• English
  • HOME
  • ABOUT
    • Privacy Policy
  • BLOG
  • PODCAST
  • SPEAKING
  • RESOURCES
    • Shabbat Guide
    • Bat Mitzvah Guide
    • Parenting Principles
  • CONNECT
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter

    Search

Jewish Latin Princess

Wednesday Wink

December 28, 2016 by Yael Leave a Comment

Wednesday Wink Divine Providence Logo for Hasghacha Pratit series

B”H

Happy Hannukah everyone! I know I said I wouldn’t be here until 2017, but this story just came in from one of Jewish Latin Princess’ readers: a Hannukah Wednesday Wink and it’s pretty awesome, so I had to share.

If you’re new to Jewish Latin Princess, Wednesday Wink is JewishLatinPrincess’ series on Hashgacha Pratit (Divine Providence). This is a space to share either your stories or my own stories of Hashgacha Pratit (Divine Providence) as they help us be more aware of G-d’s involvement in every detail of our lives. You can find all past Wednesday Winks in the Soul Talk section of the blog. Enjoy Yehudeet’s beautiful story!

______

Hi, my name is Yehudeet and I’m the grand-daughter-in-law of Shirley Kanofsky (a.k.a. Safta), who’s soul returned to her Creator on July, 2014. Before I tell you my wink from Safta, let me tell you about her.

Safta was one of a kind. Her energy and zest for life was something that always showed through when you were around her. The excitement she showed when she was around the people she loved was physically visible. It was as if she couldn’t stop dancing and she’d often break out into song.

She had extreme respect for humanity.  This was exhibited by her great attention to detail. Whether it was the way she prepared her fruits and vegetables, or if there was a way to avoid any potential harm or hazard, she’d take it. She also loved to be helpful and would jump at the opportunity to bring a little joy into someone’s life. Whether it was finding a misplaced stuffed animal or even just by sending a couple of stamps because she felt they would come in handy. BUT the best example of this respect was that after just meeting her you felt like you had just become another daughter, sister or granddaughter to her.

Safta was a role model in her daily life in practice, deed, and belief. She created a positive environment for all of us who knew her to nurture our character traits and better ourselves spiritually and mentally.

She cared deeply for us and always acted a mentsch. Safta worked hard her whole life for her family and community – teaching Torah and good deeds to children, as well as being a teacher by good example in her personal life. She really was the matriarch of my husband’s family. Her faith and trust in Hashem never wavered. It refined her and all those around her.

Towards the end of 2010 Safta wanted to pay us a visit here in Houston, but was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer shortly thereafter. She thought twice about coming down from New York, but after some encouragement from my husband and her doctors she agreed to fly down.

The doctors “gave her” a couple of months to live but being who she was, she fought her condition with happiness and gratitude to Hashem for all the blessings He bestowed upon her. To the doctors surprise, this attitude carried her for several years until she returned her soul to Hashem on June 12, 2014.

To say that we missed her was short of an understatement. The cheerfulness that she exhibited over the phone, and the love she showed us via her letters and phone conversations, were sorely missed. Every holiday that passed, every birthday, every simcha that passed, she was no longer there to receive or relay good wishes.

Now, before I tell you what transpired after Safta’s passing,  I must clue you in on my relationship with my sister and my scrap booking machine….

My mother gifted me the machine and every so often my sister has craft project that pops up and asks to borrow it. This machine is becoming a little bit of a pain because of where I store it. It is stored in my coat closet at the bottom of a shelf – in a very crowded part of the closet. It is a pain to take out, and a pain to put back. So when my sister asks to borrow it, it takes a little encouragement for me to take everything out of the closet, take out the machine, and put everything back.

On the second day of Hannukah 2015,  amidst all the chaos of Hannukah celebrations, (a year and a half after Safta’s passing) my sister asked to borrow the machine. “Seriously”, I thought to myself, a bit annoyed. I fought my yetzer hara (selfish drive) and took out all the stuff from this closet to take out this machine.

Imagine my shock when out of the closet pops this Hannukah card from none other than Safta! We were all so happy. A great reminder that Safta is always with us, blessing us and infusing us with there love and joy!

Hannukah card received by Divine Providence

________

Thank you for sharing this inspiring story Yehudeet! I want to be like Safta, with a zest of life that is contagious. Don’t you all?

I hope your Hannukah celebrations are going well. We’re exhausted and having fun! :-)

Related Post: Wednesday Wink from last Hannukah

P.S.
Have you ever felt a “wink from above”? Please share it either in the comments or email me with your story. We can publish it anonymously, if you’d like. I look forward to hearing from you and sharing your “winks from above” here at JewishLatinPrincess.

