17:30:00.000-08:00

I tried it with basil and with cilantro. I loved it both ways.

green goddess dressings:

avocado, oil, scallions, fresh herbs basil or cilantro, sea salt, wine vinegar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, garlic.

squash, raddish tops and more..

Bet Hugla and sunrise at Yam Hamelach

2011-01-02T17:38:00.000-08:00

I was looking for an adventure and wanted to spend Shabbos in the beautiful desert landscapes near Yam Hamelech -- Mitzpe Yericho, Kfar Adumim or somewhere in that area. I put a request on Shabbat.com (a wonderful website uniting Jews through love for Shabbos ) with a family in Kfar Adumim right above the spring Wadi Kelt but I didn’t get a reply. The previous week I got a ride from the hot springs to the cool sweet water springs at Yam Hamelech from a lovely woman name Sivan. She’s quite a kindred spirit. She’s a raw foodist and we share quite some other interests as well. She mentioned that she might check out Yishuv Chavat Hadat – just the name sounded like something I’d be interested too. So I called her up and wanted to ask her about Yishuv Hadat and whether she wanted to do Shabbos together somewhere.. She said she needs to be up North.. so I called up Yishuv Hadat and I spoke to a sweet woman Naomi. She said that she wont be at the Yishuv for Shabbat but they’re doing Shabbat in nature near Yericho.. and if I want I can join. I said great! And Thanked her. I didn’t really know where it was.. I didn’t get the name of the place straight…. Reception wasn’t too good on her cellphone and I heard the name of the place and the surrounding place incorrectly…I had no other idea where it was besides that it was somewhere near Jericho… I love the challenge of locating the place so I got to work.. Studied maps and researched online.. until I finally got it!! I put in all different keywords into the search engine.. until I finally put in נעמה and יריחו and one of the results was a post which had the answer to my search – the place was בית חוגלה I was psyched to visit it and meet the courageous woman Ornah.. who lives on her own in the desert at the place closest to Jericho.. so that there is a Jewish presence at this special sight near Jericho and Har Nevo. I made delicious onion nutmeg spelt challah for everyone.. It started raining.. but it wasn’t going to change my plan. I knew I had to be there. I took the bus to Jerusalem and then waited for a ride.. I got a ride to French Hill Junction. I then waited for a ride to Mitzpe or for someone heading to Yam Hamelech. It was close to Shabbos and didn’t have much time to spare.. I prayed to Hashem to send me a good ride.. I reminded myself of the time when I was in Maui.. I went to Paia to get coconut bliss for Shabbos… I had about 15 minute walk to the main Highway and from there about a 20 minute ride.. I didn’t want the ice cream to melt and prayed to Hashem to send me a ride quickly.. someone that would go directly to where I needed to go.. even on the same block would be nice.. and then a car stopped .. and it was my Shabbos host himself! B”H I didn’t wait too long at all.. a car stopped and guess where it was heading to בית חוגלה wow! That was beautiful Hashgacha Pratis. I had a beautiful Shabbos with about 20 other people. It was really nice and the food was delicious.. healthy and lots of organic produce that Aharon a farmer from Itamar shared with us..
Motzei Shabbos I got a ride to the hot springs at Yam Hamelech and camped out there.. It was really nice! B”H!

2010-12-27T17:39:00.000-08:00

חדש ששוני קל נא

2010-12-25T14:48:00.000-08:00

I haven't painted in a long time. I came back from my trip.. and was looking for a paper or canvas to do a painting. I had a feeling something good would come out.. I didn't find anything to paint on.. but I found some of my old pieces from ten years ago.. I like them. thanks Hashem for the reminder - to get back to those things that make me alive..and do more.

a new day .. in the sea of life

2010-12-23T14:47:00.000-08:00

I have been so busy.. and forgot what it is to "live".. to breathe fresh air.. I needed to get out.. especially after speaking to someone on the other side of the spectrum.. it brought the point home so much stronger...) So yesterday I took out my rollerblades.. switched my brakepad and rollerbladed from Jerusalem to Yam Hamelach. It was a nice trip. The fun began after Mitzpe Yericho - the road was newly paved and it was a smooth fast ride! Once I got to the "sea of life" I waited for a ride. I so wanted to go to the hot springs. (I have no hot water at home and have been taking freezing showers.. ) and besides there's almost nothing comparable to these amazing hot springs.. they are so full of minerals.. Finally someone stopped, and gave me a ride. By the time we got to the area of the hot springs it was dark outside.. and we passed them. So I just got off at ein gedi beach, filled up on water, and headed out to the springs.. There's no sign for the springs.. and it's hard to find them especially at night.. and with no flashlight... I was walking in the desert.. it was a beautiful walk and then the moon appeared -- wow -- it was a breathtaking sight.. ... at first I had a mission to find the springs.. but then it wasn't happening.. I didn't see them.. and so I just continued walking and enjoyed the walking.. I walked a few kilometers and then from far I saw a stunning spot.. two mountains on both sides and in the middle the waves of the sea hitting the shore.. It was the perfect spot.. and it was calling me.. so I headed there.. and guess what -- there were the hot springs.. flowing right into the sea.. wow! BH My soul so desired to stay there for some more time.. I felt like I was being recharged.. I so missed my natural habitat.. mountains, ocean, springs, stars, open sky.. so I decided to stay there for the night.. It was worth it.. I woke up to a manificent new day at the sea of life.. Hopefully not only metaphorically.. but that's where it starts.. we have to tap into it in the natural physical world and actualize it!

Hashem blessed us with a magnificent world! beautiful outdoors, good fresh air, clean water, blue sky, mountains.. for us to enjoy! and connect ... For me it's home! May Hashem please bless me to go for it.

Happy Chanukah!

2010-12-07T17:19:00.001-08:00

a day of miracles!

2010-11-30T15:35:00.000-08:00

Baruch Hashem!
I went to Yam Hamelach today. It's one of my favorite places in the world! But since I have been back here in Israel I still haven't been there. My soul craved so to be there.. I knew I have to get back on track of coming more often. So I went this past Shabbos to Mitzpe to plant the seeds for a continued good week of blessings and adventure in this area and to reconnect. Today was my first day back. It was amazing. There were so many new swimming holes and beautiful greenery, reeds, a true oasis in the desert! I watched the most beautiful sunset ever! a rainbow of colors in the sea.. blues, pink, purple, red, orange, yellow, lime green.. wow! It was miraculous! I then met y. and i. who were heading to Jerusalem so I got a ride with them back. We got talking about how lucky we are to be able to speak with the artist, creator of this magnificent world and not only are we invited to have a private audience with Him, He's even awaiting us and desires to hear our voice... at any time, all the time... every moment...

But does He listen?! Does He talk to us? How has He listened to you today?, they countered.

BH every moment. I'm well, I can breathe, I made the bus this morning, the bus made the way in excellent timing, I had a good morning, a good meeting, I enjoyed the orange juice, I enjoyed speaking with my brother, I enjoyed walking, the pollution wasn't too bad, there weren’t any smokers or rude people around me, I had water to drink and enjoyed it, I got a good ride to kfar a. and good conversation, and then another excellent happy ride to ovnat- A. was reviewing with his sweet 7 yr. old daughter hilchot Chanukah during the car ride and it was all with so much joy and exuberance.. it made me happy too, I didn't have to wait too long and got another ride to the water pools along the sea. The scenery was stunning. Before heading to the sea I looked around for an empty water bottle to fill up with water from the water station at the checkpoint, but I couldn't find a good water bottle. And then seemingly randomly (Hashgacha pratit) someone walks over to me "hey you need water"..(yes, wow, I'm thinking to myself) he assured me he was fine and didn't need it as he's heading home. I thanked him profusely for precious water in the desert at the right time.. and somehow this exchange of words and his kindness cheered him up as well.. and I felt it was meaningful.. purposeful

Swimming in the pools and in the sea, and the mud.. it all was amazing! sunset was surreal, I got a good ride back home with you guys.. etc..
but I still didn't know of "the" miracle of the day.. which was going to happen soon after..
We decided to stop by at ein mabua - Last time I was there was probably around 3 years ago. I love that place.. I was re-experiencing again the thrilling x-treme downhill roads. I didn't have my rollerblades on this time, but I was brought back to that high moment.. We stopped at the main spring and I told y. and i. that I'd be back in while.. I took off to some night explorations... I love the mountains, small springs, mini waterfalls.. and in the night with a sky full of stars it's lots of fun. I hiked a little bit and then it was time for water fun. I put my clothes what seemed to me like a big rock and went into the water.. It was very dark.. I had no light and it's a small moon today. The water felt really good. I was a bit chilly and I did want to get back on time.. so I got out of the water.. but my skirt was missing!! I had no other change of clothing or anything else I can use to wear.. for a moment I thought ok this is it.. but Baruch Hashem the greatest miracle happened: I didn't give up and went to look for it. There could've have been many logical excuses such as -- you'll never going to find it –in the dark--there's no point in searching.. the water must have carried it away as soon as you put it down.. you'll never be able to catch up with it downstream now after 10-15 minutes. But I did start to walk in the stream following the flow of water-- downstream trying to feel around for my skirt.. and then I felt it.. a soft wet fabric.. wow! I didn't even have to search for long. I just had to be willing to look for it and to start my search.. wow! what if Hashem would've made the miracle that my skirt got stuck around a few rocks stopping it from going downstream.. but I wouldn't even look for it. I wouldn't have had it. G-d could do amazing miracles for us but if we are not open to it.. it wont happen.
Thank You so much Hashem for your kindness, for giving me the motivation.

I headed back to my ride mates. They were wondering how come it took me so long but I think they enjoyed the answer from Hashem: - we have to want to listen in order to hear Him, we have to open up ourselves, we have to allow miracles to happen, we need to believe and have big dreams.. even though it is not "realistic".. because nothing is "realistic"-- rational.. creation of life is not rational, creation is not rational. We have an infinite Good G-d הכול יכול as our partner in life!

Hashem please bless us to know it and live it. Always.

