Blogger will be Passover guest

Blogger and photographer Sheva Givre is returning to her native city of Tucson to present a personal perspective on the holiday of Passover and its message of freedom.

The University of Arizona alum will be the guest speaker at Chabad of Tucson's community seder on the first night of Passover on Monday, March 25 at Cong. Young Israel.

A survivor of leukemia, Givre has her fair share of challenges. After a lengthy wait, she finally gave birth to three children - one of which has Down syndrome.

Her upbeat outlook on life, which she openly showcases on her blog My Shtub, has been an inspiration for many in the Orthodox Jewish community in Baltimore, MD, where she lives with her husband and children.

"When I had my daughter and when i was diagnosed with the big "C" I decided I was going to share my struggles, joys and fears. Why do it alone when there is an entire community willing to do be there with you every step of the way?"

Her message to fellow parents is "stop sweating the small stuff" and "have fun." "Just enjoy your kids, play with them and listen to them! They are amazing little people living under the same roof, enjoy them!"

At the seder in Tucson, Givre will be speaking about conquering adversity and overcoming personal challenges. "Passover is as much about breaking out of our boundaries and concerns as it is about our freedom from Egypt."

Leading the seder will be Rabbi Yossie Shemtov and Rabbi Yehuda Ceitlin. All ages are welcome, regardless of affiliation or background.

The traditional yet casual evening will be complete with hand-baked Matzah, 4 cups of wine, songs and a delicious 4-course dinner in a warm atmosphere.

Adults, $36; children, $15. RSVP at 881-7956 or at www.ChabadTucson.com/rsvp

Additional seders by Chabad in Southern Arizona will be held for students at Chabad at the University of Arizona and for Northwest residents by Chabad of Oro Valley.