You may also like | Puede que también te guste

  • 235: Let’s Talk About Financing Your First Home Purchase with Mortgage Broker, Rich Bonn235: Let’s Talk About Financing Your First Home Purchase with Mortgage Broker, Rich Bonn
  • Ofertas en Nordstrom: Moda con Tzniut (Recato)Ofertas en Nordstrom: Moda con Tzniut (Recato)
  • Episode 51: Shlepping Mirrors and TambourinesEpisode 51: Shlepping Mirrors and Tambourines
  • Episode 34: Harriet Lerner, Ph.D., Author of Why Won’t You Apologize?Episode 34: Harriet Lerner, Ph.D., Author of Why Won’t You Apologize?
  • 7 Reasons Why You Should Launch a Podcast Now7 Reasons Why You Should Launch a Podcast Now
Video Interview with Debbie Sassen
9 Year Old Girl Birthday

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

INSTAGRAM

Follow on Instagram

Jewish Mom Blogs

Judaica by Kate Spade NY

Sponsors I Love

Sponsors I Love

Ready to enjoy a joyful & richer Jewish life?

Recent Posts

  • 340: Tips for negotiating a new job
  • 339: Aleeza Ben Shalom, Netflix Host of Jewish Matchmaking 
  • 338: My child is making money. What should I encourage her to do with it?
  • 337: Beyond the Art of Fundraising with Rabbi Shmuly Rothman
  • 336: The Pursuit of Greatness with Rabbi Shmuel Reichman (Replay)

Testimonials

  • Chaya Mushka Ben-Shabat, Founder and CEO, Menachem Mendel AcademyChaya Mushka Ben-Shabat, Founder and CEO, Menachem Mendel Academy
    Being a guest on JLP was a true delight!  Easy, quick, hassle-free, and most of all…FUN!  Yael made the entire experience feel like a chat with a long-lost friend, and I finished with the interview feeling invigorated and excited to re-focus on my mission.  May Hashem give us MANY more women like Yael in this world to hasten our righteous Moshiach NOW!!
  • Harriet Lerner, PhD, Author of Why Won’t You Apologize?Harriet Lerner, PhD, Author of Why Won’t You Apologize?

    I loved being in Jewish Latin Princess. Yael made me feel right at home. Her careful reading of the book and her interview style was terrific. I also enjoyed sharing a part of my life that I don’t usually get to share in interviews. Thank You Yael!

  • Jamie Geller, the Queen of KosherJamie Geller, the Queen of Kosher

    I had a great time being on Jewish Latin Princess Podcast. Yael is a great interviewer and fun. The questions just flowed and they were the perfect balance of thought provoking and deep, while also keeping the conversation very real and practical. I’ve done many interviews in the past and I can say, Yael is great on the mic!

  • Shira Kraft, Director of Nishmah, JCC of St. LouisShira Kraft, Director of Nishmah, JCC of St. Louis

    I can’t thank you enough for joining us at the retreat and being a truly special guest! Your words were beautiful and meaningful. You exceeded our expectations and were a pleasure to work with. It was wonderful to share this Shabbat with you.

  • Lenore Skenazy, America’s Worst MomLenore Skenazy, America’s Worst Mom

    It was a joy to be interviewed by Yael -- she's fun, prepared, quick and smart. A truly zesty conversation. What more could an interviewee want?

  • Julie Starr, Possibility Life Coaching for WomenJulie Starr, Possibility Life Coaching for Women

    Being interviewed by Yael is pure joy! Her insightful comments, powerful questions and warm interaction helps one share with ease. Yael may you go from strength to strength with your mission of spreading goodness throughout the world!

  • Faigy Pollock, Expert on Marriage & IntimacyFaigy Pollock, Expert on Marriage & Intimacy

    What an honor to be interviewed by Yael. In my eyes, Yael's show is a place to glorify Judaism and the Jewish way of life, and I am humbled to have been invited to share my passion. Yael made me feel so comfortable and confident. Her easy going upbeat energy was felt way across the globe as if I was sitting right there next to her. I enjoyed every moment of the interview and couldn't believe that an hour and a half went by so fast;-) I look forward to connecting again soon. Yael, keep up the good work!

  • Amy Kritzer

    I loved being a guest on Yael's podcast! Her questions are thoughtful, and it's like chatting with a good friend. The time flew by. I wish we could have chatted more.

  • Silvia Cohen, Food Creative Blogger en LemishmashSilvia Cohen, Food Creative Blogger en Lemishmash

    Yael de JLP no es solo mi gran amiga sino que es una host maravillosa, con la voz más dulce y hace las preguntas más asertivas. Te hace sentir en casa estando tan lejos y en un micrófono. Yael es el perfecto ejemplo de mujer mamá judia trabajadora que lo puede todo! Y todo lo que hace lo hace perfecto. No solo recomiendo escuchar sus podcast que son maravillosos sino seguir su blog y sus ocurrentes historias y los mejores tips.