שעשה ניסים לאבותינו בימים ההם בזמן הזה

yay! I got B"H already olive oil for tomorrow night light!! and also beautiful produce b’shefa -- juicy blessed pomegranates, good herbs and lots of goodies bh.

וראה בטוב ירושלים

2010-11-16T20:33:00.000-08:00

oh how it hurts me to be in the palace of the king but not experiencing its spellbounding beauty.. crisp clean fresh air, gardens.. Why don't I feel the artzos hachayim... but how can I..when ירושלים isn't complete. Hashem wants us to care about it and pray.. pray for the perfection of the perfect place .
I remember my visit to the Taj Mahal and thinking to myself "wow if this is what a human king built for his beloved wife then can we imagine the beauty of the palace Hashem, our lover, The King, will build for us!"

I thank you so much Hashem for showing me some of beautiful places, waterfalls, mountains, cliffs, oceans, caves etc. in the world You have created.. and it hurts that Your city, the most special place where You chose to rest Your shechinah now has to suffer too in this pollution.

Please Hashem may we be blessed to experience חיי נשמות אויר ארציך how the very air of Your land Hashem gives life to the soul. (R' Yehuda Halevi) with Your return to Zion and unification of the spiritual Jerusalem and the Jerusalem on this earth!! very soon in our days!

and about more gardens in Yerushalayim-- I don't have to worry - Hashem will add to
Yerushalayim 169,000 gardens in the future.(Baba Basra 75b)
and there will be no words to describe Jerusalem's magnificent beauty!

B"H last night when I was in Jerusalem for a few precious moments I was blessed to see this goodness in Jerusalem beauty and harmony.

It was after the amazing filming session at Rabbi Nebenzahl's house. Rabbi Nebenzahl's amazing personality was shining through and inspired everyone around. He was glowing, full of love and happiness, and shared with us His feelings of love for Eretz Yisrael, Yerushalayim, and Klal Yisrael. Wow! He had this huge, kind, caring smile on his face continuously. One couldn't help but start smiling to the world too. I left his home rejuvenated and headed to the kotel. On the way I had some awesome moments taking pictures with my camera and then later davening at the kotel was quite special..
But I still have to pray lots more... I was waiting at the bus stop for my bus back home and was engulfed by smokers/polluters who quickly turned my world around to the black side.
B"H for the refreshing waters which revived me and brought me back to life!

לולא האמנתי לראות בטוב ה' בארץ חיים
ריבה ריבי וגאלינו לאמרתך חייני"...

הזן את העולם כולו בטובו

2010-11-14T17:56:00.000-08:00

הזן את העולם כולו בטובו
בחן בחסד וברחמים
He satiates the entire world with His goodness with grace, kindness and mercy.

Some of the fun dishes I was blessed to prepare.

סיפורי בעל שם טוב got me talking again..

2010-11-11T17:14:00.000-08:00

I am sorry I haven't posted for quite a while.. but the book סיפורי בעל שם טוב got me posting again. I feel that somehow it isn't right for me not to be sharing about all the wonderful experiences and lessons Hashem has sent my way.. So I resolved to post more frequently. I hope and pray to share amazing good posts often. A few days ago, I was a bit sad and quickly scanned my father's huge sefarim library .. The taste of the sweet Torah I studied at the Shabbos seudah late into motzash was still lingering in my mouth.. and I was longing for more.. I needed something to cheer me up.. The book סיפורי בעל שם טוב winked at me.. and so I took it. I'm glad I picked it. Wow! at some point I really got pulled into the stories and felt connected to the Bal Shem Tov -- as if he was teaching me personally. The stories strengthened me and encouraged me to keep on going... keep on living.. living fully and sharing my adventures..

I need some more Simchah now.. but B"H Hashem sent it --- SHABBOS is here!! The day where everything is Perfect!! I'm excited!

(so I'll get ready.. I haven't decided yet what I'm doing with the lovely scented lemon verbena - lemon challos or lemon truffles.. I'm browsing some recepies for ideas..)

and as to my resolution.. I've added retroactively some historic posts. enjoy!

Shabbat Shalom!!

וזכינו לקבל שבתות מתוך רב שמחה
כי יום שמחות הוא ותשמחני

trying to find the hidden light - וירא

2010-10-12T00:53:00.000-07:00

so I am trying to find the hidden light.

Parshas וירא I spent Shabbos in Ohr Haganuz. It was nice. and of course spent some time at Rabi Shimon in Miron and visited Tzfat the Ari zl too.

אהבת עולם

2010-09-13T18:51:00.000-07:00

תשע"א
תהא שנת אהבת עולם
may it be the year of everlasting love..
the time that goes beyond time..
אהבת עולם תביא להם

It was the night of erev Rosh Hashanah and I was thinking "what kind of year do I want to usher in.." and the words תהא שנת אהבת עולם came to my mind.
The next night Rosh Hashanah - the energy was so powerful -- who can go to sleep. I stayed up all night at the kotel singing sweet tehillim and one of my favorite new gift songs that night was ואני תמיד איחל והוספתי על כל תהילתך.. I looked back and it was chapter עא

The haftorah the next day had beautiful comforting words.. and reconfirmations of this everlasting love..
מרחוק ה נראה לי ואהבת עולם אהבתיך על כן משכתיך חסד
עוד אבנך ונבנית בתולת ישראל
עוד תטעי כרמים
והיתה נפשם כגן רוה
May we merit very soon to the fulfillment of Hashem's promises of these wonderful times.. beyond time!

Rosh Hashanah: to be at the place where it all started!

2010-09-12T18:17:00.000-07:00

Wow! I can't believe it. I am HERE!
All year, in all my adventures.. I have been talking about, dreaming about being in Jerusalem at the Kotel..
to be Rosh Hashanah at the place where it all started.. The very spot from where the whole world was created.. where Adam was created.. and B"H I am here... Thank You Hashem!
and I have the opportunity to start again.. another chance...
and I could pray for the new beginning.. at this spot where Hashem's shechinah is always present. The renewal happens regardless. Hashem with His kindess has sanctified Yisrael and the Year with Rosh Hoshanah.. but we too have to allow ourselves to start again.. and then it's so much more powerful.. and so I pray for all of us to be renewed.. to return to ourselves..to return to Hashem, for Hashem to return to us..
חדש ימינו כקדם
שמח תשמח רעים האהובים כשמחך יצירך בגן עדן מקדם

Rocky Mountain National Park

2010-08-17T20:33:00.000-07:00

Boulder Adventure - Red Rock Trail

2010-07-27T20:05:00.000-07:00

my front yard

night view - red rocks with a full moon

After scouting quite a while, I thought I had finally found my camping spot in Boulder. Hiking to it - to my home -- at night was magical! But this spot wasn't for too long. I woke up to a magnificent - out of this world sunrise.. later went back into my tent to nap some more but was woken up by a Park Ranger was gave me a fine and I had to move on...

G-d is Good!

2010-07-24T16:15:00.000-07:00

G-d is Good! G-d is Good!

הודו לה קראו בשמו הודיעו בעמים עלילותיו שירו לו זמרו לו שיחו בכל נפלאותיו
זכרו נפלאותיו אשר עשה מפתיו ומשפטי פיהו

It was 5:00 am. And I hear a pleasant voice... “Hi, good morning it’s time to wake up.. The gym is opening soon and we should be moving. “ I peeked outside to see my neighbor ‘next door’.
“Good morning”, I greeted him.
“Good morning”, he replied. “How did you find this place? This is the best place in town! It’s my secret place. No one knows about it. How do you know about it?”
I said, “I don’t know --G-d just brought me here.
I had just arrived last night to Boulder from Brooklyn. Too tired to hike around and scout for a place to pitch my tent.. I prayed to Hashem to take care of me. I walked a few blocks and came across this pleasant space, which is near some greenery, water source and has protection from rain. I saw your tent. I usually like my privacy and wouldn’t pitch my tent near other tents… but this time I felt it was ok.”

G-d is good! G-d is good! D. starts chanting..

It was more than ok. I ended up meeting the sweetest person, a great friend, fun energetic activity partner who showed me around all the ins and outs of the town.. including secret gems, a great conversationalist, and an exciting inspirational life teacher!

G-d is Good! Indeed He is! Thank You Hashem!
And Thank You D.

I packed up and then we walked to the nearby park to chat ... It was still early and still needed more sleep so I put up my tent to catch a power nap before the new day begins. Around 9:00 am I woke up again and we walked around town, We passed boulder creek. I enjoyed sitting around the creek. I dipped my feet and refreshed myself. We then continued to Red Rock trail. It was a special day.. Tu B’Av – the equinox of the year (the world transfers from male energy to female energy) and somehow I remember we had very deep conversation on spirituality, Judaism and G-d. I don’t remember what it was.. but remember it was very powerful! The messages I relayed weren’t my words – I was saying what I needed to hear. .. and Thank G-d I was able to sing them too! It was really nice. I hiked some more and decided to make my home there for now.

some more posts to be expanded sometime..
Nebraska shabbos - the days of moshiach - the non jew who wanted a part of shabbos and drove me 2 hours so that I can make Shabbos.

the magical water pipe in Omaha
J. from the cheesecake factory met a target
Shabbos in the Sweet Apple Orchard
Then he mentioned that he has apple trees in the backyard and I was convinced… Yay! Shabbos in the Apple Orchard! I can’t resist that..
Yummy coconut bliss drink, belly laugh vegan cookies and more wholesome goodies..
פוקח עורים - just as I was crossing the stream my paper bag from whole foods tore.. and all my stuff started flowing in the river.. I started swimming and chasing after my stuff.. bh I was able to retrieve everything.. set up camp on the other side of the stream and layed everything out to dry.. my camera wasn't working at first.. but I got an awakening of appreciation for my eyes and my body wow the human eye is so much more sophisticated and even though I fell into the stream too bh my body had no water damage.. and then my camera started working again.

a bloom a day!

2010-06-13T22:23:00.000-07:00

Chodesh Tov!

