tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25084493382821078312024-03-22T04:35:24.218+02:00Storytime With Safta MiriamSafta Miriamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05952450680791692067noreply@blogger.comBlogger11125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2508449338282107831.post-33445212283505752802011-06-09T10:43:00.003+03:002011-06-09T10:52:03.232+03:00<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);">בס''ד</p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:14pt;" >What a Difference a Visit Makes!</span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Summer vacation is over and tomorrow Bracha and her cousins Dena and Aviva and are starting their senior year at The Beit Chaya School that they attend. Fridays in school, are a special day for the senior class. This is the morning the girls do their <i>chessed</i> program by volunteering at the Jewish organization in their city.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Over the years the girls learnt what a <span style="font-style: italic;">special mitzvah</span> it is to help the less fortunate. </span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Posted on the school bulletin board are many different <span style="font-style: italic;">chessed </span>programs the girls can choose from. Each girl has to sign her name to the first and second <span style="font-style: italic;">chessed</span> program that they wanted to do. The school said that they would try to give each girl their first choose.</span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >To help make it easier to choose, on the first Friday of school, their Principal, Rabbi Schwartz organized an assembly and invited speakers from the different organizations came to speak to tell why they needed volunteers and what they expected in a volunteer. </span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Rabbi Schwartz spoke at length about the meaning of volunteering and doing chessed. He said chessed in Hebrew means <i>‘acts of</i> <i>loving kindness</i> and volunteering means <i>to give of yourself by helping others.</i> Combined, he told the girls, you will be doing a great kindness and fulfilling an important mitzvah. </span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Besides being first cousins, Bracha, Dena and Aviva are great friends and do everything together. And volunteering was no exception. The girls decided they wanted to do their <span style="font-style: italic;">chessed</span> together at the children’s hospital. When it was time for the speaker from the hospital, the girls listened very carefully to all the details. The hospital was looking for girls who were friendly, reliable and would be able to entertain their young patients. They knew this is where they really wanted to volunteer.</span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >When it was time to sign up, they quickly signed their names beside the option of going to the children's hospital. The girls had a plan. When they went to visit they would bring with their musical instruments. Bracha plays the guitar, Dena plays the tambourine and synthesizer and Aviva can play the accordion. Together, they made a great band. </span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >On their first trip to the hospital, the girls made an <i>Oneg Shabbat</i> for the children. They played musical requests from the children, nurses and doctors. Everyone was singing and clapping. A wonderful time was had by all. The young patients had a reason to forget why they were in the hospital. Everyone was happy and smiling. </span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >The parents who were visiting their children were so happy to see their children enjoying themselves. They thanked Bracha, Dena and Aviva for coming and spending time at the hospital, and the girls felt great satisfaction in<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>knowing their visit made a difference. </span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Each week one of the girls would tell a Shabbat story. And of course there was always a special activity or two.</span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Bracha is great at card tricks and her young friends would sit <span style="font-style: italic;">'wide eyed'</span> as they watched the speed of her hands move quickly across the cards. Everyone would clap and when she was finished they all wanted to know how to do the tricks.</span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Aviva loved to tell riddles. One by one laughing and excited, the children would call out different answers.</span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Dena is the composer of the group and she loves to teach the young patients a poem or a song that she wrote. This week she is teaching a Shabbat poem. </span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >SHABBAT SHALOM</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Mother lights the Shabbat candles</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >as her family surrounds her.</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >She covers her eyes</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >and says the ancient Bracha.</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Together they answer, "Amein!"</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Shabbat Shalom to everyone!</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >The candles gently flicker.</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >The table is set with the best dishes</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >and the wine bottle without the label.</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >The challah is covered, waiting its turn,</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >to give the mitzvah of another Bracha. </span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Shabbat Shalom to everyone!</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >The family welcomes the Shabbat Malka,</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >singing Shalom Aleichim.</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Father recites the Kiddush,</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >together they answer, "Amein!"</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Shabbat Shalom to everyone!</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Now its the challah's turn</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >to be in the spotlight.</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Father recites the Bracha</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >and together they answer, "Amein!"</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Shabbat Shalom to everyone!</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >The Shabbat day is peaceful</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >no cars, telephones or business.</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >The gift, Hashem gave to His people,</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >to enjoy for all eternity.</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ></span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Shabbat Shalom to everyone!</span></b></em><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" > </span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >The morning passes quickly and now it is time for the girls to leave. They wish each child <i>Shabbat Shalom</i> and a <i>Refu'a Shelayma</i>. Next Friday, <i>Im Yirtzeh</i> <i>Hashem</i>, they will return to bring a smile and some joy to their young friends who have to remain in the hospital.</span></b></p> <p style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 238); color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><b><span style=" Comic Sans MS";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >As the girls walk home, Aviva tells her cousins how fortunate it is they are healthy and able to spend Shabbat at home with their families. "Next week," Aviva continues, "Let's make a little play for the children, using some of the patients." Dena and Bracha agree and they plan to meet and start working on the play Moetzi Shabbat.</span></b></p> <p style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204); font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b><span style="Comic Sans MS"">Shabbat Shalom to everyone!</span></b></span></p><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204); font-family: verdana;font-size:100%;" > </span><p style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204); font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="Comic Sans MS"font-size:100%;" >I hope you enjoyed my story. Please feel free to comment [below] and forward the story to your friends.<br /></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204); font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="Comic Sans MS"font-size:100%;" >Until next time….</span></p><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204); font-family: verdana;font-size:100%;" > </span><p style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204); font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b><i><span style="Comic Sans MS"">Safta Miriam</span></i></b></span></p><p style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="Comic Sans MS"font-family:";" >* not a real school<br /></span></p>Safta Miriamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05952450680791692067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2508449338282107831.post-16495730793060530192009-03-15T12:18:00.012+02:002011-06-09T09:46:16.417+03:00Chapter 10בס''ד<br /><br />A Very Special Trip.<br /><br /><br />Where is the Brown family going?<br />Why is this trip so special?<br />Read and find out…….<br /><br />Avi and Ari had been to Israel many times to visit their grandparents. Now the whole family was going to make Aliyah, which means that they are going to live in Israel. Israel is the home of the Jewish People.<br /><br />Avi and Ari were so excited. They have wanted to live in Israel for a long time. Their parents told them that they are going to live in Jerusalem, the capital of Israel, not far from their grandparents.<br /><br />For many weeks, the family had been packing and getting ready for their big move. Their mother told the children that they each can pack three special activities to take on the airplane.<br /><br />Finally the big day had arrived. Ari and Avi were watching for the big moving truck to come to their house. Ari saw a large truck first coming down the street and he shouted, “it’s here!” The truck pulled up to the family’s house. Four men came to pack all the furniture into brown cardboard boxes and put everything into the truck.