It's Really That Simple

This is my version of the Russian soup Borsht, fresh beets, kale instead of cabbage that was boiled in water.  I sauteed onion, garlic, carrot, celery, parsnip, red and orange bell peppers then added tomato sauce.  Once everything is ready I combine the two, add some salt, its vegetarian, and in my childhood I love the taste of it with sour cream.  So simple, so healthy, so delicious, and I am noticing how things we think are complex and hard to do, are so easy.

Yesterday I was going to have some leftover chicken for lunch, I was thinking how to warm it up, I don't have and don't like microwaves.  I didn't want to use oil or water, and I remembered we had coconut butter.  So delicious, and then I put some brown mustard and honey together, nothing extra, and it was the perfect dip.  I used to tell my husband, who doesn't trust me to do the shopping because I would overspend and get wrong things, to get me honey mustard, the one I make tastes better.

My kids were looking at a coupon that had claritin and told me that if you take it once a day it will help with allergies, COMMERCIALS!  The other day my big boy was asking me how are we investing our money, and suggested to use Prudential for consulting, at first it baffled me, then once I heard Prudential, I realized his photographic memory was at full force.

I started explaining to them that I do not want to take any medicine every day, and that is why I do certain things to stay healthy, so I don't have to.

Nutrition and Hydration
Exercise and a Healthy/Active Lifestyle
Sleep and Rest (there are two different things, more about this topic in tomorrow's blog)
Happiness and Low Stress (I'ts a choice, perspective, and control of our reactions)

Food For Thought!
Coach Yulia

I am a really good detective most of the time

I told you yesterday about the water bottle that my brain completely forgot about where I took it and left it.  My phone is another story, I literally retraced my steps, and realized when I got home last night between classes, I sat on the couch with my husband and had it next to me, this morning I remembered that I didn't go to the computer or to another room, not in my purse or my car.  There it was behind a couch pillow, another case solved!

This is something that has been with me all of my life, it comes from my family, my father to be exact, and I really think its genetic.  I don't think Mommy Brain has done anything to make it any better, and maybe even a little worse.  When I teach Pilates I tell my class that our brain really can only do one thing at a time, no matter what good multitaskers we are, we still have to do it one at a time.  So when you focus on your breath, your mind and body connects, and you get a more effective workout, and it could also apply to anything you are trying to accomplish, projects, homework, crafts, and the list goes on.

Today I am in awe of countries and people that just do the right thing, and they are passionate about it, and they are the example of how the rest of us should naturally lead our lives, to be of service.

Humans of New York

“I began as an accidental witness. I was running a preschool program, and I went to Church Street for some bureaucratic thing—I needed a piece of paper. And I just happened to walk in the wrong door. And in that room I saw homeless families waiting to be processed. Some were sleeping on plastic chairs. There were babies sleeping on bare mattresses. Some didn’t have diapers. I ran to the store and bought bread, peanut butter, and apple juice for everyone. Then I used the three quarters left in my pocket to call The New York Times and The Red Cross. Ever since then, I’ve been an advocate for the homeless.”
---------------------------------------------
Gretchen Buchenholz heads the Association to Benefit Children. Founded in 1986, ABC aims to 'amplify the voices of defenseless children by combating the debilitating effects of poverty and championing the right of every child to a joyful and nurturing childhood.'

One more amazing example is the country of Israel, being one of the first on the scene in Nepal, with supplies, aid, search dogs, and doctors.  With everything it is going through, being of service is first,

http://www.cbn.com/cbnnews/insideisrael/2015/April/Israel-Sends-Large-Scale-Mission-to-Nepal/?cpid=:ID:-1254-:DT:-2015-04-28-17:09:22-:US:-AB1-:CN:-CP1-:PO:-NC1-:ME:-SU1-:SO:-FB1-:SP:-NW1-:PF:-VI1-

Makes me proud to be a human being,

Coach Yulia

From Russia to India

Just got home from a long and productive day, it feels so good to know the kids are doing amazing and growing in their own way, and I can too!  My girl had an evaluation and the teacher told me she has leadership skills, it is no surprise to me, she helps other kids, she helps hand out snacks, even helps when a teacher is on a break and they need someone to take over, that's my girl.  My baby is adjusting so well, doesn't even go look for his sister anymore, just happy with his class and his new friends, blessed.

Last night I was running across articles about Jews from different parts of the world, and this one was super long, but I could not stop reading.  There was a huge Jewish, Kabbalistic community in India,
http://forward.com/culture/306429/searching-for-my-indian-jewish-family-from-secret-societies-to-bollywood/.

Also this past weekend I was reading about an amazing performer that I really relate to, she has Russian roots, lived by her own rules, made everybody smile, and was a showstopper,
http://www.jewishjournal.com/culture/article/sophie_tuckers_outrageous_truth.

Today has been an absentminded day for me, my phone is somewhere, luckily because of Facebook I was able to connect, and get to my class on time.  I couldn't figure out where I left my water bottle, got a new one, and found it today at a place I do not remember taking it.  Now there are two, and it actually is a good thing, summer is coming, the kids always want my water.

