It's Always An Adventure

It is an incredibly beautiful day today in New York City.  The air is crisp and cold and the sun is shining brightly.  With only a week to go before Christmas the only thing missing is snow! Every once and awhile I catch myself walking down the street and I think that Christmas in NYC reminds me a bit of what it must be like to live in a movie set.  I know that this must sound strange but right now walking down the streets in Manhattan is very similar to how Hollywood movies portray Christmas. There is a man from the Salvation Army ringing his bell on most corners.  Beautifully done up women in fur coats are stepping out of taxi’s with packages.  Store front windows are decorated.  Carollers are singing on the subway, walking down the streets and in front of stores.  Restaurants are closed for private parties and if you glimpse inside you can see glamourous outfits and decadent meals. Homeless people are asking for money and many are giving, usually with a warm greeting returned with a “God Bless You”. Kids are dressed up in their finest going to pageants and concerts alike.  Men and women in Santa hats spill out of the local bars filled with good cheer. Families are picking out and bringing home trees. There is a definite hustle and bustle.  The only thing missing on this “movie set”  is the softly falling snow.

The Girls Getting Ready To See Their First Ballet! (Part of the Christmas Magic)

Now, don’t get me wrong, there is still the insanity that this time of year brings and not everything is all candy canes and sugar plum fairies.  There just seems to be something truly magical right now in the city. An excitement and energy.  Little reminders that the concrete jungle has a gentler, kinder side.  I know that January is right around the corner and with it the reality of a harsh winter of cold slushy streets, grumpy people and far fetched resolutions.  But right now, I am going to enjoy this movie-like fantasy Manhattan. Yes, I am, and Bah-Humbug to anyone who tries to yell “cut”!!

And, just in case you are wondering, I checked the long term forecast for NYC.  We are supposed to get snow next week on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day… right on cue 😉