An Expert from “On Being Jewish Now”: An intimate collection of essays about what it means to be Jewish and how life has changed since the attacks on October 7, 2023.

By Shirin Yadegar

Fleeing Iran with my family was a decision born out of desperation, a leap into the unknown, grasping for safety amidst the rising tide of antisemitism. As a Jewish Iranian woman, my mother sought sanctuary for my brother and I in the United States. Becoming a mother of four daughters, I always thought my girls would always grow free from the shadows of hatred that had darkened my homeland. Yet, the events since October 7 have stirred the embers of old fears, igniting a flame of sorrow and anxiety that wakes me at night. (more…)

Apple Pie Sugar Cookies

By: Nina Safar 

Apple Pie Sugar CookiesIngredients:

Sugar Cookie Dough:
2/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup oil
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 1/2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder (more…)

If I’m Not Perfect, Then What Am I?

By Carolyn Mahboubi

The impact of Perfectionism is like the force of Gravity.

Most (I’m hoping all) of us are aware of it, and ignorance doesn’t shield us from its effects.

In other words, not understanding gravity will not prevent us from falling, and in that way, it’s shockingly similar to perfectionism. You see, not understanding perfectionism won’t shield you from its inevitable psychological and emotional damage. (more…)

Bibimbap

Kim Kushner

Ready in 20 minutes

Serves 6 people

Bibimbap, the ultimate Korean comfort food, basically translates to “mixed rice with meat and assorted vegetables.” It’s a bowl of goodness, enhanced by sharp flavors-pickled vegetables over steamed rice and a variety of proteins, topped with a fried egg. I’ve learned that in my household, sometimes, all I need to do is give the food a curious name, and the rest will fall into place. (more…)

Raw Crudités on Ice with Flaked Salt

Kim Kushner

Ready in 20 minutes
Serves 8 people

kim kushnerThe concept for this dish was inspired by a crudités platter that was served to me at a beach in Italy. Italians just know how to make everything beautiful- especially when it comes to food. Try incorporating a few unpredictable vegetables for your crudités and present them in a natural, primitive style- stems and roots attached for added effect. Remember, we eat with our eyes first. (more…)

6 Key Steps to Prepare for the School Year

By Shirin Yadegar

shirin YadegarAs the lazy days of summer wind down, the buzz of back-to-school preparations begins to fill the air. August is a crucial month for ensuring a smooth transition from carefree vacation mode to the structured routines of the school year. Here’s how I tackle the challenge of preparing my kids for the upcoming academic year.

1. Organization is Key
One of the first things we focus on in August is getting organized. This includes everything from decluttering school supplies to establishing a daily routine. According to organizational experts, creating designated spaces for backpacks, lunchboxes, and school paperwork can significantly reduce morning chaos. (more…)

The Journey is the Goal: How Summer Camps Empower Young Performers

By Carrie-ann Pishnak
Executive Director of the Youth Academy of Dramatic Arts

Carrie-ann
As the summer sun paints the sky with hues of warmth and possibility, parents across Los Angeles find themselves embarking on a quest to enrich their children’s lives with experiences that foster growth, creativity, and confidence. For many, the journey begins at the Youth Academy of Dramatic Arts (YADA), where the magic of musical theater summer camps has flourished for the past 27 years, producing alumni such as Lily Collins, Kiernan Shipka and Lilla Crawford.

(more…)

4th of July Recipe

Grilled Zucchini and Burrata Board

Vesela Asenova
Vesela Asenova
Ingredients:

  • 3 small zucchini
  • 1 heirloom tomato
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 of a baguette
  • 1 garlic clove for rubbing the crostini
  • 2 Burrata cheese balls
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbs Basil Pesto
  • Basil leaves

(more…)

My Infertility Journey

By Emily Felt
Before We Held You in Our Arms is a recently released children’s picture book that draws on the love and desire of parenthood long before the baby cuddles and snuggles. Emily Feit, a Los Angeles native and licensed clinical social worker, wrote this book after her long personal journey with infertility. After having her twins through multiple rounds of IVF and her son through surrogacy, she was inspired to write this heartwarming story after she noticed that many children’s books about infertility did not touch on the emotions that go along with the infertility journey. Authoring this book is Emily’s way of helping to open the conversation between parent and child about how much the child was desired before they were born. Gentle and age appropriate, the book is a love story between parent and child. (more…)

June Father’s Day Recipe

Lamb Chops; Citrus & Sage

Kim Kushner

Ready in 20 minutes
Serves 4-6 people
Lamb ChopsThis is a super easy marinade that can be blitzed together in just minutes. Orange and sage make a wonderful combo, add the wine and honey, and it becomes next level good! Sometimes, when I’m feeling risky, I throw in the whole orange, unpeeled into the food processor – this adds great, vibrant color and just the right amount of bitterness. (more…)