<br /><br />The moving truck will take the family’s furniture and boxes to the port, where it will be loaded onto a large ship headed for Israel. Avi asked one of the men “how long does it take for the ship to get to Israel?” “About three weeks, answers the man.”<br /><br />That evening, after saying goodbye to all their friends and relatives, a van arrived to take the family to the airport. Everyone was so excited. Ari said to his parents, “we have been planning this trip for several months, I can’t believe that today we are making Aliyah.”<br /><br />At the airport, the family stood in line waiting to go through security and get check in. They will also get their boarding passes. The luggage that they are taking with them is checked and loaded into the airplane. Now the family is eagerly waiting the call for the passengers to board the airplane.<br /><br />Over the loudspeaker comes the announcement “<em>ALL PASSENGERS TRAVELLING EL AL TO ISRAEL BOARD AT GATE 8. MAKE SURE TO HAVE YOUR PASSPORTS, BOARDING PASS AND TICKET READY TO SHOW AT THE GATE.”<br /></em><br />The stewards and stewardesses, these are the people that work on the airplane and help all the passengers find their seats were already on board. After the plane takes off, they will serve snacks and a meal. Mrs. Brown is sitting with Bracha and Mr. Brown is sitting with Ari and Avi. While everyone is boarding, beautiful Israel music is playing.<br /><br />Suddenly the music goes off and the voice from the loudspeaker says, “<em>MY NAME IS OSHREI AND I AM YOUR PILOT FOR THIS TRIP. WE ARE ABOUT TO TAKE OFF. PLEASE FASTEN YOUR SEATBELTS AND WATCH THE INSTRUCTIONS THAT THE STEWARDESS IS SHOWING. HAVE AN ENJOYABLE TRIP. WE WILL BE IN ISRAEL IN TWELVE HOURS.”<br /><br /></em>As the airplane starts climbing, Mr. Brown says a special prayer for a safe trip.<br /><br />The stewardess and stewards start passing out snacks and drinks. Avi chose orange juice and Avi chose apple juice. In one hour supper will be served. Then the lights will be dimmed, so that everyone can rest.<br /><br />After many hours the airplane is floating gently in the sky getting closer and closer to Israel. Avi and Ari are so excited they are having a hard time sleeping. Soon it will be morning. The boys are anxious to see sunrise. At the first sign of daybreak, the stewards and stewardess hand out hot towels so that everyone can wash their face. `<br /><br />At the back of the airplane, some men are getting ready to say their morning prayers. Mr. Brown is also there. The boys will say their morning prayers at their seat.<br /><br />The smell of hot bagels travels through the airplane. Everyone is hungry and eagerly awaiting for breakfast to be served. The pilot announces that the arrival time is in two hours.<br /><br />Avi and Ari enjoyed their breakfast, bagels cheese, eggs, vegetable and chocolate milk. Mr. Brown tells the boys the pack up their activities and listen to the instructions.<br /><br />The pilot announces that they are now flying over Israel and will be landing in fifteen minutes. The ‘fasten your seatbelt sign’ is flashing and the airplane is starting to go down.<br /><br />Avi and Ari are busy looking out of the window at all the beautiful sites.<br /><br />The airplane gently touches the ground with some soft bumps. Shalom Alcheim, welcome to Israel, is playing over the loudspeakers. The pilot thanks all the passengers for flying EL AL. The doors of the airplane are opened.<br /><br />The boys get off the plane with their parents and sister and board the bus that will take them to the terminal. They are shouting and jumping for joy “<em>WE ARE FINALLY HOME</em>.” At the terminal the family goes to receive their <em>TODUT OLAY</em>, the paper that says that they made Aliyah.<br /><br />While picking up their suitcases, Ari sees his grandparents waiting to take them to their new home in Jerusalem.<br /><br />After lots of hugs and kisses, everyone piles into the van.<br />When the Brown family arrived at their new home, they find a sign on their front door that says…….<br /><br /><br /><em><span style="color:#000099;">WELCOME HOME!<br /><br />WE WISH ALL OF YOU A SUCCESSFUL ALIYAH AND MANY HAPPY YEARS IN OUR JEWISH HOMELAND, ISRAEL!<br /><br /></span><span style="color:#000099;">SABA AND SAFTA</span>. </em><br /><br />This is the last chapter of The Adventures of Avi and Ari.<br /><br />I hope you enjoyed the stories. Please feel free to comment.<br /><br />After Pesach, I will be posting other stories that I have written.<br /><br />See you soon!<br />Saftala MiriamSafta Miriamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05952450680791692067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2508449338282107831.post-53311780836511374082009-03-03T00:36:00.004+02:002011-06-09T09:47:52.070+03:00Chapter 9<span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;">בס''ד<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Saying Good-Bye</span><br /><br />Ari and Avi are busy saying good-bye to everyone as they<br />get ready for their special trip.<br /><br />The last days of school were quickly approaching. Avi and Ari were looking forward to the summer vacation. The boys had special plans.<br /><br />This was going to be their last summer in Toronto. In the middle of August, the Brown family were leaving Toronto and going to make Aliyah and live in Israel.<br /><br />There was so much to do in such a short time. Although the family had received their okay from the Jewish Agency, they still had a few more matters to look after before the big day. Packing was one of those matters.<br /><br />Mrs. Brown gave the boys the job of packing all their toys, puzzles, books and prize possessions. First they had to sort out what they needed and what they didn’t need. From the pile of didn’t need, Mrs. Brown told the twins to make a second pile of good and bad condition. The good condition toys and books would be given to a Gemach for children. Mr. Brown would try to repair the bad condition toys and books so that they could be given away. If they weren’t useable they would go in the garbage.<br /><br />Sorting their books and toys was a harder job that the boys ever imagined. It seemed like they needed everything. Their mother suggested making a pile of books they read often and another pile of books they hardly ever read. The same plan for their toys. What they play with and what they don’t play with.<br /><br />The boys spent two days sorting their toys, puzzles and books. Finally they were ready to start packing the box. Mrs. Brown gave the boys a large box and many plastic bags. She told the boys to make sure each puzzle went into a separate bag before it was packed. It took two boxes to pack up everything. When the boxes were packed they were closed with tape and Mrs. Brown wrote with a red marker on the box ‘boys toys, books and puzzles’ and gave the box a number.<br /><br />On the last day of school, Mrs. Brown had arranged for the boys to make a good-bye party for their classmates and teachers. They brought chocolate cupcakes with sprinkles, ice cream and juice.<br /><br />Their classmates had their own little surprise. Each child wrote a good-bye note, drew a picture and in the corner pasted a photo of them. The notes and pictures were then put in a binder. Mrs. Stein, Ari’s teacher and Mrs. Eisen, Avi’s teacher also wrote notes. So did Rabbi Schwartz, the school principal. In the binder was also the e-mail address for each child’s family. The boys said that they would keep in touch. Everyone would want to know what going to school in Israel was like.<br /><br />After loads of hugs and pats on the back, the boys once again said good-bye to everyone; they left their school for the very last time.<br /><br />Avi told Ari that he had a funny feeling in his stomach. Ari said he also had a funny feeling.<br /><br />The boys spent their time visiting relatives, last minute shopping with their parents and just hanging around with their friends.<br /><br />Mr. Brown came home from work and announced to the family that he had a surprise. “Today was my last day at work, and since everyone has been working so hard to get ready to make Aliyah, I thought it would be nice to spend a few days relaxing in the country, before the movers come. A friend of mine has a cabin on the lake and he is lending it to us for a few days. We can go tomorrow morning.”<br /><br />“Hurray,” shouted the boys. They were getting bored with nothing special to do. Except for the activities that they were taking on the airplane, all the rest of their toys, books and puzzles had been packed.<br /><br />Mrs. Brown told the boys to put their bathing suits, four shirts and short sets, underwear and pajamas in their backpacks. “Don’t forget to pack your toothbrushes, she reminded them.<br /><br />The next morning the Brown family all piled into the family car. Everyone was very excited about this little vacation. “How long is it going to take to get to the country,” asked Ari. “About two hours,” said their father.<br /><br />“Why don’t we play a car game to help the time pass.” Avi suggest an alphabet game where the first person says a word and the next person has to say a word that starts with the last letter of the previous word. Everyone agreed.<br />Mrs. Brown said that she would start, followed by Ari, Avi and last would be Mr. Brown.<br /><br />Mrs. Brown said “Israel.” “Ari replied, “love.” Then Avi answered “eager.” “Ready,” said their father. The family played the game for most of the trip. “I’m hungry,” said Ari. “Me too,” said Avi. “We are almost there said their father.” Mrs. Brown had prepared sandwiches and salad for lunch. “We will eat in a few minutes,” replied their mother.<br /><br />The family arrived at the country house. They spent the next few days, swimming, hiking, bar’ b’quing and roasting marshmallows in a night campfire while their father told stories.<br /><br />The little vacation was very enjoyable. Now it was time to go home. The moving truck was coming next week. Then their new adventure would begin.<br /><br />See you soon.<br />Have a great week.<br />Safta Miriam<br /><br /><br /><br /></span>Safta Miriamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05952450680791692067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2508449338282107831.post-79349640562167614912009-02-22T17:22:00.005+02:002011-06-09T09:49:16.949+03:00Chapter 8<span style="color:#006600;">בס''ד<br /><br /><br />Rosh Chodesh Adar is in the Air<br /><br />Avi and Ari think that Rosh Chodesh Adar is the best month.<br />Join the boys as they decide on their Purim costumes.<br />What special activities will they have everyday in school?