After a great Hallel with awesome inspirational musicians, holy sisters, dear friends.. in the garden.. more music and heart stories... I was heading back home. Realizing that the sun was setting soon, I stopped by at Borders just to wash up and daven minchah. On the way out, I then seemingly radomly just picked up a book and it opened up to my flower- hul gil. Thank You Hashem. May it be an awesome new blooming month -new beginnings to great times! of song, gratitude, friendship,seeing - living the goodness!

as Ruth noted in her email today--

..."And the way to sing the song of joy is by seeking the good in all people, especially in our selves. Each good point is one more note in the song of life."
Rebbe Nachman of Breslov

let go and you can fly

2010-02-01T14:18:00.000-08:00

(seen on lazer beams)

So we hold on so tight.. so tight.. thinking this is what's saving us..
if we'd only let go...
we can fly...

Hashem wants so much greater for us.. but we are too stuck -- holding on too tight.. so He gives us a small kick to get us off - and we think-- it's the worst -- but really -- it's the best thing for us!! But infinite merciful G-d, Father, could You please show us how to fly without the kick?! You have, You have.. it's just me who's forgetting. So Please remind me with Your compassionate Love!

Thank You Hashem for returning my soul to me!

2010-01-28T08:24:00.000-08:00

After eating those pecan nuts, I went to bed having sweet dreams of my next day -- thinking about -- oh w0w- I can't imagine how my next day's מודה אני שהחזרת בי נשמתי - will be.. and my strong desire to say it -- so passionately -- Thank You Hashem for returning to me my soul.

It's been almost 4 months with no skating trips. It's been lots of inward journies and maybe too much. But Today, it's changing - Tu B'Shvat is coming up a new year for the trees.. for tree huggers.. and for people who want to bloom..

I'm headed to Jerusalem and from there to the sea of life.. While putting on my skates I sing to myself a song about "and you forgot what it is to live .. Hashem please remind me what life is" - of joy and happiness - and love -- where everything and everyone is so so beautiful -- glowing -- alive!

I had an excellent skating trip -- it felt great to be back.. The road, though, was quite rough.. (and wish it was repaired). I was going to head to my favorite hot springs but met someone who told me that they're gone - they have been covered in earth with the recent flash floods. But --there was a new one - another hot spring - I think I have never been to that one - I was so lucky to get a ride directly to it - this magical place.. a hot spring right off the ocean..
It was the best! No one was there.. just surrounded by desert mountains, cliffs, beautiful sky and the ocean..

The ocean was like I've never seen before -- so so stormy with crashing waves.. Wow!
It was just what I needed. I bathed in the hot springs, splashed in the ocean and went in for a quick dip in the cold waters of the ocean, got muddy, warmed up again relaxing my body and bones in the hot springs, washed up with the cool water of my water bottle, put on my clothes.. The winds were blowing and I sat there taking in all this and felt really good. I davened Mincha- wow! I was so thankful to Hashem!! and then walked along the shore while watching sunset. It was marvelous!

As it was getting dark, I headed to the road and then soon later got a ride to Jerusalem for a refreshing rejuvenating experience in a bit different environment - in the world of the mind and feelings -- Rabbi Yitzchak Schwartz Musical meditations on Tu B'shvat and the sefirah of Binah! The meditations reflected my day's experiences and brought them even higher.

לב טהור ברא לי אלוקים ורוח נכון חדש בקרבי
cherry tree roots, trunk, water rain blossoms kids delighting with sweet cherries..
binah.. attracting the collection of treasures חכמה , becoming a vessel to develop and nuture..

May we all continue blossoming!
Happy New Year!

the hidden pecan treasure

2010-01-27T08:13:00.000-08:00

Thank You Hashem!!
w0w- that started the good cycle-- even though the pecans have being there for some years stashed away--they still had all the sweetness and holiness.. You have refreshed me and gave me the energy to go... Thank You Hashem for Your fruits and for sending these "adventureland eggs" in my adventure world of life..

ותוכל

2010-01-16T17:02:00.000-08:00

Wow! This has been an amazing Shabbos B"H!! Endless great songs!
לכה דודי .. יום זה לישראל.. and so much more - non stop. Thank you Hashem for all musical gifts!

(The food winner was--The abundant berry chocolate smoothie-- it was divine! Second place was the לחם חמודות savory breadsticks and third the Indian masala chulent. For presentation: the award is for the zig zag cucumbers and colorful pepper tulips..)

(Three hours into Motzash for some) -- It was still really hard to let go of Shabbos.. I felt a bit down.. I made Havdallah, lit candles for מלוה מלכה and started singing again.. until 3:09 am.. that did it! and then got a beautiful ותוכל musical confirmation..
inspired from the messages of מלכה של תורה - which I read ealier today, always finishing off with amazing humbleness, gratitude and hope: thanking Hashem for being with him and a prayer that Hashem continues to be with him.
אברך ה' שהיה לי לאורה ועזרני בביאור פרשת וארא כן יגמלני בטובו לבאר פרשת בא
and then the answer is right there - Hashem says don't worry -- just come with me בא
also remarkable פרי צדיק on שבת פרשת וארא ראש חודש שבט
so with these inspirations, while singing זמירות, Hashem with his great kindness reassured me with a musical interpretation of ותוכל

(some of the underlying messages)
כי שרית עם אלוהים ותוכל אל תירא עבדי יעקב
just come with me בא אל פרעה don't stop yourself short, don't be afraid to face it! just come with me - ותוכל - you'll make it!

(this is amazingly timely as I need to leave home, and go to NY but can't bring myself to buy a ticket yet. I hope this will be a catalyst for great miracles and wonders)

Timna Adventure

2009-12-27T06:25:00.001-08:00

(credits: google my camera isn't working so no pics this time)

This past week I was on a Negev Adventure..
I love the desert! especially canyons! Timna Park has lots of them..
and of course, swimming in Yam Hamelach, hot springs, mud was so rejuvenating!

mung sprouts salad

2009-12-03T14:53:00.001-08:00

sunny orange ginger tartelettes

2009-12-02T17:09:00.000-08:00

orange chunks, ginger, maple syrup, raw cane sugar, oatmeal, flour, oil, wine, rice dream, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, chai spice.

making my first veggie sushi!

2009-11-30T20:49:00.000-08:00

Thank You so much Hashem for teaching me to appreciate Your food.

I made lots of good food today B"H. I was still a bit hungry though later on.. on the counter was my alfalfa sprouts sprouting.. yum yum and I knew I had some mushrooms.. I decided to make sushi: alfalfa sprouts, mushrooms, avocado, red pepper, red onion, nori sheets
sauce: soy sauce, fresh ginger, wine black, oregano, black pepper, sea salt

my alfalfa sprouts..sprouting is fun..

Pineapple Ginger Cheery Smoothie

2009-11-30T20:39:00.000-08:00

hummmmm! The best cookies ever! Orange Zest Chocolate

2009-11-17T09:10:00.000-08:00

The batter is still chillin in the fridge but I think these will be the best cookies ever.. and they are vegan too! The batter was irresistible.. so so good!!

Here's the (on the spot) recipe: I don't have any measurements sorry.

orange zest
freshly squeezed orange juice
cinnamon
pereg chai all spice mix -- (English pepper, cardamom..)
vanilla bean soaked in amaretto- crushed up
organic carob powder
baking powder
salt
maple syrup
raw cane sugar
sesame oil
canola oil
sweet red wine
premium quality chocolate chopped to bits
oatmeal
whole wheat flour

Chodesh Tov! May Hashem bless us with light joy and great miracles!

veggie delights! fresh organic produce.

2009-11-09T23:22:00.000-08:00

floral delights in the Golan!

2009-11-09T22:46:00.001-08:00

Tzfat Festival and Ein Od Milvado

2009-08-17T09:33:00.000-07:00

wow! That was remarkable!
About 2 years ago, I saw a very inspirational movie on Yitzchak Chofetz Chaim -- Yishmael transforming to Yitzchak.. I loved the soundtracks composed and performed by R' Amram -- Yitzchak's spiritual guide. I have always wanted to meet him... and hear him sing..

One night, after the evening shows this year at the Tzfat Klezmer Festival
..I walked into the cave and heard a sweet song.. it sounded familiar -there was R' Amram singing "Ein Od Milvado"!

The Tzfat Klezmer festival was great!!

oh oh! paradise Hawaii Highlights

2009-07-30T09:46:00.000-07:00

The Blue Room in Kauai

Napali Coast, Kalalau Trail, -- camping out in the valley.. that was so beautiful -- a remote valley only accessible by a super strenuous 12-16 hours hike.. nice community feeling in the valley..

Maui - seven sacred pools Oheo Gulch

Maui - Twin Falls

Maui - Iao Needle

Maui -- Bamboo Forrest near Oheo Gulch and waterfall

The Big Island - Volcano National Park! wow! Shabbos in the Park!

Halawe Valley in Molokai

The Secret Beach in Kauai near the lighthouse

Maui - Haleakala - crater rollerblading down from the highest point

swimming with turtles in Kauai

Queens bath in Kauai

Surfing in Maui

snorkeling in Molokini - a small island - volcanic crater near Maui now a bird sanctuary

eating fruits from the land -- I think that's number one really! amazing avocados, papaya, mango, coconut, pineapple, macadamia nuts, mountain apples, edible flowers, cherry guava, passion fruit, lychee, oranges, lemons,bananas, chocolate pudding fruit..

Anini beach in Kauai -- sipping on cool chocolate beer with a friend on the beach and rain drops falling on us..

The fun natural food stores -- Manna Foods in Paia - hippy town in Mauai, Abundant Life, Natural Islands..

meeting healers, artists, musicians... spiritual individuals... and the Aloha loving spirit!!!!

waking up in the morning at Anini beach and seeing the park ranger checking camping permits we just jumped into the ocean! -- (that was the only place where camping permits are required and are enforced apparently.)

gardens, exotic flowers..

hot pools in the Big Island

blissful ice cream in the forest

Skydiving in the North Shore Oahu

Waimea Canyon in Kauai , Waimea Falls and valley in Oahu,

There are so many more amazing places.. I am getting homesick..

