Financier Pastries - A Mouthwatering Solution to Post Christmas Gift-giving!

Cookies well worth the Calories!

----A Postcard from New York Encore---

A quick and hassle free solution to after Christmas gift-giving woes...just pick up the nearest phone. If like me, the frantic Holiday pace does not end until New Year's Day, you still have some holiday gifts to purchase, this tiny French bakery could be your lifesaver. When this Postcard first appeared Financier had only two colorful shops; at last count, they now have ten beautiful patisseries around town. Find the one near you on their website, place your order, and pick up your delicious treats handsomely wrapped and ready to delight some lucky person. I thought you might enjoy this story written by Postcard's photographer about how we first stumbled upon the charming flagship store near Wall Street on a photo shoot a few years ago. From his description, you can almost taste the cookies ...my personal favorite, the macarons--the best outside Paris!

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Dear Postcards from New York Reader,

Many of you will be shocked to learn that Jacqueline Cable has been trying to kill me for years. This conspiracy started during an early 1990's trip to Scotland (in preparation for a Golf Tour.) Jacqueline was determined to get into an ancient cathedral that happened to be closed. She was dragging me from locked door to locked door, pounding on them mercilessly, "Joseph, there must be a caretaker or rector somewhere, come on, they'll hear me knocking."

To my utter surprise, when I looked down I realized we were walking on big flat grave markers, overgrown with moss and lichen. A moment later, BAM! I was flat on my back, cracked a 17th century grave marker, (sorry Mr. Ross MacDonald), and in utter pain...

Fast forward to a hot day in July in New York City on a Postcards from New York photo shoot; Jacqueline raced between landmark buildings and monumental sculpture, this time around lower Manhattan, demanding I keep up. I was ready to call it a day. We had been running around since early morning and I was very pleased with the abundance of photos waiting in my camera.

"Joseph, come on, one more waterfall, just one - I promise..." she prodded. Suddenly walking on the uneven 18th century pavement, I thought of Scotland, and several other near death experiences. However, my fear was unwarranted and we made it to the "last" waterfall, and guess what? My perseverance was rewarded. Just behind Chase Plaza and Jean Dubuffet's sculpture group, "Group of Four Trees", I found Financier Patisserie. My bonus for a long day's work.

I walked in from the unrelenting heat of the day to discover a cornucopia of wonderful baked jewels. I am a self confessed cookie-aholic; I love cookies! They remind me of my German and Italian grandmothers, Oma and Nonna. Oma always said, "It's not a complete day if you don't reward yourself with a cookie." When in Sicily, Nonna spoke to us, letting us know she loved us, with the most amazingly thin butter cookies, almond horns and pinolis. While she spoke no English, and my sisters and I struggled in deficient Italian, "cookie" was universally understood.

There, guarded behind glass, (bullet proof I am sure), in all its glory, was a plate of almond horn cookies! And look, a jewel encrusted lynzar tart - my mother's favorite - ooooo, and macarons - fat and fresh in pastel colors and delicate flavors! WAIT what is that? Thin toasted almond slices on a rich bead of swirling dark chocolate. The sight of these cookies brought me back to my childhood, to my grandmother's kitchens and the espresso bars of Italy. Needless to say I left with a wonderful lime-green striped box full of these divine cookies to sample at home later.

As I paid the cashier, Jacqueline called, "Joseph, come on, I need a picture of just one more fountain, it's not a waterfall, I promise." OK, I said, no more waterfalls, just one more fountain..."

Go Eat Something Good!

Joseph Knight

For Postcards from New York

Address to Remember: Financier Patisserie, 35 Cedar Street (between Pearl and William), New York, NY 10005, 212-952-3838, http://www.financierpastries.com/

Directions: From Times Square MTA 2 or 3 to Wall St. walk west to Pearl St. and north to Cedar.

