Chanukah 2009

It's been a while since we've updated the blog. Unfortunately, it's been a rough few months for us. In November, our beloved cat Bernard passed away after a sudden bout with kidney failure. His loss was very difficult for all of us, especially Ema, who had lived with Beno for seven happy years in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, New Jersey and Seattle. A week later, we had to start packing for our latest move. Soon after moving, we all got colds. Then we had to buy a new car. Finally, we are settling into our new home in Wedgwood, getting used to our new surroundings and enjoying being in a more Jewish neighborhood, within walking distance to shul. And this week Avi LOVED chanukah. He learned songs, got incredibly excited about lighting candles every night, and certainly appreciated getting lots of presents, including several big trucks, a xylophone, a moose from Sweden (thanks Aunt Ruth!), lots of Thomas trains and an amazing wooden Chanukah play set (thanks Savta and Saba). Most of all, Avi loved his visit with Doda Elisheva, who came to stay with us for a week, and Great Aunt Sheila, who came from Vancouver to see us, as well as having shabbat chanukah dinner with cousins Chuck, Connie, Simon and Mimi. Avi also loved eating Saba's latkes, made by Ema and Doda. All in all, it was a great holiday for us, and we can't wait for next year!