Parshas Vayakhel-Pekudei
March 21, 2009 - 25 Adar 5769
                 
A SPECIAL SECTION FOR THOSE
WHO PREPARE FOR SHABBOS

AN OLD HEBREW EXPRESSION STATES: THOSE
  WHO PREPARE FOR SHABBOS EAT ON SHABBOS 

   Voices From the Ezras Nashim

Based upon the voices I heard this week there is only one word on the minds of Jewish women—PESACH. It is amazing that the celebration of our freedom from slavery brings terror to so many of us. In our household cleaning has begun, orders are being placed, friends are being invited and the chores seem to never end. As I reviewed this week’s parsha I realized that I was actually very jealous of Betzalel. HaShem has chosen women to be the builders of our homes and the preparers of festivals. It would be nice to have also been blessed with the artistic and planning skill of Betzalel who was able to see the Mishkan without blueprints and who could organize the work with a desire to fulfill HaShem’s commands with quiet dignity.

There is a frenzy about preparing for Pesach. There is so much to do and so little time. Purim treats still litter our homes. At the same time there is a sense of camaraderie among women. I have received countless emails and phone calls with hints and help—suggestions for making preparations easier or adding spiritual and uplifting comments. It was women who prepared for leaving mitzraim by assisting each other and working together and it is women who still assist each other in preparing for the celebration of that redemption. May we be zoche to see the coming of the final redemption speedily and in our own day.

 Elk’s Menu 
 Parshas Vayakel-Pekudei 
  March 21, 2009—25 Adar 5769


Whole Wheat Challah
Baked in the merit of a child for a childless couple. To participate in this mitzvah please call Yehudis Halberstam—718-972-4793 for this week’s names.
Honeydew
Cauliflower Soup
Salmon en Croute with Caramelized Onions
Vegetarian Chili
Creamy Cheesy Kale
Glazed Sweet Potatoes with Pecans
Couscous and Black Bean Salad
Lettuce Salad with Fine Herbs and Homemade Dressing
Spanish Bar Cake

Kiddush Menu

Egg Salad
Tuna Salad
Gefilte Fish
Herring
Matjes Herring
Chumus
Israeli Salad
Cholent
Crackers
Cookies