Well, we have closed the book on 2023, and now the new year is upon us! What all will happen in 24, would be hard to guess. After an amazing last year, anything is possible. I will try to remember some highlights since last post.

We started our Christmas activities mid-December, with a group of youth from Mifflinburg, PA to carol at 3 different areas in NYC. Our first stop was Roosevelt Island at Israel Wengerd farmer’s market. Our group was twenty-eight I believe, so had good volume and festive atmosphere. Was well received and appreciated by many, which makes it worthwhile! Always wonder where all the recordings go, but not our concern… Next, we went to Grand Central Station and sang outside where many were resting on benches or milling around. Again, seemed that people were happy to hear the Christmas story in song. Our last stop was at Hudson Yards, another upscale shopping area that had a good outdoor spot to sing at. Seemed like we had the most enthusiasm there with many observers and a livelier crowd. After we finished caroling, we headed to the mission for pizza! Overall, it was a fun day!

We had two services at different Bowery campuses that were mostly Christmas themed. Also, we helped at the women’s shelter with decorating their home with Christmas stuff. Also helped do cookies and gingerbread houses with the residents. We had snacks and sang some carols together. At the end of evening, the residents were given the opportunity to tell what they were thankful for. It was heart touching what many talked about! How many of us realize the sorrow that many experience in this life? Very few of us comprehend the privileges that we have become accustomed to.

Hartford CT mission joined us for our Bowery Sunday and subway singing on Christmas Eve at the flagship campus. Again, was a very enjoyable day! All the people coming and going is mind boggling. Many stopped and listened, and some joined in.

We have had lots of company, for which we were thankful! Hope each one enjoyed the city life for a bit. One can hardly remember a quiet country setting that we left. Seems like the city was busier this season?? The last week, the streets were packed with people!! Shopping at Macys, I have never seen a store more packed, hardly room to move. Wasn’t worth it to me, I left as soon as I arrived! Can only imagine how much money they rake in. Probably how they fund their six million dollars fireworks display on the fourth of July. With all the decorations in windows and everywhere else, the city was decked out and rocking, a really festive city. It is a happy time for many for sure.

For New Years Eve, Rachel made new year’s cookies that we shared with Rogers, after which having shrimp with them, we walked down to the Hudson River. Was a clear night, so could see downtown skyline really good. We came home and chilled awhile, then called it a year. The boys went to see ball drop, but couldn’t get close, so they went to Brooklyn and watched fireworks over the water.

On New Years Day, Rogers and us and the boys went with Laurence and Bernice to Tarrytown on the train. Walked a neat trail where the water supply from croton reservoir was piped to NYC. We had lunch together a Hibachi grill and then walked by the Hudson River back to our train. Was an enjoyable day! Walked over nine miles! Tristan grilled stir fry for supper and we sat around and visited late. A good beginning for a new year!

Wishing you all a safe and prosperous year ahead!