I am so grateful to Hashem for blessing me with this opportunity to explore and see the most beautiful artwork - The magnificent world Hashem created!

Imagine a great artist who did the most beautiful painting and so wants people to enjoy it... but instead people are so busy.. and don't even notice it. G-d created the most beautiful world for us to enjoy! I bless us all to experience it fully! Enjoy the beauty and the kindness and love of Hashem!

the cycle

2009-07-21T02:01:00.000-07:00

(Waimea Falls North Shore World Botanical Gardens.)

Saying goodbye to the fragrance of Hawaii.. for now...

Laundry Time.

I wouldn’t think it would be a significant event to post about – but it turned out to be one. I got back from Hawaii and it’s laundry time… It’s been almost 3 months of camping where the “ananei hakavod” the clouds of glory, sun, wind, springs, and oceans washed my clothing.. leaving my clothing smelling really nice.. but now, they needed a good heavy duty wash machine cycle. (Thank You so much G-d that on this trip, I was never in a rush and needed to quickly pack up and stuff wet clothes into my backpack. Even if it did rain, the sun would later come out and would dry up my stuff.)

(Waimea Falls North Shore camping out on World Botanical Gardens.)

(camping at secret beach Kauai)

(beautiful sunrise at beach)

I unpacked my clothing from my backpack and bag and spread them out putting them in piles of loads according to color... Sweet fragrances of Hawaii lingered in the air and with it surfaced sweet memories… Oh, how I miss Hawaii! It’s been one of the greatest trips in my life... Paradise! I thought about all the good times I have had... how these clothes have been with me and served me on my great adventures... where I wore them and where I wished I could’ve worn them but didn’t have them with me... (I sometimes stashed some stuff before going off to difficult treks… or if I just wanted to be lighter hiking/backpacking and preferred skipping down the trail..) Indeed, amazing beautiful good times B”H!

I hesitate before putting each article of clothing into the washing machine.. before the smell is gone forever. I bring my fleece, bathing suit, shirts, close to me and inhale its scent... an hour before the flight swim in the Pacific – beach 69 cove, orchids, delicious aromatic flowers, lemon grass mosquito repellent, mangoes, longones, Haleakala, Waimea canyon, rain, Volcano national park, Twin falls, Mauna Kea, sitting in back of pickup trucks windy rides, La Perouse, hat, bag, gray t-shirt, socks rollerblading, hiking, night hiking falling into streams, keeping my feet warm, black skirt, yoga pants skydiving, sweat pants, lightweight cotton khaki green floral print skirt and b/w print skirt – my favorites this trip – just really comfortable and used them every day.
I then turn the knob to get the water running
Put them into the wash machine
Add tide detergent…
And start the cycle…

Fresh Clothes! I am ready for my next adventure! B’ezrat Hashem!

(Where would I be the next time I open up my backpack to take out a clean shirt? I don’t know… but I am excited for it… and I am imagining my excitement of the heavenly fresh odor of clean laundry on a camping trip...Thank You Hashem.. )

Sunrise at Mauna Kea!

2009-07-07T03:39:00.000-07:00

I camped out at the summit of Mauna Kea! (It's the tallest mountain in the world considering it being 33k feet from its base in the Pacific Ocean.)

It was cold! very cold! but so worth it! I got to see sunset and sunrise standing above the clouds! The most beautiful ever!

קטנתי מכל החסדים

2009-07-03T03:32:00.000-07:00

I have got no words.. I am speechless.. for the great miracles you have sent my way! Thank You G-d!

Shabbos in Volcano National Park!

rollerblading the Waimea Canyon

2009-06-17T23:04:00.000-07:00

It was a great day! I camped out with Vicky in the Canyon the past few days! It was really amazing! I wanted a change of scenery and there were lots of things and places to experience. I wanted to rollerblade down the canyon toady! I heard it's a wild wild ride about 20 miles extreme downhill!!! I have seen some flyers of bike downhill tours. I stopped by at the gift shop to find out some info. The biking tours start outside of the park boundaries but since I was doing it my way --on my own, I can start even in the park and have a longer ride! yay! It was a super fun ride! The views of the canyon were just magnificent!!! I got to the junction -- I could either go on the super wild downhill road or the super super wild downhill road with crazy curves right along the rim of the canyons. You know which one I chose. I started on the super super one... the curves were more than I ever experienced! I'll admit I was scared! The road was too a bit rocky! I dared myself to the next curve and then the next.. but then my brakes were almost worn out to the limit.. I didn't have enough braking surface area on my brake pad and the speeds and curves were so above my control.. I wanted to continue on the most extreme downhill road of my life but I think it was pushing too much.. and got a ride for the next few extreme rocky sharp downhill turns.. I then got off and skated the next few miles into town where I met Vicky again. She had a great food treat -- longgones -- they were delicious! It was the first time I had them.

let go of the list stop running.. enjoy what you have now.. hanalei pier beach waipio valleypolo

2009-06-14T06:01:00.000-07:00

2009-06-10T03:26:00.000-07:00

2009-06-10T03:24:00.000-07:00

Aloha!

2009-05-20T16:20:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not updating -- I am in paradise now.. B"H I have lots of great adventures, stories, sweet miracles to share.. but I am busy creating it now. Maybe one day I'll choose to reflect on them -- and go back there -- in memory lane. Hey, don't worry - I will IY"H and this trip, I caved in -- I got a digital camera.. so lots of goodies coming!

a beautiful trip in the snow!

2009-03-01T18:59:00.000-08:00

but now my car would not start. I hope something great happens.

The Joyous Adar Hallel

2009-02-25T18:52:00.000-08:00

an amazing Adar Hallel at Maureen's in Park Slope! wow!

(if you want to join us for Rosh Chodesh amazing, women's Hallel in Jerusalem, NYC or anywhere in the world I'll be IY"H.. email me.. and I will keep you updated about upcoming events.)

ואתה אמרת היטיב איטיב עמך

2009-02-18T17:47:00.000-08:00

I was a bit apprehensive about leaving to NY. But Your encouraging words and actually making it happen for me! (wow!what a surprise!) reassured me and made me feel good about it!

Thank you so much Hashem!

דִּרְשׁוּ יְהוָה בְּהִמָּצְאוֹ, קְרָאֻהוּ בִּהְיוֹתוֹ קָרוֹב. יַעֲזֹב רָשָׁע דַּרְכּוֹ וְאִישׁ אָוֶן מַחְשְׁבֹתָיו, וְיָשֹׁב אֶל יְהוָה וִירַחֲמֵהוּ וְאֶל אֱלֹהֵינוּ כִּי יַרְבֶּה לִסְלוֹחַ. כִּי לֹא מַחְשְׁבוֹתַי מַחְשְׁבוֹתֵיכֶם וְלֹא דַרְכֵיכֶם דְּרָכָי, נְאֻם יְהוָה. כִּי גָבְהוּ שָׁמַיִם מֵאָרֶץ, כֵּן גָּבְהוּ דְרָכַי מִדַּרְכֵיכֶם וּמַחְשְׁבֹתַי מִמַּחְשְׁבֹתֵיכֶם. כִּי כַּאֲשֶׁר יֵרֵד הַגֶּשֶׁם וְהַשֶּׁלֶג מִן הַשָּׁמַיִם וְשָׁמָּה לֹא יָשׁוּב כִּי אִם הִרְוָה אֶת הָאָרֶץ וְהוֹלִידָהּ וְהִצְמִיחָהּ, וְנָתַן זֶרַע לַזֹּרֵעַ וְלֶחֶם לָאֹכֵל.

כֵּן יִהְיֶה דְבָרִי אֲשֶׁר יֵצֵא מִפִּי לֹא יָשׁוּב אֵלַי רֵיקָם, כִּי אִם עָשָׂה אֶת אֲשֶׁר חָפַצְתִּי וְהִצְלִיחַ אֲשֶׁר שְׁלַחְתִּיו. כִּי בְשִׂמְחָה תֵצֵאוּ וּבְשָׁלוֹם תּוּבָלוּן, הֶהָרִים וְהַגְּבָעוֹת יִפְצְחוּ לִפְנֵיכֶם רִנָּה וְכָל עֲצֵי הַשָּׂדֶה יִמְחֲאוּ כָף.

תַּחַת הַנַּעֲצוּץ יַעֲלֶה בְרוֹשׁ (תחת) וְתַחַת הַסִּרְפַּד יַעֲלֶה הֲדַס, וְהָיָה לַיהוָה לְשֵׁם לְאוֹת עוֹלָם לֹא יִכָּרֵת

כֹּה אָמַר יְהוָה שִׁמְרוּ מִשְׁפָּט וַעֲשׂוּ צְדָקָה, כִּי קְרוֹבָה יְשׁוּעָתִי לָבוֹא וְצִדְקָתִי לְהִגָּלוֹת.

אַשְׁרֵי אֱנוֹשׁ יַעֲשֶׂה זֹּאת וּבֶן אָדָם יַחֲזִיק בָּהּ, שֹׁמֵר שַׁבָּת מֵחַלְּלוֹ וְשֹׁמֵר יָדוֹ מֵעֲשׂוֹת כָּל רָע. וְאַל יֹאמַר בֶּן הַנֵּכָר הַנִּלְוָה אֶל יְהוָה לֵאמֹר הַבְדֵּל יַבְדִּילַנִי יְהוָה מֵעַל עַמּוֹ, וְאַל יֹאמַר הַסָּרִיס הֵן אֲנִי עֵץ יָבֵשׁ. כִּי כֹה אָמַר יְהוָה לַסָּרִיסִים אֲשֶׁר יִשְׁמְרוּ אֶת שַׁבְּתוֹתַי וּבָחֲרוּ בַּאֲשֶׁר חָפָצְתִּי, וּמַחֲזִיקִים בִּבְרִיתִי. וְנָתַתִּי לָהֶם בְּבֵיתִי וּבְחוֹמֹתַי יָד וָשֵׁם טוֹב מִבָּנִים וּמִבָּנוֹת, שֵׁם עוֹלָם אֶתֶּן לוֹ אֲשֶׁר לֹא יִכָּרֵת. וּבְנֵי הַנֵּכָר הַנִּלְוִים עַל יְהוָה לְשָׁרְתוֹ וּלְאַהֲבָה אֶת שֵׁם יְהוָה לִהְיוֹת לוֹ לַעֲבָדִים, כָּל שֹׁמֵר שַׁבָּת מֵחַלְּלוֹ וּמַחֲזִיקִים בִּבְרִיתִי. וַהֲבִיאוֹתִים אֶל הַר קָדְשִׁי וְשִׂמַּחְתִּים בְּבֵית תְּפִלָּתִי עוֹלֹתֵיהֶם וְזִבְחֵיהֶם לְרָצוֹן עַל מִזְבְּחִי, כִּי בֵיתִי בֵּית תְּפִלָּה יִקָּרֵא לְכָל הָעַמִּים. נְאֻם אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה מְקַבֵּץ

נִדְחֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל, עוֹד אֲקַבֵּץ עָלָיו לְנִקְבָּצָיו.

