Our roving photographer shares some of her favorite Central Park photos, like the park in the snow! As we fast approach the holidays there’s lots to enjoy. Head to the museums—there are sharks at the AMNH and Disney at the MET. Valerie Smaldone reviews playwright Lynn Nottage’s latest Broadway play, Clyde’s. The Bronx Zoo and Train Show at the NYBG are holidays favorites. Make a wish for a good cause at Brookfield Place. If you’re in midtown, stop by Gabrielle Carlson’s Studio where you will find our books, signature scarf, and fabulous clothes. Check out Broadway Babe’s free streaming entertainment picks.

Holiday Shopping in Midtown

We had the best time this week at Gabrielle Carlson’s Studio celebrating our books, Martini Wisdom and More Martini Wisdom, by The Three Tomatoes mother and daughter, Cheryl Benton and Roni Jenkins, and Cheryl’s latest novel. Plus the launch of The Three Tomatoes Signature Scarf. We’ve posted some fun photos and a video of Gab’s beautiful studio located on Lexington Avenue @47 Street in NYC. The books the scarves, the beautiful clothes are all available in Gab’s store throughout the holidays and online.

Lights and Wishes for a Good Cause

Head downtown to Brookfield Place for the mesmerizing display of colorful lanterns with a new experience called Maestro that allows you to conduct the canopy!  For each wish made and interaction with Maestro, Brookfield Place will donate $1 up to $25,000 to City Harvest. Get the details.

Now. – Jan. 23. The Holiday Train at NYBG

This beloved tradition returns for its 30th year with a miniature wonderland in the warmth of the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory at the New York Botanical Gardens. Marvel at model trains zipping through an enchanting display of more than 175 famous New York landmarks—imagine the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Rockefeller Center, and other favorites—each delightfully re-created from natural materials such as pinecones, acorns, and seeds. Get the details.

Holiday Lights at the Bronx Zoo

The Park comes to life with holiday cheer as immersive light displays, custom-designed animal lanterns and animated light shows sparkle across the zoo. The outdoor celebration is complete with festive entertainment, seasonal treats and classic holiday music. The walk-through experience is a beloved tradition, enchanting and fun for all ages. Get the details.

Central Park with our Roving Photographer

Nicole Freezer Rubens says, “Central Park has been my back yard since before I could walk. I remember chasing squirrels during picnics and playing on the old metal swings and wooden seesaws well. Today I use the park’s 843 acres, and over 20,000 trees, as a refuge. I try to get to the park daily and enjoy the glorious scenery in all the seasons. My favorite times in Central Park are during a great snowfall, when it is empty enough to truly feel like it is my own private sanctuary.”  Nicole is the author of The Long Pause and the Short Breath.  Follow her on Instagram@nfrconsult.

The Broadway Babe’s Free Streaming Picks

Our Broadway Babe, Randie Levine Miller has some gems for you today. There’s a Sutton Foster concert from Lincoln Center. Sutton will be starring with Hugh Jackman in this season’s revival of “The Music Man”. There’s a video segment dedicated to Stephen Sondheim’s “Company”, and a Sondheim tribute at the Kennedy Center. And wait…there’s a fascinating “Guys and Dolls” documentary. Get the details.

GET THE BOOK!