Bar Mitzvah In Amherst

On Saturday we went to a Bar Mitzvah in Amherst. It was a lot of fun. The service was really lovely, and I was happy to discover how many of the songs and prayers I remember.

I was excited to attend because I hadn't seen the Bar Mitzvah boy or his family for far too long. His parents and my parents have been friends since before I was born, so I've known them my entire life! You've probably guessed that the rest of my family was also invited, so I also got to spend the day with my parents and brother (unfortunately my sister was studying for exams & working, so she couldn't make it).

The party was held at a local bowling alley. It as so awesome! They rented the whole place out, got a DJ, and set us all up with our own lanes. Can you believe it was my mom's very first time bowling? I thought she did a great job! I think Eric won both games, but my dad wasn't far behind.

There was a delicious Southern BBQ buffet and a station set up to make our own sundaes. Can't get much better than that!

Walk In Peace

My Aunt Claire gave me this beautiful, silk pillow cover a few years ago. In the upper left, it says milagro, which is the Spanish word for miracle. There are 4 milargos (the little legs) attached to my pillow cover with red ribbon, and in the bottom right, it says walk in peace.

"Milagros are small metal religious charms found in many areas of Latin America, especially Mexico and Peru.  The word “Milagro” means “miracle”.  They are also used in Europe, where they are often referred to as Exvotos (Offerings).  These small charms, often depicting arms, legs, praying people, farm animals and a wide range of other subjects are typically nailed or pinned to crosses or wooden statues of various saints like the Virgin Mary or Christ, sacred objects, pinned on the clothing of saint statues, or hung with little red ribbons or threads from altars and shrines.  They are also carried for protection and good luck.  Ranging in size from less than 1/2 inch to several inches, they are as unique as the cultures that produce them."  
-From Zanzibar Trading Co. 

The pillow cover is also vibrant and has a detailed design. It's really very stunning and special; I'm flattered that Claire thought of me. 

Dusting Of Snow

I took this picture five years ago in Copenhagen, Denmark. We visited just before Christmas, and there were decorations everywhere. This little dusting of snow made it feel like a fairy tale.

What His Outfit Says

I was in the Kendall Square T station and I saw this group of people across the tracks. 

That guy on the right really jumped out at me. Whenever I see men in white, short sleeved, button down shirts with black pant, I automatically think Mormon! I don't know if that guy is a Mormon, and I honestly don't care. However, it just proves how important first impressions can be. We can't deny that we all make snap decisions. I don't think it's bad to make these judgements - most likely we do this to quickly assess the danger of a situation or person - and often our opinions change (or are reinforced) as new information is obtained. 

Grimace

I think this ad is absolutely hilarious. The guy looks just thrilled about the church being advertised. The corners of the mouth are turned down in a frown and the fingers are bent in what looks like agony. You'd think the advertisers would do their best to make the church look wonderful. Instead, this guy's heart is broken and in flames and he's looking at the location details with disdain and disgust. 

What do you think "church for the rest of us" means anyway? If you're interested, here is a link to the website.