Two Passover Experiences: Precision vs. Passion

Please see my new article in The Times of Israel called "Two Passover Experiences: Precision vs. Passion."

This Passover, I experienced two contrasting experiences: a strictly Orthodox seder marked by meticulous ritual precision—down to timed matzah portions and hand signals for completion—but lacking communal joy, and a vibrant Conservative synagogue service filled with song, welcoming families, and a delightful matzah pizza kiddush despite halachic deviations. The Orthodox seder honored every mitzvah with sincerity, yet felt at times burdensome and subdued, exemplified by silent, clock-watched eating. In contrast, the synagogue emphasized community warmth, inspiring sermons with handouts, and active participation from children and adults alike. Both approaches hold value—perfect halacha and b’simcha must coexist—but ritual should never overshadow the heart’s delight in serving Hashem.

(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

Two Passover Experiences: Precision vs. Passion

Holiday Tesla Cybertruck

(Credit Photo: Dossy Blumenthal)

Holiday Tesla Cybertruck

Ugly Sweater Day

(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

Ugly Sweater Day

Chocolate Santa

(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

Chocolate Santa

Menorah Decorative Plate

(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

Menorah Decorative Plate

Bluey Threesome

(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

Bluey Threesome

Turkey Cake

(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

Turkey Cake

Latkes for Hanukkah

(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

Latkes for Hanukkah

Happy Hanukkah

(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

Happy Hanukkah

Turkey Hat

(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

Turkey Hat

Sukkot, I Will Miss You

Please see my new article in The Times of Israel called "Sukkot, I Will Miss You."

A few things happened so far this Sukkot that brought to my mind and heart the human element of the holiday period. The focus is often on the sukkah, but we also need to remember the community and connection of the people who are in the sukkah together.

(AI generated image via Designer)

Sukkot, I Will Miss You

Great Antlers

(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

Great Antlers

Tiny Trash for Candy

(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

Tiny Trash for Candy

Easter Bunny Plant

What will Home Depot think of next?  ;-)

(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

Easter Bunny Plant

Happy Purim @Chabad

https://youtube.com/shorts/NRkY94d3CSU?feature=share

(Credit Photo by Andy Blumenthal and Music by Minna Blumenthal)

Happy Purim @Chabad

Beautiful Hamentaschen

Hamentaschen for Purim in the making.

Minna Blumenthal work of art!  ;-)

(Credit Photo: Minna)

Beautiful Hamentaschen

Esrog Liquor

 

Esrog after Sukkot is a beautiful flavoring for alcohol. 

Compliments of Itzchak. 

Yum yum! ;-)

(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

Esrog Liquor

Winter Lights

(Credit Photo: Minna Blumenthal)

Winter Lights

Kosher Attire on Christmas

Hanging out by Holy Chow. 

The line for kosher Chinese food was a 6 hour wait on Christmas!

I didn't get any Chinese food, but did snap this photo of this guy in the hat.  ;-)

Happy Holidays everyone!  ;-)

(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

Kosher Attire on Christmas

Hanukkah Custard Donuts

Wow, these were some huge Hanukkah donuts.

They were packed with custard filling.

Frosting and sprinkles on top! ;-)

(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

 

Hanukkah Custard Donuts