Preparing for Passover in Israel

Yesterday I went to Jerusalem to get my pre-passover haircut. I got to the barbershop around 6:15 pm. My barber was tired but he took me and then another customer. He started work at 7am. He is very aware that Passover is just around the corner.

Here is a cool item about Passover in Israel: Thousands of children started their Passover vacation this week. I do not know many countries where the school system closes for Passover.

Later in the evening I went food shopping in a supermarket in Ma'aleh Adumim. The supermarket was packed and it was a Tuesday night. I usually do not like shopping in a crowded supermarket but today it was something special. Everyone was busy shopping for Pesach. I have lived in Israel for over 22 years (aliyah from New York in 1984) and it is still a thrill to watch Am Yisrael in Eretz Yisrael prepare for the holidays.

One last item - There were kids outside of the supermarket collecting food for the needy. Two girls were at the entrance of the supermarket asking people to buy extra items to donate on the way out (another group was outside the exit with shopping carts). Kol Hakavod to these girls (and others all over the country) that take time out to help the needy.
Let everyone remember that there are those that can not afford to buy food for the holidays and they need our help. If you do not see somebody collecting food or money for the needy outside your supermarket there are many organizations throughout Israel that you can donate to make the holiday special for those in need.

May your Passover preparations go easily and smoothly.
Have a good night,
Jacob