Last night we celebrated the first night of Chanukah as a family. Gramma was overjoyed at the spread of traditional food, the Menorah and the kids gathered around the table together with her. She was silly and funny and even sang for us. I think she was exhausted from smiling and laughing so much! After eating the most delicious potato latkes in the world, with matzoh ball soup and flatbread sesame crackers with cream cheese and lox spread, we had Chanukah gelt (chocolate coins here in the south!) and cheescake. Then Gramma gave each of the kids a small gift (dollar specials!) to celebrate the tradition. The kids had a blast with her and enjoyed the whole celebration. Poor John, the German/Irish Catholic boy was a little overwhelmed at the event. It was new to him but he was happy to celebrate with his family!
We had Gramma light the first candle on the Menorah, and she said a blessing. She thanked God and praised Him as she told Him "You did this for US!" We discussed the story of Chanukah and what it means to us as believers. One thing I've learned about Jews is that they accept the fact that God does what he chooses and it is well with them. I am inspired by this. We pray that Christmas brings Gramma as much joy this year as Chanukah. It will be her first Christmas as a Messianic Jew! She is already in love with the spirit of the season as she sits and gazes at the tree and the lights for hours and tells me how beautiful it is. Everyone should be this happy and blessed as they move toward eternal life! God is good!
Potato Latkes and Matzoh Ball Soup! YUM! 
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