Getting Ready for Shabbat | Shabbat Prep Day in the Life DITL | Orthodox Jewish Mom Jar of Fireflies

Please click here to donate to Meir Panim and help Israeli families in need today: meirpanim.org/jar-of-fireflies
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And we are back for another day in the life while I get ready for Shabbat! In this Shabbat prep DITL video, I start a little after I wake up and then I am working on getting ready for shabbat with some clean up and making plans and daily life motherhood getting it all done sorts of things. I show you what we do and how I do it as I get my Orthodox Jewish family ready to celebrate Shabbat!
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Hello and welcome! My name is Chana, I’m married to my best friend, and we have four wonderful children together. We also happen to be Orthodox Jews and we homeschool our kids. This video is a sneak peek into our daily lives :) You can see how this particular Jewish homeschool mom sets up her days, rolls with the punches, and gets it all done. Thanks for watching!
Why I chose the name Jar of Fireflies:
• Answering Your Questio...
#shabbat #jewishlife #ditl
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Filmed on iPhone 11 Pro Max
Intro music on most of my videos: Blue Mountains by Gabriel Witcher
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[@jaroffireflies]

Hello my friends and all my love to those celebrating today! I have set a goal to raise $1000 for Meir Panim before the end of the year. They are doing such amazing work and I am so excited to be able to share some of what they do here with you. Please click here to donate to Meir Panim and help Israeli families in need today: meirpanim.org/jar-of-fireflies . Many of you have asked how to support my channel, I would rather you send your support here

[@mags102755]

Sweet Chana. How nice to hear from you during this busy holiday season. I send you my best wishes and am always glad to hear about what's going on with you. I'm an old lady now, so what I do quietly on New Year's Eve is just drink a glass of wine and send my love to all who have gone before me. It makes me happy, however, that you're still here, along with your children and your dear Mr. Firefly. Hugs.

[@jaroffireflies]

Your new years plans sound a lot like mine 🍷 😂 Thank you for your kind words ❤️❤️❤️ Wishing you all the best!

[@Cookie7294]

Oh Chana! I remember telling my mischievous toddler that he only survived because he was so cute. He is now 32 and I am nostalgic about those wild toddler days.😊

[@jaroffireflies]

LOL They are really cute at this stage!!!

[@westzed23]

​@@jaroffirefliesThat is their survival technique. I love hearing him giggle in the background.

[@jaroffireflies]

@@westzed23 it’s a very good technique 😂

[@lauramotola6231]

You're my favorite part of Mondays!

[@jaroffireflies]

Aw thank you Laura! :)

[@debbiec4224]

Yes, I agree. I thought totally look forward to Monday’s. 😊

[@martinelanglois3158]

Good morning! The sound of baby giggles makes it all worth it. Love the flowers! I never buy myself flowers. Maybe that's what I should do in the coming year. I wish you and your loved ones a very peaceful week. 💙

[@jaroffireflies]

I’ve really grown to love having the flowers :) Trader Joe’s has flowers at a great price

[@martinelanglois3158]

@@jaroffireflies I'm up north in the province of Quebec. We don't have Trader Joe's. I'll have to look elsewhere. But thanks for the suggestion. 💙

[@jaroffireflies]

@@martinelanglois3158 ah yes Trader Joe’s is not everywhere. I was very excited when they started popping up near me

[@ceebee18]

Get flowers 🌷🌹🌷. They make a difference!

[@kathy3178]

I enjoy hearing baby Firefly in the background. Reminds me of when my daughter was little. I celebrate Christmas. This year has been so sad, that I haven't felt like it. Watching your video always puts a smile. Blessings to you and your family.

[@T_WC123]

He just wants to help his mama make videos! 🤣 🥰

[@jaroffireflies]

I’m so sorry that you’ve been sad Kathy! I do hope your day brightens up ❤️ Sending hugs!

[@mrsseebeck2]

I look forward to Mondays because I get to see you and hear your kiddos. Shabbat Shalom!

[@jaroffireflies]

Aw thank you! 😊💐

[@thehattersmadness1957]

I remember car rides around and around to put my kids to sleep. Brought back memories. Baby Firefly doesn’t want to miss anything.Haha! You will look back on these days fondly. Happy holidays❤😊

[@ceebee18]

The war is real. I joined a funeral procession for a 30 year old soldier yesterday and will attend Shiva. Thank you for your help, everyone, whatever you can do.

