manawolf reminded me that Hanukah has started. While I'm not Jewish, or really religous at all, I've always thought this was a lovely holiday. Something about lighting all those candles. I have a Jeff Smith Christmas cookbook where he talks about his family also celebrating Hanukah as well, even though he is (or was) a Methodist minister. After all, it's an older holiday, and Jesus himself may celebrated it. She suggested finding a Jewish friend who might like to have us over for it, and I know of a couple who might. I'd like the kids to be aware of and appreciate holidays of all cultures. As I told her, I just love all the holidays, even Kwanzaa. John scoffs at the last, saying that's just a made-up holiday to make inner-city folks feel better about themselves. Well, so what? It has a good premise behind it, so why the hell not?
There's a story in my family that shortly after my parents were married, my mom found the prettiest candle holder, proudly brought it home and gave it a place of honor on the mantelpiece. When my dad came home from work and told her it was a menorah, she was embarassed she hadn't recognized it and took it back to the store. I wish she hadn't.
So, I hope this doesn't make me seem greedy, wanting all the holidays for myself. Although I have to say Ramadan doesn't sound so appealing.
Speaking of which, today is December 1st, and I need to go find an Advent calendar.....