<br /><br /><br />I can’t wait until next week,” said Avi to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Brown, at the dinner table. “We are going to have a great time at the Rosh Chodesh Adar activities at school,” Ari excitedly chimed in. Avi continued, “everyone has to come in a costume.”<br /><br />On Rosh Chodesh the whole school is going to have a party. “Today,” said Ari, “my teacher brought a large paper hamentashen to school and inside was small pieces of papers with treats written on them. Mrs. Stein passed a hamentashen hat around the class and everyone picked out the treat that they had to bring to the party. I have to bring two bags of potato chips.” “We did the same thing in our class,” said Avi, “but instead of a hamentashen hat, my teacher had a large hat decorated like a crown. I picked out 2 bottles of juice.”<br /><br />“Mommy,” said Ari, “can I use some of your make-up to make a clown face?” “Sure” said Mrs. Brown. “Avi, you can also use my make-up.” “I don’t need any make-up. I found my old black beard from last year. I am going to be King Ahasuerus.<br /><br />“Ari, what is Ari the clown going to wear?” asked Mr. Brown. “Well, I took color paper, cut different size squares, made a design in each square and pinned each square to my pants and shirt. I have a funny yellow hat and a big red polk a dot bowtie from last years costume. “Sounds great Ari. Avi what is King Ahasuerus going to look like?”<br /><br />“I have a super idea. King Ahasuerus was very fat, so I am going to tuck my pillow into my pants. I am going to wear black pants and shirt and I have a gold color cape with glitters. I have my beard and I made a gold crown.” “You’re going to be a wonderful King Ahasuerus. Don’t forget, you need a gold scepter, so that your subjects can enter your palace safely,” said Avi’s father. <br /><br />“Oh, I did forget. Thanks for reminding me. Mom, do you have any empty paper towel rolls? I’ll use gold colored wrapping paper to cover the roll,” replied Avi.<br /><br />The boys finished dinner and went to put the finishing touches on their costumes.<br /><br />Rosh Chodesh Adar finally arrived. The older classes were going to put on a play and the school choir would sing tons of Purim songs. Everyday, until Purim, there would be different activities. This was a very exciting time.<br /><br />The entire school was learning all about Purim, Megilla Esther and all the holiday laws and songs.<br />Rabbi Schwartz, the school principal, was going from class to class telling stories about Esther and Mordechai. Rabbi Schwartz was also dressed-up.<br /><br />An announcement came over the school loud speaker. “Attention everyone. We are going to have a Purim parade. Please listen carefully and then follow all the instructions.<br /><br />1. All classes line up at the door.<br />2. When the parade passes your door, join in. Since this is the month of Adar, we will do things backwards. Grade 7 will start the parade and grade 1 will end the parade.<br />3. Rabbi Schwartz will lead the parade on a tour. There will be a surprise.<br />4. REMEMBER NO PUSHING! We all want to have a good time.”<br /><br />Quickly all the classes lined up and waited for their turn to join in. Purim music was blaring from the loudspeakers. Everyone was so excited. The parade finally reached grade 1. Ari’s class joined in. Avi’s class was next. Rabbi Schwartz was wearing a clown’s costume. He played the trumpet, as he led the children out of the school, down the street and around the corner into a large building.<br /><br />This building was a Jewish nursing home where the residents were waiting to see the children and hear them sing some Purim songs.<br /><br />Rabbi Schwartz invited the seniors to join in and sing with the children. The sounds of both the old and young voices singing together was beautiful. Everyone was very happy. Before the children left the nursing home, everyone was served juice and hamtentashen. Then waving good-bye and wishing the resident a happy Purim, the parade went back to school.<br /><br />Rabbi Schwartz told the children that they had performed a very large Mitzvah.<br /><br />Purim was just 3 days away. The older classes had collected can goods, candies and money to give to poor families. They were busy making beautiful holiday packages. Although there isn’t any school on Purim, Rabbi Schwartz will drive the grade 7 students around so that they can deliver the Purim packages on Purim.<br /><br />The day before Purim was a half day at school, Both Ari and Avi had a class party and gave a friend a yummy Purim package. The bell rang, everyone wished each other Chag Purim Sameach and the class was dismissed.<br /><br />Ari and Avi agreed, Rosh Chodesh Adar was the best month and Purim was the best holiday.<br /><br />See you soon!<br />Have a great week.<br />Safta Miriam<br /><br /><br /><br /></span>Safta Miriamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05952450680791692067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2508449338282107831.post-75021148329374184352009-02-14T22:11:00.003+02:002011-06-09T09:50:57.183+03:00Chapter 7<span style="color:#006600;">בס''ד<br /><br /><br />Avi Goes to the Hospital<br /><br />Avi is not feeling well at school.<br />He goes to see the school nurse.<br />Find out what is wrong with Avi.<br /><br />"Have a nice day at school," said Mrs. Brown to her twin sons as she drove up to their school. "Thanks Mommy, you have a nice day too," they both replied. Seconds later, Avi and Ari were in the schoolyard, greeting their friends.<br /><br />The school bell rang and the boys went to their classrooms. Avi and Ari had settled nicely into the school routine. The boys were learning so many new and exciting things. They loved going to school.<br /><br />The class was learning how to read in English and Hebrew. After only two months in grade 1, Avi was able to read short stories by himself. Ari was the math genius. He was able to figure out the answers to math questions in a jiffy.<br /><br />Mrs. Eisen, Avi teacher called the class attendance. She asked the boys to take out their language workbooks. Everyday Avi’s class worked with their language books. Today they were learning how to write a little story. In this exercise, the boys had to write the last sentence to finish the story.<br /><br />Mrs. Eisen collected the workbooks. “Tomorrow,” said Mrs. Eisen, “we will take turn reading everyone’s last sentence. You will see how much the story will change. Now take out your spelling workbooks.” The boys were learning how to spell three and four letter words. Everyday, they did a different exercise with the same spelling words and on Thursday morning was the spelling test.<br /><br />Just as the class was putting away their spelling workbooks, the school bell ran for recess. Mrs. Eisen told the class to line up and led everyone outside. That is everyone but Avi. When he stood up and started to get into line he had a terrible pain on his right side just below his stomach. Mrs. Eisen, seeing that Avi was not well, told him to sit down and she would go and get the school nurse.<br /><br />Mrs. Miller was the school nurse. First she checked Avi’s forehead to see if he had fever. His forehead was very warm. Next, Mrs. Miller asked Avi where he was in pain. Avi showed her the exact spot and told Mrs. Miller he wanted to throw-up. Mrs. Miller gave Avi a special bag to throw-up in and checked around his stomach. When she touched the sore spot Avi cried OUCH! Mrs. Miller told Avi she would help him go to the nurse’s office and there she would call his mother.<br /><br />Avi was scared and wanted Ari to come with him. Mrs. Eisen, who was waiting to hear what the nurse had to say, said that she would go outside and find Ari.<br /><br />Slowly, Avi and Mrs. Miller walked to the nurse’s office. Avi lied down on the bed and Mrs. Miller called Mrs. Brown.<br /><br />“Hello,” said Mrs. Brown. “Hello, this is Mrs. Miller, the school nurse,” came the reply. “Avi is not well and he needs to see his doctor. His forehead is quite warm and he has a very bad pain just below his stomach.”<br />“I’ll be at school in fifteen minutes,” said Mrs. Brown.<br /><br />In a jiffy, Mrs. Brown arrived at the school and immediately went to the nurse’s office. When Avi saw his mother, he started to cry, “it hurts so much.” Mrs. Brown telephoned Dr. Gold, the twin’s pediatrician, and after speaking to him for a few minutes, handed the phone to Mrs. Miller. Dr. Gold told the school nurse to call for an ambulance. Dr. Gold told Mrs. Brown the ambulance would take Avi to the hospital emergency room and he would meet them there. Avi was so scared. So was Ari. Mrs. Brown told Ari to stay in school and that his father would come and pick him up and take him to the hospital.<br /><br />The screeching ambulance siren was wailing down the street and stopped in front of the school. Two medics removed a stretcher from the back of the ambulance and went to the nurse’s office. Gently they picked up Avi and lied him down on the stretcher, covered him with a soft white blanket, and quickly rolled him out to the ambulance. Avi asked the medic if the sired was going to make noise. “Yes answered the medic and the red light on top of the ambulance will flash.” The medic told Mrs. Brown she could sit with Avi. That made Avi very happy.<br /><br />In less than five minutes, the ambulance was pulling into the hospital driveway. The hospital nurse was outside ready to receive Avi and rushed him into the emergency room so that the hospital doctor could examine him. “Where is Dr. Gold?” asked Avi. “He is on him way”, the nurse replied. “While you are waiting, we are going to do a small blood test. Have you ever had a blood test?” “No”, Avi quietly answered. “Will it hurt?” Avi looked at his mother for comfort. He didn’t like being in the emergency room. “Mrs. Brown, told Avi not to be scared. “The doctors and nurses are trying to help you feel better.” Mrs. Brown told Avi that she would stay with him.<br /><br />“Hello Avi,” said Dr. Gold in his deep voice. “What seems to be the problem?” Avi showed Dr. Gold where it hurt. Dr. Gold skillfully examined Avi’s stomach and looked ever the blood test results. He then asked Mrs. Brown to step into the hall with him. ‘We will be right back,” said Dr. Gold.<br /><br />Dr. Gold told Mrs. Brown that he felt Avi’s appendix was inflamed and was going to have to be removed. He told her the operation was going to have to be that day, as he didn’t want to take a chance of it bursting. He said that Dr. Able was a very good pediatric surgeon and would call him to do the surgery. Mrs. Brown agreed.<br /><br />Together, they both went back to Avi and told him what was going to happen and why. The nurse admitted Avi to the hospital and Dr. Gold went to call Dr. Able.