The tempo of fall has been nonstop, and every year I get through the beginning of school, the Jewish holidays and all the other commitments that make up my life, I wonder what happened to the gorgeous months of September and October.  By the time I hit November, I am ready for the coziness of winter to set in.

This morning - as I write this - the time change has me up early. I realize I am actually looking forward to the shorter days. I know I'm in the minority here. A little less daylight gives me a chance to focus internally.  We are all at home a bit more, and the early darkness hopefully gives us a chance to spend some more time together (the image of a pioneer family huddled around the fire comes to mind here). I hope that these shorter days bring you some time to connect with your family, yourself, and your community  -- time that will refresh and renew you during the winter.

I was out running errands recently, and the stores are already filled with Christmas cheer. I look forward to Hanukkah and the holiday season as much as anyone.  But we should all take the time to enjoy what lies in the weeks ahead. There are multiple events at Or Chadash including a Sisterhood Vendor Event on November 16th that will give you the chance to do some Hanukkah shopping with a portion of proceeds going back to Or Chadash. The event is open to the community so bring your friends!

That same morning, we also will be hosting cookbook author Cara Tannenbaum, author of In a Nutshell: Cooking and Baking with Nuts and Seeds. We will be sharing recipes from the cookbook and a enjoying a talk from the author. I hope to see you at both of these great events!

Thank you to all who donated to our High Holy Day Appeal. We had very high levels of participation and have come very close to meeting our financial goal. I truly appreciate your contributions.

I look forward to seeing you all at our many events leading up to Hanukkah!

Shalom,

Caryn

Over a dozen local vendors will be selling their products, from jewelry (Lia Sophia Jewelry) and skin care to food and toys, to the public.  The holidays are just around the corner, and this is a perfect opportunity to shop for your family and friends in a relaxed environment directly from the sellers.

We are still accepting vendors as well. If you have something to sell, the space is free.  We are looking for vendors who would like to have a table to sell their merchandise. We are asking in return that the vendor donate 10% of their sales to Or Chadash.