Shabbat shalom!  If only we could say that, knowing that our brothers and sisters in Israel could truly experience a Shabbat of peace.  For a sense of what day to day life is like in central Israel the last few weeks, read our Summer Diary of an Israeli from Shaul Amir. We are now starting the month of Elul, which is traditionally the time to prepare for the High Holidays coming in Tishrei.  BJN is once again providing links to the “Jewels of Elul” series from Craig and Co.  You will find the links along the right sidebar.  In the spirit of thankfulness that is part of the season, we are grateful for the outcome of Cheryl’s close call last week as well as for all those who reached out to check on her, and us.