Hey, Realmers! I’m back after two days of amazing Hanukkah celebration. Since I don’t work on Shabbat, I need to catch you up so you’ll know what’s going on.

The second night of Hanukkah was also Erev Shabbat, and Will and I had the pleasure of dining with Grant and Robin Luton. Making the evening even more special was the honor of celebrating the birthday of Robin’s mother, Jeanne Anderson, who is a dear friend. This beautiful lady is eighty-two years young, and I am so glad Adonai brought her into my life.

Jeanne is the very essence of strength and grace. She is a pillar of wisdom who has shined a bright light into my life. My only regret is that I didn’t meet her sooner, and so I cherish every moment I get to spend with her.

Also present were Lindsay Luton, Grant and Robin’s daughter; Jim Anderson, Jeanne’s husband; and Ron Anderson, Jeanne and Jim’s son.

Robin made a delicious meal, we enjoyed lovely discussions on topics ranging from hilarious to serious, and best of all, we prayed together expressing gratitude for the many blessings Adonai has bestowed upon us and requesting his divine guidance into our lives and regarding Israel.

For the third night of Hanukkah, we were back at my folks’ home for another delicious meal, mulled wine (Mulled Wine Recipe), and dessert from Shell’s Confections! If you’ve never had anything from Shell’s, just let me say that not only are her creations absolutely beautiful, but they are also incredibly delicious.

I made a special request of Hanukkah-themed treats, and what I received far exceeded my expectations. Spice cake with golden raisin cupcakes topped with buttercream frosting, sugar cookies with buttercream frosting, and minted white chocolate covered Oreos all in Hanukkah-themed colors and decorations have kept us happy for three nights, but I don’t see them lasting past the fourth night of Hanukkah!

As requested, I finally remembered to take a picture of Will’s tealights, but I forgot to take a picture of our hanukkiah with candles for the third night. Mom and I laughed because we’re always so in the moment that it’s a wonder we remember to take any pictures at all.

That wraps up the past two days. Tonight is the fourth night of Hanukkah, and we’ll see you at sundown.

~The Gibsons