Shin, shin, put one in

Once again, we felt blessed to get to celebrate Hanukkah together as a family, this time with GiGi, too. It was fun to hear her Hanukkah stories; Riley especially loved her tradition of giving money that doubled in value each night. We loved her latkes -- especially the experimental ones like zucchini and persimmon. GiGi thoughtfully created a theme for each night based around a value or characteristic the kids should learn. This led perfectly into our nightly "children's blessing," during which we shared a wish for how the children's lives will work out (such as that they'll be a mensch and do good deeds or always have meaningful friendships).  

And then we'd dance! We'd pull out the singing rabbi and dance the hora to hava nagila. By the third night Sloane was getting in on the action, jumping into the circle and shaking her little booty. It was adorable. Such great family fun.

It was also very sweet to see Riley teach the dreidel game to his pals, like Ellory, pictured below. He even gave little gifts of a dreidel and sack of gelt to his friends, Jack and Nate, both of whom loved the game. 

With the family bonding and important conversations it inspires, Hanukkah has quickly become one of my favorite times of the year.