Ready to turn in for the night,
Today was a delight,
Everything will be alright,
I really think I need a bite (of food)
Summer is almost here, makes me excite,
Soon on Lag B Omer we will ignite (a bonfire)
Be the Light,
With all your Might,
Out of sight,
I love to write,
Good Night,

Coach Yulia

Follow Your Path

I have had a dress situation.  I found the perfect dress online, got custom measurements, when it came it was humongous and looked nothing like the picture, it was a light gray/silver.  Then I went on another site, and found a dark grey/pewter, which I like better, ordered it, and then got an email that it is not in stock anymore.  Today I went to a store that everyone told me to go to, I was going to run around to a few different stores, but had limited time, I walk in, everything is 25% off, all the dresses are on sale as soon as I walked in.  I found a few silver options, I really love silver, versions of grey are nice, but silver really pops.  I tried it on, perfect size, perfect fit, just enough sparkle, but not too flashy or gaudy.  After all the discounts it was half the price of the other dresses that I chose, it really was meant to be, and I am happy I kept following the path I was meant to be on.  Staying open, not getting upset, knowing I had time, and that I would know.

This can apply to everything in life.  I just posted a video on Facebook of a young Jewish boy wearing a keepa and doing couples dancing with a modest dressed girl, they were amazing, they won the gold.  I personally know women singers in our observant Jewish community, that are using their voices, which is usually rare, many times they perform for women, a few have a different path. Today I saw this amazing video below, Muslim women expressing themselves through Martial Arts, it is so nice to let a woman follow her passion, what she is meant to do in this world, empower her, and let her shine her light.

There are two events that are happening that I want to shed light on by amazing men following their path and literally saving lives.  Attention New Jersey and Jerusalem:

Follow your path,

Saw American Sniper last night,

I could totally be a soldier,

but happy where my path is now,

Coach Yulia

OOPS! No Picture

Every blog I put either a picture or a video, depends on what I am writing about or feeling. Yesterday night I was so focused on the content, after a long and relaxing Shabbat, I dove right in.  My husband started talking, and wanted my attention, so I finished up quickly and posted, forgetting a picture, and realizing it only this morning, OOPS!

There are a few fun events today for kids this afternoon, please contact me if you want to join.  I am always looking for fun, together time, something different than our routine, something creative, and maybe sporty or outside.

Sunday mornings are a mix of slow motion lazy, and getting things done around the house, hopefully with the help of the kids.  Once we are done, they get a treat to watch a show before we head out for our activity.  The picture below is from last Sunday, a Tiki themed event at the Westside JCC, so much fun, all free, and a great show with dancers and ended with a limbo.  Unfortunately my battery in my phone died, but the kids jumped into the dancing and loved to be a part of it all.

We had a wonderful Shabbat with friends on Friday night, and on Saturday I had the best nap, when the kids came home from synagogue with my husband, we got to building legos.  It was too windy to be outside, yes too windy in Los Angeles, and we survived inside all day, I actually enjoyed it, but bedtime is still my favorite part :)

Happy Sunday,

Coach Yulia

I Keep Learning

This Friday in the heart of Los Angeles the traffic was blocked from major streets, there was a march to commemorate the Armenian Genocide in Turkey, and it ended in at the Turkish Embassy on Wilshire, which is around the corner from where I live, the helicopters were hovering overhead all day.  I have Armenian friends, I have heard about it, but I did not realize it was the anniversary, it happpened 1915, 100 years ago.

In the Jewish Journal there was an amazing article that really gave me some amazing facts.  Turkey does not admit that it was genocide, and this word is a big word, it is a legal word.  That is why it makes no sense to throw it around lightly, such as the situation in Gaza, it is disgracing actual genocide that has happened and is happening now with ISIS.

You can read the full article by following this link, it is amazing to me how this became an example,
http://www.jewishjournal.com/opinion/article/armenians_and_jews_share_dark_chapters_in_history,
it proved to the world, and to other dictators, that the world will turn a blind eye, move on, and forget.

"Inscribed on a wall in the United States Holocaust Museum is a quote attributed to Adolf Hitler. It comes from a speech he made in 1939 that makes plain his genocidal intent toward the Jews and the lack of consequence for the slaughter of millions."

“Who, after all, speaks today of the annihilation of the Armenians?”

There have been books, there has been proof, but many countries do not recognize it as a genocide, and the Armenians are standing strong.  Maybe if the world condemned it, millions would not have been slaughtered.

Makes me feel that speaking out is the most important thing I can do, and I will end with this, written by a wise friend,

When will it not be considered courageous to be yourself, no matter what that is. Black through White,Male, female, gay,straight,trans...this list is waay too long! Get over it people. As my mom used to tell me ALL the time. NO one is better than you! And YOU aren't better than anyone else! OK Bruce - be yourself...

Enjoy the rest of your weekend,

Coach Yulia

Shabbat Shalom

My world winds down on Friday, it is more than TGIF, Thank God It's Friday, it is bye bye world for a whole day.  Nothing specifically to say, happy that we are waiting for guests, and my kids are excited for their father's delicious food, and so am I.