  • Stacy Middleman, Author of Dear Cancer, Love StacyStacy Middleman, Author of Dear Cancer, Love Stacy

    Yael is a delight! My interview with her for Jewish Latin Princess was like talking to an old friend. Her questions are thought-provoking, insightful and generous. Her warm approach allowed me to be myself, and I loved having the opportunity to share my story in such an engaging way.

  • Michelle Poler, Founder of Hello Fears, Speaker & Fear FacerMichelle Poler, Founder of Hello Fears, Speaker & Fear Facer

    I loved being part of your podcast, I had no idea what to expect and it was refreshing as a Jewish woman to participate in your podcast. Your questions related to what I do, combined with Judaism gave me a lot to think about. I love getting new questions instead of the typical “why did you start the project?” which is important but I’m glad you gave it a twist. I hope your listeners enjoy the interview as much as I enjoyed being part of it! Thanks for challenging me to think about my topic and religion as one.

  • Nomi Freeman, Expert in Near Death ExperiencesNomi Freeman, Expert in Near Death Experiences

    It was great talking with you yesterday. You made me feel totally comfortable from the start. Your style is so dynamic, and your interviews so thought provoking! Our interview was just one fun conversation and it flew by so quickly!

  • Rebecca Schweiger: Artist & Founder of The Art Studio NYRebecca Schweiger: Artist & Founder of The Art Studio NY

    By far the highlight of my week was interviewing with Yael for JLP! I felt like I plugged into an outlet of inspiration and human connection. Yael has brains, spunk, spirit and curiosity, all of which come through her thought-provoking and engaging interview style. Thank you, Yael, for including me in your podcast. You are a pleasure to join forces with!

  • Shirley Varnagy: Periodista, Anfitriona de Radio y TVShirley Varnagy: Periodista, Anfitriona de Radio y TV

    Gracias por la estupenda entrevista que me hiciste, siempre es grato que te entrevisten de otra manera, es una conversación que nunca olvidaré. Al final el propósito de una buena entrevistadora es que su entrevista deje huella, y tu lo lograste.

  • Abigail Pogrebin: Author of My Jewish YearAbigail Pogrebin: Author of My Jewish Year

    Yael's careful preparation and genuine sensitivity are evident in every question she asks and in how attentively she listens. It was a pleasure to talk to the Jewish Latin Princess!

  • Bari Lyman: Author & Creator of Meet to MarryBari Lyman: Author & Creator of Meet to Marry

    It was such a delight to be interviewed by Yael. She is so warm, on target and really insightful. Instead of feeling like an interview, it was like have a cup of tea with a really good friend. Thanks Yael for sharing your gifts with the world and creating a platform to share ours.

  • Bari Tessler: Financial Therapist and Creator of The Art of MoneyBari Tessler: Financial Therapist and Creator of The Art of Money

    Yael and I went deep into my journey to becoming a financial therapist in her podcast. Thank you for this lovely interview.

  • Rena Reiser: Intuitive Eating CoachRena Reiser: Intuitive Eating Coach

    I'm brand new to the podcasting world, and Yael made me feel right at home and relaxed. She's so curious and honest, making it a pleasure to speak to her. Being interviewed by Yael is like sitting in your best friend's living room shmoozing and laughing about the day.

  • Barbara Stanny: Bestselling Author, and the Leading Authority on Women and MoneyBarbara Stanny: Bestselling Author, and the Leading Authority on Women and Money

    You are a truly terrific interviewer. I'm also filled with joy and gratitude to have had such a juicy, deep, and spiritual conversation with you. Thank you so much for inviting me on your show.

    Author of Prince Charming Isn't Coming, Overcoming Underearning, and Sacred Success

  • Vicki Samuels: President & CEO, Jewish Herald-VoiceVicki Samuels: President & CEO, Jewish Herald-Voice

    Yael is a gifted and intuitive writer. So impressed was our staff, that the Jewish Herald-Voice offered her a monthly column, "Defining Jewish Women." We have received only positive feedback and our readers look forward to the third Thursday of every month. In between, I personally follow her blog and gain much insight into myself through her words and emotions.

  • Gila SimchaGila Simcha

    What a treat to hear Yael speak at the Jewish Women's Retreat in San Antonio. Her presentation, "Mi Casa es Su Casa, The Kabbalah of the Home" inspired me to express my Judaism in a way that speaks to my creative side and love of all things chic without compromising my true self and style. I'm so glad I got the chance to hear her message of creativity and Torah. Bravo!

  • Sandy FrydbergSandy Frydberg

    I enjoyed your presentation very much. Your way of presenting material is your strongest asset. You are organized, friendly and approachable, and you speak beautifully, including when you incorporated Jewish teachings in Hebrew. I would be happy to learn from you as you make it fun and interesting.

