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Monday, December 26, 2011

Festival of Lights

Well, Chanuka is a bit more than halfway over (I always get a little nostalgic when both sides of the menorah have candles), but I have a Chanuka post to share anyway.

For my Write. Click. Scrapbook project this month, I whipped up a little Chanuka decor.

I had fun creating the banner--I used blue and white (Chanuka colors), but added in some yellow and ledger to give it a lighter, more vintage feel. And because I can always use some ledger.

If you'll notice, this menorah is actually a leaning menorah, and therefore can't be used for candlelighting (all the candles are supposed to be level), but it does look pretty. I always wish I could just bend it a bit the other way!

A few Chanuka candles add some color....

I created this centerpiece using a sticker from Crafting Jewish Style--a great source for Jewish holiday-themed scrapbooking projects. (PS--I don't get money from CJS, I just like the products and people. Disclaimer over:))

Here are some fun Chanuka links around the scrappy web:

  • Some fun Chanuka crafts and giveaways at CJS

If you find any other fun projects, please link me up and I'm happy to add them here!

And before I go, I want to take a minute to think about the actual meaning of Chanuka. Amid the great food (latkes and jelly doughnuts, oh my! Although not too diabetic-friendly, so boo to that!) and fun menorah lighting and songs, I have to remind myself to step back and get to the point of it all.

The Chanuka story is about a battle between the Jews and Greeks, who were trying to prohibit the practice of Judaism. It celebrates that element of being Jewish that involves being different, doing something other the rest of the world, which is not hard to relate to during to the Christmas season. Being different isn't easy--it wasn't when I was the only kid with a dreidel taped to my desk in 4th grade, and it isn't always a comfortable feeling now. But it's part of our story, and so important. For a fun take on the rest of the Chanuka story, check out the classic Maccabeats video:)

And of course, the ultimate miracle of Chanuka is the oil that lasted for eight days and eight nights. As I said in my earlier post, I'm so in awe of the miracle of my own this year--I look down and just can't believe that after all the treatments, it finally worked. I still have to pinch myself sometimes.

What's been YOUR greatest miracle this season?

15 comments:

  1. I love, love, love your Chanuka banner. The addition of yellow is a great touch!

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  2. Love your post Keshet, and your lovely decor too. That is one pretty Menorah, I'm sorry it's a leaner!
    I hope you are feeling well - I'm sure jelly donuts and gelt are in your near future, when your little bunny is out in the world. I hope you are feeling good!
    Happy Chanuka!

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  3. that is beautiful! Im so happy youre doing so well.

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  4. Lovely work, Keshet! I still find myself thanking my lucky stars everyday for my family and our health and happines. :)

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  5. beautiful creations. I love reading about your traditions and celebrations. and I'm just so thankful for my wonderful, loving family. It doesn't get much better than that. =)

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  6. Happy Holidays Keshet! I hope that you had some time to relax and put your feet up!

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  7. Ditto on what the above posters said. :-) Love your banner and I love that you explain your Jewish traditions/customs and I'm so thankful for my family and good health.:-)

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  8. Great story!! Love your banner :) My greatest miracle is a healthy and happy family - I am truly blessed!! Have a great TUE!!

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  9. Ooh...such a sweet banner! Love the different shapes you incorporated! :)

    Enjoy the rest of 2011 and best wishes for 2012!:)

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  10. Love your banner.
    Love your blog.
    Love that you are different (in the best kind of way)
    Love that you are interesting.
    Love that you always stay positive.
    Love that this will be such a special year for you!
    Happy New Year!!

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  11. I love that banner. So gorgeous. So glad you had a happy Holiday. Wishing you a great new year!

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  12. Happy Chanuka, Keshet - thank for explaining the history and meaning to the holiday! That's a really cute banner!

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  13. Happy Chanuka! This is so beautiful. Lots to be thankful for!

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  14. Thanks for sharing the Chanuka story. This is the first time I've heard about that Jewish tradition.
    phuket holidays

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Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a comment! I love hearing your thoughts:)