Ethiopian Jews Celebrate in Jerusalem

Each year on the 29th day of the Hebrew month of Cheshvan the Ethiopian Jewish population celebrates their holiday of Sigd. In Jerusalem the Haas Promenade is the central gathering venue for the Ethiopian Jews who reside all over the Land of Israel. This special day marks an opportunity for prayers - in essence a minor Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement). The range of people, garb and vast range of ages is apparent as the celebration flows.

Land of Israel Birkon by ImagesThroughTIme

After producing our first bencher\birkon - and selling out the first edition, we decided to create a whole new version - new design, many new photographs, and upgraded printing and binding. I wanted to show just a few sample pages - though the best way to really see the bencher is by going to the following link:

http://hosting.richpaper.com/FullServiceHtml/rebeccakowalsky/1109/

I would love to hear your comments - and - if you like it pass the word on to people who might be interested in ordering the Birkon.
Many of the photographs I had taken over the years and some of them I had to go out to 'get' for a specific page that did not have an appropriate photo. Enjoy!!

Fall Colors - the United States, NYC and Stamford, CT

My journey to the United States was informative, enriching, and simply beautiful. The colors of Connecticut, the hustle and bustle of New York City and the view of the world far from where I now live brought back wonderful feelings and memories.

Kite Festival Pnei Kedem

Chol Hamoed is a special opportunity to see the land and enjoy all the activites all over the country, here in Isreal. One day, instead of a hike I opted to see the annual Chol Hamoed Kite Festival in Pnei Kedem. I arrived late in the afternoon with the kite enthusiasts still flying high and the sun setting low. Adults and children alike took part as I took in the variety and the fun, as well as the photographic opportunities.

Sukkot Live in Greater Jerusalem

Walking the streets of Jerusalem on Chol Hamoed was full of action and all kinds of people. The decision to hitch in from home was the right one. I was dropped off near Rechavia and I headed by foot down Agron St. towards the Mamilla mall, which lead me straight to the Jaffa Gate. No cars were allowed in, just those entering by foot. There was a lot of color and activity, and despite the heat and the sun beating down, I made it to the Kotel and stood in the throngs awaiting Birkat Kohanim. Of course there was pushing and vying for a close view of the men's section where the kohanim were about to bless the people of Israel. The excitement in the air was contagious. The lulav, etrog and all realted articles were everpresent - as was the holiday spirit.

Sukkot Live in Greater Jerusalem

Walking the streets of Jerusalem on Chol Hamoed was full of action and all kinds of people. The decision to hitch in from home was the right one. I was dropped off near Rechavia and I headed by foot down Agron St. towards the Mamilla mall, which lead me straight to the Jaffa Gate. No cars were allowed in, just those entering by foot. There was a lot of color and activity, and despite the heat and the sun beating down, I made it to the Kotel and stood in the throngs awaiting Birkat Kohanim. Of course there was pushing and vying for a close view of the men's section where the kohanim were about to bless the people of Israel. The excitement in the air was contagious. The lulav, etrog and all realted articles were everpresent - as was the holiday spirit.

Pre Sukkot Preparations

Last year I promised myself that this year I would make it to the shuk that is designated for sale of the lulav and etrog. There are many all over the country - but I chose to visit one of the larger ones on the northern end of Jerusalem. There were predominantly males, orthodox and ultra orthodox - who arrived with the strict intention of choosing these 4 species with the highest level of scrutiny.

Efrat - Nature & Kids

Strolling around the beautiful city of Efrat - one can see not only the vineyards and greenery, but the active children, vibrating with life and their own brand of beauty.

Fruit of the Land - Erev Rosh Hashana 5770

I decided to take a walk and leave the computer and kitchen behind - to reflect and take in the beauty of this land,a s the new year dawns.
I hope we all have a wonderful year - full of health, deep joy, and connection to those we love.

Jerusalem - The City in the Summer of 2009

Jerusalem, the city at the center of the world, has an infinite array of images. Every season, no matter what time of day, nor where one finds oneself strolling - there is beauty, color, texture, life in all its varieties. I just love strolling around the city of Jerusalem with my camera.

Family Portraits

Recently, I have had the real pleasure of photographing some fun and photogenic families. Portraiture is special in that the photographer and subject are together for one purpose. This is in contrast to a family event, where the portraits can be just the opening part of the evening - and that often includes people coming late in a rush to get everything done before the event. The event is then hovering overhead as the family members and friends are tense about the evening and its various activities about to begin. In other words, the portrait session as part of a celebration is vital and wonderful but it is sandwiched in between so much. That is why I try to encourage families to have dedicated portrait sessions - less tension and rushing.