148. Snail Mail

stickers on mailboxes, Tel Aviv

Nothing like snail mail.

These hearts are stuck in the past and love to hold news.

To help transport food and serve people in need with Table to Table http://www.tabletotable.org.il/english/

*Content and photo © Nomi Helene 2009. All Rights Reserved

75. From Switzerland with Love

tissue, locket, sticker, package received from Switzerland, Tel Aviv

My appreciation for art in large comes from my grandmother, who in her youth studied the fine arts in Fribourg, Switzerland. As a technically brilliant artist, I can only imagine the frustration she endures as her hands begin to tremble from old age. However, as a true artist, her creative mind continues to serve her.

These hearts I received from my grandmother today reflect the creativity with which she continues to express herself - I love that!

My grandmother's heart cares about helping abused children: http://www.eliusa.org/home.htm

*Content and photo © Nomi Helene 2009. All Rights Reserved

48. Holocaust Remembrance Day

envelope, Tel Aviv (sent from Switzerland)

Today's heart has a remarkable story: My grandmother in Switzerland has a Togolese, Evangelist caretaker named Dorcas, who studied theology, visited Israel, and feels strongly about the country. In gratitude for her work, my grandmother requested that I purchase an Israeli flag and send it to her to give to Dorcas.

Here in Israel, there is a tiny shop near my home which is run by a holocaust survivor (I know this because I have seen the numbers tattooed on her arm). I try and give this woman my business as often as I can, so when asked to buy a flag I went to her shop. I was thrilled she had flags, and she was thrilled when I told her the flag was going to Switzerland.

Today is Holocaust Remembrance Day. I couldn't believe that of all days I received Dorcas' thank you letter with a coincidental heart on the envelope.

This heart sends a message that the Israeli flag ensures that we will never forget!

Dorcas started a foundation called Action Lumiere which helps children throughout Africa in many aspects, including education. For more info http://www.moneyhouse.ch/u/fondation_action_lumiere_et_zoe_CH-073.7.017.984-1.htm (the site is currently in German and French, but you can contact them for more info in English).

*Content and photo © Nomi Helene 2009. All Rights Reserved