Am Yisrael Chai
February 6th, 2002 (18 years ago) I embarked on my personal journey, leaving my close-knit family in Oregon to arrive in the Jewish national homeland of Israel. At the time, I was 19 and trying to find where I, Dahlia, fit in in this world.
From the hot, clear desert of Arad, to the various bustling, crowded neighborhoods of Jerusalem, a short year in Chashmonaim, before arriving at our current location: the somewhat quiet, Anglo bubble of Beit Shemesh; life has zoomed on before I’ve had a chance to catch up!
I don't have much advice to give others yet, as I'm still learning a lot myself. However I thought to write a short summery of my life and contributions to Israel so far:
Born in California USA in 1982; home educated until college, graduated with a degree in Food Service Management -with honors.
Made Aliyah in February of 2002, participated in a graduate program in Arad.
Served in a government ministry in Jerusalem for national service as well as various other volunteering avenues.
Completed several months of seminary learning in Jerusalem.
Volunteered helping families and learning Torah in Gush Katif before being “disengaged”.
Volunteered in Tzvat during the Second Lebanon War – helping the residents, visiting wounded Israeli soldiers, organizing meals and packages, etc.
Was head chef and kitchen manager of the vegetarian lunches and special events for a seminary in Jerusalem.
Married to my beloved other half since 2007, full time mother and executive supervisor to our three amazing sabras – born to us in 2008 and 2010 and 2017.
I am a great granddaughter and granddaughter of survivors of the Pogroms and the Holocaust;
Daughter to a father who was a heroic soldier in the Israeli army as a paratrooper medic who served in the Yom Kippur war and who fought to protect the Jewish National Homeland.
Daughter to his wife who is the most dedicated, supportive and encouraging mother who was also his partner in their family business for 20 years before making aliyah themselves!
Sister to five amazing and unique individuals.
Sister in law to six, almost seven fascinating individuals.
Current aunt to ten superb nieces and four superb nephews.
I couldn’t see myself living anywhere else. Despite the early years of loneliness, the middle years of growth, I look forward to what the future holds.
Am Yisrael Chai!
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