Dear Devora,
Thank you so much for thinking of me this time! I was so touched by the unexpected delights that helped to make this a beautiful time. Your kindness and consideration especially under these bizarre circumstances of social distancing makes me feel all the more connected with you and your family. I really appreciate your warmth. Wishing all the best to you and your family.
Sincerely,
Peggy
Dear Devora and Dr. Caytak,
Thank you so much for all you do with the JYL. The classes you offer are truly masterful and beautifully run. Every person feels that they have a chance to truly learn no matter the background they bring. You are so open at the outset of every class. Devorah that no question is too small. Thank you for bringing in me so far a big mitzvah for which we are grateful. Wishing you a sweet New Year.
By N
January 31, 2020 – Testimony of participant of a Renu Spa Treatment
Wanda Bowring
Friendship Circle
Last night I received a free spa treatment, of my choice, as a gift from the Friendship Circle at Renu Spa in Westboro Ottawa.
We parents of children with, sometimes prodigious, special needs, are often burdened to our eyeballs. To be acknowledged by being offered anything, let alone a gift created to allow us parents to feel taken care of was a remarkable experience.
I say this not out of a juvenile need to be seen but in recognition of the bigger picture within the greater needs of our children, that it’s quite easy to forget about oneself altogether. Perhaps it isn’t surprising that this would be the group to extend in their generous understanding of what friendship means.
And the first rule of friendship is the recognition of another’s value.
Devora made this clear when she introduced the history of Friendship Circle and said, “that everyone deserved a friend,” which touched me deeply.
There were plentiful healthy foods offered; living water and traditional drinks. And friendship.
The other mothers there were as willing to share their stories as Friendship Circle shared their support and love. Elinore, the exceptional coordinator of the offering was in attendance too. So many women, so many stories, and so many similarities that quickly, it felt like home.
I thank everyone at Friendship Circle again, and the mothers who I met as well. For one wonderful night it was okay to be me, and to talk about my children in an honest and open light that never once called into question my loyalty or love as a parent. I felt seen, heard and appreciated. Is there anything else required in a friendship?
Renu Spa
Last night, January 30th, 2020 I attended a party at Renu Spa in Westboro. I didn’t ask for the names of the women who served us as an attendee of the party organized by the Friendship Circle, but I wish I had.
Anna did a fine job of my pedicure and told me that Renu Spa was donating to our party as well, so I was allowed an upgrade to my pedicure at no extra charge. How very kind was that? And it meant so much to me. But in truth it was all the women who greeted us there, from check-in, to service during our meal, to saying good night that their thoughtful service never faltered.
Honestly, it is not often that one is treated as graciously and authentically as I was served at Renu. Kindness is very often in short supply but not here. And for this, I would like to acknowledge all the staff that worked last night. You made me feel very welcome and special. Thank you.
Dear Devora and Yosef,
Thank you very much for the beautiful matching outfits for our children. My son has already worn his and looks adorable in it. We are so grateful for the warm, intimate, personalized learning environment your school provides for him. He comes home everyday so happy with many stories. It is wonderful to watch him grow and learn at WJMP. Looking forward to being together as a community (hopefully) soon.
E and B
Dear Devora and Dr. Caytak
Thank you so much for all you do with the JYL. The classes you offer are truly masterful and beautifully run. Every person feels like they have a full chance to truly learn no matter the background they bring. You are so open at the outset of every class Devora, that no guessing is too small. Thank you for bringing me so far. A big mizvah for which we are grateful. Wishing you a sweet new year.
N.R. (March 2022)
Dear Devora,
Thank you so much for thinking of me this time! I was so touched by the unexpected savory delights that helped to make this an enjoyable Shabbot!
Your kindness and consideration especially under these bizarre circumstances of social distancing, makes me feel all the more connected with you and your family. I really appreciate your warmth. Wishing all the best to you and your family.
K.P. (March 2022)