כב עשר תעשר את כל תבואת זרעך היצא השדה שנה שנה ואכלת לפני יהוה אלהיך במקום אשר יבחר לשכן שמו שם מעשר

דגנך תירשך ויצהרך ובכרת בקרך וצאנך למען תלמד ליראה את יהוה אלהיך כל הימים וכי ירבה ממך הדרך כי לא תוכל שאתו כי ירחק ממך המקום אשר יבחר יהוה אלהיך לשום שמו שם כי יברכך יהוה אלהיך ונתתה בכסף וצרת הכסף בידך והלכת אל המקום אשר יבחר יהוה אלהיך בו ונתתה הכסף בכל אשר תאוה נפשך בבקר ובצאן וביין ובשכר ובכל אשר תשאלך נפשך ואכלת שם לפני יהוה אלהיך ושמחת אתה וביתך והלוי אשר בשעריך לא תעזבנו כי אין לו חלק ונחלה עמך מקצה שלש שנים תוציא את כל מעשר תבואתך בשנה ההוא והנחת בשעריך ובא הלוי כי אין לו חלק ונחלה עמך והגר והיתום והאלמנה אשר בשעריך ואכלו ושבעו למען יברכך יהוה אלהיך בכל מעשה ידך אשר תעשה

תהילים ק קא קב קג

לדוד מזמור חסד ומשפט אשירה לך יהוה אזמרה אשכילה בדרך תמים מתי תבוא אלי אתהלך בתם לבבי בקרב ביתי

עיני בנאמני-ארץ לשבת עמדי הלך בדרך תמים הוא ישרתני

שוב אל ארצך ואיטבה עמך

ואתה אמרת היטיב איטיב עמך.. ושמתי את זרעך כחול הים אשר לא יספר מרב

I hope to share wonderful adventures coming up soon.

Maybe New Zealand, another place, many things really good and exciting..

B"H the rain is coming down

2009-02-10T06:09:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I planted a Cedar Tree in Bat Ayin.

B"H it is raining today! Yay!

and my fruit -- the yummy coconut with it's sweet water inside.

and here's a great song by Hamadregot -- Maayan Chai

May Hashem shower us with an abundance of blessings always!!

שירו לה שיר חדש

2009-02-08T07:05:00.000-08:00

B"H I got to be in Yerushalayim Ihr Hakodesh for Shabbos Shirah. Thank You so much Hashem. I was afraid I wouldn't make it, but then You made it happen.

I davened at Raz - Vani Tefilati -- it was the highest!

Shabbos seudah at Asher's was awesome! The food was delicious -- healthy holy happy..

Kotel, Rabbi Machlis Torah reading, Shirat Hayam, Shirat Devorah.. , Kiddush, my yummy garlic challahs..

R' Brodts Seudat Shlishit great singing and Torah..

and Raz Hartman's amazing Motzash Shuva Shvat performace at the beautiful space Reshimu!

It was a wonderful Shabbat Shirah.

Please Hashem may we merit to sing very soon -- a new song! The ultimate song!

שירו לה שיר חדש בשרו מיום ליום ישועתו

New Discovery

2009-02-05T17:00:00.000-08:00

It was a good skate today. It was a bit slow though-- too loaded -- my bags weighed me down...
But today was really good. B"H I discovered the coolest combo pool -- combination of all things I love.
-- it had everything!!
--it had a small falls.. the water was at some places warm - hot and other places cool -- the softest mud -- full of minerals that make you laugh and giggle non stop.. the trickling sound of flowing water -- overlooking the dead sea -- the water a beautiful turquoise color -- sorrounded by mountains -- a most stunning setting!

The sea was so enticing at sunset .. and I swam a lot.. Jordan seemed as close as Israel..
It was so great B"H .. couldn't stop smiling !

and ended off the day with a great jam with Navah singing and playing her beautiful tanpura..
כל הנשמה תהלל קה

May we always sing and thank Hashem from a most beautiful place.

2009-02-02T17:18:00.000-08:00

Please Hashem Revive Our Heart - Erez's song

2009-01-29T09:08:00.001-08:00

in memory of the great Erez Levanon

I didn't know Erez but from his beautiful sweet music full of hope faith and love...

...ויש הר, ועל ההר עומד אבן, ומן האבן יוצא מעין. וכל דבר יש לו לב, וגם העולם בכללו יש לו לב. וזה הלב של העולם הוא קומה שלמה עם פנים וידיים ורגליים. וזה ההר עם האבן והמעין עומד בקצה אחד של העולם, וזה הלב של העולם עומד בקצה אחר של העולם. וזה הלב עומד כנגד המעיין וכוסף ומשתוקק תמיד מאוד מאוד לבא אל אותו המעיין בהשתוקקות גדול מאוד מאוד וצועק מאוד לבא אל אותו המעיין, וגם זה המעיין משתוקק אליו... (סיפורי מעשיות של רבי נחמן מברסלב)

מעבר ים כחול / מעבר קו כחול / מעל חכמת אדם / מעל בינת אנוש.
זורם בכל ורידים / מנשים האברים / אוהב את הבריות / אוהב ולא נסוג.

כן הלב הוא פועם.

אל תוותר / ואל נא תתייאש / יש בך הרבה / יש לך את האש.
עשה מה שתוכל / עשה זאת במנוחה / כי הלב העליון / מאיר בתוכך.

Please Hashem revive our heart!

Ohr Chadash

2009-01-26T06:29:00.000-08:00

It was great visiting the Trugmans Ohr Chadash and being on the Moshav on Shabbos! Rabbi Trugman plays one of my favorite instruments -- the dulcimer and his face -- is always beaming. Besides, his Torah teaching and personality is awesome! I made delicious pizza challah for Shabbos.

May we merit soon אור חדש על ציון תאיר

Bini Landau singing Ohr Chadash 43:00

The Return to Magical Land Heavenly Springs

2009-01-20T08:09:00.000-08:00

It's been a real long time.. b'h I am back.. skating was great.. mitzpe to the sea took only 20 minutes -- that might have been a record.. the winds were just perfect -- not too strong -- but cooling and pushing me forward.. making me fly.. after reaching Lido I decided to visit Ein Bokek -- it was very chill and relaxing.

I enjoyed it a lot.. and then of course went to the hot springs - -those are my favorite!

I am glad I got back into it.. and rollerbladed to the dead sea the next day and then the day after that.. and then the following week every day.. I also came across and swam in some new springs. But from hiking barefoot and swimming at night in the sea with salt crystals I got too many cuts so I took a break today so that the cuts have time to heal..

Do you want to be rembered through pain

2008-11-16T14:18:00.000-08:00

Thank G-d the toothache is gone and He is reminding me – in the most beautiful way.. Thank You for the delicious warming nourishing food – awesome blueberry vanilla chocolate oatmeal, the stunning world and colors, fun skating trips, and midnight swimming in the
sea... and of course the great songs.. and smiles… and feeling of gratitudute
תהלת ה' ידבר פי ויברך כל בשר שם קדשו לעולם ועד ואנחנו נברך ה מעתה ועד עולם הללוקה

My lover has made a beautiful spot for me

2008-11-06T14:17:00.000-08:00

thank you Hashem.

The magical hot spring kingdom

2008-11-05T14:14:00.000-08:00

Gan Eden 'M'Kedem'

amazing Hashem

2008-11-03T15:18:00.001-08:00

Thank G-d I am feeling better.. and before I got to go through spectrum of rainbow soups.. I got to have some outdoor adventures. Wow! It was so so much more than I imagined. Before I left my house I thought I'd probably not post about today; it will just be another great skating to the yam hamelech day! But by now 1:oo am .. I just can stop saying amazing G-d .. amazing G-d.. Thank You so much for today's miracle day! It was so so much fun -- skating, the hot and cool springs.. the yam hamelech .. swimming down the natural water chutes between the canyons (you have to very careful.. your skin can get sliced.. I got some cuts.. but okay..) and into the sea.. discovering real chill pools.. rolling in the softest mud.. laughing.. and at the end of the day actually night.. I thought it wouldn't be so much fun. I couldn't find my stuff. It was so dark.. I looked for it for hours.. and then I found one pile of stuff.. major miracle as my clothes were dark color.. and there was no way of seeing it.. there was no way of seeing the area around.. It just felt that that was the place and then Hashem opened my eyes and I saw it.. and then walked and prayed some more and found my shoes and water bottle.. a few hundred meters further.. but even getting back to the road there were still lots of surprises.. surprise pools of water and sinking mud.. Thank You Hashem for getting me back home safe and for an amazing time!--
(I met the camel guy at sea level -- eich yesh lach koach -- Hashem noten koach I replied.. yes indeed Hashem.. please continue to bless us more and more.. with strength, good health, and motivation!)

nonstop joy

2008-11-02T13:50:00.000-08:00

Rabbi Lazer Brody's NonStop Joy talk

cold

2008-11-02T13:40:00.000-08:00

purple pizza!

