One of my all time favorite spots in New York City, Riverside Park
I got caught up in Winter Wonderland frenzy this week. New York City hasn't had a major snowstorm in almost a decade and the minute the snow stopped and I could see the it was possible to cross streets -- at least most streets -- I bundled up and walked over to Riverside Park to see the snow while it was still white.
I wasn't the only one who made the trek to the park. Though it was cold and the sidewalks were barely shoveled, it looked like most of the neighborhood had the same idea.
There were sledders...
...And there were skiers.
Dog walkers...
...And snowman builders, including whomever built this "Charley Brown" snowman.
I got so caught up in the excitement of being in a beautiful winter wonderland that I overlooked a critical rule of winter. It is slippery. It is very slippery and even slush is treacherous. I did okay walking to the park and walking on the packed down snow on the sidewalk near the park. The big challenge came crossing Riverside Drive on my way home. Nothing was shoveled out, though some places were less problematic. I thought crossing in a foot of slush would be a good choice and I'm sure it was better than trying to get through a big pile of snow. But slush is deceptive. I sunk into the slush and before I knew it, I was laying down in the slush in the street.
Not a minute went by but a nice young man came to the rescue of this aging damsel in distress and helped me up. I know New Yorkers aren't known for being thoughtful, but I don't agree. When I got across the street -- none the worse for wear -- a woman walking a baby carriage asked if I was okay. I know I was very lucky -- I've got a relatively new hip that doesn't appreciate falls -- and my only damage is a sore left bottom and my dignity.
The Department of Public Safety reminds all of us who may get carried away by Winter Wonderland Fever and race out to see the snow in its pristine state that conditions are slippery and slush is deceptively treacherous. Slush is the quicksand of winter. Be safe and be careful. The hip you save may be your own.
Big, big week coming up in Buttercupland. Tomorrow is Christmas Monkey Monday. On Tuesday we're taking a trip to the Metropolitan Museum. Wednesday is FoodFest, including a video done by my friend, Nicole, demonstrating how to make hot cocoa bombs. Not to be missed!
As ever, thanks for visiting and stay safe and cozy.
