While most of the island has been celebrating some version of Christmas in public since the beginning of December, we celebrated the past few nights of Chanukkah at home as a family. Chanukkah began last Friday and will end this Friday, December 18.

Jewish holidays begin at sundown and thus our celebrations begin in the evening, usually by lighting the holiday candles and sharing a meal. Because the main ritual of this holiday is lighting the menorah, we simply celebrate at night. I have made a lot of latkes this week.

And since we grew up in America, the ultimate in commercial influence, we also enjoy the added custom of giving gifts.

I think my favorite gift is the one my husband sent on Monday. He warned me that there would be a delivery some time that day and that I should keep my cell phone close at hand.

At about 1:00 pm, a very nice representative from Edible Arrangements called me and arranged to deliver my gift. I have long since been enamored of these fruit bouquets and have often commented on them. I guess my husband has been listening after all.

So, on Monday night, after homework and errands and dinner on the fly, we lit the candles on the menorah and gathered around the table to devour our edible arrangement. It was delicious.

I was surprised to see that the pineapple pieces were carved into Stars of David and the container had little six pointed stars cut out as well. They actually had a Chanukkah arrangement which pleased me even more. It was a great family moment as our kids munched on melon and strawberries and grapes and we came together after a busy day.

My friend Catherine also gave me a gift that really pleases me. Not just because it is cool, but it's thoughtfulness is quite clear.

It is one of those cool new purse hooks that has become quite popular lately. This one has a beautiful Hawaii design.

She also went out of her way to make sure that it had Chanukkah colors in the wrapping. It's so nice when people take the time to be careful and thoughtful. Kudos to Plantation Home Decor in Kapolei for having the Chanukkah wrapping option available.

Tags: Chanukkah, Edible Arrangements, Plantation Home Decor

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