2008-10-31T15:17:00.000-07:00

yum!

happy orange soup

2008-10-30T15:14:00.000-07:00

orange with zest, butternut squash, ginger, real maple syrup, roasted garlic and onions, cardomom, red hot pepper, salt.. millet.. it was delicious!

spicy red hot healing soup.

2008-10-27T09:21:00.000-07:00

I have a cold (maybe too much traveling around last week.. ) and was feeling quite lousy today. But B"H I prayed to Hashem.. and got up to prepare a spicy red hot healing soup. I haven't eaten it yet but just prepared it, set it to cook, and inhaled the warm aromas... B"H I feel much better now.. I look forward eating it in a few minutes.
feel good always and all the best,

עין פרת and עין גדי

2008-10-24T09:20:00.000-07:00

I went to Ein Prat and Ein Gedi. It was amazing b"h.

ושאבתם מים בששון במעיני הישועה

2008-10-22T14:25:00.000-07:00

please Hashem..

ושמחת בחגיך.. אכלו מעדנים שתה ממתקים

2008-10-22T14:14:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the raw food divas' inspirations.. I made insanely yummy ice cream – triple layered ice cream cake – smooth chocolate hazelnut cream layer, crunchy almond coffee cinnamon layer, and a vanilla cashew layer.. topped with blueberries and chocolate fudge…
For the first Yom Tov I made delicious blueberry cardamom ice cream with chocolate mint fudge. The Challah was so so tasty too..I made sweet ones – cinnamon maple syrup vanilla cane sugar.. and some challot topped with olive oil, zatar, rosemary, onions, garlic, tomato, pepper.. everyone just filled up on the challah.. The luscious lasagna was a hit as well– it tasted even better than the dairy version.. the nut mixture tasted so much like real cheese..

Partial menu
Most delicious whole wheat Challah, cranberry kiwi pineapple fruit cups, pecan maple syrup garlic red wine salmon, vegetable salads, olives, lasagna zucchini mushroom spinach pine nuts brazil nuts tomatoes, carrot salad, wines, beer, drinks, ice cream

Challah, Pineapple melon, Chick pea parsley dill salad, tachina, tomato salad, olives, tofu salad zatar olive oil garlic onion, delicious roasted eggplant garlic white wine and ginger salad, carrot salad, beets, lettuce salad, sprouts, vegetable platters, batter fried beer salmon, zucchini carrot bread, whole wheat pasta topped with mushrooms onions garlic sautéed with white wine, ice cream..

and the guests, divrei torah, and discussions.. were great! Baruch Hashem!
חרחמן הוא יקום לנו את סוכת דוד הנופלת
May we experience the ultimate joy!! very soon!!
והביאותים אל הר קודשי ושמחתים בבית תפילתי

Recreate the world with love.. recreate the world with passion

2008-09-25T14:12:00.000-07:00

Maureen made an amazing birthday party for the world.. The next day I decided to skate to yam hamelech. It was my first time since getting back here.. It was so so much fun!! I loved the sea especially swimming during sunset and into the night.. I wanted to implant the seeds for an amazingly exciting year… recreate the world.. this new year… with excitement.. with things I love doing.. with lots of fun times!!

reminders-- שויתי ה לנגדי תמיד

2008-09-18T14:09:00.000-07:00

Remember GPS analogy Rochel Rena Silber – Hashem will get you there.. . even if you insist on your way.. He'll just recalculate the route.. and take us to wherever we need to be.. the best place..,

5 Daughter story .. .Waiting.. it's for the best --Don't worry Hashem hasn't forgotten you.. Yitzchak Fanger

Keeping the Love Alive

2008-09-01T17:07:00.000-07:00

a great Torah talk by David Sacks:

We've entered the month of Elul which means that the new year with all it's decrees and judgements are around the corner! It's both exciting and a little scary, but Hashem is good so we don't have to be afraid! Hashem gives us Elul, this last month of the year, to finish on a strong note. How do we do it? Well, that's a big subject, but we begin the discussion in this week's talk with a look at the importance of appreciating the present moment .
http://download. 613.org/sacks/ ElulKeepingtheLo veAlive-2008. mp3

the special 40 day journey

2008-09-01T16:57:00.000-07:00

I am excited! Praying for Hashem, Klal Yisrael and all of us to reunite with our true soulmate and building a binyan olam! Thank You so much Hashem for all the sweet messages today and every day! May we experience soon for always --Your everlasting infinite Love.. and to be passionately in love with Hashem, with ourselves, with Klal Yisrael, the world, Life!

(I am praying for all of us - if you want me to specifically mention your hebrew name at the kotel just email me.)

amusement park

2008-08-26T14:39:00.000-07:00

I went with A and Y. It was lots of fun!

luscious pears

2008-08-24T11:47:00.001-07:00

go to Tzfat! Klezmer Festival

2008-08-24T11:25:00.000-07:00

Thank You Hashem for making me go. It was the best! (It was super sweet to get a ride from Jerusalem all the way straight to Tzfat. BH)

שלמה גרוניך שלמה בר אייל שילוח מירל רזניק
shacharit at carlebach shul
refreshing watermellon (a bit soapy)
wholesome fresh pita

ecstatic most powerful music jam w/ D and J amazing violinists vocalists at an awesome underground space. wow!! I wish we could do it again.

midnight desert hike in nachal og!

2008-08-18T11:19:00.000-07:00

with full moon.

Prayer for Unity

2008-08-12T19:16:00.000-07:00

Please Hashem may there be no more mourning Tisha B'av but just full of joy.

Rabbi Yitzchak Schwartz

Master of the Universe
We come before You
with a broken heart
and a scattered sense of self
Please heal us
Please reunify us
Please return us
to our city
of complete -seeing
Yerushalayim,
so that we can be
whole again,
so that
we can harmonize together
all that is disconected so that
we can attach ourselves and all that is
temporal in our lives,
all that is mediocre and stuck
and petty
in our lives
to
all that is infinite all that is supernatural all that is eternal
and all that is Divine
Return us to all this
through the unifying power of Jerusalem---
the upper , heavenly Jerusalem
together with the lower
earthly Jerusalem

Reveal to us
the total beauty that Jerusalem contains
the essence of beauty
The beauty of
The song of the Levites
Then song that melted and transformed
the hearts of all who heard it
The beauty of the Divine Service and
the wisdom and the Prophecy
that could be tangibly felt and
tasted nowhere else like in Jerusalem

Dear Creator of the Universe and
of all mankind,
Return to us the ability to live the daily
miracles of Jerusalem
and the tangible revelation of
Your Holy Prescence
Usher us into the time that
all of Your Prophets spoke about
where all people will
look to Jerusalem for their
physical and
spiritual wellbeing
for it's supernal light to banish all of their
various forms of darkness
for it's healing to heal their bodies and souls
for it's concentration of Divine Prescence
to serve as the focal point
of everyone's motivation and occupation
---an occupation that will no longer
be concerned with
so much with survival and money,
but rather with
knowing You
and knowing that there is
nothing else besides You

May it be your will
that the words of our mouths
and the meditations of our hearts
find favor in Your eyes
our G-d
our Rock
and our redeemer

Amen

A prayer for our return home

2008-08-10T19:05:00.000-07:00

Rabbi Yitzchak Schwartz

Our Merciful father
We grieve for all that we have lost
We grieve, but with a grieving
that is full of trust and hope---
a trust that our grieving will be
transformed into pure joy---
a joy that comes when our prayers our answered and
our dreams are fulfilled

But most important, Hashem
We yearn for your Prescence
here on earth
in the Place that
You have chosen to Dwell
from time immemorial

Bring us all home Dear Lord,
Bring us all back home to Jerusalem
to the place that we have
never stopped loving and longing for
in every prayer
in every major event
of our lives

Return us to the Jerusalem
that shines in her full glory
to the Jerusalem of today
that is being transformed
into the ultimate Jerusalem
of tomorrow
with her Prophets
and her Scholars
and her Priests
and her Mashiach
and her Holy Temple
all shining forth
with the brightest
of Divine Light
a light that lights up
all the darknesses
of the entire world

Bring us home
our G-d and G-d of our fathers
Bring us back
to the home of our youth
bring us to a home where we know
that all that really counts is
to be with You
in all ways always

Bring us Home
to ourselves
to our fully expressed
fully blossomed
glorious selves
Open up the wellsprings of
Jerusalem
inside of our hearts and souls

for all this
and more than we
can express
we ask you, Dear G-d
to bring us home!!

power food

2008-08-05T18:54:00.000-07:00

I have been living off goji berries and cacao power.. the last few days...

פרסומי ניסא

2008-07-28T18:48:00.000-07:00

נס פך השמן on the road. Thank You G-d.
The car was just going and going...

smadar livine

2008-07-27T21:35:00.000-07:00

smadar livine

maximizing food energy

2008-07-27T21:08:00.000-07:00

a friend of mine shared with me her favorite blog for super delicious healthy eating ideas-- http://thesunnyrawkitchen.blogspot.com/
I am excited and can't wait to try them!! Here is the index.
and raw goddess is another great food blog with stunning food presentation pics.

I saw this posted on a board --

It's been said that God first separated the salt water from the fresh, made dry land, planted a garden, made animals and fish... all before making a human. He made and provided what we'd need before we were born. These are best & more powerful when eaten raw. We're such slow learners...

God's Pharmacy! Amazing!
A sliced Carrot looks like the human eye. The pupil, iris and radiating lines look just like the human eye... and YES, science now shows carrots greatly enhance blood flow to and function of the eyes.

A Tomato has four chambers and is red. The heart has four chambers and is red. All of the research shows tomatoes are loaded with lycopine and are indeed pure heart and blood food.

Grapes hang in a cluster that has the shape of the heart. Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today shows grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing food.

A Walnut looks like a little brain, a left and right hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or folds on the nut are just like the neo-cortex. We now know walnuts help develop more than three (3) dozen neuron-transmitters for brain function.

Kidney Beans actually heal and help maintain kidney function and yes, they look exactly like the human kidneys.