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you for going to the shiva ❤️🇮🇱

[@susankelty4814]

Hi Chana, I understand the difficulties for Baby Firefly to drop off to much needed sleep; my daughter was in the same boat as your toddler. Driving helped but I found a different way to a) be safe at home and, b) simulate the drive while, c) completing a task plus, d) helping toddler to sleep! My husband rigged a heavy duty furniture strap under and around the front-load dryer. We strapped an extra car seat to the top of the dryer, clipped baby in and I was able to sit with her while a load of drying tumbled her to sleep! it was miraculous

[@ccct]

I'm so grateful for all the organizations that help those in need (Meir Panim, Catholic Social Services, and all the other wonderful organizations that assist those who are in dire situations); pray for the victims and their families.

[@gingerrogers5062]

Yes, please, a detailed menu/meal plan and all that jazz. Will provide inspiration and practical tips!

[@jaroffireflies]

Stay tuned for Monday!

[@bridgwll]

Yes, please do a more comprehensive video on the meal plan

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you for letting me know you are interested in that! Its been working out amazing these past couple times I have done it!

[@annelynn7266]

So understand the meal plan. When my kids were younger, I made mostly big pots of soups and stews on the weekend. I rotated which ones, and basically we had them through the week with homemade bread (it was cheaper to bake my own at the time, and every penny counted - still does!) There was only a 4 year span between my oldest and youngest, I very much understand what a joy, but what hard work it is to keep up. The year my family got me the gift of a lifetime, a Kitchen Aid mixer, was a game changer. I love hand kneading bread, but difficult to take care of littles when up to your elbows in dough. I could knead a batch of 3 loaves at a time in the mixer while doing stuff with the kids. Thanks for taking the time to share another DITL with us and being real. And thanks for sharing about Meir Panim with us. Blessings and prayers for peace.

[@lmmartin959]

I like how well you adjust to changes in the household. Best way to keep it all going. You are an inspiration!

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you so much! ❤️❤️❤️

[@nicolegonzalezmarrero629]

I absolutely love that you show real life. Bless you and yours. Yes for Shabbat and festivals our homes are just wow! Love your channel.

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate that ❤️

[@grievousangelic]

There's a reason toddlers are so cute. They wouldn't survive the "handful" period, otherwise. LOLOL. Glad you and yours are all well. I expect my husband and I will stay home on NYE. It's safer. I'm going to try to get something really special to cook, but we'll see the New Year in at home. On New Year's Day, we may do a little shopping and I'll make country ribs in the Instant Pot to go with some black-eyed peas and cornbread! Gotta have the good luck for the year! I wish you and your family a peaceful, blessed New Year! Shalom!

[@daisydedication2890]

Happy Monday to you Chana,and to everyone else in the comments celebrating today happy Christmas/happy holidays,hope you have a wonderful one ❤

[@jaroffireflies]

❤️❤️❤️

[@SusanP674]

Thank you for another great video Chana 💙 So cute to hear baby firefly!

[@jaroffireflies]

My pleasure 😊

[@jeannenabozny5675]

Love the giggles of the children

[@winnieewing7730]

A really happy boy the sound of his laughter is beautiful. I have just finished doing my Christmas dishes and I was happy to sit and watch your program. It won't be long before baby Firefly will be helping you like the other children. ❤Ireland

[@theresadavis4885]

Ahhhh the terrible Two’s…… I remember those days…. This too shall pass. You are doing a great job!!!

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you 😊

[@O_DoodleMom5]

My sweet niece is getting married on New Year’s Eve’s eve so our entire family is in wedding mode!! ❤ The cool part (I think) is where they’re getting married. I was raised on a farm and my dad was an agriculture teacher. Before he retired my mom and I started a greenhouse business on our farm. Once he retired and my brother retired from the military we went bigger than we dreamed we could or would ever become. Thank you, God. We now have 25 greenhouses on the farm and have 5 retail stores in the north half of our state. My niece will graduate from college in May with a degree in horticulture. She and her precious fella are getting married in a greenhouse on the farm. Thousands of lights have been strung (thanks to an electrician in our family), TONS of foliage has been draped, tents are coming in tomorrow along with flooring. Special furniture has been purchased (which they will use in their home after returning from their honeymoon). We’re all exhausted but so excited!! The girls are all staying and dressing in my brother’s home and all of the guys are staying and dressing in my parents’ home. My parents are moving in with me for a couple of days so that the entire wedding party will be on the farm for the whole weekend. They are expecting over 300 guests. We can’t wait!! Happy New Year!!