If you like today's issue, why not become a subscriber to Postcards from New York? To start receiving your own copy of Postcards each week in your email inbox, click here and enter your email address on the far right side of the webpage. Be sure to check your email in-box for a confirmation email, then just click where indicated to activate your subscription.  Or, forward this e-mail to a friend so they can sign-up to receive Postcards from New York as well.

You can also choose to receive Postcards From New York as an RSS feed. Click on the small orange button (subscribe as a Reader) on the right side of the webpage to activate the RSS. Then you will receive new "Postcards" on your email homepage, and you will have all past "Postcards" archived at your fingertips.  Be sure to check your email in-box for a confirmation email, then just click where indicated to activate your subscription.

Photo by Joseph Knight

© Copyright 2007-13 The Cable Group

Far from the Maddening Crowd - National Museum of the American Indian

Imagine sliding down this banister

----New York for Kids Part 8 ----

Dear Postcards from New York Reader,

Do you remember the first time you saw a spiral staircase? Did your heart jump at the thought of sliding down the serpentine banister?

See if those thoughts flood back as you crank your head to look up this swirling stairwell as it swirls and twists its way to the skylight at the top of the U. S. Custom House at Battery Park, better known as the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian. It is sure to trigger a whoop of glee from youngsters; so make a point to enter the museum on the street level and not by the grand staircase facing Bowling Green Park.

The marble staircase is not the only attraction that makes this a terrific place to take kids on weekends. The galleries are gloriously spacious with high ceilings and wide open spaces easy to maneuver with strollers; kids will feel comfortable running about and making a bit of noise. In other words, the reins can be left a little loose. You will not have much competition for space as this museum does not get nearly the traffic its wonderful collection warrants.

Colorful exhibits feature mixed-media shows of everyday life of native peoples steeped in tradition from Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, the jungles of Brazil and the Great Plains. Oversized drums, ornate feathered headwear, beaded costumes, totem poles, enormous bird masks, hand-carved canoes, and a child's winter sled of buffalo bones will captivate young viewers.

Kids can roam the galleries, poke around at interactive media stations to rotate objects, stop to watch films, listen to a Native storyteller, learn songs, participate in hands-on workshops in weaving, painting, print making, or, gaze up-close and handle toys and musical instruments like a conch shell trumpet. Daily screenings especially for kids begin at 10:30 and 11:45 AM. Museum shops on both the main and lower level offer lots of books, videos and artwork for youngsters.

Be sure to see the handsome portraits of adventurous navigators like Henry Hudson (this is the 400th Anniversary of his voyage up the Hudson River), Giovanni de Verrazano and Cristoforo Colombo, in flamboyant hats and buccaneer boots, near the ships that brought them fame painted on the ceiling of the long oval gallery on the main floor across from the Entrance.

Escape the throngs of people, crowded galleries and long lines at the popular uptown museums (The Museum of Natural History and The Children’s Museum) that attract herds of parents and kids. Venture downtown this weekend and unleash the explorer instinct in your youngster; check for a schedule of upcoming workshops and events at http://www.americanindian.si.edu/.

The Museum of the American Indian makes a terrific outing, add a short roundtrip ride on the ferry to Staten Island, a photo shoot on or around the Great Bronze Bull (former symbol of brokerage giant Merrill Lynch--find the bull outside Bowling Green Park), an impromptu picnic in Battery Park of hotdogs and potato knishes purchased from a vendor cart--- you have the recipe for a perfect day downtown with kids.

Jacqueline Cable
For Postcards from New York

P. S. Best of all, see your tax dollars at work, admission is free.

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Address to Remember: Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House, One Bowling Green, New York, NY 10004, 212-514-3700, http://www.americanindian.si.edu/

Hours: 10 - 5 PM Daily, Thurs until 8 PM, Closed Christmas Day. Admission is Free.

Directions: From Times Square MTA 1 to South Ferry, R and W to Whitehall Street, short walk north to Museum.

