Imposter Syndrome is a term that many of us are familiar with nowadays, at least in the workplace. It’s the sneaky terrible feeling that “everyone else” has it figured out except you and you’re going to mess up and they’re all going to know you’re an imposter. The feeling of being a fraud, of not […]
Imposter Syndrome in Jewish Conversion Read Post »
Do your politics matter while converting to Judaism? No! (Yes, of course they do.) Should you be open about your politics while converting? Only you can answer that, but let’s give you some useful information to make that decision. Disclaimers! Lawyers love disclaimers, and I’m no exception. I’ve been a part of and visited more
Can Politics Ruin Your Jewish Conversion? Read Post »
Hosting Shabbat meals can be stressful. Even cooking for yourself or your family can be hard! No one has enough time or energy for the Shabbat meals of their dreams. So here’s my best tip: the “bar” concept – a versatile and practical solution for your Shabbos meals! (Keep reading for my easiest go-to Shabbat
The Easiest Way to Prepare and Host Shabbat Meals Read Post »
It’s been just over 11 years since I completed the orthodox conversion process that created this blog. What’s changed? What’s it like “on the other side”? Last month, I saw my conversion anniversary on the calendar and made a note in my planner. …And then I completely forgot about it until a week after the
Reflections 11 Years Later Read Post »
If you haven’t discovered it already, 2 Jews equals 3 opinions! And it is entirely possible for all of those opinions to be correct. How is that possible?? I’m Jewish, so I could give you 18 answers to that question. The best answer I can give you is that Judaism is not only NOT a
What Is a Chumrah and What Is Halacha Read Post »
I think I’ve always been surprised how commonly people (usually women) ask about halacha and going to the gym. But especially about headcoverings and the gym. Yet I don’t see men asking about their yarmulkes at the gym 🤷 In short, your mileage will vary considerably. Ask people in your community. If you’re in the conversion process or
Dressing “Frum” at the Gym Read Post »
I came across this question on social media again recently, and it has been a frequent concern over the years: “I converted in one Jewish movement and now want to convert orthodox. What will happen to my friendships and my relationship with my former rabbi(s)? Will they hate me? Am I betraying them?” First, I’ll
Friendships When a Liberal Convert Goes Orthodox Read Post »
Can I go to synagogue on the High Holidays without a ticket? Well, sure. However, your mileage may vary whether you get in the door, whether you have a seat, or whether people are jerks to you. (All of the below applies to synagogues in any movement – orthodox, conservative, and reform.) I don’t
Synagogue Tickets & the High Holidays: What No One Tells You Read Post »
Tonight starts Passover. Despite being chol hamoed, I intend to have posts next week. I hope you have a chag kasher v’sameach! So. Pesach is here. Let’s assume this is your first or second Pesach (particularly speaking to those of you who haven’t converted yet), and that you’re trying to “do it all” this year.
Pesach: The Red Sea Beach Diet Read Post »
I hope you all enjoyed my prank yesterday! That is the only successful prank I’ve ever done. I am physically incapable of playing a prank because my face gives it away every time. Enter…the anonymity of the interwebz. If you have no idea what happened, check out this explanation: What Is a Rick Roll? And no, I’m
Pesach Cleaning Got You Down? Read Post »