Stories

The telling of this story was inspired by the prospect of an upcoming local storytelling event put on by The Moth. If you aren’t familiar with The Moth, you’re in for a real treat. They put on local Story Slams at various locations throughout the country. Ten people with a story to tell get their names picked out of a hat, go up on stage, and present a true five minute story according to the theme of the night. Judges picked from the audience select a winner, who can then go on to larger storytelling events. The stories are usually funny, heartwarming, often heart wrenching, and truly a lot of fun. Stories from around the country are later broadcast on Public Radio stations, and available to listen to online at

My wife and I had just moved into our first house in a new town. We had moved from my hometown of East Brunswick to Howell, New Jersey. So we were driving around trying to get the lay of the land, crossed over into Lakewood and stumbled upon Freedman’s Bakery.

We both loved challah, which for those who might not know is a delicious Jewish bread made with egg. It can be braided, round, or shaped like a loaf. Challah is traditionally eaten on a Friday night to welcome the sabbath, makes excellent french toast, and is absolutely great any time. There are a lot of Orthodox Jews in Lakewood, and with a name like Freedman’s we figured let’s stop in and get some challah! I could hardly wait!

So we walk in, go up to the counter and ask for a loaf of challah.  The lady replied