Parshat Chayei Sarah

This week we read Chayei Sarah, the parsha that literally means "the life of Sarah," but begins with the announcement of her death. Among other notable details, in this portion we find the first purchase of land in Israel by a Jew (Abraham purchasing the family burial cave called Machpelah) and the love story between Isaac and Rebecca. To read more and find discussion questions for your family's Shabbat table, click here.

For an interesting take on this portion, read Living a Full Life, an article found on myjewishlearning.com.

Another fun website for kids is Torah Tots. Check out their page for Chayei Sarah, which includes information about the portion, some games, and so much more.

Top Ten Rituals for Your Family

The Jewish year is off to a great start now that we have made it through the biggest holidays of the year. I love this list that one of my favorite blogs - Homeshuling: A Jewish Parenting Blog - published a few months back. A compilation of some wonderful holiday-related activities for your family, each can be done in a meaningful and memorable way.

http://blog.beliefnet.com/homeshuling/2010/08/homeshulings-top-ten.html

Parshat Vayeira

This week we read Parshat Vayeira, the portion of the Torah that predicts the birth of Isaac, details the attempted redemption and destruction of Sodom and Gemorrah, and ends with Isaac's birth, the banishment of Hagar and Ishmael, and the binding of Isaac. To read more about Vayeira, including some discussion questions, see this post.