<br /><br />Avi was so upset and scare. He never had an operation before. Other than an occasional cold, he was never sick. “Where is daddy and Ari,” Avi asked his mother. ‘They are on the there way,” she said. And just as she finished speaking, in walked his father and Ari. “I need an operation, Avi announced to his father and brother. “Wow, a real operation, asked Ari. Avi went on to say that there was something wrong with is appendix and it needed to come out. Dr.Gold said that Dr. Able was going to be the surgeon.<br /><br />“Did I hear someone say my name?” a great big man said as he entered Avi’s room. “Are you Dr. Able, asked Avi? “I sure am, and you must be Avi or are you Avi pointing to Ari. I’m Avi, he is my twin brother Ari, said Avi. Dr. Able handed Avi his right hand to shake hands. “Nice to meet you. Now Avi, show me where it hurts,” said Dr. Able. Dr. Able examined Avi very gently, but when he touched the area of the appendix, Avi cried, “it hurts so much.” “Dr. Gold was correct. The appendix feels ready to come out. We will do the surgery in a couple of hours and in three days from now you will be able to go home explained Dr. Able. Dr. Able then asked Mr. and Mrs. Brown to talk to him in the hall. Ari asked if he could stay with Avi. “That’s a great idea,” said Dr. Able.<br /><br />Dr. Able told Mr. and Mrs. Brown all they needed to know about the surgery. He told them how long it would last and that Avi would be in the recovery room for about 2 hours after surgery. He said that he didn’t expect any complications and they shouldn’t worry. Avi will be just fine. Now you can go back and visit with Avi until the surgery.<br /><br />The nurses were busy getting Avi ready for his surgery. They gave Mr. Brown a paper to sign for permission to do the surgery. Avi’s nurse, Adi, gave Avi special pajamas to wear for the operation. They had snaps running up and down on both sides. She asked Avi if he needed help to put on the pajamas. “No, if I do, my mother will help me.” Avi was being so brave, even thought he was so scared. Adi, told Avi he needed to have one more blood test before the surgery. Now close your eyes and in one second the blood test will be finished. Avi liked Adi. She had a nice smile and was very kind. Adi told Avi, Mr. and Mrs. Brown and Ari that the operating room orderly would come a take Avi to the operating room in a few minutes. She said that the family could walk with them and stay until it was time for the surgery.<br /><br />Both Mr. and Mrs. Brown told Avi how proud they were of him and that he was so brave. They told Avi that everyone would be waiting for him after the surgery. Ari piped in that he was also so proud of Avi and after the surgery, he would do anything Avi wanted.<br /><br />Adi, walked into Avi’s room with the orderly. “This is Jack and he is going to take you to the operating room. When the surgery is finished, Jack will bring you back and I will come to visit you, said Adi.<br /><br />Jack and Adi helped Avi onto the special bed for surgery. Mr. and Mrs. Brown and Ari walked with Avi and Jack to the waiting room outside the operating room. Ari, didn’t say so, but he was real scared for his brother. Dr. Able passed by and told Avi that he was going to scrub his hands and that the nurse would bring him into the operating room in ten minutes. Dr. Gold also came to see Avi and said that he was very brave.<br /><br />Ten minutes seemed to take forever. Just then, a nursed dressed all in blue from head to toe, with a white mask over her mouth and nose came to get Avi.<br /><br />“I’m Talia, one of the operating nurses. It is now time to have the operation. Dr. Able is ready.” Mrs. and Mrs. Brown gave Avi and kiss. Ari started to cry and said how scared he was for Avi. Talia and Avi disappeared behind the large green doors.<br /><br />Mrs. Brown hugged Ari and told him she knew how hard this must be on him. “Don’t worry, Avi is going to be alright, she reassured him. Mr. Brown bought Ari some juice and they sat down to wait.<br /><br />In the operating room the doctor that puts you to sleep so that you don’t feel anything asked Avi if he could count backwards from one hundred to one. He told him that while he is counting he will give him something to smell from a small mask. Avi started to count. “one hundred, ninety nine, ninety eight,” and before he could say ninety seven Avi was asleep.<br /><br />Every few minutes Talia would come out a give a report. Avi was doing great. The appendix is out. The surgery will soon be over. The last report was the surgery was over, Avi is in the recovery room and Dr. Able will be out to speak to you in a couple of minutes. The family was so relieved. Dr. Able said the appendix was ready to burst. Avi did very well during the surgery and he should be able to go home on time. The recovery room nurse came out to speak to Avi’s parents and said that one parent could come and sit with Avi. Mrs. Brown went.<br /><br />A could of hours later, Jack brought Avi back to his room. Adi was waiting for him. She told Mr. Brown and Ari that they could visit for a few minutes now, but that the next day, they could visit all day. Mrs. Brown was going to spend the night with Avi.<br /><br />As predicted, by the next day, Avi was recuperating very quickly. He was out of bed and very busy in the play room talking with the other children. He had so many stories to tell Ari.<br /><br />Mrs. Eisen, Avi’s teacher, came to visit with a gift from the class. Mrs. Miller, the school nurse, bought Avi the biggest chocolate bar he had ever seen. Rabbi Schwartz, the school principal, came to visit and brought Avi a book about Israel.<br /><br />One the fourth day, Dr. Able told Avi that he could go home. He gave Mrs. Brown instruction on what Avi could and could not do. He said that he wanted to see him in a week to take out the stitches.<br /><br />Avi was so excited to be going home. Adi helped Avi to sit down in the wheelchair and pushed him to the front door of the hospital. Mrs. Brown and Avi thanked Adi for her kindness. Avi asked Adi to bend down a little. He gave her a hug and a kiss on the cheek. As Mrs. Brown and Avi drove away, Adi gave him a wave.<br /><br />Avi arrived home to the waiting arms of his father, Ari and his little sister, Bracha. “It is so good to be home. I missed all of you so much. Now Ari, what did you say about doing everything for me?” inquired Avi with a smirk on his face. Everyone laughed as Avi asked Ari for a drink, to play a game with him, to pick up a book he dropped and the list went on and on.<br /><br />Avi and Ari were back together again and loving every minute. </span><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;"></span><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">See you soon.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">Have a great week.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">Saftala Miriam<br /><br /><br /></span>Safta Miriamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05952450680791692067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2508449338282107831.post-71426193107857913892009-02-08T08:20:00.006+02:002011-06-09T09:54:57.650+03:00Chapter 6<span style="color:#006600;">בס''ד<br /></span><span style="color:#006600;"><span style="color:#006600;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Ari’s Class Project<br /><br /></span>Thursday was an exciting day for grade 1.<br />Why, do you ask?<br />Start reading to find out........<br /><br />The first week of the new school year was coming to an end. Mrs. Stein, Ari's teacher told the class that every Thursday afternoon, the grade 1's will get together for an assembly. Each week, one of the classes would be responsible for a short program. The assembly was for 45 minutes. Mrs. Stein said that the class would suggest the program and the class teacher would bring an interesting video.<br /><br />Mrs. Stein continued, "this week, Rabbi Schwartz, the school principal, will do the program. Next week, we will be the first grade 1 responsible for the program. Does anyone have a suggestion what we can do? I will write them on the board and then we will vote."<br /><br />Ari was the first to pick up his hand. "Let's go outside and play baseball. Our class against the other grade one. We will beat them one, two, three." Mrs. Stein wrote baseball on the green board. Nadav was next, "I think we should act out a story. We can go to the library during the week and pick out a book." Mrs. Stein wrote library and acting. Yoni suggested a song with actions and Itamar suggested playing a matching word game. "Let's just tell a nice story," said Dvir. "My Saba bought me a great book over the summer and I could bring it in." Gilad made the next suggestion. "I think we should have a brain teaser contest. Each person would get scrambled up hints and the first person to solve the puzzle would win. Mrs. Stein carefully wrote all the suggestions on the board. "Any more suggestions," she inquired.<br /><br />Since no more hands went up, Mrs. Stein said it was time to vote. This will be a secret vote. I will give you a small piece of notepaper and you write down the suggestion that you liked best. The winner will be the one with the most votes.<br /><br />The boys were all very excited. Each boy who made a suggestion hoped his would win. Five minutes later, Mrs. Stein asked Michael to collect all the note papers and put them in her basket. One by one she read the votes and made separate piles for each suggestion.<br /><br />When all the votes were in their piles, Mrs. Stein counted the votes out loud and wrote the number on the board beside the suggestion. "Okay," said Mrs. Stein "all the note papers are counted." The board looked like this:<br /><br />baseball 7<br />library and acting 3<br />song with actions 2<br />matching word game 4<br />tell a story 7<br />brain teaser 2<br /><br />"Looks like we have a tie," said Mrs. Stein. "We will need a second vote. This time you can vote for either baseball or tell a story. Once again she handed out notepapers and the vote was on. After the notepapers were collected, counted and recorded, this is how the board looked:<br /><br />baseball 12<br />tell a story 13<br /><br />The winner was to tell a story. Ari was very disappointed that he lost the second vote. Mrs. Stein comforted him. She told Ari that he could make another suggestion next time. She said she was sure he was going to enjoy telling a nice story.<br /><br />Mrs. Stein asked Dvir to bring his book to school the next day. She wanted to read it and decide on how the class would tell the story since they hadn't learnt to read yet.<br /><br />That afternoon, the grade1's had their first assembly. While Rabbi Schwartz told a story all about Israel, he showed the children beautiful slides. When he was finished, he gave each child a booklet of pictures of Israel that they could color at home. When the assembly was over, both Ari and Avi went to Rabbi Schwartz to tell him that their grandparents lived in Israel and maybe they would go to visit during Chanukah vacation. "That's wonderful," said Rabbi Schwartz.