[@KirstyJonesLouise]

That sounds so exciting! All the best for all of the plans and a happy marriage to come.

[@O_DoodleMom5]

@@KirstyJonesLouise Thank you so much! It’s definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience! We are Christians and the groom is a worship leader. My nephew is also headed into the ministry. My mom’s grandfather was a minister and my dad is a ministry leader. We’re having the wedding on the land that was family owned for 5 generations. I’m so thankful for the history in this location. ❤️

[@debbiec4224]

Ahh those baby giggles! How I miss those days! Thank you for taking the time out to make this video. Not doing anything that I know of on new years eve except spend the time with my cat. She brings joy to my life! My new years resolution is to continue to work on trying to eat healthy and get my diabetes under control. Hope you and Mr. Firefly and the kiddos have a wonderful week!

[@63Littlemouse]

Oh how adorable is Baby Firefly's laugh, Oh those toddler days, when they refuse to nap & bedtime take an age to go to sleep of course they far too busy exploring, learning & growing, who wants to miss out on life whilst they sleep ! I love that age, the little ones so cute, so full of life & their little character comes alive as each brand new day starts an adventure. Oh Chana I know its fun but oh so exhausting too, I remember I would drive my son around to get him to sleep/nap only for him to immediately wake up as soon as the car stopped Ho Hum !

[@Sharon-st9st]

Thank you for another wonderful video!

[@jaroffireflies]

My pleasure! Thank you so much for being here!

[@maryannsegal2807]

I always enjoy your videos - and it's so great you're bringing awareness to The War. Love to you and your beautiful family,

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you Maryann ❤️

[@ST-fw3td]

I really appreciate your openness regarding your toddler struggle with Baby Firefly and how you're working to overcome it. It really helps me to know that others' lives aren't always picture perfect either. Hang in there, and know that you're appreciated and in our thoughts and prayers.

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you so much! Hearing that my struggles can help people makes it easier ❤️

[@yvette1097]

Happy holidays and wish you and family a blessed and happy New Year.🤗🙏

[@jaroffireflies]

Happy new year!

[@kimc555]

Oh how I remember those days. I hope you are having a good Monday!

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you Kim! Hope you’re having a great day too!

[@kimc555]

@@jaroffireflies kids still sleeping. Dinner later at my parents. I’m bringing stuffing, mashed potatoes and Brussel sprouts and have started the prep for that.

[@jaroffireflies]

@@kimc555 yum!!! Enjoy the time with family ❤️

[@Emmahb8]

Thanks for the lovely video. After a busy couple of weeks, I can appreciate Shabbat. I know that it is a religious holiday and can be a lot of work to prepare for, but the idea of switching off technology for 24 hours or so, sounds lovely and I know how much you enjoy it. I remember watching a video you posted a while back about how Non-Jews could have do a similar type of rest day and you listed things to make it more restful and I think that is something I am going to try and incorporate in my new year goals. Meal Planning is also something on my new year goals, it would be lovely to see a video about all that. I need to get back into the habbit of cooking and planning on Sundays, I used to do it, but got out of the habit. Thanks for the video again, I hope Baby Firefly is getting more sleep now and that you had a wonderful Shabbat.

[@amberwebster83]

I remember this part of motherhood it was very hard. My youngest is 7 and fell asleep on me today and it was nice to get those sleeping cuddles in.

[@kryssysmith1486]

Hi Hannah! Oh my creator, I love when baby Firefly does his commentary it brightens on my days so much just to hear him giggle and talk. He's such a sweet little guy.

[@jaroffireflies]

I'm so glad! He has LOTS to say!!!

[@kryssysmith1486]

@@jaroffireflies At they age they have A TON to talk about 😁😁😁😁

[@jaroffireflies]

@@kryssysmith1486 oh yes lolol and it’s so fun to hear 😂

[@freefalling69]

I had a wonderful Birthday/Christmas celebration 😊 🎂 and for New Year’s Eve I’m planning to watch tv for a short time and then go to bed. Gone are the days of staying up late and celebrating. Same will go for New Year’s Day. But most important is giving thanks to God for giving me another year to live and keeping us (me and my family) safe. That is the most important thing 🙏❤️ Love your videos 🥰👍

[@karenl6246]

Chana, thank you for sharing the real toddler life. I’m a first time mom and those days are just around the corner for us. Honestly I’m excited but also nervous because this is all brand new lol. So please keep sharing how you modify your daily routine to make this season easier for you. Much appreciated and sending love your way. ❤

[@jaroffireflies]

It’s so much work and stress but it’s also the cutest ever stage and there is so much growth and discovery you get to see! It’s amazing but it’s also hard. You’re going to love it and you’re going to do amazing!