Have a great weekend,

Shabbat Shalom,

CoachYulia

What do your eyes see?

http://www.getty.edu/art/exhibitions/turner/

One of my friends wrote about this artist, J.M.W. Turner, and this quote really blew me away, when Turner was confronted by critics who said that the painting was nothing but a mass of soapsuds and whitewash, his response, "I wonder what they think the sea's like? I wish they'd been in it."

It makes me think of our world today, and every unique and individual perspective based on background and upbringing.  I met an amazing girl from Ethiopia today, she was telling me about how in her country Muslims, Christians, and Jews coexist, and the country takes a strong stand against radicalism and extremism.  All around them there is terror, but nobody dares go into Ethiopia.

It also makes me think about having a calling, a passion, a mission in this world.  I have a friend that always wanted to be a lawyer, since she was three years old.  She has many interests, but that was a focused plan, she is a huge success, and lives a beautiful balanced life with her family.  I don't ever remember having a specific idea of what I wanted to do with my life.  What I did know is that I wanted to travel the world, and one day I will have a private jet, I am still working on that.

The first place I went, I knew my parents would say yes, I was 16 turning 17, and there was a high school semester in Israel.  My father told me I had to earn half the tuition, so I went to work as a bus girl in an Italian restaurant that everyone from our neighborhood had worked at.  I did it, very memorable and life changing adventure, I fell in love with my Jewish homeland, and have visited a few times when I worked on cruise ships, and visiting extended family with my family.

I moved to Los Angeles 15 years ago, took a Yoga class with my teacher and knew it was what I was meant to do.  It just felt right, it found me or I found it, I don't know, I was open, and it just clicked.  One of my students introduced me to my husband, and after having children I really found my calling as a Doula.  Before marriage and children it was not even on my radar, I wanted to perform, be a star, and make people step off the world through Yoga.  I am so grateful to support women in their journey to motherhood, and again am amazed how it all just came together and clicked.

My point is to be open, if you are happy, be present, if you are searching, try new things, there is never a perfect time, right time, and there is never an ending.

Life keeps going,

Excited for the next chapter,

Coach Yulia

In one moment everything changes

In one moment everything changes, we wish for things, we plan, we have dreams, and then one day things just happen.  I have been unable to take my teacher's Yoga class, which means that although I have been teaching on a regular basis, I have not done a full Yoga class for a few months.  When I find something I like, it is challenging for me to find an alternative.  I have been active and doing other workouts, but I really missed this specific Yoga that I teach, from the teacher himself.  My youngest started preschool last week, and my client cancelled last minute, and I found myself with time to go take a Yoga class just for me, and it was amazing.  I used to do it on a weekly basis, but the class got moved to a different day and time which conflicted with my schedule.  I am so happy that now I can take care of me, and I feel so free, even with a kids club at the gym, my brain cannot really be kid free unless I am kid free.  I have had almost eight years of babyhood, and now its done, and life is new again, with limitless possibilities.

Excited for plans coming up, visiting with family and friends on the other coast, its coming together even more exciting than originally planned.

Just got home from my last Yoga class with women that inspire me, and we all walk away empowered and grateful for our time together, and for taking time for ourselves.

So tired from a day of new,
and a day of counting down to something new,
Mazal Tov Israel, Yom Haazmaut,
Happy Earth Day,
Good Night,
Coach Yulia


http://www.celebrateisraelfestival.com/LosAngeles/en/

What a non stop day!

These dry winds that we get in Los Angeles give so many people allergies and dry coughs, all of us got it in our family.  My baby was the last to get it and it was the worst last night, I gave him a homeopathic cough medicine and turned on the humidifier, and even motrin did not help, he was up throughout the night, and so was I.  It is just after 10pm and I just got home from a long and amazing day.

After getting the kids off to school, I had a business meeting with a friend who is an actor and singer, I was telling her how I was an extra on General Hospital, and how I would never want to work on a soap opera because they cry all the time.  As I was talking about it I see one of the actors right in front of me, we were at Coffee Bean at the Grove in Los Angeles.  He was so sweet, I told him my husband and I watch together, and he was nice to let me take a photo for proof.



Then I ran off to teach a class, and right after ran to celebrate a ceremony for a new baby boy of a friend that I work with.  Realized I had to go in early to teach PE, and after ran to pick up my kids from school.  Had some dinner, and went off to teach two classes, love finishing my night teaching Prenatal Yoga, and talking everything pregnancy and baby, and letting the beautiful women express themselves, share, and feel good.

So ready to sleep,
but want to be online,
the perfect dress for the wedding turned out not so perfect,
have two months to search,
it's all good,
have many places to look,
I love all of my problems,
Good Night,
Coach Yulia

Feeling My Roots - Faith is a Gift

Yesterday I took my kids to a brunch for Holocaust survivors, I was telling them it would be nice to say Hello and Thank You, and hug them or shake their hand.  I explained to them how it was similar to the Passover story, and how these people were close to the age of their great grandmother that is turning 100 in September, God Willing.  It was a beautiful event, it was intense to imagine what they had gone through, I was speechless, and just wanted to smile and give happy energy and feel grateful for their strength.

