Happy Hanukkah!

Many years ago I had the pleasure of staying with a family in New York for 6 months. The wife and her side of the family celebrated Hanukkah while the husband and his side of the family celebrated Christmas. So, what to do? It was easier than you might think. And great fun!

This wonderful, interfaith family believed that their children should grow up experiencing all of the major holidays celebrated by both sides of the family.

The Christmas tree stood not far from one of the many Menorahs. After eight nights of gifts, there were more gifts on Christmas Day, wrapped in Christmas and Hanukkah paper. (we all loved that part!) We sang Christmas carols and a rousing rendition of the dreidel song! The stories of Hanukkah and Christmas were shared, along with cookies and latkes.

Hanukkah begins on the Hebrew calendar date of 25 Kislev and lasts for eight days. This year, the holiday is celebrated from Dec. 8-16.

Happy Hanukkah!