Rosh Ha Shana Checklist

I love the structure and meaning of the Jewish festivals. In Australia New Year was basically an excuse for drinking. Here there is a plan and process, and yes a sense of satisfaction if you get  through the structure. It does take more time and effort but there is with that a greater sense of accomplishment.There is a build up to Rosh Hashana and then the festival itself. I enjoy the fact that in Israel one can never forget any festival however one feels or doesn't feel about religion.Adds on TV and the radio as well as signs on buses, and stores  relate to the festivals, and somehow that is reassuring.

Here is a list of things to do around the festival. The beauty is you can do as much or little as you please

• Personal apologies to people you feel may have hurt
• Reflect on your achievements of the year past, and consider your objectives personal and professional for the upcoming year
• Buy something new for family, kids and home - I like this bit
• Find the Machzorim (Rosh Hashanah prayer book)
• Think about where you will be praying, pay the synagogue seats
•  Listen to the shofar
• Think about you you will be inviting, for meals. Consider inviting those people who are on their own and less 'fashionable". 
• Plan your meals

Simanim to prepare (varies by tradition, these are ours):

• Round Challot
• Apples
• Honey
• Dates
• Banana (other vegetable not normally eaten with meal)
• Leek
• Swiss Chard
• Black eyed peas (or fenugreek)
• Gourd (ie squash, pumpkin)
• Pomegranate
• Head of the fish/lamb/ram
• New fruit (2^nd night)