I was encouraged to keep a journal during this parsha. For reflection, assessment and clarity. Or as my sisters thank me for- for stamm entertainment, after all it's always nice to learn through someone else's story. And apparently I wanted stories. A trilogy even. “Adventures in Shidduchim” volumes 1,2 and 3.  

InItially I flip through the pages and it’s with an underlying calm, content glow- but as I  sit in the basement, in the same chair that I penned many a “Dear Esther Date #4 Yerachmiel G…” the emotions return. Some of these are of sheer relief, intermingled with the joy of clarity.  Like how could I of thought he was shayich? We were completely incompatible, now even more so when you see who we are each engaged to, respectively. I flip a few more pages and come to Pinny M., wow he was a really great guy, wasn't shayich, but maybe he’d be good for… I make a mental note to call the shadchan who redt it, and suggest Pinny for my friend Fraidy, they would be very “the type”, interesting how I didnt think of this before…?

True Colors: A Journey from Brunette to Blondeish and Back Again

Life is a journey of self-discovery, where we navigate through various phases and experiments. I remember the impulsive yet calculated decision to color my hair like it was yesterday, while in Aruba with my mother and sister, a colorist pointed to my mothers honey hues and stressed that her colors would be well suited on me.

I figured when in Aruba…plus the vibrancy of the blue ocean left me pining for my own take home souvenir of color. This hair transformation would lead me on a profound path of self-reflection, ultimately taking me back to my roots - both literally and figuratively.

Focus is finite; when a person talks on the phone while driving, they lose 37% motor focus.

My mechanic recently asked me (all life lessons happen in the auto shop) how my radio is doing, “because that’s all you need, a good engine and a great playlist, but don’t be busy switching songs constantly: it’s not good for the nerves, and even worse for the road, let the songs play out and get lost in the tune.”

The word potent itself is robust, full overflowing, almost phonesthemic.

Its infinite potential is dual. Anything can or can’t happen. And by anything, toss a coin in the air, while it's midair the outcome you subconsciously want can be equated to your anything.

Sure thing, is not my go-to line when it hits home. ראש השנה evokes every feeling. Fear, hope, gratitude, angst, pain, confusion, hope again. It's crazy to think that our stories were carefully crafted and intertwined with those who would play leading roles last year when we were all davening.