Nestled into each summer are three weeks leading up to Tisha B’Av, a fast day commemorating the destruction of the Temple. Traditionally, during those three weeks people abstain from large celebrations – no weddings, parties or concerts. The final nine days before the fast, people are even more diligent thinking about the destruction of the Temple and limiting their celebrations. All of this culminates with Tisha B’Av – one of Judaism’s major fast days. With Tisha B’Av happening this Monday night and Tuesday, we have chosen to follow Rabbi Yehuda HaLevi’s words and make variations on Mizrach signs, remembering that our hearts, too, may be in the East. Mizrach: Materials: Mizrach Template Gold and Yellow crayons Directions: Print up our Mizrach Template. Recognizing that Jerusalem is the city of Gold (Yerushalayim Shel Zahav), have your kids make their own Golden Mizrach Signs. Glue the paper on to yellow construction paper. Materials: Mizrach Template Mosaic Stones White Glue or a Glue Gun Directions: Print up our Mizrach Template. Mosaic stones can be purchased at any art supply store. We recommend using glossy, roughly-cut stones for this project. Glue the Mizrach sign on to cardboard to give the paper some extra strength. Glue the stones inside the letters of Mizrach. Color a border around your sign. *Another variation: Color the letters of Mizrach with crayons or markers. Glue the mosaic stones all around the letters – giving a sort of Kotel-feel to the project. Materials: Mizrach Template Buttons, Yarn, Ribbons, Tissue Paper. Directions: Print up our Mizrach Template. Glue it on to cardboard for extra strength. Glue buttons, yarn, ribbons, tissue paper etc. (really anything you find around your house) into the Mizrach. …