A Sure Sign of Winter

The seasons are changing, my friends. We are no longer just starting out with fall - we are right smack in the middle of it. Already. When did that happen? That means each day brings us closer and closer to winter, which brings on mixed feelings, I must admit. On the one hand, I am really looking forward to Christmas and all the great things that come with it in this city: the decorations, the trees, the lights, the holiday markets, the shows, the general festivity. There's just nothing like New York at Christmas. But then I think of the months and months of cold that continue after Christmas....oh, I just can't let myself think about it or we'll be living in the Cayman Islands by January.

As the seasons continue to change (and the temperatures continue to drop), we're starting to keep our eyes peeled for signs of winter and the holidays. And the first sign - which I remember as one of the very first signs last year, as well - is already here: the Rockefeller Center ice skating rink. It is up and open for business! Also, those palm trees that lined the Promenade there all summer long have been replaced with pine trees. Soon they'll be joined by angels and it will be full-on Christmas. We've also caught sight of workers starting to string Christmas lights in trees around town. These people mean business!

Prometheus looks out over the ice skaters at Rockefeller Center

Pine trees line the Promenade

Another shot of the rink, with the lit-up trees visible behind the flags

So, are we ready? Here we go, another winter and another holiday season!

Side note: This post must seem very out of place to you folks in Florida, as word on the street is that you all are still having beastly hot weather these days. I just can't even imagine that! Need a break from the heat? Feel free to visit!