To end here

If you like today's issue, why not become a subscriber to Postcards from New York? To start receiving your own copy visit http://www.postcardsfromnewyork.com/ and enter your email address. Or, forward this to a friend so they can sign-up to receive Postcards from New York too.

You can choose to receive Postcards From New York as an e-mail or RSS feed. Click on the small orange button on the right side of the webpage to activate the RSS. Then you will receive new "Postcards" on your email homepage, or enter your email address on the Home Page at www.postcardsfromnewyork.com to receive "Postcards" via email. Be sure to check your email in-box for a confirmation email, then just click where indicated to activate your subscription.

Photos by Joseph Knight

© Copyright 2007-9 The Cable Group

Scandinavia House - Dinner and a Movie $30

Flags of Scandinavia on Park Avenue


Dear Postcards from New York Reader,

Dinner and a Movie for $30! This has got to be one of the best deals in town, at one of my favorite midtown get-a-ways . Why a get-a-way? Smorgas Chef Restaurant in the lobby is open and airy, large scale photographs of blue sky and mountains hang from the walls, an enormous birch tree with wide branches appears to spurt through the floor and successfully brings the outdoors inside. See if you agree, do you feel surrounded by snow-covered mountains and open sky?

Have you heard Icelandic reggae? Well, see "Back Soon" (Skrapp ut) this weeks feature film. While French, German and Italian films are readily accessible at small foreign film theatres around town, with the usual lines trailing outside the theatre to buy tickets; films from Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden and Iceland are not so easy to find. See the upcoming features here at Scandinavia House and mark your calendar.

Lady Liberty holds out the Welcome Torch. With over 190 different languages spoken and the United Nations headquartered here, New York seethes with cultural diversity. A visit to Scandinavia House is a chance to immerse yourself in the culture of the lands where half of every year is spent in darkness. Discover a host of activities: story readings for kids, lectures, exhibits, talks and numerous concerts. Begin the adventure with fine Nordic cuisine and a movie. Call 212-847-9745 for reservations.

Ideally situated in midtown, Scandinavia House and Cultural Center is easy to reach, only four blocks from Grand Central Station on Park Avenue. Smorgas Chef Restaurant is a real find. Open for Breakfast, Lunch ($14 Prix Fix), Dinner and Brunch on weekends, it is a terrific place to enjoy tea or a dessert of Scandinavian Vanilla Waffles in the late afternoon. For dinner, definitely try the Seafood Chowder with mussels, salmon, cod and shrimp, Swedish Meatballs and Lingonberries, and the Norwegian Smoked Salmon. The smorgasbord tasting plate is a delicious sampler.

Plan a visit soon, I cannot imagine this offer will last long.


Jacqueline Cable
For Postcards from New York



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Address to Remember: Scandiniavia House and Cultural Center and Smorgas Chef, 58 Park Avenue (between 37th and 38th Sts.) New York, NY 10016, 212-847-9745, http://www.smorgaschef.com/, call for reservations.

Directions: From MTA Times Square 7 or S to Grand Central Station, exit at Park Avenue, walk south to 37th Street.

If you like today's issue, why not become a subscriber to Postcards from New York? To start receiving your own copy of Postcards, click here. Or, forward this e-mail to a friend so they can sign-up to receive Postcards from New York too.

You can choose to receive Postcards From New York as an e-mail or RSS feed. Click on the small orange button on the right side of the webpage to activate the RSS. Then you will receive new "Postcards" on your email homepage, or enter your email address on the Home Page at www.postcardsfromnewyork.com to receive "Postcards" via email. Be sure to check your email in-box for a confirmation email, then just click where indicated to activate your subscription.

Photo by Jaime Wilson




© Copyright 2007-9 The Cable Group

The George Washington Trail Part II

George Washington outside Federal Hall

----New York for Kid's Part 7 continued----

Dear Postcards from New York Reader,

As we continue downtown, you may consider a short stop at Caswell and Massey at 48th and Lexington, the country’s oldest pharmacy. There are several restaurants in the area suitable for a lunch break or snack. The pharmacy still offers the cologne or after-shave GW purchased from them back in the 1770’s.

