Converting to Judaism for love isn’t new — it’s ancient. People love to say “don’t convert for a partner,” but love has always been one of the holiest doors into Judaism. Relationships — romantic, familial, or friendship — are how most people have joined the Jewish people throughout history. You’re not doing it wrong. You’re […]
I Converted Because I Dated a Nice Jewish Boy™ Read Post »
When I finished converting to Judaism, everyone congratulated me — but no one warned me how disorienting it can feel afterward. You’ve spent months (or years) preparing, learning, proving, waiting for that magical moment at the mikvah… and then suddenly, it’s done. You’re Jewish. But instead of feeling confident, you’re exhausted, unsure, and maybe a
What No One Tells You After You Convert to Judaism, Part 1 Read Post »
When I was converting to Judaism, I wasn’t too worried about giving up Christmas. But Halloween? Oh hell no. But for years, I had a zero-tolerance policy. I was committed to my Jewish life, and that meant leaving Halloween behind… or so I thought. Then I had kids. And suddenly, things weren’t so simple anymore.
Can Jews Celebrate Halloween? The Nuance No One Talks About Read Post »
I recorded a long video about Simchat Torah, and while editing, I only just discovered that a significant part of it has a fatal error in the video file. I’m not going to have time to refilm and edit, but I wanted to give you the information anyway. I know, the video was better because
Simchat Torah Rituals You Can Do at Home (Even Without a Community) Read Post »
Sukkot is the holiday of beautiful impermanence – joy, hospitality, and gratitude lived inside a wobbly little shelter. If that sounds daunting without a backyard, a synagogue, or fancy supplies… breathe. You can honor Sukkot at home this year with what you already have. A balcony, a window, a chair, a pot of soup –
Sukkot Rituals You Can Do at Home (Even Without a Community) Read Post »
Do you have to fast on Yom Kippur? Short answer: if you’re a healthy adult — yes. If fasting would harm you — no, and it can actually be a mitzvah to eat. This guide is your calm, judgment-free walkthrough of what counts, what doesn’t, and how to show up meaningfully at home — even
Yom Kippur Fasting You Can Do at Home (Even Without a Community) Read Post »
No synagogue nearby this year? You can still create a deeply sacred Yom Kippur — safely, gently, and with intention — right where you are. This post launches Part 2 of my High Holidays at Home series, a step-by-step video to help you craft the day from home: set your kavanah, shape a simple service
Yom Kippur Rituals You Can Do at Home (Even Without a Community) Read Post »
No synagogue nearby? Celebrating Rosh Hashanah solo? You’re still invited to a sweet, meaningful New Year. This post – and the video – is your calm guide to Rosh Hashanah at home: set one honest intention, light holiday candles, say Kiddush, and dip apples in honey. We’ll touch Cheshbon HaNefesh (gentle soul-accounting), simple symbolic foods,
Rosh Hashanah Rituals You Can Do at Home (Even Without a Community) Read Post »
If the words “High Holidays” make your stomach drop instead of your heart lift, you’re in good company. These days are meant to be holy – but between synagogue tickets, menus, schedules, and a chorus of “am I doing this right?”, they can spiral into stress fast. That’s exactly why I made this video: the
10 Things I Wish I Knew Before My First High Holidays Read Post »
When I started my Jewish journey, nobody told me that the biggest costs wouldn’t be the obvious ones. Sure, I expected to pay for books, classes, maybe some ritual items. But what blindsided me were the hidden costs—the unpaid time off for holidays, the career shifts, the synagogue memberships, even the emotional toll of burnout.
Is Converting to Judaism More Expensive Than You Think? | Conversion on a Budget Part 3 Read Post »