Bar Mitzvah In Amherst

On Saturday we went to a Bar Mitzvah in Amherst. It was a lot of fun. The service was really lovely, and I was happy to discover how many of the songs and prayers I remember.

I was excited to attend because I hadn't seen the Bar Mitzvah boy or his family for far too long. His parents and my parents have been friends since before I was born, so I've known them my entire life! You've probably guessed that the rest of my family was also invited, so I also got to spend the day with my parents and brother (unfortunately my sister was studying for exams & working, so she couldn't make it).

The party was held at a local bowling alley. It as so awesome! They rented the whole place out, got a DJ, and set us all up with our own lanes. Can you believe it was my mom's very first time bowling? I thought she did a great job! I think Eric won both games, but my dad wasn't far behind.

There was a delicious Southern BBQ buffet and a station set up to make our own sundaes. Can't get much better than that!

What His Outfit Says

I was in the Kendall Square T station and I saw this group of people across the tracks. 

That guy on the right really jumped out at me. Whenever I see men in white, short sleeved, button down shirts with black pant, I automatically think Mormon! I don't know if that guy is a Mormon, and I honestly don't care. However, it just proves how important first impressions can be. We can't deny that we all make snap decisions. I don't think it's bad to make these judgements - most likely we do this to quickly assess the danger of a situation or person - and often our opinions change (or are reinforced) as new information is obtained. 

Temple On Wheels

Click images for larger views.

This person's bumper sticker really says it all, don't you think? The owner has turned this truck into something completely unique and, I'm guessing, meaningful. I wish I knew what was behind those doors. Is it truly used as a temple and the inside is set up for prayer? Are they just carting around everyday things like home-improvement equipment? Maybe the inside is filled with art supplies or is decorated just as intricately. No matter what, I don't think the owner minds attention (and stares). I wonder if they ever remove the temple and use only the unadorned truck.

The details are incredible and it must have taken quite awhile to complete. I love the lobster on the hood. In case you can't tell from the pictures, the gold portion along the bottom of the truck is glitter. The creator is an artist, clearly. I look at this truck and I get the feeling that the owner has a sense of humor (Barbie, beer cans, duck bills), is dedicated to their craft (attention to detail), and has a fiery spirit (they drive around with that thing not afraid to stand out).

Relationship With God

Click image for a larger view.

Some people consider it their duty to spread the word of God. I was on the red line when this crazy looking guy with a sandwich board espousing God's will offered me a pamphlet. I usually shy away from anybody with handouts, especially if they are going to try to convert me. This time was no different and I politely declined, but he placed it on the empty seat beside him. However, now that I have a reason to collect all sorts of messages this pamphlet looked pretty appealing. Not wanting to strike up a conversation, I snatched it when he was busy trying to convert another girl. Although I don't agree with the message, I find it interesting that there are a significant number passionate people walking around the country (and presumably the world) with these handouts. I'm more interested in the images than the message, which is why I haven't included any excerpts.