Twelve blocks south at Madison and 36th make a brief stop at the Pierpont Morgan Library to see the Presidents death mask. Right before you is actually how George Washington really looked; the mask is identical to a mold done while he was alive. You will find it difficult to leave the very elegant private library of J.P. Morgan after the overwhelming scale of the Metropolitan Museum, so you may choose to end your tour here.

We continue downtown to Washington Square and pause a moment before the two formidable white marble sculptures of Washington that stand on either side of the graceful Triumphal Arch at the entrance to the Park on Fifth Avenue and Waverly Place. Built in 1889 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of his Inauguration, on the left, see GW as General and Military Commander, while on the right – the citizen President.

We will conclude our tour downtown in the Financial District. You can just as easily decide to begin your tour here as a cluster of nearby sites has Washington connections and then work your way north. See GW's handsome bronze statue outside Federal Hall (the plaques underneath with scenes from his life photograph nicely).

Look for the President’s chair in St. Paul’s Chapel on Broadway and Fulton St. Once upon a time, he and Martha worshipped here. Finally, we arrive at Fraunces Tavern Museum, where you can enjoy a traditional American lunch or dinner. The beautiful brick building maintained by the Son’s of the American Revolution is the place where Washington bid his officers farewell in 1783.

If you would like to explore more about the American Revolution and Colonial Period, http://www.socialstudiesforkids.com/ is the place to go. The site provides lots of pictures and downloadable information such as every President's Inaugural Address, take a moment to read GW's First Address here.

A special re-enactment of Washington’s Inauguration will take place on April 30. Mark your calendar to join the colorful celebration in honor of the 220th Anniversary of this historic event at Federal Hall and St. Paul’s Chapel, call 212 233-4164 for details.

Remember, George Washington's actual birthday is February 22.

Jacqueline Cable
For Postcards from New York

Addresses and Directions to Remember:

Caswell and Massey 518 Lexington Avenue at 48th Street, New York, NY 10017, http://www.caswellmassey.com/ , 212-755-2254. Directions: MTA from 42nd Street Times Square, 7 or S to Grand Central and 6 to 51st Street walk south to 48th.

The Pierpont Morgan Library and Museum, 225 Madison Avenue @ 36th Street, New York, NY 10016, www.themorgan.org, 212-685-0008. Directions: MTA from 42nd Street Times Square, 7 or S to Grand Central, walk one block west to Madison Ave, south to 36th St.

Washington Square Monument Fifth Avenue at Washington Square, New York, NY 10012. Directions: From Times Square MTA 1 to Christopher Street, walk east pass Avenue of the Americas to Washington Square. A, C or E to West 4th Street, walk east to Washington Square, N, R or W to 8th Street, walk west to University Place, turn left to Washington Square.

Federal Hall, 26 Wall Street, New York, NY 10004, www.nps.gov/feha/, 212-825-6888. Directions: From Times Square MTA 2, 3 to Wall St., R, W to Rector walk east to Wall St.

St. Paul’s Chapel, 209 Broadway, New York, NY 10007, www.saintpaulschapel.org, 212-602-0874. Directions: From Times MTA 2, 3, A, or C to Fulton St, walk west to Broadway.

Frances Tavern Museum and Restaurant, 54 Pearl Street corner of Broad St., New York, NY 10004, http://www.frauncestavern.com/, 212-986-1776. Directions: From Time Square 1 to South Ferry, R, W to Whitehall walk north and east to Broad Street.

Photo by Joseph Knight

© Copyright 2007-9 The Cable Group

The George Washington Trail

Washington and his troops brave the elements December 1776

----New York for Kids Part 7----

Dear Postcards from New York Reader,

Each year as we approach President’s Day, my thoughts always turn to George Washington more often than Abraham Lincoln because of his many associations with our great city. New York was the nation's first Capital and the site of many Revolutionary War skirmishes and episodes. The founding fathers fort fierce battles, held secret meetings, planned and plotted military occupations right from here. Our first President took his oath of office on Wall Street where his bronze statue now stands in front of Federal Hall.

