2009: Dear Lowenthal and Fox Family, Paper bags, penny toys and cow masks…

Dear Lowenthal and Fox Families,

Paper bags, cow masks and penny toys were not what I expected at a Passover Sedar!  Such a creative way of amplifying the script of this occasion with a memorable tradition.  I was welcomed and reassured by your families’ warm invitation to participate and learn.  

Rhonda and Ken juggled all of those courses, dishes, readings and songs with ease.  The meal was always amazing and your shared natural gifts as teachers, mediators and mentors made for great conversation and debate. Your extended family roots in Montana were familiar to this Colorado native.  Finally, always a pleasure to get to know your bright engaging kids. 

Over the years, I would do my best to create my own version of a Passover Sedar, but it was so nice to be re-introduced to the steps and meaning with your families.  Usually the only non-Jewish person at your table, I never felt like anything but family.

Thank you for including me in this meaningful tradition made so fun by some unexpected props.

Gratefully,

Ann Simonds

aka Annie Hoagland