tallit, tzitzit, kipot, and ahava

Hi friends
I hope you've all re-dug out your jackets and sweaters as the cool breezes have sunk in here on the Central Coast after our Feb heat wave. Speaking of the clothes we choose, that was actually the substance of last week's torah portion, and so much behind what Rabbi Micah focused on with our kids this week.  He did a beautiful job of explaining the meaning and feelings behind wrapping tefillin and wearing a kippah - how these rituals direct our behavior to be more holy....who could use nasty language with a yarmulke on our heads or with the shema on our arms and heads?  Micah also led the kids in feeling what it's like to put a tallit over one's shoulders, wrap the tzitzit around one's fingers, and connect to who/what we care about.  Here are a few images from this last week's Torah Talk:


Following time with the rabbi, our students engaged in class time, which largely focused on using our brachot to exercise gratitude.  Our Shalhavot class was engaged in listing the 100 things they love and Today we began the unit on Hakarat Hatov הַכָּרָת הַטוֹב (recognizing the good). One way to continue the conversation is to make up your own b’rachah בְּרָכוֹת for something in your family.

Our Nitzotzot class also focused on brachot - Blessings for the Home.  The kids made beautiful wall hangings and discussed what it is to bring such love to your household.
 
Our Gan class was cute as ever, also learning about "Shalom HaBayit," or peace in the home.  And, our Kiddush snack this week was all about "Ahava" or love (picture from Israel Museum).  Thanks to all who contributed and continue to!  Plus nice leadership skills from Asher this week who doled out the cupcakes :)



Finally, a few pictures of Eliana, Dinah, and Ronen presenting on Mitzvah bags and how to use them to make the world a better place.  This took place just before our kids service - where we had Alex Barrett, Sophie and Leo Feldman, Simon and Isaac Bandari, and even more kids help out!  It's beautiful to see them engaging more and more....


What's coming up
Please note there is NO HEBREW SCHOOL THIS SUNDAY, Feb 20.  We will resume the following Sunday, Feb 27.

Before then, PLEASE be sure to check out this amazing program the community is offering Feb 24-26 to educate on antisemitism and celebrate Jewish life on the Central Coast.  The website is:  https://www.jewishfestivaloflearningslo.com/ and I've attached the detailed schedule to make it easier to see how to sign up.  Also, take a second and watch our promo video (narrated by yours truly, Rabbi Micah).

Also, be sure to have marked on your calendars Wednesday, March 16 for Erev Purim.  We'll rock the house at TNS with fun for the kids, grogger noise, pizza, libations, and megillah readings.  Just come.

In the meantime, be in touch with anything you need.  I'm always a call, text, or visit away.

Warmly
Lauren