I accept that I do not have time to write a lengthy exploration of the fourth daily topic before the sun sets and the Sabbath arrives. I’ll be off the computer and away from the blogosphere, Twitterverse, and Facebook until after sundown on Saturday.

When this post goes live, my husband and I will be welcoming the first Shabbat of the month of Elul together with our community.  With prayer and song, wine cups joyfully lifted, and challah held high by small, slightly sticky children’s hands, we will accept gratefully the gift of rest and renewal bestowed upon our people.

Shabbat Shalom, everyone. May your day be one of peace — no exceptions.

#BlogElul, the brainchild of Rabbi Phyllis Sommer, invites participants to chronicle the month leading up to the Jewish High Holy Days through blog posts, photos, and other social media expressions.