Many school kids and students are on Winter Break this week; one way to keep them entertained while they learn, is to plan a visit to one or more of the sites along what I call "The George Washington Trail." It is sure to vividly bring to life many action charged events like the dramatic scene in the painting above and ignite an interest in the men and women who laid the foundation of our nation.

Given the limited attention span of youngsters these days, this tour will be impossible to accomplish in one day, so select two or three sites for an outing and bring along coloring books and construction paper. One good rule, no more than forty-five minutes at each location.

We'll begin far uptown under his namesake the George Washington Bridge inside the tiny Little Red Lighthouse (see Postcard Jan 29, 2008, click here). Close your eyes a moment and try to imagine how this area looked in 1776, long before the bridge, when it was rural fields and farmland. Look across the Hudson; think what it was like to sail up the river in the cold winter months. Imagine what happened to ships when the River froze.

Travel 15 blocks downtown to the next site, the Morris Jumel Mansion at 160th St, the former country home of British Colonel Roger Morris; this was occupied by Washington in 1776. Walk upstairs to the airy comfortable bedrooms and see where GW slept.

Just a few blocks south on 141st St. you'll find The Grange, home of Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the Treasury in George Washinton's cabinet. After the Revolution, the nation was seriously in debt. Hamilton worked tirelessly to establish a solid financial base and currency for our young country. His office was downtown on Wall St. This was his country retreat, it usually took hours to travel here by horseback; do you think he may have invited Washington to come for a visit?

The Metropolitan Museum of Art at 83rd and Fifth, is our next stop. Find the enormous painting above, "Washington Crossing the Delaware" on view in the American Wing. Wow! The grand sweeping heroic scene makes you almost feel the wind. I know your thoughts, what a difference between a photograph and the real thing? Tear yourself away to look for the famous portrait of GW by Gilbert Stuart. Before you leave, don’t neglect to peek at the rustic Pilgrim Century and Colonial Period furniture rooms. Notice, it looks as if the inhabitants only just departed.

The Metropolitan Museum, usually closed on Mondays is open Presidents Day, with a host of events (films, talks, hunts) designed for families with young children to experience together.

To be continued...

Jacqueline Cable

For Postcards from New York

Addresses and Directions to Remember:

The Little Red Lighthouse, Fort Washington Park, 178th Street and the Henry Hudson Parkway, New York, NY 10033, dial 311 and ask for the Urban Park Ranger. Directions: From Times Square MTA A to 175th Street walk west toward the river, check specific directions in January 29, 2008 Postcard here for details.

The Morris-Jumel Mansion, Roger Morris Park, 65 Jumel Terrace at 160th St, New York, NY 10032, 212-923-8008. http://www.morrisjumel.org/. Directions: From Times Square MTA C train to 163rd Street, proceed up St. Nicholas to Roger Morris Park you will see the Mansion.
Bus M2, M18, M101 to 160th Street, short walk to the Mansion.

The Grange – Will reopen in the near future, check www.nps.gov/hagr for details.

The Metropolitan Museum, 1000 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10028, 212-535-7710, http://www.metmuseum.org/ Directions: From Times Square MTA S or 7 to Grand Central Station, 4, 5, or 6 to 86th Street, walk west toward Central Park to Fifth Avenue, short walk to 82nd Street.

Photo Washington Crossing the Delaware - Emanuel Leutze 1851 (detail) courtesy of the Metropolitan Museum of Art

© Copyright 2007-9 The Cable Group

A Little Known Gem in Harlem: The Morris Jumel Mansion

The Morris-Jumel Mansion

----A Postcards from New York Encore----

In celebration of President's Day, something from our New York for Kids series. Kids will find the mansion filled with period furniture like a life size Doll's House. It is a perfect place to bring them face to face with "living" history.

