Happy Chanukah!

Well, I didn't think I was going to blog until Tuesday, but I had such a great day today, that I had to take some time off tell you all about it!

About an hour ago, I helped Mom and Dad light the first chanukah candle in our menorah! Unlike Christmas, which is also today, Chanukah lasts for 8 days celebrating the miracle of the temple oil that lasted for 8 days even though there was only enough for one. Dad lifted me up to see the pretty candles (left) but not before I took I peek for myself (right). I am a curious hound after all!



After the candle lighting Mom sang (not a very pleasant experience for anyone to witness, least of all I who has sensitive hearing) and then she began to make latkes! I was so fascinated by this intricate procedure and the thought of gobbling a few at some point, that I grabbed the digital camera, and decided to pretend I was Martha Stewart (the cooking criminal) doing a cover article on the art of latke making!

Step 1: Peel the potatoes


Step 2: Grate the potatoes - do not be idiotic like Mom and use a miniscule hand grater. She didn't have any alternatives (hint hint, bridal registry) - so she was most courageous to attempt this.


Step 3: Grate onion (try do it with your eyes closed as Mom started to weep half way through...)


Step 4: Beat 2 eggs and mix with some flour and baking powder


Step 5: In true Chanukah spirit, drench a pan in oil and add latke mixture.


Step 6: When browned, remove latkes and place on paper towel to absorb all the oil.


Step 7: Transfer latkes to a pretty plate and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar (South African thing) or Apple sauce and sour cream (American thing). Mom hates apples or any vestige thereof, so Dad had to do without...


Step 8: MOST IMPORTANT STEP: FEED LATKE TO THE WELL DESERVING DOG AXEL


Man, that was one yummy treat. I just hope it doesn't give me the runs, and if it does, that it lasts for one day and not EIGHT!

Earlier in the day, Mom, Dad and me headed to our park to run and play. We always have the best time in the park and today the weather wasn't too cold, and besides, I was sporting my handsome coat, so I felt warm and snug!



As usual we went to our favorite spot on the little wall overlooking the river and boat house row. I posed with Mom and Dad for these pictures. Isn't it marvelous how all our coats match? Mom says to tell you she had just woken up and had not "put on her face" whatever that means!




For those of you who have never been to Philly, I took two pictures of the beautiful view:




All in all, we had a spectacular day. I hope that all my wiry pals and their families are enjoying their Christmas/Chanukah hols as much as I am!

AGC