Celery, Bok Choy, Rhubarb and many more look just like bones. These foods specifically target bone strength. Bones are 23% sodium and these foods are 23% sodium. If you don't have enough sodium in your diet, the body pulls it from the bones, thus making them weak. These foods replenish the skeletal needs of the body.

Avocadoes, Eggplant and Pears target the health and function of the womb and cervix of the female - they look just like these organs. Today's research shows that when a woman eats one avocado a week, it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight, and prevents cervical cancers. And how profound is this? It takes exactly nine (9) months to grow an avocado from blossom to ripened fruit. There are over 14,000 photolytic chemical constituents of nutrition in each one of these foods (modern science has only studied and named about 141 of them).

Figs are full of seeds and hang in twos when they grow. Figs increase the mobility of male sperm and increase the numbers of Sperm as well to overcome male sterility.

Sweet Potatoes look like the pancreas and actually balance the glycemic index of diabetics.

Olives assist the health and function of the ovaries

Oranges, Grapefruits, and other Citrus fruits look just like the mammary glands of the female and actually assist the health of the breasts and the movement of lymph in and out of the breasts.

Onions look like the body's cells. Today's research shows onions help clear waste materials from all of the body cells. They even produce tears which wash the epithelial layers of the eyes. A working companion, Garlic, also helps eliminate waste materials and dangerous free radicals from the body.

an 'enlightening bolt' of compassion

2008-07-14T22:16:00.001-07:00

where it not for that bolt...that left a slight mark.. I might not have had these compassion thoughts- hopefully- actions.. and actually 10 minutes prior to this en-lightning bolt episode--at our Netivot Shalom class- Keser Shem Tov, I added -- "in fact everything around us --also nature, even a דומם has a special message for us.. and is a reminder of Hashem's constant communication with us in everything that happens/surrounds us.

May we see the beauty goodness and get the messages in a sweet way... please no more bolts.. screw ups.. The compassion roses are breathtaking. I agree that stark contrasts makes it so much more remarkable but that's a natural law You Hashem created... You have infinite..... awesome beautiful ways to teach me the Truth through absolute Truth... that would totally blow me away in a good way. Please show me.

Making a Difference

2008-07-14T22:06:00.000-07:00

May 6th, 2008 Ben

It is often said that the smallest things can make a big difference but how many of us actually put that into practice? Can you honestly hold your hand over your heart and say that you make a difference in someway? Well I think that most people can. If you have any contact with people in the world you’re likely to be making a difference somewhere in your life. There is a problem however. Sometimes the difference you make can be a negative difference and therefore you end up not benefiting the world at all but simply add to its problems.

Many people might when asked if they make a difference say that they do and that they don’t have time to do anymore. Its always my favourite response that people give when asked if they can do something; “oh sorry I don’t have time”. I do it when a telesales persons rings trying to sell me the latest offer on something. It’s a poor excuse if you think about it. Everyone has the time to make a difference somewhere in their life either for themselves or for others it simply a question for many of us of finding the motivation. Even if this means kindly thanking the telesales person for their call!

(...The local native smiled, bent down and picked up yet another starfish, and as he threw it back into the sea, he replied, “Made a difference to that one!”)

I was driving into town the other day and saw an old man picking up rubbish from a footpath. It wasn’t his rubbish, he was simply trying to make a difference to that particular area of the path. If everyone picked up a piece of rubbish everyday then litter wouldn’t be the problem it is in today’s society. If everyone turned off lights and appliances when they weren’t using them the carbon footprint of society wouldn’t be nearly as big as it is. If everyone let out one person into traffic once a day then traffic jams would a better place to be stuck in. If everyone chose to smile during the day rather than being miserable and depressed then we would all love each other a little bit more. If everyone said thank you or sorry when necessary and truly meant it then you would find it hard to disagree that the world would be a better place.

Its about the little things in life sometimes that make the most difference. Making time to meditate makes a massive difference to my day. Spending quality time with my family not only makes me happy but also gives them support and love. Take the next 10 minutes to stop and think about how you can make a difference today to yourself or to someone else. Whatever you’re doing when you read this, whether you’re at work or at home, stop and think for a few moments. Think about where in your life you make a difference and where you could make a difference.

The New Horizons Project

2008-07-14T21:41:00.000-07:00

Compassion for Others - A Lost Necessity

December 12th, 2007 Ben Posted in Most Recent Posts, Compassion |

“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” (His Holiness, the Dali Lama)

Is compassion lost in today’s society or do people simply disregard it as unimportant in their busy everyday lives? Are we really too involved with our own lives and our own needs that we do not see the need to practice compassion?

Compassion is defined as a deep awareness of the suffering of another, coupled with the wish to relieve it. I think as a society we observe the suffering of others, but it seems that less and less people deeply understand others suffering and feel the need to relieve it. Many see the homeless person on the street as they are out shopping and some may even offer change but only a few will stop and offer more than money, maybe a meal or even a friendly conversation. I admit that I too like many others find it easy at times, when I’m really busy, to walk on by and choose to ignore the suffering others but that does not mean that it is right.

How many people notice when others are struggling and suffering at home or at work and consciously do something about it? If you answered yes to that question then think how often you extend that same compassion to others outside of your normal relationships. If you answered no to that question then why do feel that you can not intervene to relieve other’s suffering. Compassion is not something that should be extended to others when you are feeling in the mood or when you feel the need to make yourself feel better, but should be something that you practice every minute of every day to everyone and everything around you. This will create positive energy in your life and in the lives of others around you. Compassion should not only be practiced when someone is suffering in major situations in their lives but also in every moment of everyday, even in the little everyday tasks.

People suffer all the time in their lives and others usually make the situation worse, often unknowingly, by striving to complete everything they need to by the end of their day. Often the needs of people override the suffering of others. Think on this when you next have 5 minutes (and everyone has 5 minutes in their day) - do you do everything you can to relieve the suffering of others, no matter how insignificant they may be, or do you strive to meet your own needs first.

Practice compassion, everyday in every way.

A Close Encounter with Extremities

2008-07-14T20:46:00.000-07:00

it's a difficult trek.. if only I could give a good feeling to one person.. Oh please Hashem let it be worthwhile...
May I (we) never meet a suton or even remotely resemble one rather emulate and beam Osnat energy.

open up synchronicity השגחה פרטית

2008-07-06T19:42:00.000-07:00

תהילים פרק קז

א הֹדוּ לַיהוָה כִּי-טוֹב: כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ.
ב יֹאמְרוּ, גְּאוּלֵי יְהוָה-- אֲשֶׁר גְּאָלָם, מִיַּד-צָר.
ג וּמֵאֲרָצוֹת, קִבְּצָם: מִמִּזְרָח וּמִמַּעֲרָב; מִצָּפוֹן וּמִיָּם.
ד תָּעוּ בַמִּדְבָּר, בִּישִׁימוֹן דָּרֶךְ; עִיר מוֹשָׁב, לֹא מָצָאוּ.
ה רְעֵבִים גַּם-צְמֵאִים-- נַפְשָׁם, בָּהֶם תִּתְעַטָּף.
ו וַיִּצְעֲקוּ אֶל-יְהוָה, בַּצַּר לָהֶם; מִמְּצוּקוֹתֵיהֶם, יַצִּילֵם.
ז וַיַּדְרִיכֵם, בְּדֶרֶךְ יְשָׁרָה-- לָלֶכֶת, אֶל-עִיר מוֹשָׁב.
ח יוֹדוּ לַיהוָה חַסְדּוֹ; וְנִפְלְאוֹתָיו, לִבְנֵי אָדָם.
ט כִּי-הִשְׂבִּיעַ, נֶפֶשׁ שֹׁקֵקָה; וְנֶפֶשׁ רְעֵבָה, מִלֵּא-טוֹב.
י יֹשְׁבֵי, חֹשֶׁךְ וְצַלְמָוֶת; אֲסִירֵי עֳנִי וּבַרְזֶל.
יא כִּי-הִמְרוּ אִמְרֵי-אֵל; וַעֲצַת עֶלְיוֹן נָאָצוּ.
יב וַיַּכְנַע בֶּעָמָל לִבָּם; כָּשְׁלוּ, וְאֵין עֹזֵר.
יג וַיִּזְעֲקוּ אֶל-יְהוָה, בַּצַּר לָהֶם; מִמְּצֻקוֹתֵיהֶם, יוֹשִׁיעֵם.
יד יוֹצִיאֵם, מֵחֹשֶׁךְ וְצַלְמָוֶת; וּמוֹסְרוֹתֵיהֶם יְנַתֵּק.
טו יוֹדוּ לַיהוָה חַסְדּוֹ; וְנִפְלְאוֹתָיו, לִבְנֵי אָדָם.
טז כִּי-שִׁבַּר, דַּלְתוֹת נְחֹשֶׁת; וּבְרִיחֵי בַרְזֶל גִּדֵּעַ.
יז אֱוִלִים, מִדֶּרֶךְ פִּשְׁעָם; וּמֵעֲו‍ֹנֹתֵיהֶם, יִתְעַנּוּ.
יח כָּל-אֹכֶל, תְּתַעֵב נַפְשָׁם; וַיַּגִּיעוּ, עַד-שַׁעֲרֵי מָוֶת.
יט וַיִּזְעֲקוּ אֶל-יְהוָה, בַּצַּר לָהֶם; מִמְּצֻקוֹתֵיהֶם יוֹשִׁיעֵם.
כ יִשְׁלַח דְּבָרוֹ, וְיִרְפָּאֵם; וִימַלֵּט, מִשְּׁחִיתוֹתָם.
כא יוֹדוּ לַיהוָה חַסְדּוֹ; וְנִפְלְאוֹתָיו, לִבְנֵי אָדָם.
כב וְיִזְבְּחוּ, זִבְחֵי תוֹדָה; וִיסַפְּרוּ מַעֲשָׂיו בְּרִנָּה.
כג ] יוֹרְדֵי הַיָּם, בָּאֳנִיּוֹת; עֹשֵׂי מְלָאכָה, בְּמַיִם רַבִּים.
כד ] הֵמָּה רָאוּ, מַעֲשֵׂי יְהוָה; וְנִפְלְאוֹתָיו, בִּמְצוּלָה.
כה ] וַיֹּאמֶר--וַיַּעֲמֵד, רוּחַ סְעָרָה; וַתְּרוֹמֵם גַּלָּיו.
כו ] יַעֲלוּ שָׁמַיִם, יֵרְדוּ תְהוֹמוֹת; נַפְשָׁם, בְּרָעָה תִתְמוֹגָג.
כז ] יָחוֹגּוּ וְיָנוּעוּ, כַּשִּׁכּוֹר; וְכָל-חָכְמָתָם, תִּתְבַּלָּע.
כח ] וַיִּצְעֲקוּ אֶל-יְהוָה, בַּצַּר לָהֶם; וּמִמְּצוּקֹתֵיהֶם, יוֹצִיאֵם.
כט יָקֵם סְעָרָה, לִדְמָמָה; וַיֶּחֱשׁוּ, גַּלֵּיהֶם.
ל וַיִּשְׂמְחוּ כִי-יִשְׁתֹּקוּ; וַיַּנְחֵם, אֶל-מְחוֹז חֶפְצָם.
לא יוֹדוּ לַיהוָה חַסְדּוֹ; וְנִפְלְאוֹתָיו, לִבְנֵי אָדָם.
לב וִירוֹמְמוּהוּ, בִּקְהַל-עָם; וּבְמוֹשַׁב זְקֵנִים יְהַלְלוּהוּ.
לג יָשֵׂם נְהָרוֹת לְמִדְבָּר; וּמֹצָאֵי מַיִם, לְצִמָּאוֹן.
לד אֶרֶץ פְּרִי, לִמְלֵחָה; מֵרָעַת, יוֹשְׁבֵי בָהּ.
לה יָשֵׂם מִדְבָּר, לַאֲגַם-מַיִם; וְאֶרֶץ צִיָּה, לְמֹצָאֵי מָיִם.
לו וַיּוֹשֶׁב שָׁם רְעֵבִים; וַיְכוֹנְנוּ, עִיר מוֹשָׁב.
לז וַיִּזְרְעוּ שָׂדוֹת, וַיִּטְּעוּ כְרָמִים; וַיַּעֲשׂוּ, פְּרִי תְבוּאָה.
לח וַיְבָרְכֵם וַיִּרְבּוּ מְאֹד; וּבְהֶמְתָּם, לֹא יַמְעִיט.
לט וַיִּמְעֲטוּ וַיָּשֹׁחוּ-- מֵעֹצֶר רָעָה וְיָגוֹן.
מ ] שֹׁפֵךְ בּוּז, עַל-נְדִיבִים; וַיַּתְעֵם, בְּתֹהוּ לֹא-דָרֶךְ.
מא וַיְשַׂגֵּב אֶבְיוֹן מֵעוֹנִי; וַיָּשֶׂם כַּצֹּאן, מִשְׁפָּחוֹת.
מב יִרְאוּ יְשָׁרִים וְיִשְׂמָחוּ; וְכָל-עַוְלָה, קָפְצָה פִּיהָ.
מג מִי-חָכָם וְיִשְׁמָר-אֵלֶּה; וְיִתְבּוֹנְנוּ, חַסְדֵי יְהוָה.

