Happy Hanukkah

Yesterday's activity on the advent calendar wasn't really related to Christmas. In fact, it was related to another holiday that falls this time of year: Hanukkah.

In the afternoon we caught up with friends for a little Hanukkah party. Ava has been learning about different cultures and traditions at school and this week's focus has been on Hanukkah, so she thinks herself quite the expert. She's been telling me all about how to light the candles on the menorah and how to play with a dreidel; two things she was looking forward to doing at the party.

Our delicious afternoon tea consisted of potato latkes with apple sauce, brisket, cinnamon buns, Hanukkah cookies, fruit and chocolate "gelt" coins.

Delicious cookies from a local diner

Ava tries a dreidel cookie

The kids were pretty excited about the menorah which was made of Lego. How cool is that? Ava was especially excited that she was able to help light the candles.

How fantastic is this Lego menorah?!

Ava lights the candles of the menorah

Lighting all the candles for the last day of Hanukkah

All lit up

After we'd finished eating Ava was eager to play with the dreidel. She collected all of the left over chocolate gelt to use and assembled the kids in a circle to start playing. Unfortunately she didn't count on the under three set (the rest of the guests) being more interested in just opening the gelt and eating it rather than playing properly! It was a little frustrating for Ava who was trying her hardest to read the Hebrew on the dreidel and play properly! Maybe next year they'll be old enough to play.

Happy Hanukkah from Ava

Big thanks to my friend Ruth for hosting the little party and letting us celebrate Hanukkah with her family.