Notamod
“Seriously though, Chanuka presents are a perfectly harmless way to get kids excited about Chanukah nothing wrong with that”
Agreed
” but I don’t think anyone seriously considers it a minhag.”
yet. Though some do equate it with money, both are a minhag
see here: http://www.hebrewbooks.org/pdfpager.aspx?req=872&st=&pgnum=251
(source provided by DY)
“Shlissel challah is accepted as minhag”
among some – present company included
” and suggesting that it originates from cross loaves is heading down a dangerous path.”
I’m not suggesting it, Iam outright saying it
“I agree that we should be wary of strange new minhagim but at the same time we must be careful not to fall prey to the skewed thinking of pluralism and the likes of it.”
Sure why not
Joseph
“In a few centuries, if things stay this way, you’re gonna have mekors for chanukah trees, chanukah presents, pesach bunnies, purim ash, etc.”
You may be right. And of course your Grandchild will defend the “Millenia old” minhag of Chanuka trees
Care to respond to any of the many questions posed to you? BTW I see dishonesty is your MO here. A year ago you posted under a different name “This isn’t chukas akum but it certainly is in the “spirit” of it. So whilst it may not be technically assur, I wouldn’t do everything that is technically muttar.” see here: http://www.theyeshivaworld.com/coffeeroom/topic/what-is-the-origin-of-chanukah-gifts
“And Succah-treating of course.”
Sukkah hops already exist