Happy Shavuot!

Shavuot is the Jewish holiday that comes 50 days after Passover. In the Christian tradition Shavuot is known as Pentecost.

The 50 days between Passover and Shavuot is the timeframe in which crops are most vulnerable. If they are not harmed by too much rain or too much heat during these 50 days, then the harvest will be a success.

Well, it was a successful 50 days. We've got some figs and apricots in our backyard which we are looking forward to eating!

Happy Shavuot and may God bless all of your harvests as well!

(It's traditional to make a flowered wreath during Shavuot. So, when in Rome...er, Israel)

Tu B'shvat - Happy Birthday to the Trees

It is more than arbor day, it is Tu B'Shvat. The 15th of Shvat on the Jewish calendar celebrates the birthday of the trees.

Trees were very key in the revival of the land of Israel. Many eucalyptus trees were planted towards the north to soak up swampy areas and lower the mosquito population which helped reduce malaria. Pine trees were planted in the Jerusalem area; they grow fast and make the hills all green.

Now every year on Tu B'Shvat Israelis across the country plant trees. So, we joined in! We planted several trees and bushes.

Following the planting of trees we also partook of the lovely dried fruit!