Circle K Ranch

Two weeks ago, I flew into LAX on the Pacific Coast to begin a week long journey into further understanding my Jewish roots. Heritage Retreats is situatued amdist the southern California mountain range just North of the coast town Santa Barbara. Circle K Ranch was built CEO of the world's largest quick-serivce resturaunt organization and creator of the Big Mac: Ray Kroc. Around 3 decades ago, Circle K Ranch was sold to a New York Jew (who runs an organic soap and toothpast company). The land remains vacant for 80% of the year, and is the home to the winter session of Heritage Retreats.

Imagine, a dinning hall that once served the executives of one of the largest burger producers in the world is now operating as a Jewish retreat center with a kosher kitchen.

Before the week retreat began, I stayed with a host family in the Fairfax Jewish Community of Los Angeles. The Shabbat weekend was relaxing and a good time to rest before a week of restless activity. I was so exhausted coming into LA, that I slept through 3 Shalom Zarchars (a celebration that occurs about a week after a baby is born) that happened that Friday night.