On receiving results of a genealogical DNA test  (going back some 5-6 generations),  I found that I'm  related, somehow, to Pnina Gutman. Those who follow my writing may recall that, several years ago, I wrote a piece, "Who Am I and What's My Name?" describing her search for her identity. Tragically, she's still looking.     … Continue reading Pnina Gutman: Who Am I and What’s My Name??

I just learned that my cousin, Eta Fishman, died a week ago.  As I was told, "she died at 9 am and was under the ground at 11:30." So unfortunately, I did not accompany her on her final journal. Eta was born 103 years ago in Chotin, Bessarabia.  During the Holocaut she was incarcerated in Transnistria. … Continue reading Eta Zazulia Fishman, z”l

  A gigantic dust storm is covering all of Israel.  Reminds me of my years in Beersheva, in the Negev.  Dust storms were fairly frequent, and because our house was old, its doors and windows were not air-tight.  So every day of dust, I  washed all the clothes we wore, washed our hair, changed all … Continue reading Dust Storm

    When I was a child, Chanuka offered  a wonder of light and excitement, but now, Chanuka is an old friend come to visit, come to mark my days.     After fifty-odd years, my preparations are quick and matter-of-fact. I’ve already polished our menorah, purchased the candles, and stocked up on applesauce for the latkes.  … Continue reading Eight Chanukas…. חג שמח!

A  favorite moment?   When many areas  I've explored  click--come together. I've  long been a fan of Mark Twain's account of travels,  "The Innocents Abroad or The New Pilgrims' Progress," especially his descriptions of  Jerusalem, which he visited in 1867. He was not very impressed: A fast walker could go outside the walls of Jerusalem and walk … Continue reading Mark Twain, Ariel Sharon– and ME