[Parah] perek 4

This chapter discusses whether the red heifer is still an acceptable sacrifice if it's not done in the most ideal fashion. If it's not burned the correct way, or if the intent of the cohen is wrong, or in a number of other ways, it's no longer a proper red heifer. On the other hand, the cohen doesn't have to be the cohen gadol (though in practice, it works out that way). And the process of burning the heifer renders all involved tumah.

Pesach cleaning

- Fridge and freezer cleaned and lined (except under the bagged items that will be picked up tomorrow)
- Countertops clean and clear, but not covered.
- Oven on first round of cleaning.
- Stovetop clean, not yet kashered.
- Sink clean, not yet kashered.
- All kitchen things put away, though not covered/taped into cabinets.
- Still need to clean the car.
- Still need to do some laundry.

Also, need to buy plastic sheeting to cover things, plus more foil pans, new toothbrush and paste, a couple of jesus candles, and whatever veggies appeal, since I have few.

And it wouldn't hurt to figure out what I'm cooking for Shabbat/yom tov, now that it makes more sense to make the turkey for the last days.


And I might as well list some of the ( things to get after chag )

Short takes

more marathon stuff
I wonder how the marathon organizers would categorize trans runners. Maybe there'd be new categories?

For wheelchair racers, is it easier to have legs (something to brace on, perhaps), or not (less weight to move that many miles)? (Um, assuming that the person has no sensation in the legs.).

Interesting to see runners pacing the green line trolleys, many of which were wrapped in marathon-themed ads (Nike, I think). The conductors tooted their horns for the runners, and people on the train were watching the race, too.

work
It is incredibly cool to work at a place where the assumption is that they'll get me something I can eat when there's a departmental meal. And it's particularly welcome this week!

the wages of not cleaning earlier
I had to turn down a free ticket to Alvin Ailey last night. If only... (Though I hate the Wang Center, I'd go for Ailey.)

mini-review: Wallaby maple yogurt
Wallaby brand yogurt is organic, and "Australian style," whatever that means. I got maple, just because I wasn't in the mood for fruit, and it's really quite nice. It's thin yogurt (despite pectin listed in the ingredients), which would make a nice dessert sauce with something. Not egregiously sweet, either. I'll likely try other flavors.

Most gratuitous adjective

Today's award goes to Utz brand chips, which are crunchy potato chips (their underlining, even).