Today I am running across amazing videos, they are long, need undivided attention, and I know some of you may be interested in the material.  This one was funny, about everything Jews and Israel. Truth about Israel, The Nation of Israel, How it really is in and around Israel, What the rest of the world view is around Israel, and Jewish history since the beginning of time of all the nationalities until now. 

 

A shorter video is about a journalist who is very connected to his Jewish roots in one way, but growing up in America has him not connecting to God, very interesting, because his main point that one of the Jewishest things is to disagree and debate.  One of the beautiful phrases from his interview is Faith is a Gift, I am lucky to have this trust, faith, belief, connection to my gut and everything around me, and it has served me well.

http://mosaicmagazine.com/picks/2015/04/charles-krauthammer-on-judaism-and-jewish-identity/

My kids go to public school,

They accept and respect people from all walks of life,

Everyday they live and learn about their history, family, heritage, and are proud,

Coach Yulia

So many events

Today is one of those days that I want to go to everything, and we will just have to see what happens. There are two amazing Holocaust remembrance day events, one has a brunch for survivors, and I would love for my kids to brighten their day.  Then there is another event where Mayim Bialik will be speaking, there will be survivors there too.  I was going to post details, but on second thought it might be dangerous to do that, so if anyone wants to know more please contact me.

Then I just saw there is a Jewish event at the last remaining Barnes and Nobles in our area, with tons to do for kids, looks like so much fun!

At the Westside JCC, there is a huge Kids-A-Palooza in the afternoon, that has been our plan from the beginning, so we will see what we can catch before that.

I was asking a friend when is the right time to talk to kids about the Holocaust, and decided to talk about the similarities of Passover, and it made sense to them, nothing graphic or too much detail, just that our nation was targeted and survived, and there are people still alive today that lived through it.

Looking forward to a day of fun and learning,

Coach Yulia

Nothing

I got nothing.
In a good way nothing.
Had a wonderful day of nothing.
Even my husband noticed how my kids are listening better, they got ready in the morning so nicely.
I had a nice nap while everyone went to synagogue.
The kids played nicely, then we rode bicycles, then hung out with our neighbor.
They all just fell asleep, it was a wonderful day of simplicity and spending time together.

Thank God,
Coach Yulia

They like school, and they are in a good mood

Yes my kids have tons of energy, it is literally exhausting to watch them chase each other at full speed, even thought we all woke up at 6am, and they have had a full day of school, just like I had work.  Kids are not meant to turn off, they are a life and energy source, and it is intense.

Today I got them all a bit early out of school to go shopping, there was a big sale that was ending, and I thought I would get some basics, but I ended up getting some cute, unique stuff for great prices. It is not close by, but nobody was complaining, they were laughing and joking, usually I would hear complaints that it was taking too long.  Thank God everybody is happy in school, my little one got into the big kids routine quite effortlessly, so grateful.

Even in the mall they were overall listening, and even helping to pick out stuff.  I am tired from a good week, and look forward to my day of rest.  I think I will send them all to synagogue with my husband tomorrow, and enjoy doing one of my favorite pleasures, taking a nap.

Have a wonderful weekend,
Shabbat Shalom,
Coach Yulia

\

I am Israel

6am kids wake up and so do I
6:30-7:30am breakfast then showers for all three kids
8am I drive my son to his school, and my husband takes the other two
8:30am husband helps me color my hair
9:30am My oldest has a drama performance at his school
10:30am teaching Pilates
noon lunch
1:30-4:30pm PE
5pm pick up kids
5:30pm dinner
6pm homework with my oldest
7pm bedtime for kids
7:30pm

I just heard Sgt. Benjamin Anthony tell a room full of Jews from all over the world, that he is proud to defend not only Israel, but all the people of Israel, we are all Israel.  It is our homeland, our nation, from the beginning of time, the only place where a Jew can be a Jew.  So powerful, so many stories, so many success stories, appealing to people from all over the world, from every walk of life through education.  You can go on the website above, and take a look at the Facebook page,
https://www.facebook.com/OurSoldiersSpeak?fref=ts, check out the truth from a soldier that is still active.

I love Israel,
I am Israel,
My children are the future of Israel,
Coach Yulia

Who is right?

As we all know things are not always what they seem, and I am appreciating this amazing work of art.  Today is Holocaust remembrance day, and it makes me think that Hitler really did think that he was right, and many people were on board, it was very systematic, organized, and documented killings.  I have people in my life now, the older generation, that really feels that they are right, and if everyone would listen to them, it would be a smart thing to do.

I am blessed to grow up with parents who were always by our side, gave us advice, lived by example, but gave us the power to choose our path.  I was seven years old when we moved to America from the Soviet Union, and feel that I was empowered to make decisions, had my parent's trust and support.  Of course there were things they asked and expected, completing college and marrying Jewish.  I feel blessed that at the right time I crossed paths with my husband, and thanks to my parents had a Chabad wedding, they took us out to live a free, Jewish life, and this was proof.