<br />The next day, Dvir brought his book to school. Mrs. Stein said that she would read it over the weekend. On Monday, she would tell the class how they would tell the story at the assembly.<br /><br />Friday was a half day in school. The morning passed very quickly and before anyone knew it, the bell was ringing. "Shabbat Shalom everyone," said Mrs. Stein. "Shabbat Shalom, Mrs. Stein," the boys replied.<br /><br />One by one as each child left school, they said Shabbat Shalom to Rabbi Schwartz, who was standing at the outside door.<br /><br />First thing Monday morning, Dvir picked up his hand and asked Mrs. Stein if she read his book. "I did," she replied "and you were right, this is a great storybook. I'm sure everyone will enjoy the story. I will read it to the class this afternoon. Then I will explain how we will get ready for the assembly."<br /><br />Just before it was time to go home, Mrs. Stein read the book to the class. It was about a grandfather who invited his grandson to go fishing with him in his new red boat. The grandson learnt many lessons that day and both he and his grandfather had a wonderful time.<br /><br />After hearing the story, the boys agreed this was a great story. Mrs. Stein said that the next day, she will bring a large roll of art paper to school. During the week, each boy will have a turn to draw a page of the book on the art paper. When the drawings are finished, they will hang up the art paper in the assembly room. "At the program," said Mrs. Stein, as I am reading the story, the children will be able to see pictures. Make sure you draw your pictures big."<br /><br />All week, the boys worked very hard at their project. Every free moment was used to draw pictures. Finally all the art work was finished. Mrs. Stein said that she would arrange with the school janitor to help hang up the very large art paper.<br /><br />Thursday afternoon was finally here. All the grade 1 children went to the assembly room. Rabbi Schwartz welcomed them and then said that the boys in Mrs. Stein's class would do the program today.<br /><br />Mrs. Stein told the assembly that all the boys in her class had worked very hard and she hoped everyone would enjoy their project. She told the children that as she was reading the story, they should look at the pictures on the art paper on the wall.<br /><br />Mrs. Stein started to read. "The name of this story is.......<br /><br /></span><span style="color:#006600;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Ben's Special Day"<br /><br /></span>"Ben called his Mother. Saba Chaim would like to speak to you on the telephone." "Hello," said Ben. "Hello," came the reply. "Are you doing anything special today," asked Saba." “Not really," said Ben. "Then how would you like to spend the day with me. We can go fishing down by the lake in my new red rowboat." Wow! Super, but first I have to ask my Mom," said Ben. "I'll call you back." Seconds later, Ben was asking his Mother for permission to spend the day with his grandfather. His mother said sure and Ben called back his grandfather. "Saba, when can you come and pick me up, asked Ben." "I'll be there in one hour, said Ben's grandfather.<br /><br />One hour later, Saba Chaim arrived at Ben's house. His rusty old pick-up truck was towing a red rowboat. Ben and his Saba sang all the way to the lake. Finally they saw a sign that said, turn right for the lake. Five minutes later, Saba Chaim and Ben were at the lake.<br /><br />Saba Chaim parked the pick-up truck. He then unhooked the rowboat. From the back of the truck, they took out all the fishing supplies. Two fishing rods and a can of worms.<br />Saba Chaim also brought a cooler full of treats.<br />"Let's go fishing." Ben excitedly shouted. "Not so fast." said Saba. "Fishing is a lot of fun. First, you need to learn two safety rules. Never jump or stand up in the rowboat. You could tip the boat and fall into the lake. Now put on your lifejacket. Let's go fishing." I will also put on a life jacket.<br /><br />Together they pushed the rowboat into the lake. Ben climbed in and sat down. Saba Chaim pushed the boat a little further. Then he climbed in.<br /><br />The oars were bright yellow. They were very heavy. Saba Chaim rowed the boat to the middle of the lake. He showed Ben how to put a worm on the fishing rod.<br /><br />"I'm hungry," said Ben. Saba Chaim offered Ben a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. He had a tuna sandwich.<br /><br />After awhile Ben was getting tired of waiting for a fish to bite. Saba Chaim told Ben to be patient. "Tell me," said Saba Chaim. "What is black and white and read all over?"<br />Ben giggled and answered "A newspaper."<br /><br />"My turn," said Ben. "How did the white horse turn black?" "Well," said Saba. "Let me see. Uhmmm, The horse painted himself?" "Nope," said Ben. "The horse fell into the<br />mud."<br /><br />The day was getting late. Ben and his Saba didn't catch any fish.<br /><br />Suddenly, there was a hard tug on Ben's fishing rod. "Saba Chaim," shouted Ben. "I need help. The fish is trying to get away. It is going to pull me into the water. I am not strong enough to pull in the fish."<br /><br />Saba Chaim took Ben's rod and gave a strong pull. Ben had caught a great big fish.<br /><br />"What do we do now?" asked Ben, quite proud of himself. "I will take some pictures of you and your fish. Then we will throw him back into the lake," replied Saba Chaim.<br />All the way home, Ben couldn't stop talking about his great big fish. He was excited to tell his parents.<br /><br />Home at last. Ben hugged and kissed his grandfather. "This was my best day. Thank-you for taking me fishing,"<br />he said.<br /><br />When she finished reading the story, all the children clapped. Mrs. Stein then showed a short video. She thanked all the children for coming and she said that’s she wanted to especially thank Dvir for lending the class his book and all the boys in her class who made the story come alive.<br /><br />"Next week, Mrs. Katz's class will have the honors." said Mrs. Stein.<br /><br />The children all went back to their class. The boys in Mrs. Stein's class were quite proud of themselves. Ari told Mrs. Stein, he had a great time telling a story. With that, the bell rang and everyone was dismissed.</span><br /><span style="color:#006600;"></span><br /><span style="color:#006600;">See you soon.</span><br /><span style="color:#006600;">Have a great week!</span><br /><span style="color:#006600;">Safta Miriam<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><span style="color:#006600;"></span></span>Safta Miriamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05952450680791692067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2508449338282107831.post-5696370416322399552009-01-31T19:20:00.007+02:002011-06-09T09:56:18.724+03:00Chapter 5<span style="color:#006600;">בס''ד</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Grade 1, Here We Come!</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#006600;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;">The twins have been anxiously waiting all summer to start grade 1.<br />Who did they telephone to share their excitement?<br />Avi and Ari will be in separate classrooms for the first time.<br />How do they feel about being separated? </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;">"Ari," said his Mother, "can you go and see if we have any mail." Ari ran down their sidewalk and opened the red and black mailbox. He pulled out two letters, a newspaper and a grocery store circular.<br /><br />"Here Mommy," said Ari. "This is all the mail we had today." Mrs. Brown looked at the letters. "Oh!" said Mrs. Brown, "here is a letter from your school."<br /><br />The letter invites you and Ari to an open house to see the grade1classrooms. You will meet your new teachers and we will get a letter about school supplies.<br /><br />"Ari," said Avi as he ran to find his brother, "on Wednesday at 1:00 we are invited to see the Grade 1classrooms. Today is Monday. Tomorrow is Tuesday. The next day is Wednesday. School starts in three weeks.<br /><br />Wednesday arrived quickly. The boys were up and out of bed early. They were very excited to be going to see their new classroom. This was going to be the first time Avi and Ari would be in different classrooms. At 12:30, their Mother told them to get ready to go. Daddy will be home in five minutes.<br /><br />Mr. and Mrs. Brown and the boys arrived at the school on time. Avi and Ari's classrooms were next door to each other. Mr. Brown went with Ari. Mrs. Brown went with Avi.<br /><br />Ari's teacher was Mrs. Stein. She told the boys to find and desk. Mrs. Stein told the children all about grade1 and what they were going to learn. The boys sang some songs that they had learnt in kindergarten and then Mrs. Stein read a story about a little boy going to grade 1.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;"><br />Before the boys went home, Mrs. Stein gave everyone an ice cream treat. While the children were eating, she spoke to the parents. She gave them a letter about the books and supplies the children would need and the class rules.<br /><br />Avi's teacher was Mrs. Eisen. She too welcomed the boys and asked them to find a desk. Mrs. Eisen also told the boys in her class all about grade1 and read them a story. She gave the boys ice-cream treats and then greeted the parents. "See all of you in three weeks," said Mrs. Eisen, as the boys and their parents left the classroom.<br /><br />Walking back to the car, Mrs. Brown asked the boys how they felt about grade 1. Both excitedly said that they could hardly wait to go for real.<br /><br />"Mrs. Stein seems real nice," said Ari. "So does Mrs. Eisen," piped in Avi. "What does the letter say," asked Ari?<br /><br />"Well," said Mrs. Brown, "this letter tells us what books and supplies you will need. Tomorrow, we will go shopping and get everything."<br /><br />The boys were very excited. They wanted to telephone their grandparents in Israel. "Shalom," said the man on the phone. "Hi Saba," said Ari. "Avi and I went to grade 1 today to see our classrooms and meet our teachers." "That's wonderful," said Saba. Just then, Ari who was on the extension phone said "hi Saba, our teachers are Mrs. Stein and Mrs. Eisen. Tomorrow, Mommy is taking us shopping for our supplies." "Great!" replied Saba. "Safta would like to speak to both of you." "Shalom boys," said Safta. "Saba and I miss you and your whole family very much. Tell me, do you both need schoolbags?" "Yes!" they both answered. "Saba and I would like to buy you your schoolbags. After you finish shopping, send me an e-mail of the costs and I will send your father money." "Thank-you Safta," the boys replied.