Holiday Season in New York City

The traditional end-of-year holiday season doesn't usually conjure up skyscrapers or palm trees, but the Kaufman's are flexible. 

Friday Seder and pre-Hanukkah celebration was at St Paul's, the oldest church building in Manhattan, adjacent to the World Trade Center. (Hang in there & all will become clear - in a Kaufman kind of way.) Steve's niece Jill and her husband Guy helped establish the temple which meets twice a month at this Episcopal church, attended by George Washington after his inauguration on Wall Street in 1789. (No, he didn't sleep here, just prayed.) Their children Guy/Trace Sophie and Hunter, along with Jill's parents/Steve's cousin David and his wife Harriet rounded out the Kaufman crew. There were LOTS of kids, food and activities. Karen finally learned to play dreidel which she plans to bring to her game loving family's Christmas party. 

A Holiday trip to NYC would not be complete without a viewing the skaters at Rockefeller Center, the oversized surrounding decorations, official Christmas tree and jostling with the crowds to see this year's over-the-top themed store windows. 

For over 30 years, Steve has celebrated the year's end with his men's forum members and their wives. The beauty and warmth of Le Grenouille matched the spirit of the evening. Besides the company of 20 very close friends, we'll be long remembering the incredible wine, food, crepes along with warm chocolate and Grand Marnier soufflés.

An evening's rest and then brunch with Karen's mom Jinny and brother Chris at the always wonderful Blue Water Grill. Although the traditional brunch fare is delightful, book a bit later and indulge in the delectable sushi and other fish offerings. Note - reservations a YES and ask for a booth near the windows.

The end of the holidays will include Florida, but more on that later.