This past week was nothing short of magical. After months of emails and Zoom calls, our Bar and Bat Mitzvah Twinning Programme with Talpiot Youth Village in Hadera finally came to life, as we welcomed our Israeli twins to London. From the moment they arrived on Thursday, the excitement was real. Our Stanmore B&B kids greeted them at shul with hugs, smiles and a brilliant game of Pictionary, followed by a delicious dinner and plenty of laughs.
On Friday, the London kids went to school while the Israeli group toured the city, taking in Big Ben, the London Eye and more. We all came together Friday night for a beautiful Shabbat dinner full of warmth, singing and great food. Shabbat day was another highlight. The teens joined the youth service, followed by an incredible lunch catered by Rebbetzin Birnbaum. The afternoon was full of football, games in the park and time to relax and connect. Motzei Shabbat began with a moving Havdalah, followed by a fun pizza bake where each twin created a pizza for their match. Sunday was packed with adventure at Oxygen Jump trampoline park, bowling, and a boat ride down the Thames. Monday night’s banquet brou
ght the week to a close with great food, a powerful video, heartfelt speeches and lots of hugs and tears.
Even though many of the kids didn’t share a language, the connections were instant and real. Most are still chatting on WhatsApp and staying in touch. This week was truly special and we are so proud of every single one of our kids. We already can’t wait for the next chapter.
With love and pride,
Ari and Chani
