In 18th century Ukraine where life could be mean, Jewish women baked a bird shaped (faigel) hallah for the pre Yom Kippur meal The  bird reflects the a promise  in Isaiah 31:5 that  just as a bird can fly lose from it’s captors so too  Hashem will save the Jewish people from our foes. With Ahmadinajead aiming his nukes at us, it’s a timely  thought to have in mind.

Best wishes for an easy fast and Gmar Hatima Tova