I really like the elaborate holiday windows that the traditional and high-end stores in New York City create. I took a few nights and took pictures of them. Bergdorf Goodman had the best. Below are six random pictures out of over 150.

I had a wonderful time today. I got together with my friend David’s family and enjoyed the afternoon together laughing, playing with the dog and chowing on some really good food…and pie. Thankfully David and his mother, Chris, can cook well. The rest of us had beer and wine and stayed out of the kitchen.

June, his grandmother, is a gem and I love spending time with her. She’s got a sharp wit and was joking that her son, Skip, hit her on the chin. Nate, David’s brother was also there and I’m so very thankful that all of them welcome me as part of their family in Seattle.

My good friends Maryam and Nima are Persian. And I recently helped them with their Norooz Persian New Year celebration. On Norooz, the New Year’s day, families dress in their new clothes and start the twelve-day celebrations by visiting the elders of their family, then the rest of their family and finally their friends. On the thirteenth day families leave their homes and picnic outdoors. So tonight, I’m visiting Maryam and Nima at their home to be a part of their celebration.

I’m expecting to see the Haft Sîn table, a major part of Norooz. The table includes seven items specific starting with the letter S or Sîn in Persian alphabet). The items symbolically correspond to seven creations and holy immortals protecting them. Traditionally, families attempt to set as beautiful a Haft Sîn table as they can, as it is not only of traditional and spiritual value, but also noticed by visitors during Norooz visitations and is a reflection of their good taste.

I can look…but not touch.