<br /><br />"Safta," said Ari, "when are you and Saba coming to visit us. We miss you." "Hopefully, you and your family will come and visit us in Israel. I will speak to your parents." "Goodbye Safta, Mommy wants to speak to you," said Ari.<br /><br />After Mrs. Brown hung up the phone, Ari asked his Mother if they could go to Israel and visit Saba and Safta. "We will see," she said. "Daddy and I will discuss it. Maybe we can go during the Chanukah vacation. Now let's talk about going shopping tomorrow.<br /><br />If you boys want to come shopping," continued Mrs. Brown, I expect you too behave. We have a lot of shopping to do. Besides buying the school supplies we also have to buy clothes for school. When we are finished shopping, I will take you out for pizza." "Yummy!" said the boys. "Now go and get ready for supper," said their Mother.<br /><br />After supper the twins played outside until it was dark.<br /><br />Mr. Brown told the boys to shower and get ready for bed. He then read them a good night story.<br /><br />In the morning the boys asked their mother what time they were going shopping. She told them that the babysitter for Bracha, was coming at 10:00. Then they would go.<br /><br />The shopping center was very large. It had many different types of stores. The clothes store was the family's first stop. Mrs. Brown bought the boys shirts, pants, clothes for the gym class and some sweatshirts.<br /><br />The next store was the shoe store. There Ari chose blue shoes with a white stripe and canvas running shoes for gym. Avi chose black shoes with a gold stripe and canvas running shoes for gym.<br /><br />Finally they were at the book store. It was packed with children and parents. Mrs. Brown took a number and waited in line. When it was their turn, Mrs. Brown handed the clerk the school list. The store had set up tables for each school. While the clerk was filling the book list, Mrs. Brown was buying all the school supplies. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;">Avi and Ari were checking out the school bags. Avi found an orange school bag with a baseball picture. Ari found a blue school bag with a space ship picture. The boys went to show their mother the school bags they chose.<br /><br />Mrs. Brown paid for all the books and supplies. She packed some of the supplies in each of the school bags. The boys walked out of the store proudly wearing their new school bags.<br /><br />"Okay," said Mrs. Brown. "You boys behaved very well. Let's go put all our packages in the car and then we can go out for pizza."<br /><br />The rest of the summer vacation passed very quickly. The first day of school had arrived. The boys were ready to leave the house by 7:00. Mr. Brown told the boys that it was too early to go to school. At 8:15, I will drive you to school. I help you bring all your books to your class.<br /><br />The time moved slowly. At 8:15, the boys kissed their Mother good-bye. "Have a nice day in school," said Mrs. Brown as she waved good-bye and a tear dripped from her eyes. My boys are getting big, she thought.<br /><br />The boys found their classrooms. When they entered the room, each teacher handed out name tags and told the boys to put their books in the desk that they chose at the open house.<br /><br />The school bell rang. The teachers welcomed their students and wished them a great year.<br /><br />Grade 1 was now beginning! </span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;color:#006600;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;color:#006600;">See you soon.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;color:#006600;">Have a great week.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;color:#006600;">Safta Miriam </span><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;"></span><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;"></span>Safta Miriamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05952450680791692067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2508449338282107831.post-76926691393805363182009-01-24T22:10:00.005+02:002011-06-09T10:00:15.733+03:00Chapter 4<span style="color:#006600;"> בס''ד</span><br /><span style="color:#009900;"></span><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">The Twins do the Right Thing.<br /><br />Avi and Ari have a problem.<br />What happened?<br />How was the problem solved?<br /><br /><br />"Mommy," said Ari. "Is it okay if Avi and I go to the park?"<br />"Sure," answered their mother. "I am going to set your watches to ring at 4:30. That is when you are to come home."<br /><br />Ari and Avi jumped on their bicycles. The park was all the way down the street.<br /><br />Ari and Avi loved to go to the park to play. Their park had many swings and slides. It also had a climbing boat and monkey bars. In the back of the park was a large grassy field. The boys loved to play ball with their friends.<br /><br />At the park, they met their friends Yoni and Gilad.<br />"Who has ball," asked Avi? "I do," said Gilad.<br /><br />All four boys ran to the grass. There they met two more friends.<br /><br />Yoni said, "Let’s use these two rocks for goal markers."<br />Avi wanted to be the first goalie. The boys agreed. One by one the friends kicked the ball. Each one wanted to score a goal. Avi had to be very fast to stop the ball. He didn't want anyone to score a goal.<br /><br />Every few minutes, they would change goalies. The boys were having a wonderful time together. You could hear their shouts and laughter all over the field.<br />At 4:00, Gilad had to go home. "I need to take my ball now. We can play again tomorrow," he said.<br /><br />Avi, Ari and Yoni said "bye, see you tomorrow." Off they ran to the climbing boat.<br /><br />The climbing boat was a very large boat with many levels to climb. To get to the top you had to climb and go over a bridge. Then you had to crawl up hill thru a tunnel. At the top of the boat was a long curly slide.<br /><br />Ari and Yoni reached to top of the boat at the same time. Avi was right behind them. As they were sliding down, the boys' watches rang. "Time to go home," said Avi. "Bye Yoni, waving their hands. See you tomorrow," said Ari.<br /><br />The boys went to find their bicycles. Just as they were leaving the park, a car drove up beside them. The man in the car told the boys that he had lost his little puppy. He asked the boys to help him look for the puppy. He offered them some candy.<br /><br />Avi and Ari had learnt in kindergarten not to ever stop and talk to strangers. They peddled as fast as they could.<br /><br />The car continued to follow them. "Please," shouted the man. "Don't you like puppies? My puppy is lost. Help me find him."<br /><br />The boys were scared. Finally, they reached their driveway. "Mommy, Mommy," they cried. Mrs. Brown came running out of the house. "There is a strange man following us in that car," they both shouted.<br /><br />When the man in the car saw Mrs. Brown, he sped away.<br />"What did he say," asked Mrs. Brown. "He asked us to help find his lost puppy. Miss Green, our kindergarten teacher, taught us to never talk to strangers. So we didn't. I was so scared," said Ari. "Me too, said Avi.<br /><br />Mrs. Brown hugged and kissed her sons. She called Mr. Brown at work. He told her to call the police.<br /><br />Ari and Avi were able to tell the police how the man looked. A police artist drew his picture. Mrs. Brown gave a description of the car. The police told the boys they did the right thing.<br /><br />Two hours later the police came back to the Brown's house. We just want to tell you we caught the man near the park. Your descriptions helped us so much.<br /><br />Avi and Ari, for you we have a good citizens badge.<br /><br />"Thank-you said the boys." "We are glad that you caught the man. Now we don't have to be scared to go to the park tomorrow," said Ari. Mr. and Mrs. Brown were very proud of their sons.<br />Ari and Avi want to say to all their friends and readers.<br /><br />Never talk to strangers.<br />Not even for a lost puppy or candy.<br /><br />Run away as fast as you can. Be sure you tell your parents, teachers or an adult you know if a stranger talks to you.<br /><br />Have a great week!<br />See you soon<br />Safta Miriam<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><span style="color:#006600;"></span>Safta Miriamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05952450680791692067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2508449338282107831.post-9919806150463131822009-01-17T19:07:00.008+02:002011-06-09T09:58:43.078+03:00Chapter 3<span style="color:#006600;">בס''ד<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;"><br />The Twins go Camping<br /><br />Join Avi and Ari on their unexpected camping trip.<br />What adventures did they have?<br /><br />"Wow! Next week is our birthday," said Avi. Ari chimed in and said, "We are going to be six years old." Avi and Ari were discussing their birthday party with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Brown. Mrs. Brown asked the boys what they would like for birthday presents.<br /></span><br /><span style="color:#006600;">Avi said that he wanted roller blades. He wanted to fly down the hill in a flash. Ari said that he wanted a new bicycle with five speeds. Mr. Brown said he would see what he could do.<br /><br />Mrs. Brown then told the boys that they could have their party next Monday. They could each invite three special friends. Their Mother told the twins that she would help them make there own invitations on the computer. 'What are we going to eat?" asked Ari. 'What would you like to serve?" asked their Mother. Together, the boys said, "hot dogs with buns, chips, apple juice and for dessert watermelon, birthday cake and pareve ice cream." Mrs. Brown agreed. Mr. Brown told his sons he would turn on the sprinklers. The boys could play with the water and stay cool.<br /></span><br /><span style="color:#006600;">That afternoon, Mrs. Brown, Ari and Avi sat at the computer. They designed a great invitation. On the front of the invitation there was a picture of twins blowing out the candles on their birthday cake. Inside it said:<br /><br />You are invited to Avi and Ari's birthday party.<br />Date: Monday, July10th<br />Time: 4:00 P.M.<br />Place: Our backyard.<br />Bring a bathing suit.<br /><br />The next day, the boys delivered their invitations.<br /><br />What the boys didn't know was that their parents had a totally different birthday party surprise. They had arranged an overnight camping trip with each of their special friends and their fathers. Although the invitation said Monday, the party was going to begin on Sunday. It was decided not to tell their friends until the last minute, so that no one would spoil the surprise.