After all the sadness of recent weeks brought on by the devastation wrought by Hurricane Sandy, I have been delighted to feel the joy of Christmas in the air. All sizes of Christmas trees are stacked front of corner Korean delis and massed in front of my beloved Zingone’s – tiny Charlie Brown trees up to 7 footers that will take up a good part of most New York City apartments. While at the ever-expanding holiday stall manned by some young Canadians behind the Museum of Natural History, magnificent trees that tower almost up to the street lights give the feeling of the forest. The front of the history is festooned with 2 gigantic apatosaurus (I thought they were called brontosaurus, but Steve just told me I have been wrong all these years) statues covered in fir branches and tiny glimmering lights that delight young and old. New York is not a Currier and Ives lithograph any more, but it is a spectacular place to experience Christmas. And, New Yorkers really are warm and welcoming. Do come celebrate with us!
judithchoate.com 