[@karenl6246]

thank you for the encouragement @@jaroffireflies 😍

[@jaroffireflies]

@@karenl6246 my pleasure!

[@jeaniedenton-smith1041]

Hi Chana ❤ I too have been very busy and when I need to chill and relax, I enjoy watching your videos! I'm not as busy as you with your toddler, (I remember those days!) but you bring such joy to my day Chana! Hashem continue to bless you and your beautiful family!!

[@josephkavanagh5221]

A very nice video! You teach a very phenomenal lesson about the customs of a very beautiful religion!

[@karenjohnson5634]

Thank you for the holiday wishes in your comment! I honestly think New Years is my favorite “holiday”. I love the fresh start to a new year, organizing my new calendar. My Goals- paying down debt 😢, starting a family game/fun night, going to bed earlier. All these would be amazing to accomplish (for me). Have a great day! And yes, babies are adorable at this stage, but you are right- they are SO busy!!!! 😂 So good to see you today! ❤

[@jaroffireflies]

So fun that New Years is your favorite holiday! I absolutely love your goals for the new year! Especially the game night ❤️

[@karenjohnson5634]

@@jaroffireflies❤😊 thank you!! I just pray I can achieve these goals!!

[@sarahgreen2295]

Yes! Meal plan video please!!! Love you guys! Hope the holidays were great for your family! ❤

[@jaroffireflies]

Will do!

[@susanhobbins3744]

I Hope you and your family had a wonderful Hanaka and Shabbat.Such a nice video today

[@jaroffireflies]

You are so kind thank you!

[@heather9390]

We do the same drive to nowhere. 😊it gets the kiddos to calm down and it gets me out of the house. Great mood changer for everyone.

[@jaroffireflies]

While it didn’t work to get him to sleep, it was nice to get some quiet time in the car 😊

[@DLBass-op2ib]

Chana thank you for your recommendation of Meir Panim.

[@jaroffireflies]

My pleasure 😊

[@mratner60]

Happy New Year to you and your beautiful family. May you have many blessings in 2024❤❤

[@jaroffireflies]

Same to you! Happy new year!

[@josephkavanagh5221]

Another very nice video! You teach a very beautiful lesson on the customs of a very beautiful religion! B'H!

[@user-gs3fm2rh3j]

Dear Chana, I can relate to crazy seasons! Myself, when my husband passed and I now needed to work outside of the home, changed our dynamics a lot!!! Some weeks of course crazier than others, prayerfully navigating how to continue to honor and guard Shabbat now just my daughter and I, we have had to learn how to manage a number of plan B options, I am convinced the Lord helped me consider. Our journey still somewhat new. (10 years now) honoring His moedims. But I have rejoiced in the opportunity for Him to show Himself in our lives over and over❤️🥳 What a gift it can be when we are forced to pause and observe what we might otherwise miss. Thank you for sharing and being transparent how real life is in each endearing moment is for you. As for New year plans, prayerfully to get caught up on various files, paperwork and Lord willing some refresh projects to update some living spaces to hopefully inspire the joy of home😁

[@macintyredunning]

Oh Chana you brought back such memories! I used to drive my boy around but I also doubled it up as my “ me time”. I used to sit and drive and take a coffee with me, put a podcast on and just relax. Win win for both of us!!!

[@jaroffireflies]

I did enjoy the solo drive lol

[@theinevitable548]

Watch Sonya's Prep - she works full time has five kids and just had her sixth (preemie) and is still doing all the things.

[@marydrummond8832]

Wonderful Family

[@jaroffireflies]

Thanks so much ❤️

[@lisadaitoku5489]

Thanks for the video! We played dreidel as a family for the first time since my 1st grader learned a bit about your culture in school. I was able to share some knowledge you have shared and it was quite nice. We are an atheist household but fully respect all religions and cultures and enjoy learning. Thank you!

[@Odd522]

I am spending new years with my sibling! I recently separated from my spouse so the holiday season has been painful, but I’m thankful I have my parents and siblings around me this year.