<br /><br />Early Sunday morning, while Ari and Avi were still asleep, Mr. and Mrs. Brown loaded the car's trunk with the camping supplies. They had a tent, rolled up mattresses, sleeping bags, and a cooler full of food and of course marshmallows to roast over the camp fire. Everything they need for an exciting overnight trip.<br /><br />Mr. Brown arranged with the other fathers to leave at 9:30 a.m. He and the twins would leave at 10:30. This way the friends would be able to shout surprise when the twins arrived. The campground was a 2 hour drive.<br /><br />The boys woke up, but were still in bed at 9:00. They were chatting away about their birthday party. "What games should we play," said Avi. Mr. Brown popped his head into their room and said, "good morning. I have to drive to the country this morning. Would you both like to come along for the ride? I am leaving at 10:30 sharp." The boys said "yes" and jumped out of bed to get ready.<br /><br />Ten thirty sharp the boys were in the car. They were unaware of what was in the trunk and why they were going to the country. The day was beautiful. The sun was shining. There weren't any clouds, the humidity was low and there was a slight breeze. It was a perfect day for a ride to the country. </span><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">As they got closer to the campground, Mr. Brown passed several signs telling them how much further they had to go. The last sign said next turn right to Sunset Campground. Mr. Brown turned into the parking lot of the campground. Avi and Ari asked why they were stopping. He told the boys to stay in the car. He would be back in five minutes.<br /><br />Mr. Brown went into the camp office to make sure that everyone else had arrived. The clerk gave him the campsite numbers and instruction on how to find the sites. Five minutes later, Mr. Brown was back at the car. He told the boys that they could take a walk in the campground. Ari said that he was getting hungry and Ari said, "me too." Their father said that he would see if the camp store had any kosher nosh.<br /><br />The boys and their father started their walk thru the campground. The air was fresh. The slight breeze made them feel comfortable. Suddenly, Ari said,"Look over there. I see all our friends." The boys ran to their friends and everyone shouted "surprise." Mr. Brown then said "I hope you both enjoy your surprise overnight camping birthday party."<br /><br />"But we didn't bring any camping supplies," said Ari. "Where are we going to sleep?" asked Avi. Mr. Brown told the boys to stay with their friends. He would go back and get the car. "Everything we need is in the trunk."<br /><br />While some of the fathers were helping to arrange the Brown's campsite. Mr. Brown was busy serving sandwiches and drinks to everyone. "Tonight, we will make a bar b'que for supper. When it gets dark, I will make a campfire and you can roast marshmallows."<br />"Hurray," the boys shouted. "Who knows a good camp story?"<br /><br />The overnight birthday party was a success. The boys went swimming. They hiked and visited the campground petting zoo. They also went fishing at the river bank. Mr. Brown told great campfire stories. Nobody wanted to go home. "You boys were so well behaved. We can go camping again this summer," said one of the fathers.<br /><br />Avi and Ari thanked their father. They said that this was the best birthday party they ever had. Avi said that he didn't need roller blades. Ari said that he didn't need the five speed bicycle.<br /><br />Ari and Avi thanked their friends for a wonderful surprise party.<br /><br />See you soon!<br />Have a great week.<br />Safta Miriam<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><span style="color:#006600;"></span><span style="color:#006600;"></span>Safta Miriamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05952450680791692067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2508449338282107831.post-737746504917320422009-01-08T14:23:00.014+02:002011-06-09T10:02:23.259+03:00Chapter 2בס''ד<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Verdana;color:#006600;">The Twins Learn a Lesson</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;">Join Avi and Ari on their trip to the swimming pool.<br />Did something happen at the pool?<br />What important lesson did Avi and Ari learn? </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;">"Hurray! Today is the last day of kindergarten," said Ari. "After the summer vacation, we will be in grade one", said Avi.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;">Mrs. Brown, the boy's mother, arrived to pick up Avi and Ari from school. She asked them, "how would you like to go to the pool this afternoon? Daddy is coming home from work early today. He will take you.<br /><br />"Super! Great!" the twins replied. "What a way to start the summer vacation," said Avi.<br /><br />All afternoon the boys waited for their father to come home. Their mother told them that when the clock says 3:30, their father would be home.<br /><br />Every five minutes, one of the boys would check the clock. Time was moving very slowly for 5 1/2 year old boys.<br /><br />Finally the clock said 3:30 and sure enough their father was driving up their driveway. The boys ran outside shouting "when are we going to the pool? Should we get our bags?" "Don't I even get a hello and a hug and kiss before all the questions." asked Mr. Brown.<br /><br />The boys hugged and kissed their father. Once again they asked "when are we going to the pool?" "The pool opens at 4:30. When the clock says 4:15, we will leave the house. While you are waiting, go and put on your bathing suit. Then put a towel in your bag," said their father.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;">Once again, time moved slowly. The boys were so anxious to get to the pool,</span><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;">they could hardly wait. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;">The minute the clock said 4:15, Ari and Avi ran to their father. Together they excitedly said "4:15, time to go," and out the door they ran to the car.<br /><br />When they arrived at the pool, the boys went to the pool gate. Mr. Brown needed to pay the admission fee and get a basket. The line was very long with many other fathers and sons. The line moved quickly. Avi and Ari met many of their friends also standing in line.<br /><br />"Last one in the pool is a slow poke," screamed Avi. Both boys and their friends dumped their bags into the baskets and ran towards the pool.<br /><br />The pool was a large outdoor pool. The water was blue. You could see the bottom of the pool. Around the deck were many lifeguards. They sat on tall chairs under a large red umbrella. Around their neck was a big brown whistle. Each lifeguard had a large bullhorn. This was used if there was danger in and around the pool.<br /><br />A whistle shrieked and the lifeguard called out, "no running on the pool deck. If you run, you will have to leave the pool.” The boys and their friends stopped fast in their tracks. No one wanted to get sent home.<br /><br />One by one, they walked to the edge of the pool. They jumped in with a big splash. Avi jumped first, followed by Ari and then their friends.<br /><br />Once again there was aloud shriek from the whistle. The lifeguard called from his bull horn. "No jumping off the edge of the pool. Use the stairs at the side of the pool. If I have to speak to you boys again, you will be sent home."<br />Avi and Ari waded to the deep end which was for swimmers. The boys had been taking swimming lessons for the past year. They earned their swimming certificate.<br /><br />Mr. Brown joined his sons in the pool. He told the twins that he expected them to behave and listen to the instructions of the lifeguards.<br /><br />Avi and Ari had been in the pool for along time. They were jumping off the diving board, swimming back and forth and playing with their friends.<br /><br />After sometime, Mr. Brown told his sons to go out of the pool. He said they should rest for a few minutes and have a drink. He told the boys that they could go back into the pool in 15 minutes.<br /><br />Mr. Brown and some of the other fathers were sitting together. They were trying to decide how they could arrange a carpool. The pool was opened 3 days a week for boys.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;color:#006600;"><br />Mr. Brown suggested that they make a schedule. Each father would take a turn driving and watching the boys at the pool. They agreed that any boy who didn't behave would be out of the carpool.<br /><br />"Is it 15 minutes yet, can we go back into the water", asked Avi. "Sure", said Mr. Brown, "but remember what the lifeguard said about running and jumping into the pool.<br /><br />Their friends also got permission to go back into the water. One by one each boy went down the steps into the pool.<br /><br />"Let's play a water game," said Avi. "The lifeguards have some water balls. I am going to ask for a ball and then we can play monkey in the middle."<br /><br />"Great idea," the boys all shouted together. Avi went to ask for a ball. The lifeguard gave him a water ball. Avi said that he and his friends had to be careful not to hit anyone.<br /><br />The boys made a circle. One of the boys went into the middle. He was the monkey. Carefully they each threw the ball over the head of the boy in the middle. They passed it back and forth while 'the monkey ' in the middle, jumped and tried to catch the ball.<br /><br />All the boys were laughing and having the greatest time.<br /><br />Suddenly, the lifeguard blew his whistle and shouted, "everyone out of the water. No pushing, just leave the water in an orderly fashion." At the same time two other lifeguards were diving into the pool.<br /><br />Avi and Ari and their friends went to their fathers.Mr. Brown told the boys to sit down and he would go and see what the problem was.<br /><br />There was young boy, who was playing in the shallow end. He could not swim. He walked to far out chasing his ball. The water was almost over his head. Another boy, who didn't have a ball, grabbed the little boy's ball and threw it into the deep end. The little boy was scared and was crying. The lifeguard scooped up the little boy. He gently carried him out of the water and handed him to his big brother. His big brother was supposed to be watching him.<br /><br />The lifeguard supervisor then made another announcement. The little boy is okay. One father called out to the lifeguard. He said that balls should not be allowed in the water. We could have had a tragedy today. The supervisor agreed. He said, "for now on, balls will not be allowed in the water, even if you know how to swim. If you have a ball, please bring it to me now."