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Dear Postcards from New York Reader,

From the moment you approach the Morris-Jumel Mansion’s graceful Georgian façade of towering white columns, the house comes to life. It is 1770, lively music from violins, cellos, piano and flute float from the house along with the muffled din of dancing feet. The buzz of pleasant conversation and the expectation of light refreshment, force you to hasten your pace to join the party. Inside, wide corridors, double parlors, hand-painted wall paper, handsome portraits, antique Chippendale, Empire, and Classical Revival furniture tell the tale of the entertaining that obviously took place here during the Pre-Revolutionary Period in British New York.

Built in 1765, the mansion was once the country home and summer retreat of Colonel Roger and Mary Morris. When war broke out in 1776, Colonel Morris, a British officer, returned to England to raise money for troops and military supplies. His home, meanwhile, was seized by George Washington’s forces and served as his headquarters because of its key strategic location overlooking both the Harlem and Hudson rivers.

Walk slowly around the parlor, dining room and drawing room downstairs, then imagine the life of the former inhabitants in the comfortable airy bedrooms upstairs. The furniture in Washington’s study and bedroom painstakingly restored, look the way they might have appeared when he lived here. Venture down a narrow staircase, and peek in the kitchen below the main floor; now notice the hearth, odd-shaped curious wrought iron kitchen utensils and cooking accessories once used to toast bread.

The Mansion and beautiful landscaped garden off Roger Morris Park in Harlem is a bit of a hike from midtown, but without a doubt your effort will be pleasantly rewarded. A couple of hours spent here, allows your imagination free rein and transports you to another era.

Best of all, it’s never crowded. This is a museum only the most discerning New Yorkers have discovered. Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis engaged the drawing rooms for private luncheons and tea parties, while Katherine Hepburn found the gardens a welcome refuge from her East Side townhouse. If you are lucky, you may find you have the place all to yourself.

Suggestion: To prepare youngsters for a first visit, Dover's beautifully illustrated coloring books make Colonial life exciting. "The American Revolution Coloring Set" features The Story of the American Revolution, Hero's and Heroine's of the Revolution and George Washington. Dover's many engaging 18th Century subject titles will have your child begging for more. Other subjects of interest: "Everyday Dress of the American Colonial Period," "Benjamin Franklin," "Four Colonial Girls-Paper Dolls," "Home life in Colonial Days" and "Uniforms of the American Revolution." Visit http://www.doverpublications.com/ to explore their extensive book list.

For older kids, have them see Mel Gibson's realistic portrait of the Period in "The Patriot," which features a moving performance by Heath Ledger. Then order them a free pocketsize copy of our Constitution from the Heritage Foundation click here.

One final suggestion. When you return to midtown, take a taxi. Ask your driver to drive south through Central Park. The wooded landscape will give you a sense of what this area of the city looked like in the late 18th and early 19th century when cultivated farmland, grazing sheep and cows were commonplace.

Jacqueline Cable
For Postcards from New York



Address to remember: Morris-Jumel Mansion, Roger Morris Park, 65 Jumel Terrace at 160th St, New York, NY 10032, 212-923-8008.

Directions: From Times Square MTA C train to 163rd Street, proceed up St. Nicholas to Roger Morris Park, you will see the Mansion.
Bus M2, M18, M101 to 160th Street, short walk to the Mansion.



Photo courtesy of The Morris-Jumel Mansion


© Copyright 2007-9 The Cable Group

Christmas in New York with Kids

Take a photo with Princess Diana

----New York for Kids Part 6 ----

Dear Postcards from New York Reader,

While doing the research for the soon to be released "New York Get There 1-2-3" (every week there is another delay), I discovered several terrific places to take kids that are open everyday of the year, including Christmas Day! Wonderful news for those who don't celebrate Christmas and something for parents to keep in their back pocket after the gifts have been unwrapped and the thrill of new toys, gadgets and computer games have worn off. Here are three I think are great fun.

