Tag Archives: religion

Come for the fun, stay for the traditions

“My favorite part of Passover is the presents and the matzo treasure hunt,”  said my five-year-old, the other day.

passover

For the unfamiliar, during the seder, or ritual Passover meal, a piece of matzo (unleavened bread), is broken off and hidden. Traditionally, the younger family members are tasked with finding the piece of matzo (known as the afikomen), and may be rewarded with a gift. The size and amount of prizes given are at the discretion of the host family. Growing up, I remember getting a lot of books. I am pretty sure my kids are getting better stuff, but hey, that’s grandparents for you!

No matter our individual religions, most of us parents can lament the overblown nature of the holidays. I imagine many of my Christian friends are wondering how Easter got so consumerized, and how much money they will drop on baskets, eggs and other trinkets. I agree, it can all seem a bit much. Continue reading

A tale of Ivanka Trump and kosher weddings

A few weeks ago, I wrote about the special connection I felt with Hillary Clinton, and ended the post with a comment on how I have a Trump story.

Well, more specifically, an Ivanka Trump story.

I was going to post something else today, but, since it happens to be my anniversary, and this story relates to my wedding, I can’t think of a better time to share how Ivanka and I will forever be linked. So, I guess, today, is another anniversary. Where’s my gift Ivanka?

wedding_trump

Anyway. My story begins in the offices of a lovely, conservative synagogue in Westchester County New York. My fiance and I are sitting across the desk of the catering manager. Behind him are displays of a notable New York, high society couple: Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner. Continue reading