My parents taught to ask questions even if it felt embarrassing,
My parents taught us a work for what you got ethic,
My parents achieved so much in their lifetime, I am inspired and motivated to make them proud,
I hope to be this kind of parent to my children,
Thank you for taking us out of Eastern Europe,
My family has Holocaust stories too,
Never Again,
Coach Yulia

FREE

What do I do now?

I took my big boy to school, my husband took the other two, yes my little one starts his first day at the same school as my daughter.  It is a crazy feeling, and after three in a row, it is not of sadness, or of my baby is growing up, but a little overwhelmed of where to begin my new life.

Where do I begin?

When you hear FREE, I am sure many things come to mind.  Especially in the International world out there, there is so much horror, and even personally, someone may feel free when they leave a job they do not like, or start something exciting that feels like a bolt of new energy.  We got married in 2007, our first child was in 2008, and we did not stop until our third little yummy was born, and now he is three and in school full time, WOW!




First I am going to use my neti pot,
Then I am going to brush my teeth with my electric tooth brush,
Then wash the dishes, put a load in the laundry, have breakfast,
Got some errands to run before my class at 10:30am,
Having a business meeting for lunch,
Then teaching PE,
Picking up kids from school,
Two classes tonight,
YES!
Coach Yulia

From Natural Birth to Medically Managed

Speaking of birth, today is my brother's birthday, and I want to wish him a year full happiness, health, success, and love.  There are two of us, I am 18 months older and was average weight, he was over 10 pounds, and my mother tells it that he had to come out one shoulder at a time.  He came out, because that is what happens, it is a healthy elimination, it is a journey and the baby knows what to do, the body knows what to do.  My mother tells her story very calmly, happily, and I am grateful that I have the same perspective about birth, everything will be OK because women have been doing this since the beginning of time.

The link below is an amazing tribute to a woman that created the concept of the "birth plan," so amazing when women educate themselves and make choices and decisions and feel good about the experience no matter what happens.  Before pregnancy most of us have no idea of all the details and options, which makes complete sense, why would you need to know before you need to know?  Luckily nowadays there are so many options, but on the other hand it is overwhelming, and many don't know where to begin.  Talk to friends, family, and community and formulate a birth plan that feels good to you.

http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-32277415?post_id=661539662_10153198866629663

I am grateful for everything, Thank God for hospitals for situations that need extra assistance.  I firmly believe deep down in my core that nothing will go wrong, I do not think that way, I just focus on letting my body do what it knows how to do, and luckily my babies were in the right direction, and with my Yoga breath and the support of my Doula and husband, my birth was natural, which means no intervention, no epidural, intense but not tense.  Sometimes for multiple reasons from physical to psychological, it does not go ask planned, and to those amazing mothers, I salute you, feel good about your choices, enjoy your beautiful babies, feel good about what was ultimately meant to be.  Enjoy the following article about the beauty and strength of mothers with a cesarean section.

http://www.cordmama.com/blog/2015/4/8/three-truths-about-c-section-mamas?hc_location=ufi

As a Doula I advise my clients to wait at home as long as possible, because you will wait either comfortably at home, or plugged in and medically managed in the hospital.  It is not a negative approach, it is just a preventive approach, but many times there is no need for interventions, and unfortunately interventions lead to more interventions.  I have no judgement, I completely believe to each their own, and I also feel that the later you get to the hospital, hopefully the labor is moving along, so even an epidural may not interrupt the progression.  There is a difference between pain and suffering, pain could be managed, but there is no reason to suffer.

Stay Strong Mama's!
Once your babies get bigger you start learning about fun places to go with your kids,
I took my toddler to a fun music class today, check out the website below,
Tomorrow he starts preschool full time,
I am free,
Ready to focus 100% on me and my business,
Ready to birth new ideas, creations, and let things flow,
Motherhood,
Not Easy,
It's a Blessing,
A Lesson,
We become the example,
We can do anything,
Balance,
Breathe,
Coach Yulia

http://www.lovebugandme.com/

3 Kids, 3 Events

We had a dilemma, we had invitations for the same time, could only take one child each, Thank God for his wonderful uncle, my little one had a fun day.  My oldest had a swimming birthday party for big boys, and I had a baby shower that I could only take my daughter to.  My little guy would have been bored at mine, and sad he couldn't go swimming at the other, grateful for family, where he feels comfortable and safe.

For two weeks I have been overall home, yes there were classes here and there, an 18 hour Doula shift, and tons of holiday time in the synagogue and with friends.  Tomorrow I begin my last few months of work before summer, and so many things are on the horizon, I am thrilled to get to it.

Going to work on being even more positive than usual, its better than the alternative, right?  I am an idealist and also a realist, and when I know deep down whether something fits or not, I cannot escape the reality of it, it is not negative, it is just being present to what is.  I am going to work beyond that, really savoring every moment, every journey, every interaction, because before I know it, I will be living all my dreams, but all of the experiences I am having and have had helped me get there.