[@jaroffireflies]

I’m so sorry this has been a painful time for you ❤️

[@damealeta3541]

Love the flowers! I used to have to take our daughter on rides at about this same age. I think they are so adorable around this age because you just want to throttle them because you are so exhausted but then they are just too cuddly and sweet you kind of forget your fatigue! LOL New Year's Eve I'm having my girl friends over to celebrate a birthday. One of them was born on 12.24 and this seemed like the best time to do it. No real resolutions for me/us. Just keep doing the same thing and enjoying our life. Husband and.I celebrated 34 years married on 12.23. Somehow I'm more in love with him now than that day so many years ago. Blessed would be an understatement. Have a great New Year, Channa! 😘💚🍾🎉

[@marybee4734]

HI CHANA JUST SAW YOUR VIEDO HAVE BEEN DOING DOCTOR'S APPOINTMENTS BEFORE THE YEAR IS OUT ITS ALWAYS nice seeing you baby firefly is a busy toddler 😊wishing you and Mr. FIREFLY and beautiful new year 2024 full of happiness and good health ❤️🥰🦋🦋🦋🌻🌻🌻🐝

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you! Happy new year to you as well! ❤️💐

[@EileenK-wt3nl]

Aww! Baby Firefly and the blueberries lol. My last (I have three) child is now....27!!! The years fly!!! Love your channel.

[@jaroffireflies]

Aw thank you ❤️❤️❤️

[@timeenchantre1]

My new year celebration never really works the way I hope. I plan on staying awake and watching the ball drop but I fall asleep way before that happens. If I'm awake past 10 on most nights it's a miracle ! As for resolutions, I think I'm going to focus 2024 more on volunteer opportunities within my community. I'm attempting to get funding to open a low cost veterinary/ emergency veterinary clinic within my neighborhood . We have a lot of stray animals who are in need of medical services.

[@jaroffireflies]

That’s such an amazing focus for 2024! So wonderful! Best of luck to you and all the success!!!!

[@kaydublin5164]

I always enjoy your videos, have a wonderful day. 😊

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you so much ❤️

[@brianlawson363]

It is such a tonic to see you and know that you are in good spirits. I wish you and your family peace and blessings. Oh, I once said that baby firefly is going to race motorcycles, well I am still firmly holding to that prediction 😊.

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you! So glad that you are enjoying these videos! Thank you for your kind words ❤️

[@lyn5036]

Hiiii... I think the meal prep is an awesome idea and I would love for you to do a video... I'm in a rut with meals and with work this would be great!

[@villemokellin]

I would love to see your menuplan and prep, i am so out of ideas.... Thank you for another honest and nice video. Be blessed

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you for your kind words! Looks like I’ll be putting together the food planning video!

[@MaureenDrees]

Thank you. I hadn’t been able to find the name of a flower and now know that it is sea holly. I so much remember the days of trying to get a very young child to sleep. We live in a farming community, so we used to drive back and forth between grain elevators, seeing if the weight of our vehicle varied between scales just to try and stay awake while putting our daughter to sleep.

[@sheliamaynus9869]

Just watched The Canterville Ghost. I had never heard of it. Thanks for the recommendation!

[@jaroffireflies]

So glad you enjoyed it!

[@kristinmiller4779]

Good morning Chana and Firefly kiddos ❤❤

[@jaroffireflies]

Good morning!☀️😃

[@Milk427]

So…. I too hated to sleep as a baby. One thing my parents did was in my baby carrier they would sit me up on top to the dryer and start the dryer. The vibration made me sleepy. That’s how I fell asleep a lot as a baby. Baby Firefly may be a bit too old for that but as a baby it worked for me. Since we had our Christmas celebration on Christmas Eve today on Christmas morning I’m not doing anything. At all. So I was so happy to see your new video up. I was like ‘Chana will have a new video up. I’ll have something to watch this morning’. Thanks for that. Love the channel, love watching you guys. Love the content. I’d love to see the meal plan prep. I love all that stuff. Anything you want to share I don’t mind. I don’t have anything for a New Year’s resolution. I started with a new physical trainer last month. So I already started that. If anything your focus on studying your faith, inspires me. I’m Christian and so I hope in the next year I will be more focused in that.

[@uniquelyplanned443]

I would love a video on how you’re doing your meal plan with recipes. I love recipes!

[@jaroffireflies]

Coming soon! I’m excited to share!

[@giuliamotta628]

Another wonderful video

[@jaroffireflies]

You are so kind! So happy you enjoyed!