Thank you Hashem. May it always be so clear.. Your loving care.. guidance

Coconut Bonbons for cutie Mashi

2008-06-23T00:38:00.000-07:00

Welcome cutie baby Mashi! May you bring much joy to everyone!
סימון טוב ומזל טוב יהיה לנו ולכל ישראל
and may we merit to see Mashi-ach very soon! Amen.

(It's great to see my sister and baby Mashi home. I made my sister's favorite treat --Coconut Bonbons ... they're yummy.)

beautiful shelach lecha inspirations

2008-06-22T23:00:00.000-07:00

B"H I got to hear some beautiful inspirations today from some beautiful people. Thanks for sharing it with me. Chazak U'baruch!

"The Best Eyes" and The Ultimate premise: the goodness of G-d David Sacks

Shlomo Katz
Veyaturu Et Erets Kna'an

The word G-d describes to Moshe in which manner to send spies/scouts/messengers/ to the land of Israel was through the word 'Veyaturu'. Veyaturu, to bring the 'Tur', the 'Torah' into the land. We can understand that what G-d wanted from these heads of tribes, who were chosen as these messengers, was to bring forth the energy of the Torah which each tribe had resembled, but not just that. Each leader of tribe was to tune into the Torah of Eretz Yisrael and bring that back with them upon returning to the rest of the journey in the desert.

It is so easy to look at Eretz Yisrael, to look at others, and sadly enough... to even look at ourselves with 'meraglim' eyes. How many people look at our precious land with Veyaturu eyes? How many people actually come to Eretz Yisrael with hearts of 'Veyaturu'? How many of us take a deep look into our own souls with one purpose...Veyaturu?

Good Shabbos

* * * * * * *

Shoshana Goldwag - The Aura of Love

It is an incredible to see someone that you care about walk around glowing. Baruch Hashem my amazing roommate became a kallah last week and she just glows. Actually she has been glowing since the day she met him. She came home from the first date smiling from ear to ear and more. As time went on she began to glow more and more; she had this new aura to her and it was impossible to miss. Through her time dating him I would often say to her, " Oritt, you know you are glowing, right?!" She made me happier just being around her.

This Shabbos, we were sitting around the table together and I said to her, "Oritt, you are glowing again, what is it about your relationship with Yonatan that makes you shine like that?" She thought a moment and said " The main thing is that it is incredible to know and feel that someone loves me so much and cares for me so much and I feel the same way about him ".

I was touched by her words and realized something deeper about it. Every relationship that we have is just a springboard to help us understand and develop our relationship with Hashem better. If Yonatan loves her so much and cares so much about Oritt that she glows, how much more so does Hashem care about us and love us so incredibly that we should really be glowing. If we really understood how much Hashem cares for us and takes care of us and prepares every step for us, then we would be walking around with an aura emanating from the fact that we knew that someone so deeply loves us.

I once heard a math equation from Rabbi Lawrence Kelemen at Neve Yerushalyim to explain how much Hashem loves us. Let try to imaging how much Hashem loves us. Let's assume that L represents Love. Now using exponents we are going to make some equations to determine how much love we have for others.

Take your average Joe Shmoe – let us assume we don't have such a love for him – but we care a little bit about him – so we love him Lˡ

The person in your neighborhood – you like him a little more so he would be L^3

The person in your class- you like him a little more- so we will say he is L^5 – already a huge number

Your roommate- L^10 – a bigger number

Your cousin – L^14- a bigger number

Your sister- L^20- a huge number

Your parents- L^30 – a crazy huge number

Well Guess what – Hashem Love you L˜ - L to the infinity!!

He loves us more than we can ever imagine.

I once heard from Rabbi Aryeh Mezei that part of Emunah is realizing that Hashem loves us incredibly, He knows what is best for us, He wants what is best for us and He can do anything!

And if we can even slightly tap into this idea then we all would be walking around glowing all the time.

May we all have the zechus to realize how much He loves us and cares for us and may we all see the kedusha and aura radiating from each other.

How does your garden grow?

2008-06-05T00:47:00.000-07:00

beautiful drawing by Miriam Brumer titled how does your garden grow?

I've actually just started my organic garden. I've planted lots of strawberries.. and B"H they are growing nicely. I'm really excited about it. I hope to plant lots more veggies and fruits. --
and my me garden.. hopefully the winter is gone and spring summer is here!

כי הנה הסתיו עבר הגשם חלף הלך לו הנצנים נראו בארץ עת הזמיר הגיע וקול התור נשמע בארצנו התאנה חנטה פגיה והגפנים סמדר נתנו ריח קומי לך רעיתי יפתי ולכי לך יונתי בחגוי הסלע בסתר המדרגה הראיני את מראיך השמיעיני את קולך כי קולך ערב ומראיך נאוה

yo semite

2008-05-26T22:39:00.000-07:00

'יפתח ה' לך את אוצרו הטוב

mariposa grove, glacier point, sentinel dome hike, yosemite valley, bridal veil falls, rainbows, yosemite falls, vernal falls, nevada falls, mist trail, john muir's writings, sunsets,

sunrise, mirror lake - water fun -- The water river, lakes, falls.. all over Yosemite was too cold and I thought there wont be any major water adventure this time.. but there was.

Late Thursday afternoon I hiked around mirror lake.. it was getting late and I was too lazy to hike all around to the other side of the lake... at one point it looked like the water would be only up to my knees so I took off my shoes and rolled up my skirt.. and started walking across in the cold water.. but I miscalculated the depth..I was so off.. the water reached above my head and I had to swim with my backpack..., B"H I made to the other side.. all wet.. but safe.. and a pair of warm cloths and shelter wasn't too far away.. winter in yosemite tioga rd yay! camped out in a beautiful spot -- white flurries.. snowing all around... mono lake lee vining!

a sage welcome

2008-05-16T14:42:00.000-07:00

what a great welcome-- sage!
While skating along venice beach the other day, I was imaging the scent of sage and was thinking that it would be nice to smell it.. and there was Yoni welcoming us with sage! How sweet. I love it when you do it G-d... please delight and surprise me! always!
thank you. thank you Yoni and Go Green!

great skate along the pacific...

2008-05-15T17:39:00.000-07:00

Manhattan Beach -Marina del Ray - Venice- Santa Monica - lax
and of course swimming.. was so nice.

ca - just made it..

2008-05-14T23:26:00.000-07:00

with the help of G-d's wonderful messengers..
7/11 ride-- it was four minutes to the last train for the airport.. I knew it was late but I didn't know it was that late.. and just then a cab stopped I took you once to cherry lane? I'm heading now to the train station.. do you need to get there? I got a train ticket, boarded and the train took off.

ובחנוני נא בזאת אמר ה' צבקות

2008-05-12T21:23:00.000-07:00

אם לא אפתח לכם את ארובות השמים והריקתי לכם ברכה עד בלי די