• Madame Tussauds - The grand dame of Wax Museums. From experience, I can report the wax figures are as engaging to adults as kids. Just off Times Square you have a choice of major fast food restaurants close by.
  
  
• The Observatory at the Empire State Building - Although a must for tourists, it is amazing how many people who live here have never been up. Enjoy a spectacular view from every angle, you won't want to come down.
  
  
• FAO Schwartz - Can you believe it? Open on Christmas Day in the event that there is some little person you forgot on your Christmas list and you are expected for dinner later in the evening. This wonderland of toys is guaranteed to keep the whole family, from preschoolers to grandparents, absorbed for hours.

Hate to keep teasing you, but you will find several more terrific spots open everyday of the year in "New York Get There 1-2-3," look for an upcoming announcement on how Postcard Readers can get their copy "Free."

Jacqueline Cable

For Postcards from New York

Addresses and Directions to Remember:

Madame Tussauds, 234 West 42nd St. between 7th & 8th Ave., New York, NY 10036, 212, http://www.madametussauds.com/. From Times Square MTA walk wone half block west. Something to consider next year, throughout the month of February, guests who present their Metro Card at the Madame Tussauds admissions counter will receive one free admission with the purchase of one full priced Adult All Access Pass.


Empire State Building, 350 Fifth Ave @ 34th St., New York, NY 10018, 212-736-3100, www.esbnyc.com/index2.cfm. From Times Square MTA N, Q, R, W to 34th St. walk east to 5th Ave.


FAO Schwartz, 767 Fifth Ave @ 59th St., New York, NY 10153, 212-308-6094, http://www.fao.com/. From Times Square MTA N, R, W to 5th Ave/59th St.


Photo by Joseph Knight


© Copyright 2007-8 The Cable Group

11 Things

Taxis, A Quintessentially New York feature

----A Postcard from New York Encore----

With the addition of one more thing that makes New York so very special for me.

***********************************************


Dear Postcards from New York Reader,

On a return flight from LA last week, I looked out the plane window at the landscape below ablaze with light; building lights, expressway lights, bridge lights and car lights zooming rhythmically in a sea of traffic. Immediately I got the rush, the little exhilarating shiver I always get when I come home and it hits me how lucky I am to live in this incredible place.

Now after a festive Thanksgiving surrounded by friends and family, I pause a moment to share 10 things I am extremely thankful for but take for granted far too often.

1. That this city truly never sleeps. It is alive with places where you can listen to jazz, like Birdland, into the wee hours, and places where you can just sit and chat with friends until 3 or 4 in the morning.

2. That the US Post Office at 33rd Street and 8th Avenue is open 24 hours a day 365 days a year. Need to have something postmarked, perhaps your tax return on April 15th? Just get there by 12 AM. In most US cities, even major ones, the Post office is closed by 5 or 6 PM at the latest.

3. The late Federal Express Drop off. It is almost 9 PM, you discover you’ve got to have something delivered tomorrow. In any other city, you would be out of luck. Not here, last drop off at 537 West 33rd Street between 10th and 11th Avenue is 9:30PM.

4. The Barnes and Noble at Lincoln Center. If like me, you find it impossible to free up an hour or two during the day to get to a bookstore; arrive here at 9 PM and you will still have hours to browse through books in your favorite sections. The store is open until 12 AM every day.

5. Cipriani for gourmet take-out. Your sister or a friend calls to say they are on the way over, and like most New Yorkers you have nothing in your fridge; after all, with over 45,000 restaurants to choose from, we frequently dine out. No need to settle for Chinese, Mexican or Pizza. More on this amazing place in an upcoming Postcard.

6. Staples and FedEx Kinko's. Ever find yourself in a situation where you finally finish a last minute report or presentation and you need to have copies made and professionally bound? Staples at 14th Street and Union Square is open until 10 PM or there is a 24-hour Kinko’s in almost every neighborhood.

