CHRISTMAS TIME IN THE BIG APPLE

I don't want to be anywhere else during the holidays but in this festive, light-filled New York City.  I mean have you ever viewed the parade of lit Christmas trees lining Park Avenue all the way down to 57th Street and of course see the stunning tree at Rockefeller Center?  And speaking of Rockefeller Center, who can resist the um-pah, um-pah-pah of several hundred tubas blaring out Christmas music and the beautiful ice skaters?  And is it my imagination, or are the bridges all sparkling brighter during this holiday season?  Perhaps it is just that it is colder but no matter the bridge - whether the George Washington, the Tri-Boro, the Manhattan or Brooklyn or that high arching wonder of the Verrazano - connecting the boroughs of New York City like sparkling diamond necklaces hanging suspended in the night sky.

And have you noticed the various display of lights and decorations in the boroughs other than Manhattan?  If not, check out Carroll Gardens or the rival displays in Dyker Heights, Park Slope and Bay Ridge or indeed, seemingly, the surprises awaiting you in any borough and around every corner that you happen upon.  I love the bare trees outlined in twinkling lights, seemingly throughout the city.

Then in Manhattan again, the growing 'Elf' gathering in Bryant Park which this year attracted over six hundred red and green costumed elves.  And since it is so cold, take a skate around the Wollman Rink in Central Park or even the little Boat Pond although that is frowned upon due to lack of security.  However, that has not stopped me taking a spin or two in the past.  Besides, it is free but just be prepared to plead your case in the event one of New York's Finest questions you.  There is just so much to view.  Take in that huge, glittering star suspended over the intersection of 57th Street and 5th Avenue.  And while you're in the vicinity, check out the Tiffany and Bergdorf windows - indeed all the windows all over town with a tip of the hat to Macy's windows in Herald Square.  Lights seem to be everywhere, even climbing up levels of the buildings, blinking little Christmas trees gazing down on the gift-laden New Yorkers.  It is all such a blast.  Take a deep breath, get out, and enjoy this remarkable display.  I know folks rave about the fireworks on July 4th but for me, the Christmas Season offers so much more for everyone, no matter where you live.  No scrambling for a viewing site along the rivers, just take a stroll down any street - and enjoy.  Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and a Joyous Kwanzaa.