Pesach 2010 -- Leil HaSeder

A few months ago, when we spent Shabbat with my Rav (Rabbi), my Rav's wife (who is also a friend of mine) invited us to join them for Seder.  I was so honored by the invitation!  I would have loved to accept, but we usually spend Pesach with family (mine, when my parents are here, and Moshe's, when my parents are not here). 

This year was no exception.  We planned to be with Moshe's family. 

Usually, my sister is off doing her own thing for Pesach.  Our needs for Leil HaSeder (the evening of the Seder) are often quite different.  So, I was pleasantly surprised when my sister called to say that it's been a while since we last had Seder together, and she'd like to spend Leil HaSeder with us. 

When I called to see if my sister could join us with her friend (and former flat-mate), I learned that two extra guests was more than our hosting family could handle comfortably.   I totally understood.  Still, I really wanted to spend Pesach with my sister.

There was no way I could host, so I asked my sister which she preferred: hosting Seder or joining us at my Rav's.  After some consideration, my sister surprised me by agreeing to go to my Rav's home.

I called my friend to find out if her invitation was still open, and if she would be willing to host an additional two guests. I received such a warm response!  I was so excited (and curious!) about spending Pesach with their family!

We all had a wonderful time together.

There was singing, and stimulating discussions, and fun!  They sort of sped through the boring parts, which surprised me a bit, but I appreciated it.  I did not expect much singing (my Rav once made a comment that he does not like singing during davening. I LOVE singing during davening!), but they sang almost everything that we sing, so I was very pleased!  And, of course, everyone contributed to the discussions.  Our kids were a little quieter than usual (not necessarily a bad thing...), but even they asked questions and sang.  Moshe, of course, had several interesting side conversations with my Rav.  Overall, the pace of the Seder was "just right."

Their youngest child is the cutest, most adorable, little, five-year-old girl!  She held her "haggadah" (that she made) over her face while she belted out the "mah nishtanah" at the beginning of the Seder, and "echad mi yodeah," at the end. 

My eldest, and their youngest, formed a very special connection.  It was very sweet and, apparently unusual for their daughter.  All my kids have "the magic," when it comes to little kids. 

My youngest spent most of her time with their daughter, who is just half a year younger.  My son also found "his place," sometimes with the older boys, and sometimes with his sisters and the younger kids.

Moshe found MANY interesting books to peruse and discuss.  And I had a wonderful time hanging out with my friend.

I am so glad to have had this opportunity.  I love spending Pesach with our families, and I missed spending that time together with Moshe's family. Yet, I am grateful to have shared Leil HaSeder with my sister.  Moreover, it was a real treat to celebrate Pesach with my Rav and his family.



Please daven (or send happy, healing thoughts) for RivkA bat Teirtzel.

With love and optimism,
RivkA