<br /><br />Mr. Brown told Ari to give the ball back to the lifeguard. It was now time to go home. They quickly gathered their bags. Avi returned the ball. Mr. Brown returned the basket.<br /><br />The twins were very quiet on the way home.<br />Mr. Brown told Mrs. Brown what had happened at the pool. They decided that this was the right time to have a pool safety discussion with their sons.<br /><br />Mr. Brown started by saying that the pool was a fun place to go. It could also be a dangerous place, said Mrs. Brown. You must listen to the lifeguard at all times. You have to also respect everyone else in the pool. You may think it is fun to push or splash friends in the water. If that person can not swim, they could go under and drown.<br /><br />Mommy and I want both of you to go to the pool. We also want to know that you will always by careful. The boys said they will always be careful and listen to the lifeguard. Mr. Brown told Mrs. Brown and the twins about the carpool he and the other fathers arranged. He said that the boys could go swimming every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday.<br /><br />That evening after supper, Avi and Ari took their showers. They then got into bed. The boys were very tired from their busy day. Avi and Ari fell asleep dreaming about the fantastic summer vacation they were going to have.<br /><br /><br />See you soon!<br /><br />Have a great week.<br /><br />Safta Miriam<br /><br /></span>Safta Miriamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05952450680791692067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2508449338282107831.post-12982305456558254512009-01-06T10:46:00.010+02:002011-06-09T10:06:00.631+03:00Chapter 1<span style="color:#006600;">בס''ד<br /><br />Shalom and welcome to the first posting of <strong>Story Time with Safta Miriam.</strong> </span><br /><span style="color:#006600;"><br />Story time is a very special time. It is the time when children and parents or grandparents get to spend quality time together. Even children who know how to read enjoy being read to. Older children also enjoy reading to their younger siblings.<br /><br />In the gan or classroom the children gather around the teacher listening to every word. Because there aren’t any pictures on the blog, everyone’s imagination has to work and the interaction between the children, teacher and story characters makes a lively discussion.<br /><br />The Adventures of Avi and Ari is a story with ten chapters about twin brothers, Avi and Ari. The boys are inseparable, sharing each others life. When we reach chapter six, for the first time in their lives, they must separate. In many of the chapters, the boys learn a very important lesson that applies to children of all ages. My goal with this blog is simple. I want to introduce a blog that is family orientated. I plan to include stories and links for older children and some print out activities.<br /><br />Here are the chapter titles from The Adventures of Avi and Ari.<br /><br />Introduction Meet The Twins.<br />Chapter 1 The Twins Surprise.<br />Chapter 2 The Twins Learn a Lesson.<br />Chapter 3 The Twins Go Camping.<br />Chapter 4 The Twins Do the Right Thing.<br />Chapter 5 Grade 1, Here We Come!<br />Chapter 6 Ari's Class Project<br />Chapter 7 Avi Goes to the Hospital<br />Chapter 8 Rosh Chodesh Adar is in The Air<br />Chapter 9 Saying Good-bye<br />Chapter 10 A Very Special Trip<br /><br />Each week, I will post a new chapter. In this first blog we have the<br />Introduction and Chapter 1. Whether you read the story online or print it out to read at a later date, I hope you enjoy each story.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Meet the Twins</span></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">Avi and Ari Brown are identical five and half year old twins. They have blonde curly hair. Their big blue eyes have a twinkle of mischief. Little freckles cover their nose and dimples on their cheeks.<br /><br />Avi and Ari live near Toronto with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Brown and their baby sister, Bracha.<br /><br />The boys attend the local Jewish day school and are in kindergarten. Every morning, Mrs. Brown drives her sons to school.<br /><br />Their school is a large building with many classrooms. The kindergartens have its own section and playground. Every day at 10:00 is recess. Avi and Ari love to go outside and play with their friends. They eat the snack that their mother packs in their knapsacks. Miss Green, the boy's teacher always has a nice outdoor activity.<br /><br />In class, Avi enjoys the puzzles and building toys. Ari thinks circle time is the best. He really enjoys Miss Green's stories. The time passes very quickly.<br /><br />At twelve o'clock the bell rings and it is time to go home. Avi and Ari sing a goodbye song with their teacher and friends and wait for their mother to come to take them home.<br /><br />After lunch the boys have a short rest. They take turns inviting friends to come over to their house. Sometimes they do the visiting.<br /><br />By the end of the day, the boys are so tired. They shower and one of their parents reads them a story or two. They say <em>Shema</em>, kiss their parents goodnight and fall asleep, wondering what adventure they will have tomorrow.<br /><br />Chapter 1:</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;">The Twins Surprise</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"></span><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">The twins do not want to go to kindergarten today.<br />To find out why, let’s start reading..........<br /><br /><br />"Good morning Avi and Ari, time to get up," said their mother. "I don't want to go to kindergarten today," cried Avi, as his mother gently tried once again to get him out of bed. "Me neither," shouted Avi's twin brother Ari. "Why can't we stay home and play in the snow," asked Avi, his big blue eyes pleading with his mother. "It is the first big snowfall. Everyone is going to stay home today."<br /><br />The first snow had started to fall in the evening, just before the boys had gone to bed. It continued all night. The lawn had disappeared. There was an inviting look outside.<br /><br />Their mother told the boys that they could play in the snow all afternoon. Now it was getting late and they needed to get up and get ready for school.<br /><br />Mrs. Brown said that she was sure that Miss Green, their teacher, would find time to take all the children outside to play in the school yard. There is plenty of snow for everyone. The two of you will have a lot of fun playing with your friends. You had better get up now and hurry so that you won't be late.<br /><br />The boys looked at each other. As if each could read the other's mind, they decided to get ready for school. Avi and Ari jumped out of bed. Quickly they got dressed. The boys gobbled down their breakfast. As quick as a wink, they put on their snowsuits, boots, hat and mittens. In a few minutes Avi and Ari were out the door and in the car.<br /><br />Mrs. Brown drove her sons to school. The streets had just been plowed. There were mounds of snow on the sides of the road. When Mrs. Brown reached the school, the boys jumped out of the car. With a fast good-bye, they climbed over a snow pile. They dashed into their classroom and ran to Miss Green, both talking at the same time.<br /><br />Miss Green put up her hand like a stop sign. "I can't understand either of you when you are speaking at the same time. Now Avi you go fist." "Miss .Green, it snowed all night. Can we go outside to play." "Please Miss Green," jumped in Ari, "please Miss Green."<br /><br />Miss Green told the boys and all the other children to go and sit in the circle. She had an announcement to make. Each of the children took their place in the circle. They criss-crossed their legs and waited for Miss Green to make her announcement.<br /><br />"Today children, I have a surprise for you. We are going to spend the morning having a first snowfall party, playing in the snow. The snow is sticky, so you will be able to build a snow castle, make a snowman or whatever you want to do. Just no snow ball fights. I have invited two mothers to help us. When you feel cold, come inside to our classroom and one of the mothers will give you a cup of hot chocolate and a cookie." All of the children shouted, "hurray."<br /><br />As the children quickly got all bundled up, there was a knock on the classroom door. Miss Green opened the door and in walked the two mothers.<br /><br />In walked two mothers and Mrs. Brown was one of the mothers. Miss Green welcomed the mothers and told the class to line up at the playground door. She picked up a large box that contained snow shovels and pails. Miss Green asked Ari to lead the class outside. "Have fun children," said Mrs. Brown, "and remember, if you are cold come in and warm up with hot chocolate," said Mrs. Black, the other mother.<br /><br />Outside the snow had stopped falling and the sun was shinning. There were big piles of snow everywhere. The other kindergarten class in the school was also having a snow party. All the children were having a great time playing together.<br /><br />The children made snow angels, built a great big castle that took up half the playground and a giant snowman. Miss Green had brought some old carrots, pieces of charcoal and a floppy hat for the snowman.<br /><br />The time passed quickly. Everyone was having a fabulous time. Miss Green called her children to line up and go into their class. "It is almost time to go home. I hope everyone had a good time at our snow party. Tomorrow we will paint pictures of our party to put on the winter bulletin board." Miss Green thanked Mrs. Brown and Mrs. Black for helping out.<br /><br />As Mrs. Brown, Ari and Avi were walking to the car, Mrs. Brown asked the boys if they were happy they decided to go to school. "Why didn't you tell us about the snow party," asked Ari. "That would have spoilt your surprise," answered their mother. "I had a great time," said Ari. "Me too," said Avi.<br /><br />The boys were so tired from playing outside all morning. All they wanted to do in the afternoon was sleep. And sleep they did, dreaming about their WONDERFUL FIRST SNOW PARTY.<br /><br />I hope you enjoyed reading the introduction and chapter 1. G-d willing, next Sunday, I will post chapter 2. If you would like to have puzzles, riddles and other activities on the blog, please send me a comment and pass this blog to your friends.<br /><br />See you soon!<br />Have a great week.<br />Safta Miriam<br /><br /><br /></span><span style="color:#006600;"></span>Safta Miriamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05952450680791692067noreply@blogger.com0