HOME & FAMILY

Loosely Based on a True Story

Brrr—-iiiing! the phone rang. Sarah dried off her hands from the dish soap and reached for the phone. "Hello," she answered calmly.

MODERN-DAY MESHOLIM AND MUSSAR
Here We Go Again
by Bayla Gimmel

It's that time of the year, with lots of chometzdik nosh around from Purim, no regular meals due to the crunch . . . ha, ha.

Promises, Promises
by R. Chadshai

In many homes, there is no such thing as a promise. Parents take great care to add, " Bli nedder — I am not promising," to any seeming promise. They will explain to even very small children that they will try, but bli nedder. However, not all families have such discipline and promises are used somewhat recklessly. Furthermore, even if you add the riders "All being well, b'ezeras Hashem, bli nedder," and however often you explain, the child regards them as promises, and he expects you to keep them.

Singing Hearts

By Shira Levy

I have a song in my heart today!

I wish I had it ten years ago as well. Ten years is a long time. Why did it take me so long?

PUTTING ORDER IN ITS PLACE
By Chedva Ofek

Part I

Many of us are convinced that we are orderly but still want to straighten up the house before guests come. Why is external order so important for people and how does it influence one's behavior and success in life? What is considered tidy - inside cupboards or the cleanliness of the living room? And most important, what is at the root of the pedantic or messy housewife and how can we tame her extremity? Professionals make order out of chaos and offer helpful tips to keep the perspective on keel.

One Man's Treasure - One Man's Trash
by Raizel Foner

Raizel suggests throwing out old toys and games. I would like to heartily suggest buying new games, new books for the whole family, as a special incentive for your junior workforce or bribes for throwing away their `junk'. New, clean jigsaw puzzles are great for Chol Hamoed! No writing.

These books and games can be kept Pesachdik from year to year if you like.

Sleep Tips for Children!
By Dr. Reuven Bruner, Ph.D.

Now that the clock has moved ahead and many children have to go to bed when it is still light, these tips may be important.

POET'S CORNER

Apple Juice Plus or Minus
by Leah M.

She poured the apple juice
He complained how little it was
And why davka apple juice
Why not orange juice
or peach
or apricot or mango

And why not in a larger cup
And why
And why not
And various complaints and accusations

But she knew
That what he was really asking
Was
Why was he the only one
In the family
Who had to take medication
Even if he could sweeten it
With juice?