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Thursday, June 11, 2026

Rosh Chodesh Tammuz Join Us for Women's Prayers

This year's Rosh Chodesh Tammuz is two days, which happens some months. Jewish months can be either 29 or 30 days. When it's 30 days, the 30th of the previous month and the first of the new month are both called "Rosh Chodesh."

In Ancient Times there was no "set calendar." People didn't know in advance when it would be Rosh Chodesh, the Beginning "Head" of the New Month. There were observers waiting on high mountains to see the moon reaching the narrowest of crescents, and they would light fires, to be seen distances away. Fire after fire spread the word of the New Month.

In months like this upcoming Tammuz when there are two days of Rosh Chodesh, I ask the women in the group who come regularly which day suits them. I make a poll, and we all vote, including me. We're all very busy people, and I'm happy when the day suits most of the regulars, including yours truly. If you can, please join us at Ancient Tel Shiloh, where the Biblical Tabernacle stood, the place of Jewish Prayer for almost four hundred years. Its Kedusha Holiness can still be sensed.



Tel Shiloh, שילה הקדומה can be reached by public transportation. There are activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. For more information contact +972-2-5789111 or visit@telshilo.org.il

Friday, June 05, 2026

Shapiro's Double IPA

 


I found myself sharing this bottle of Shapiro's Double IPA with a fellow beer lover, who was visiting. Actually, soon after he walked in he opened the refrigerator, looked at the variety of beers and grabbed it. When he noticed my longing look, he said that it was to share, so I took out two glasses. He opened the bottle and poured it all out.

We admired the gorgeous rich gold color and nice foamy head. Then we both sniffed and were wowed by the luscious summer fruit aroma. Even though Shapiro is among the best Israeli craft beers, I was in suspense wondering if the taste would support or not, but I'm happy to say that the flavor was just as good. I'd even say that some people who don't like beer will like it.  It's alcohol is 8.2%

Please let me know what you think.

Tuesday, June 02, 2026

My Photography, Some Recent 52Frames Photos

I never studied photography, nor art, nor composition, though I've been drawn to it. In recent years I've been a member of 52frames, which began as a small group of people, photographers, amateur and professional or hopefuls on Facebook. The committee decides on a weekly "challenge" plus its "extra c," which isn't required. 

When I first heard about 52frames it was hard to be accepted. Our "portfolios" had to be approved, and there were limited chances during the year for newcomers. I was terrified that I'd be rejected; also most members photographed with impressive cameras, not phones. In the beginning I had used an inexpensive camera, because affordable phones had rather primitive cameras. As phone cameras got better and it became more difficult for me to carry a camera, I retired the camera and now only photograph with my phone.

In the early years, the weekly album was posted on Facebook, and now there's a site 52Frames

Since I being accepted in 52frames I never missed a week. You can see that in the photo below. 



Here are some relatively recent photos, and click here for a larger collection: 

Pool Season Open

 

"Modern" Jerusalem Can "Play" With Water

The Old Shaare Tzedek Where I Became A Mother

Caught By The Slow Shutter

Jerusalem of Gold Lyrics

Walking in Jerusalem

Purim- Beer, Wine & Whiskey

Now and Then X2
Self-Portrait
What do you think? Maybe you'd like to join up.