[@HappyGirl4666]

You are such a loving mother . It is ok for some things to slide to make your baby safe and happy . ❤

[@jaroffireflies]

Yes, thank you ❤️

[@colleenorrick5415]

Yes please do a video on your meal planning.

[@jaroffireflies]

Coming soon!

[@chayastaub-krell6601]

I've been donating to Meir Panim for a few years now and I agree they are a fantastic organization! Since Hamas' onslaught in October and the start of the war, I'm trying to figure a way to give more. Being on social security makes it hard to find extra money. We did get an increase this year but my rent went up double the amount of the increase in social security. Meal prep -- my daughter has been trying to get that going. The closest I ever got to do that was when I was pregnant with my second and would prepare a double meal every night for the last month or two of the pregnancy. I would freeze the leftovers so after I came home from the hospital I didn't have to cook for several weeks. I don't know if meal prep was a thing back in the 80s but doing this ensured that we all got to eat lol. Baby Firefly has such a cute giggle! The toddler stage is adorable and, for sure, exhausting! But, I do miss those days.

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you for donating to Mier Panim! ❤️❤️❤️ Hope you are well!

[@sarahfarrell8214]

Oh my gosh, Baby Firefly is so cute! For New Year's Eve, I'm going to my niece's house in Queens. My sister is in Florida for Christmas with her son and cute grandson; so I'm home by myself for Christmas. Like you say, "It's okay." I was able to celebrate Christmas Eve at my sister's house, and that was nice. My New Year's resolution is to eat healthier and to become more organized. I think making a meal plan is so smart! I would love to see a video on how you meal prep. Have a great day, and I'm going to watch the Canterville Ghost on Roku!

[@jaroffireflies]

Hope you enjoy your quiet day today and that you have a great New Years! Enjoy the movie tonight! I suggest the version from I think 1996. It’s the one with Patrick Stewart and Neve Campbell 🎞️

[@purpleandred7]

Your meal plan is a great idea, Chana. As long as you're already cooking, you could also make a double batch of a few meals and freeze them .. and then the next week you won't have to cook as much and you'll have a bit more free time.

[@jaroffireflies]

Great idea!

[@UOlover13]

I don’t have any special plans on New Year’s Eve besides going to church. But I do have some goal for the year 2024. Mostly goals for health and wellness. Two weeks ago my family got hit hard with sickness. It was terrible. We are homeschoolers and we were just starting our break and we’ve spent two weeks of break being sick and recovering 😢 so my goal for 2024 is to do everything I can to boost my family’s immune systems! I’m really relying on these colder months to get a lot of our school work done, so we need to stay healthy! Another goal is to make school more fun. Our first term was rough because I was in my first trimester and barely hanging in there! We did the bare minimum and I feel bad for that. Anyways, blessings to you and yours in this coming year! 😊

[@marije8562]

Hi Chana, I just did a breakfast for dinner a couple of nights ago, it was amazing! Also, driving around in a car with rain sounded so peaceful, no offense to baby (toddler?) Firefly but I would have fallen asleep for sure... Good luck to you, I can see you're a bit tired, but it will pass. You're putting measures into place to make things easier for yourself and I think it'll work. Lots of love from The Netherlands 💝

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you for your kind words :) The rain was super relaxing!

[@heretic1965]

Little Mr Man Man Firefly is so super busy 😂.. This is why G-D gives babies to y’all young ones . Happy Holiday Season to your family Sister .. sending you Blessings ❤

[@jaroffireflies]

❤️🤣 Thanks for calling me young ❤️❤️❤️

[@T_WC123]

I so appreciate the charity information. It feels so important to do something but it’s wildly frustrating when you feel you can’t help. I will donate and I keep all the Jewish people in my prayers!!!

[@T_WC123]

Also, I don’t have kids but I was the eldest sister and worked as a nanny, so I remember that age and we used to say that God makes kids so cute at that age so the parents can cope. Actually, we used to say it was so the parents didn’t “sell the child to gypsies” since that was something my mother always said, but that doesn’t sound like an appropriate saying anymore. 🤦‍♀️

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you so very much! Your generosity is greatly appreciated!!! ❤️

[@jaroffireflies]

G-d for sure made them cute at this age for a reason 🤣

[@T_WC123]

@@jaroffirefliesmy donation is in honor of “Chana Firefly” and I know God will know who I mean! 😆 wishing you all the best!

