Christmas Greetings from Manhattan

AROUND TOWN

The Christmas trees on Park Avenue glow golden as the afternoon darkens, pedestrians are bundled up tightly against the chill wind, and there is a bustle and much anticipation as folks prepare for Christmas Day.   

At our son’s place, presents galore are piled underneath the perfectly shaped tree.  Younger granddaughter F has sussed out all her gifts, even counted them, examined each and everyone, and made guesses at the contents.  

The little blue and red bowl on the coffee table has been filled and refilled with candy cane kisses.  Three bags’ full, they have consumed, she excitedly proclaims.  She and her older sister have made gifts for all the family and done elaborate wrapping and labeling of them, even adding decorative elements to the gift paper.

HOLIDAY CONCERT

On Thursday, I was one of the lucky grandparents at the middle school winter concert, presented primarily by the 5th and 6th grade classes.  There was a handbell group, two pieces played on recorder, and many songs.  E sang with her classmates, and they sang with the men’s chorus on selected numbers.  The men’s chorus, made up of the girls’ fathers, is a long tradition at Brearley, and one everyone enjoys.  

Also of note, the middle school orchestra (5th through 8^th graders) played the Jupiter section from Holst’s The Planets.  E is one of a handful of French horn players in the ensemble.  All very impressive!

(The lower school also had a winter concert, but the hall was just large enough for the girls’ parents.)

MAGIC OF THE SEASON

Even if you don’t get to view the tree at Rockefeller Center or admire midtown’s festive facades, there is magic to be found. For two decades, residents of 73rd Street between Second and Third Avenues have draped their street trees in soft lights from Thanksgiving through January. It’s truly a wonderland to behold!

Merry, merry Christmas!!

Note: All photos ©JWFarrington (some rights reserved.). Header photo is lighted trees on E. 73rd St.