Grateful for a conscious life,
Grateful to know my blessings,
Grateful to 100% trust there are more to come,
What do you know and trust 100%?
Coach Yulia

I am so inspired by passionate people that go for what they believe in!

The Israel Project

Mick Jagger stuck out his tongue at anti-Israel haters -- and booked another concert in Israel! Now that's Satisfaction!

Who are your heroes?

What is a hero?

"A person noted for feats of courage or nobility of purpose, especially one who has risked or sacrificed  his or her life"

106 years ago today, 100 people participate in a lottery to equally divide the 12-acre plot of sand dunes they've purchased.  The land would later become the city of Tel Aviv, Israel. https://www.facebook.com/theisraelproject?fref=ts

The people in the above picture are heroes, they stood up and worked hard for something they believe in, nobody was interested in Israel when it was just sand dunes, and now that it is a thriving land and society, there is a conflict.

As we are finished with our Passover holiday, where we relive the slavery and ultimately being led to freedom and becoming a nation, I am reading articles about brave souls that risked their lives to save Jewish people in their countries. Saving lives and helping people is how it should be, and these stories give me hope that in our world of extremes, good people are everywhere.

FRANCE:

"Of course, he was offended when someone insulted his prophet, but he believed violence was the wrong response. He’d learned that punishment was God’s domain, not man’s. How could fellow Muslims have strayed so far from that message?"

http://www.jewishjournal.com/cover_story/article/lassana_bathily_the_muslim_who_saved_french_jews_in_hyper_cacher

SARAJEVO:

"During the Holocaust, the manuscript was hidden from the Nazis by the museum’s chief librarian and by a Muslim cleric. It also survived in an underground bank vault during the siege of Sarajevo by Bosnian Serb forces." 

http://www.jewishjournal.com/culture/article/the_sarajevo_haggadahs_historic_journey_set_to_music

DENMARK:

'The response from Danish society was overwhelming. According to Danish historian Bo Lidegaard, everyone from church leaders to politicians to simple fishermen helped the Jews escape. King Christian X wrote in his diary that he considered “our own Jews to be Danish citizens, and the Germans could not touch them.”'

http://jewishhomelablog.com/2015/03/02/denmarks-jews-why-they-refuse-to-leave/

My parents are my personal heroes, I ran across this story that talks about Russian Jews that left the Soviet Union with very little money and no language, so their kids would have a good life. This is exactly my story, luckily my parents came with an open and positive mind and a strong work ethic, told us we can do and be anything we set our minds to.

http://www.jewishjournal.com/the_ticket/item/anton_yelchin_explores_extramarital_loves_time_slot_in_5_to_7.

Who are your heroes?
Coach Yulia

Pesach, Iran, Social Norms and Atrocities

After the original cut the curls are growing back nice, and it is
growing on me, not so easy to let go of my baby growing up

Tonight we start our last days of Passover, more wonderful time with community at the synagogue and meals.  Feeling grateful for our past to learn from, and going form more consciously and with purpose. In my personal life my babies are growing up, many milestones and next stages happening, and all I can do is breathe, be open, and trust what feels best.  Today I went to an amazing speech program for my little one, at first he was hesitant, but then he fell in love, and so did I.  At first I was also weighing options, but as the program went on, my son was really engaged, and I loved their methods of teaching. Even though it was a group setting, there were not too many kids, and I really felt that each one was individually recognized and focused on for their specific needs.

In the world there is just craziness, from Iran to abuse of children by Isis and Boko Haram that nobody pays attention to all over the world, and even in our own neck of the woods.  I am sorry if what I am about to talk about is disturbing, you may want to stop reading, but I feel it is important how the reaction to this story makes me feel that in America we still have our heads screwed on right.

Massacres that are ignored by the world:

http://blogs.timesofisrael.com/when-muslims-murder-palestinians/

Crazy judge in America makes a shocking ruling supporting a perpetrator of rape instead of the three year old victim.  I am now seeing on social media, and even on the news the reaction is severe, and they are calling for his resignation.  Thank God in America we can stand for women and children, unlike in other countries where their murders go unnoticed.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2015/04/07/man-who-sexually-abused-3-year-old-girl-didnt-intend-to-harm-his-victim-california-judge-rules/

One more scary thing in our world is Iran, here are some thoughts that I feel should be shared,

I'm deeply worried about Iran. I'm worried its current government will acquire nuclear armaments. I'm worried the P5+1 will enact a deal with Iran similar to the one negotiated by the United States, South Korea and Japan back in 1994 intending to halt North Korea from acquiring nuclear arms. A lot of good it did.

I don't trust Iran; I have little reason to. Iran is led by an evil regime, hell-bent on destroying Israel, let alone causing death and destruction throughout the West, and the Middle East. The very thought Iran is several months away from developing a nuclear weapon is unthinkable.

