Aviva snuggled close to her Bubbe, the soft glow of the bedside lamp illuminating the wrinkles around her grandmother's kind eyes. 'Tell me a story, Bubbe,' Aviva whispered, her voice drowsy.
Bubbe smiled, her eyes twinkling. 'Tonight, my dear, I'll tell you about the story of the challah. Do you know what challah is?', she asked.
Aviva nodded. 'It's the yummy braided bread we have on Shabbat!'
Bubbe chuckled. 'That's right! But the challah is more than just delicious bread. It represents the sharing of blessings and the unity of our family. Long ago, in a small village in the land of Israel, lived a baker who baked the most magnificent challahs. The aroma of the baking bread would fill the entire village, and everyone would anticipate its delicious taste.
Each Friday evening, he would bring a challah to his family. His children were always excited to eat the bread that their father lovingly made. Before they began to eat, they'd all hold hands and give thanks to God for the food.
One day, the baker decided to make a double batch of challah. He wanted to make enough for all of his family and also to share with his neighbors who sometimes didn't have enough to eat. As he shaped the dough, he thought of each person he would share this special bread with and gave thanks to God for this blessing of plenty.
When he baked the challahs, they were even more delicious than usual. The whole family, even the neighbors, agreed! Sharing the challah brought everyone together and filled their hearts with joy.
Aviva listened intently, her eyes wide. 'So, the challah isn't just bread, it's about sharing and being thankful?'
Bubbe nodded. 'It's about family, Aviva. It's about appreciating what we have and sharing our blessings with others. Just like we share this special time together every night before bed.'
Aviva smiled, feeling warm and loved. The smell of Bubbe's baking challah from earlier that day seemed to fill the room. 'I love you, Bubbe,' she murmured, her eyes fluttering closed.
Bubbe kissed Aviva's forehead. 'And I love you, my sweet girl. May you sleep peacefully, filled with the sweetness of family and the warmth of our traditions.'
Aviva drifted off to sleep, dreaming of golden challah and the comforting feeling of her Bubbe's love.