Mary and Jesus Mosaic

In the midst of wrapping paper and ribbons, decorated cookies, trees hung with ornaments and visits with family and friends, it is easy to lose sight of what the fuss is all about. Long ago there was a mother and a child... In countries older than our own, there are corner shrines and ceramic plaques set into walls. These artworks are part of every day life, instigators of prayers, daily reminders of a miracle. 

Little Red Birds

The big  holiday windows get most of the attention but I am intrigued by the smaller ones. At Lord & Taylor this year, most of the side windows are variations on a theme: cuttings from birch trees, drifts of snow and little red birds. The lines of snow-dusted birches become a rhythmic background for the birds' antics, which mainly involve pieces of  jewelry. They peck at bracelets, dangle earrings from beaks and yank on the chains of pricey baubles, all while wearing tiny hats. Who made those hats? The windows, like the birds, are small, but tell a fascinating story. 

Salvation Army Bell Ringer

We hear the ding ding ding of their bells before we even see them. Herald Square, in front of  Macy"s flagship store, may be prime real estate for any bell ringer, but how do you compete with the show in the holiday windows to your left and to your right? With a boom box blasting out infectious rock music, ribbons tied to your bell and some serious dance moves. Two ringers boogied to the music, keeping time with their bells, never missing a step as they thanked those who dropped bills in their red kettle. They worked hard for every dollar donated, exuding the joy that this season is supposed to be about. Share the joy, share the cash. Thanks, ladies. 

Bergdorf's "Music" Window

Bergdorf Goodman has chosen the theme of "Inspired" for its 2014 holiday windows, representing various fine, applied and performing arts. The "Music" window  wins some sort of prize for its clear and dramatic interpretation, using enough silver saxophones, trumpets, trombones and tubas to equip several orchestras. The mirrored background  reflects and multiplies the instruments in a blinding display of curves and shiny chrome. It takes a lot to upstage a gorgeous woman in a diaphanous sparkly gown, but those musical instruments just about do it. David Hoey and his Bergdorf's team have inspired us once again.