Happy Chanukah

Last night was the first night of Chanukah and thanks to a little last minute scurrying, everything was ready.  The Sprog lit the candles and he and I said the prayers together in Hebrew. Lighting the menorah with my son always takes me back to when I was a kid lighting the menorah with my parents. 

The bag of tennis ball are for Giant Dog, she loves them (literally) to pieces. 

Chanukah celebrates the victory of the Maccabees (Jewish rebels) over the Greek king Antiochus who had conquered Jeruselem, outlawed Jewish observances, and sacked the temple. After freeing Jeruselem, the Temple was purified and the wicks of the menorah (a ritual lamp kept lit at all times) miraculously burned for eight days, even though there was only enough sacred oil for one day's lighting.  Because of this the Chanukah (which means "dedication") lasts 8 days, candles (or small oil lamps) are lit each day, and foods fried in oil are eaten (yum!)

Latkes are fried potato pancakes and are delicious with applesauce!

From a religious perspective Chanukah is a minor holiday, celebrating a military victory. However, because of its proximity to Christmas it has gained prominence and is celebrated by many Jews as a major gift giving holiday.

Life has gotten busy (as it does this time of year) so I expect posts to be scarce for the next few weeks but I'll do my best to remember to take some pictures and check in now and then. 

But for now I'll leave you with a Chanukah giggle.  Happy Chanukah, y'all!