Challah Connections

A tradition that connects generations - dedicated to the Memory of My Mom

As it is Friday evening and the weekend of my Mom’s yahrzeit (anniversary marking one’s passing in Judaism) I chose to bake a Challah today in her memory. This is a braided bread symbolizing peace and unity that is traditionally shared during the Jewish Sabbath. Growing up it was customary to buy one at Lederman’s Bakery in Newton Center and then for my own family at Blue Moon Bakery and Cafe in Medfield where they famously baked the original Freedman recipe. Since moving to the Cape I have not found any on par and have since learned to bake my own.

The art of baking bread is spiritual and brings peace. These days there is so much divisiveness amongst our own and ironically Challah may be one of the few remaining traditions many will agree on enjoying.

In my Mom’s memory I felt compelled to bake Challah today. It gave me serenity with my past. Growing up and raising a family Friday night dinners have always been a connection we have shared. Perhaps it is even more sacred than my coffee connections and thus I wanted to recreate a way to commemorate the 10th anniversary of my Mom’s passing as I prepared for this weeks Shabbat. Btw I always make enough to have leftovers with my coffee the next day. May traditions bring you peace.