Originally I was going to title this post "Manhattan at the Holidays" but I think that leaves out the most important part of the holiday season to me, Christmas. I understand not everyone believes in Christmas but I strongly do. I think regardless of what religion you are, this season is beautiful. It's a rare time when strangers are a little bit nicer, which is definitely handy in NYC, and people are (generally...hopefully) thinking of others. It brings families close and the weather sure makes you appreciate your warm house.

(PS: try to figure out where this wreath hangs, maybe a fancy bank or apartment building? Make your guess and be surprised at the end)

I attended a tree lighting ceremony at outside Lincoln Center earlier this month. I didn't do the whole cliche Rockefeller Tree Lighting because I was working at the Style Shop, but luckily for me I'm here a few more years ;) So at Lincoln Center, the entire Upper West Side had different activities going on. The finest bakeries and restaurants were giving sample of their famous meals for $2, $3, and there were jazz bands, barbershop quartets, and people on stilts. Still not to sure why Christmas/Holidays celebration required people on stilts, but NYC does everything BIG. My church was even giving out free cups of Hot Chocolate, and 2 missionaries tried to convert me....not sure about that one. I was so glad to have a sidekick, I went with my friend Anna who goes to Julliard right next to/connected to Lincoln Center. She was the one who knew about the whole party, if she hadn't invited me I would have probably continued moping in my room about homework. 

My favorite part of the whole night was walking down Columbus Ave and joining a HUGE group of people signing Christmas carols. It was so jolly and fun that I couldn't help but feel the urge to sway along. I found myself dancing next to a cute older woman, maybe early 50's and she just sang her song right to me. She took my hand and danced with me the whole song. It was just SO cute! And she was so sweet, we stayed for a few songs but when we left I wished her "Happy Holidays" not thinking much of it because I heard the person in front of me say it a few seconds before. She stopped me and corrected me, "Merry CHRISTMAS" she said firmly and went back to smiling. 

That just made me really remember the whole reason we celebrate, and I am so grateful to have a wonderful family that I look forward to spending Christmas with. I am so glad to have my primary family close and so connected. I am grateful that my list for Santa is all really things I want, not need. 

Although I'm still accepting applications for the position of BFF, let me know if you fit the qualifications:

Applications accepted through out the year; hopefully I can fill the position. Keep 'em cominggg ;)

PS: That wreath belongs to the prettiest and most beautiful Marshall's and Bed Bath and Beyond you've ever seen. It's even prettier inside....only in NYC ;)