Authored by Sens. Bob Corker (R-TN) and Robert Menendez (D-NJ), the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015 (S.615) establishes a procedure for congressional review of any nuclear agreement with Iran. Under its guidelines, congress could pass a joint resolution objecting to an agreement. The bipartisan bill can also bar any sanctions relief. In a nutshell, the measure will allow Congress the power to object to an agreement even remotely allowing for a nuclear-capable Iran.

Below are the key provisions of the bill cited by AIPAC:

• Provides a 60-day period for Congress to review any agreement during which time no additional sanctions relief could be granted to Iran.
• Prohibits the president from providing statutory sanctions relief if Congress adopts a joint resolution disapproving of the agreement. The joint resolution would be subject to a presidential veto.
• Requires the president to notify Congress of any credible and accurate information related to a potentially significant breach of the agreement.
• If Iran is found to have materially breached the agreement, the legislation provides for expedited consideration of legislation reinstating any sanctions waived or suspended.
• Requires a presidential determination that any Iranian nuclear activities permitted under the agreement "will not be used to further any nuclear-related military or nuclear explosive purpose, including for any research on or development..."
• Requires the secretary of state to conclude a verification assessment report to determine the extent to which Iran's compliance with the agreement can be verified.

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee is scheduled to consider the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act on Tuesday, April 14.  Here's what I'm asking you to do: Call our two senators; Boxer and Feinstein urge them to vote for this bipartisan bill. They can be reached as follows:

Senator Barbara Boxer

112 Hart Senate Office Building

Washington, D.C. 20510

(202) 224-3553

Senator Diane Feinstein

331 Hart Senate Office Building

Washington, D.C. 20510

(202) 224-3841

We Jews are apt to say "Never Again." Let us not just utter these words; let us act so as to insure never again, never again happens. The time is now.  

Thank you,

Rabbi Michael Gotlieb


I will leave you with some Passover thoughts,

Rabbi Wolpe

Tonight begins the last two days is Pesach. Remember the sea split because of the bravery of Nachshon, the people fled because of the leadership of Moses and Israel sang because of the music of Miriam. Be daring, be joyous, be free; have a wonderful journey to Sinai. Chag Sameach

I will be signing off until Saturday night,
Have a great weekend,
Chag Sameach,
Coach Yulia

Too Windy and The Sun is Too Hot

Yesterday it rained in LA, it's rare, it was only a couple of hours, but it really poured, people were flabbergasted, for absolutely no reason, driving crazy, just love to be dramatic, we are in Hollywood. If the weather is not Hollywood perfect, we are not satisfied, so today it was hot to be in the sun, but the wind was "freezing," and yes I am exaggerating, we really have nothing to complain about.

It was quite an eventful day for me in a fun go with the flow day that I love.  I got an invitation for a friend to join him and his kids at the children's museum, my little one had fun, and it was fun just to hang and chat.

After that we went to pick up my big boy from school, had to get home, eat lunch, and do all of his homework, because tomorrow we have to turn it all in.  Thursday night our last Passover celebrations continue, so we will keep him with us on Friday, we go to synagogue and enjoy a yummy meal, still Matza, Matza, Matza!  This year was a challenge for my kids, they are more conscious of what they cannot eat, and before substitutes were easy, but this year they are asking how many more days of Pesach.


After that we picked up my daughter from school and headed to do some shoe shopping, my kids feet are growing, and we have a few favorite ones on the other side of town, DB Shoes on Hollywood and Western is the best, check out her new Shabbat shoes and for Passover, $15! She calls them "heel shoes," wants to be fancy like her mama.  Then I went to teach a class and they were in the kids club, it was a late night, but I figured they deserved a treat, for the holiday.



Before my day started I was browsing dresses for our big family wedding coming up, and my baby pointed to a place on the computer and my perfect dress appeared.  All day I was figuring out what size to get because they are custom made, and thanks to our wonderful community found "The Best" of our neighborhood to measure me, now its all sealed and paid for, cannot wait to get it and see if is as fabulous in silver as it was in red in the picture.

Still tired from my long day before,
Tired from beautiful life events and work that I love,
Blessed to get energy exchange from my students and clients,
Looking forward to
see what's in the stars for me tomorrow,
Weather and Flow of Life,
Coach Yulia

18 hour shift

How do I look this good after working 18 hours, from 11pm last night to 5pm today, good genes I guess.  Then I drove across town to teach a 6pm class, before I came home to a wonderful dinner that my husband made, and I am ready to jump into bed.  I really admire night workers, nurses, anybody who works a night shift, I really don't know how you do it, it would totally mess with my time clock. Then I think of my non stop party in Miami where I grew up.  I was going to college, working as a bartender and cocktail waitress, and clubs closed at 5am, and after hours opened up right after, and I was never tired.  When did I sleep? Sometimes I would go from the club to my class, I was good with getting a B and having fun, then getting straight A's without balance.

Love that I get to do what I love, and my family supports me,
Good Night,
Coach Yulia

The Dark Side

It's alluring, its makes us curious, we want to just take a look, try it once, what am I talking about? It could be anything because it is different for every person.  I am going to share with you things about Passover, Iran, and bringing awareness about child abuse in all of our communities.

