This evening at sundown begins the first night of Hanukkah, “the Festival of Lights”. For the next eight nights we will be lighting one candle a night until all eight are fully lit on the menorah. Hanukkah marks the re-dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem after its desecration. According to the Talmud, at the re-dedication following the victory of the Maccabees there was only enough consecrated olive oil to fuel the eternal flame in the Temple for one day. Miraculously, the oil burned for eight days, which was the length of time it took to press, prepare and consecrate fresh olive oil. Hanukkah customs include eating potato latkes (potato pancakes) playing with the dreidel (a spinning top on which are inscribed the Hebrew letters) and the giving of Hanukkah gelt, gifts of money, to children.

Growing up, my brother and I looked forward to getting presents (we preferred opening them all the first night rather than spreading them out over the course of eight nights). We just couldn’t stand the suspense! The day Hanukkah arrived we would anxiously wait for our dad to come home from work so we could see what our parents bought for us that year. It was so much fun to unwrap toys, books, games, clothing, etc…. When I was younger I loved getting Barbie’s, doll houses, babies and carriages, kitchen sets – all the typical things little girls play with. I also loved getting board games: Chutes & Ladders, CandyLand then gradually growing into Monopoly, PayDay, Battleship, Go To The Head of The Class, Scrabble, Boggle, you name it. I loved games (and still do!) Today, as I watch my nieces unwrap their gifts with the same enthusiasm and excitement as we did, it brings back so many wonderful memories. Life was great being a kid….ah!

Hanukkah is such a joyous time of year and Darren and I are so excited to be celebrating our first Hanukkah as Mr. & Mrs. in our new home. Our menorah is out and ready to be lit. Let the traditions begin!

Happy Hanukkah everyone!