[@jaroffireflies]

@@T_WC123 thank you so kindly!!!! I appreciate your generosity!!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@michellesunshinestar]

My sister made us bread with fruit. So good. My mom got me a mini-Christmas tree. I had one as a kid, it did not survive the moves. I was looking into buying one, but it cost so much. Glad my mom got me one (with ornaments). We're going shopping for clothes too.

[@jaroffireflies]

Sounds like a great day despite the stuffy nose! Enjoy!

[@patriziabertacco8084]

With a toddler, you got to do what you gotta do. I drove around with my kids when they were little to get them to sleep too. As you said, it's a short phase, even though it doesn't seem that way at the time.

[@jaroffireflies]

Exactly! It’s hard but it’s short lived

[@kimbrown7308]

Good Evening Chana Meal plan video would be great.I loved your flowers especially the hydrangea.

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you Kim!!!

[@ChyarasKiss]

I'd love to see you meal prep. I love watching meal preps. 😅

[@jaroffireflies]

Coming soon!

[@avocado00000]

Chana, I didn’t know about the non-profit organisation Meir Panim until you mentioned it in this and a previous video. I’m glad you did. It seems to do wonderful work. Thank you. Nice video, but you seem so tired ... I hope you can figure something out to get some relief

[@jaroffireflies]

Thank you!

[@rissylantz4072]

Sweet video Chana ❤. Baby firefly is at such a sweet age and challenging age. Have a lovely new year. Were probably staying home and watching a movie and chill. My kids are in their early 20's but are homebodies mostly, so they will most like to stay home, too, except my 23 year old Madison she is my child, who is a social butterfly. Lol. Much love to the firefly family ❤🎉

[@jaroffireflies]

Happy new year Rissy! Yes, we are staying home and have no plans. Though every year I think about throwing a party for the kids.... maybe one day :) Hope you all enjoy the new years!

[@rissylantz4072]

@jaroffireflies you too Chana

[@KirstyJonesLouise]

Would love a meal prep video! My husband and I work full time and have a two year old. My current meal plan is that each night has a theme - eg Monday is pasta night (spaghetti bolognese, or meatballs etc) then Tuesday is Mexican (so taco, burrito, quesadilla), etc. Means that there is a bit of variety but we always have meal ideas and like you stuff that can be grabbed from the freezer too.

[@jaroffireflies]

Stay tuned for Monday for meal prep!

[@willsmom93]

The giggles are contagious but the work of a toddler is real. Do what you have to do to have the time to spend with him. I hope he goes to sleep for you. ❤❤

[@jaroffireflies]

❤️❤️❤️

[@mcomeslast]

Yay! No plans for New Years. The Singles mixer cuts off at 50 and I’m 54. Cleaning today and working on Hebrew.

[@jaroffireflies]

Happy cleaning and learning! No plans for new years here either :) My kids tell me they want a new years party and I am not so sure about staying up till midnight LOL

[@mcomeslast]

@@jaroffireflies yeah, I tell folks New Years was at Rosh HaShana.

[@T_WC123]

When I was little, my father made up a story about why it was better to celebrate New Year’s Eve on Eastern time instead of Pacific time. I think you’re Central, so maybe you want to celebrate on Greenland time or something? 😂 As an adult, it’s my excuse to celebrate early and be in bed by 10 pm 🎉

[@jaroffireflies]

@@T_WC123 that’s hilarious! We are central time here 🤣

[@lifewithklc]

The fact that Baby Firefly is now mobile is WILD!! Time flys😊.

[@jaroffireflies]

So fast!

[@shawndavis824]

Enjoyed this so much as I was finishing up getting ready for our family’s Christmas dinner/celebration. My daughter and son-in-law gave us a surprise last night after church by announcing that they are expecting a baby late next summer. That will be #3 for us. For the new year my adult son and I are giving up sodas. We started already to get a jump on it. Pray I make it because I am craving a Coke so bad. Lol Have a blessed week and wonderful Shabbat!

[@jaroffireflies]

Congratulations on the new grandbaby on the way! So exciting!!!! Oh wow, cutting out soda is huge! That’s amazing! I’m rooting for you! ❤️

[@shawndavis824]

@@jaroffireflies thank you!