WHY MATZA?

Michal Taviv-Margolese

Rabbi Cardozo: The Talmud poses the following question: Why is it prohibited to eat or to possess chametz (leavened food) on Pesach? What is there in the nature of chametz that makes it forbidden on Pesach? And what is so special about matzah that makes it the most desirable food to eat on this holiday?

Rather than give a straight answer, the Talmud responds by asking yet another question. Why do people sin? Understanding that human beings will continue to transgress, the Talmud analyzes one of the paradoxes of the human condition. Man wants to do good deeds, yet he constantly struggles with his evil inclination. Realizing that this inclination is extremely difficult to overcome, the Talmud suggests that human beings, particularly Jews, make the following declaration whenever they have tried to obey the laws of the Torah but have failed to do so:

“Lord of the Universe, You know very well that it is our desire to act according to Your will; but what prevents us from doing so? The yeast in the dough...” (*)

This phrase, “the yeast in the dough,” appears frequently in the Talmud as a description of man’s evil impulse, and we need to understand the comparison. What is so wrong with leavened food that designates it as a symbol for the evil urge in man? A closer look reveals a most fascinating idea.

Bread, which is chametz, is really an inflated matzah. What, after all, is the essential difference between the two? They are both made from exactly the same ingredients – flour and water – and baked in the oven. It is only the speed at which it is prepared that determines whether it will become matzah, which is flat and hard, or bread, which is soft and fluffy. If we bake the dough quickly, we get matzah. If the dough is left for a while, it will rise and become bread.

Therefore, the only real difference between the two is hot air – an ingredient devoid of substance!

It is this element that makes bread look so powerful and enticing in comparison to matzah. It rises, becoming haughty and giving the impression that it consists of much substance, while in reality it is just a cracker full of hot air. Matzah, on the other hand, is humble and true to itself; there is no attempt to appear as anything more than it is – plain dough.

Bread, then, is haughty matzah, thus symbolizing the evil inclination. For it is the attitude of arrogance – blowing oneself up beyond what one truly is – that, more than any other bad character trait, leads man to go astray. If a human being would just be humble, recognizing his place vis-à-vis God, he would never contemplate transgressing His will. Only arrogance prompts man to choose an undesirable path.

On Pesach, the festival when we commemorate and re-experience our inception as the Jewish people, we are once more reminded that our mission, to be a light unto the nations, can be carried out only in the spirit of true humility. Arrogance can never be the foundation of spirituality and moral integrity. Hubris cannot truly inspire others, nor will it have any positive lasting effect.

Consequently, the art of spiritual growth is to become more like a matzah in a world full of chametz.

WILL IRAN STICK TO THEIR PART OF THE AGREEMENT?

Gershon Baskin

For years, when asked about Iran, after stating that the whole world, including Israel, would be safer if we could reach an agreement on a Middle East region free from all weapons of mass destruction, I would say that the biggest problem of negotiating with Iran is that they have consistently lied about their nuclear program for more than 2 decades. Therefore - the most important aspect of any agreement is the verification regime - the ability of inspectors to be at any location in Iran, without prior announcement in order to verify that the agreement is not being breached. In order for any agreement with Iran to work, it must also be 100% clear to Iran and the international community what is the price of breaching the agreement. These two aspects are the key to determining whether or not an agreement with Iran to prevent the development of nuclear weapons is worth the paper it is written on.

Jewish Community Watch with Rivka Joseph

The Wise One, The Wicked One, The Simple One, The One Who Does Not Know How to Ask - Childhood Sexual Abuse Version

By Rivka Joseph

The Wise One - this is the educated person who has taken the time to learn about how damaging child sexual abuse is. They educate their children properly about appropriate touch. They educate their community and spread awareness. They support survivors and speak up on behalf of societies most vulnerable. This is the person who does their most toprevent child sexual abuse.

The Wicked One - this is the person who covers up sexual abuse, the person who blames survivors for the abuse they endured. The families who don’t support their children who were abused, the ones who protect the abuser. This is the abusers who won’t give their victims the closure they deserve.

The Simple One - this is the person who unfortunately never had the opportunity to learn. They were never taught that their bodies are holy and private. They were never taught how to support a survivor. They were never taught how devastating sexual abuse can be. They were never taught how dangerous a perpetrator can be. But they want to learn, they ask questions, so we teach them.

The One Who Does Not Know How to Ask - this is the child, the adult, the community that is naively shelter from child sexual abuse. The ones that are taught that it is not proper to talk about our bodies and sexual abuse. These are the ones who are more at risk for abuse. They cannot ask, because they do not know what to ask. We need to start at the beginning and show them that it’s ok to talk, to speak up, and to ask questions. The education will begin when the shame is gone. Even though they are not asking, they deserve to be protected. Especially because they are not asking, they need to be protected, because they cannot protect themselves.

Click here to make a Passover donation to Jewish Community Watchhttp://bit.ly/1DyRkpm

Yulia Medovoy Edelshtain

What lures you to the dark side?

Coach Yulia