Yes. I am gonna squeeze all these updates and thoughts into one post.
After a two week blog break, I’m ready to get back into it! I’ve wanted to share so much, but finding blogging time has become more and more difficult. There are so many demands on my time and with my new commute (ok, it’s already been 3 months, but I still consider it new since I’m still getting used to it) and increased work load I find it hard to have minute to myself! Some nights are just me putting the kids to bed, eating dinner, making lunches, showering and going to sleep. Then I repeat the next night until it’s Shabbos. So, here’s what I meant to blog about:
Pre-Pesach
The week before Pesach I was feeling like I usually do the week before vacation– eager for it to start! I wanted to remind all of you about my pre-Pesach freezer cooking tips I shared last year and to post a link to my ultimate packing list for those of you who were going away. I did manage to send out a Facebook link (if you didn’t see it, make sure you like my FB page!) but sadly, that was really all I had time to do.
Pesach
We went away for all 8 days and we survived! I managed not to forget anything at home (again, thanks to my ultimate packing list) and we had a really nice time. We didn’t do any major trips, but the kids had a blast going to the local zoo, taking a short train ride and riding the merry-go-round. I’m so blessed that my kids enjoy the simple things- for now!
Post-Pesach
With Pesach ending Tuesday night and DH and I returning to work the following day, things were crazy, disorganized and completely last minute.
Our afternoon babysitter took off Wednesday and Thursday, which meant that we had to make arrangements. In the end my mom (who is absolutely amazing!) spent the entire Wednesday with DS1, who of course did not have school (is Isru Chag even a real thing in Chutz L’Aretz?). I went to work, but left early to be home for daycare pick-up at 6pm.
I did not have any time for grocery shopping that first day after yom tov, so we had to go without some basics- like milk. We survived.
On Thursday I worked from home to be around for the 4pm pickup, did grocery shopping, daycare pickup, bath night and Shabbos prep. It was crazy, but somehow I got it all done. I wanted to post my Shabbos menu, but also did not get around to it. It wasn’t anything too exciting- just some chicken with grilled vegetables and a lot of store-bought kugels.
Am I the only one who hates returning to work after a week and a half of vacation with the need for more vacation, flex-time and additional work-from-home time that very same week?
And that brings me to my last topic- today- Yom Hashoah.
Yom HaShoah
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As the granddaughter of Holocaust survivors, “the war” has always been a topic of conversation in our home. We were fortunate enough to spend the first days on Pesach with my grandparents, who were telling us all about their experiences. It always amazes me how people went through such hard times only to come out on top. I’m not one for mourning during the month if Nissan, but if you have the opportunity to learn more about the Holocaust or educate someone about it, then please take advantage of the opportunity. We must never forget!
Until next time,
Shaindy