[@jaroffireflies]

@@shawndavis824 ❤️❤️❤️

[@ce1652]

I love all ur videos!!!! My heart is with Israel too and all the hostages/ IDF

[@jaroffireflies]

❤️❤️❤️

[@Jennifer-cl1cl]

You are a living example of why Jews are so well known for the love and near-reverence we have for our mothers :)

[@jaroffireflies]

😊😊😊❤️❤️❤️

[@andreagardner2335]

My son gave up naps before he was two. The car would put him to sleep, but stopping woke him right up. Plus I live in a colder climate. Going on a nap ride in the winter wasn’t practical. He still doesn’t sleep well, and he’s 44. My granddaughter is just like him, and we did her childcare, so it was like reliving my late 20’s. 🥰

[@777LoveStory]

What about a weekly plan and prep video, typical or specific? Like how you plan the week, what's important to get done, what's extra that you might get to, how you juggle four kids and what you need to accomplish with each, etc. I think you've covered some of these topics before, but how does it look altogether? And then a follow up of how it actually went.

[@jaroffireflies]

Great idea! Thank you for the suggestion ❤️

[@liberalfundamentalist8667]

I feel you on the house being a disaster. I'm getting ready to move and well...disaster. No toddlers but I have a 3 month old kitten! Chana, love the babies, it all goes so fast! Even my grandchildren aren't babies any more!

[@ladyrachel13]

Trader Joe's has a great selection of flowers. Glad to hear y'all are doing so well. 💙✡️

[@jacquelinetennant5049]

I remember those days. How long can we push the no sleep boundary & food allover the floor 😂. My kids each did 4 days straight no sleep at all 🤦‍♀️

[@jeaniedenton-smith1041]

Awwhh...welp I was hoping the rain sounds would lull baby firefly to 💤...but alas, hopefully he'll sleep good all night! By the way, a gorgeous Hanukkiah!!

[@meirahfischer3036]

Please do a supper planning vlog. I love such vlogs.

[@jaroffireflies]

Thanks for letting me know you’re interested! It’s a plan! 😊

[@wrldvw1836]

That littlest one is a hoot

[@SusanS588]

I see your meal prep day as a form of self care-good for you. How do you deal with Baby Firefly during your learning sessions?

[@jaroffireflies]

He’s around sometimes and that’s ok :) other times he’s sleeping or with my husband.

[@zzzprinky]

My mother used to do the same with my brother to fall asleep, but getting him bored instead (speak spanish, I don't know if I've written it correctly)

[@maureenkowalski1577]

Hello! Happy to see you as always! 😊 I have a question for you that just came to me, you can wait for a q and a if the answer is too long. Since you are monetized by you tube, do you get a say in what kind of ads that can run on your channel? For example, if an ad for a politician with totally opposite views and values from yours or an ad for a totally unsavory place like a gentlemen's club is aired during your video, can you alert you tube to say that you don't want that kind of advertisement on your channel or are you stuck with whatever they decide to show? Or do you think that their "algorithms" choose ads that match your viewing audience?

[@jaroffireflies]

Great question! I have no control over which ads are played during my videos from youtube. I can only control the placement during the video. They recently took away some of our controls over ads, so that is all I can currently have a say in. I am not sure if I could remove ads entirely, but of course then I would be working for free instead of just for very little :) I have complete control over the ads that I create with sponsors.

[@micheleibranton2226]

Do you ever feel like it takes the whole week to prepare for Shabbat? I do. 😢 If you do, what’s your schedule like? I made this sign recently that reads, “Prepare Every Day For The 7th Day.” I mostly made it as a reminder to myself because it takes me all week to be prepared properly. At least that is my experience. Lol. What are your thoughts?

[@jaroffireflies]

Hello! I try to do a little bit every day. We also try to keep things fairly simple and we regularly make all the same dishes for Shabbat so the prep is pretty well down to a science. Setting the table on Thursday night was such a game changer for me because it made friday so much easier. I hope that helps!

[@lindaversil1121]

I always put my babies and toddlers in the stroller and laid them down and strolled with them around the block and sang soft songs and they would fall asleep quickly. I always said that they fell asleep so fast because they didn’t want to hear my singing anymore But if I transferred them to the bed they would wake up so I let them sleep in the stroller til they woke up even though it’s not recommended. My twins are now 17 and still active

[@jaroffireflies]

The stroller definitely works better for baby firefly but with the rain that wasn’t an option ☔️

[@meir9787]

Great video! Question: Assuming the frozen pizza is dairy, how do you also use your oven for meat?

[@jaroffireflies]

Great question! I have two ovens :) One for meat and one for dairy. Here’s a tour of my kitchen: kzbin.info/www/bejne/apukfWeAhZ54Zqssi=TbM_psCdtBu3PYS1