Between Sirens and Super Dad Cake

Sunday, June 22, 2025

We are following the news and the instructions closely here in Israel, where we’ve now been for 11 days. It’s hard to describe what it means to be here—it fills my heart in a way that’s difficult to put into words. After several years of not managing to come, we made sure we did this year. Israel holds something deeply personal for all of us: family, friends, our history, our roots.

From the moment we arrived, there has been caution. Sirens waking us up in the middle of the night. That’s the daily reality here. And now, we are experiencing a small piece of what Israelis live with constantly.

The people are incredibly well-organized, both in prevention and protection. You can’t ignore the hundreds of missiles sent toward this country, nor the ignorance of the protests abroad—especially in the U.S. and Europe—defending terror. I do my best to block out the noise of those who don’t understand and instead focus on the resilience, strength, and deep generosity of the people around me.

We pray there will be no more losses, anywhere. Here in Israel, bombs are deliberately targeted at civilians, at hospitals. And still, we stand—because we know G-d is watching over us, just like the Iron Dome, the IDF, and the State of Israel.

This is a small but mighty nation that not only defends itself but stands for the rest of the world, too. Today, the U.S. military action on the nuclear site may mark a historic turning point. We pray this war ends soon and that peace is restored across the region.

I’m inspired by the calm of those around me. We are so grateful to be with family. Most things are closed these days because of the ongoing attacks, and the contrast between this reality and what we see on the news from abroad—where life appears to go on as usual (as it should be)—feels surreal. Still, even here, we do our best to enjoy the moment.

Yesterday, my cousin baked homemade pizza for us. Three days ago, we gathered for a birthday barbecue. For Father’s Day, she made a “Super Dad” cake with the kids. We also had the great joy of seeing our cousin and tasting the incredible wine he produces here in Israel—among others, his “L’Enclos” bottle, which you can see in the photo. We’ve gone on walks, taken in the beauty of the sea, and visited the small farm built by our cousin’s son—four goats, many dogs, a vegetable garden… and a memorial they created in honor of their fallen friends from the Golani unit who gave their lives during the rescue operation following October 7, 2023.

Many are being called up these days to serve and protect. They are true heroes—as are their families and the people as a whole. You feel the unity here, and I’m endlessly grateful.

We’ve been blessed to spend two Shabbats in family—it’s been a real treat. My mom’s cousin and her husband make us feel completely at home. We live an ocean apart, yet we are truly so close in so many ways. Her cooking reminds me of my grandmother’s, and their “open door” policy feels like ours. Big tables for Shabbat, like we always try to have. Being together fills our hearts, even though we deeply miss our parents, siblings, and nephews—who we were supposed to be with these days.

For us, a part of our holiday was canceled. For them, this is a recurring reality. I cherish our family and pray for everyone’s safety. I trust it will be well.

Thank you to all our family and friends for your kind messages—we are well and doing everything we can to stay that way. Keep Israel in your prayers pray for the hostages may they be liberated sooner than later, and take whatever actions you can to support—it makes a real difference. I do hope for the people here to return to a better reality, and for us as well, while being eternally thankful that we are living through this in the best conditions possible.

with love and light—Jessica

P.S.:During our stay in Jerusalem, I also had the chance to meet the talented artist Yossi Shua in person, visit his studio and gallery, and see the steps of his work in progress. We first crossed paths last December during Art Basel Miami, where our stands were just across from each other. I encourage you to check out his work. I also met Menucha Page, another artist with a truly unique and thought-provoking style.

On my end, I was honored to hear that I received the People’s Choice Award for my photograph Keep on Dancing, which is currently on view at the Coral Gables Museum until August 31, 2025. Thank you so much to everyone who supported and voted for me—it means the world.

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