  • Tina GrossTina Gross

    Thank you so much for a wonderful presentation....You are a great speaker and all the ladies loved hearing your stories....

  • Shoshana BonnShoshana Bonn

    I am writing to share how much I enjoyed your presentation on the kabbalah of home at the 55th N'shei Chabad convention in San Antonio, Texas. Your vivacious speaking style, the clarity with which you made your points, and your warmth toward your audience made this one of the best breakout sessions I attended. You offered both depth of Jewish knowledge and perspective on how this applied to people's individual situations. I look forward to my next opportunity to hear you speak.

  • Ronit Spiwak WolfRonit Spiwak Wolf

    Gracias por crear un blog tan necesitado para la mujer moderna Judia.

  • Clara GrossClara Gross

    Yael y JLP son muy especiales para mi. Fue gracias a JLP que me di la oportunidad de intentar nuevamente preparar Challah para mi familia - desde que JLP publico la Challah que nunca falla en nuestra mesa hay hermosas y deliciosas Challah todos los Shabbat y en las festividades. Soy una foodie así que no me pierdo las recetas que publica y hasta ahora han sido un éxito total, sin contar que me inspira la bellísima presentación de los platos y como presentar una hermosa,  sencilla y a la vez elegante mesa para nuestra familia e invitados.

  • Miranda HurwitzMiranda Hurwitz

    In preparation for my wedding, I had the opportunity to learn with Yael. Creativity aside, she is a wealth of knowledge, both passionate and practical, about what she teaches and how she teaches it. I'm also proud to say that through our experience together she has become a great friend and is someone that I can I always talk to.

  • Melinda SilberMelinda Silber
    Yael can be defined as “refreshing inspiration.” She is well-versed in an array of topics from Jewish femininity to design details. Every time I hear her at a speaking engagement or in passing conversation, she always brings an awareness of Jewish femininity to the forefront, constantly reminding women of their spiritual role and importance in ‘everyday’ things. I was thrilled that she passed this concept on, along with her deep knowledge of Judaism, to my daughter during their Bat Mitzvah lessons together. Yael always rises to the occasion (no pun intended) with her eye for design and attention to details. Her subtle palette, creativity and organizational skills are her recipe to success!
  • Vanesa KreindelVanesa Kreindel

    Estoy inmensamente feliz de haber conocido a Yael. En ella no solo encontré una persona con inmenso talento, sino que también encontré una gran amiga que abre su corazón y te contagia su alegría, creatividad y armonía. Me fascina leer su blog - en el siempre encuentro algún nuevo “tip” y también disfruto muchísimo de las clases de mujeres que nos da mensualmente.

  • Anat ChenAnat Chen

    My daughter Stav had her Bat Mitzvah a few months ago.  I wanted Stav to go into her 'Bat Mitzvah' understanding the meaning of the term, and with the knowledge of how to apply it to her life. Even though she learns in a Jewish Orthodox school, I felt that she needed extra learning and inspiration for her coming of age.  Luckily, I knew Yael from before, and heard that she teaches Bat Mitzvah classes.  I had a feeling that this would be a good match... I wasn't wrong :)

    Yael teaches ancient ideas in a modern way.  Stav came back from classes inspired, thinking and asking herself questions.  I'm thankful that my daughter had the opportunity to learn with Yael for her Bat Mitzvah in a interesting, welcoming and inspiring way.

  • Kayla WarrenKayla Warren

    Yael has creativity, vision, and energy, and she uses them all to the fullest for her clients. She came up with the color scheme, all the accessories, the overall “look” of the day, and I just happily and gratefully followed along. But I don’t want you to think it’s only what Yael wants, Yael does. She asked me for input every step of the way. She always checked in with me about what she was buying, what she thought we should have at the party, and she was always conscious of budget. I wanted everything she suggested, but I know that if there had been anything I wasn’t keen to have, she would have changed it until she found something that I loved. She wanted my daughter and me to be happy with everything. We weren’t happy – that’s too meager a word – we were elated!!! Working with Yael was such a pleasant and joyful experience. And those are two words I don’t use lightly when it comes to describing planning an event.

  • Elisheva GolaniElisheva Golani

    Yael helped me style my son's upshernish as well as my living room. She is wonderful to work with! She is talented and extremely organized which is super helpful! She has an incredible eye and knows how to beautify absolutely anything!

Ready to enjoy a joyful & richer Jewish life?

75 yael@jewishlatinprincess.com
xo Yael
  • English
  • HOME
  • ABOUT
  • BLOG
  • PODCAST
  • SPEAKING
  • RESOURCES
  • CONNECT

© 2023 · Jewish Latin Princess · website by Pretty Darn Cute Design