7. Easy access to the most renowned writers, artists, musicians, healers and guru’s. One can hear them play in intimate surroundings, meet them at gallery openings or lectures, or talk with them after a show or informal gathering at places like The New School. Enroll in a drawing class at the Art Students League, and there standing next to you is a famous artist, pencil and paper in hand honing his craft.

8. The New York Public Library. The city’s greatest asset belongs to all of us and we do not take advantage of even 10% of all its offers. Look for an upcoming series on the Library in Postcards early in the New Year.

9. Fairway – Like No other Market. Yes, Zabar’s and Citarella are wonderful and they too bring food and delicacies from far corners of the globe within our reach; but Fairway makes no pretense and doesn’t try to be anything other than an insanely harried, bustling, crowded-at-all-hours market.

10. The Spa at the Madison Hotel for the most exquisite Shiatzu massage. Back walk anyone? I never have time to do these things during normal business hours. Here, I can book a last minute appointment or just walk in at 7 or 8 PM and leave at midnight or later, completely rejuvenated.

11. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting is an annual thrill. The moment the more than 30,000 lights go on will leave you giddy and speechless. The Christmas season doesn't really start for me until I experience that special magic. Share it with family and friends this year on December 3rd. Just get there early and secure a spot as it is guaranteed to be a "gridlock alert day." Click here to learn more about this years 72-foot, 8 ton Norwood Spruce.

Yes, only in New York.

Jacqueline Cable
For Postcards from New York

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Photo by Joseph Knight

© Copyright 2007-8 The Cable Group

The President's Favorite After-shave

America's oldest Chemist/Pharmacy

Dear Postcards from New York Reader,

Year's ago it was the custom to celebrate our two most significant President's, George Washington (without him we may never have become a nation) and Abraham Lincoln (he made sure we remained "one" nation), on their birthday's.

Today is GW's birthday. I wonder if he came back to life and walked our streets, would he recognize anything or would this be just too incomprehensible. I am sure his eyes would sparkle at the sight of a tavern where he often spent hours chatting over food and wine with fellow rebels on Pearl Street. Fraunces Tavern while no longer a guesthouse is still a restaurant.

Not far away, it might be difficult in between the cluster of old and new buildings to find the spot where his Inauguration took place. But, a bronze statue in front of Federal Hall on Wall Street might bring a curious smile to his face, as he considered if it looked anything like him in 1789. Back then, New York was the nation's capital and he lived here.

Two handsomely upholstered chairs Martha and he once sat in hold a place of honor in St. Paul's Chapel where they worshiped on Fulton Street. Venturing further uptown in what would have been the outskirts of the city in his day, imagine his surprise when he discovered his favorite after-shave (Number Six Cologne) was still available at Caswell & Massey at 48th and Lexington Avenue.

Founded in 1752, Caswell & Massey continues to build a loyal following after more than 250 years. Spend an afternoon discovering your favorite scent amoung their perfume oils, soaps, toiletries and shaving creams that have been the choice of several Presidents'.

Tell me after you have sniffed a whiff, do you think Martha had anything to do with George's choice of Number Six as his favorite cologne?

Jacqueline Cable
For Postcards from New York

Address to remember: Caswell-Massey Co. LTD, 518 Lexington Avenue at 48th Street, New York, NY 10017, http://www.caswellmassey.com/ , 212-755-2254.

Directions: MTA from 42nd Street Times Square, S to Grand Central and 6 to 51st Street.

Photo by Joseph Knight


©Copyright 2008 The Cable Group

Big Apple Diamonds!

Just in time for Christmas! The Big Apple Diamond Suite

Dear Postcards from New York Reader,

Finally, they are ready! Yes, I realize there's only six shopping days left until Christmas, but for all of you who love New York as much as I do, here is something really special; The perfect diamond pendent with matching earrings.

Months ago, we asked private jeweler, Joseph Knight (who also creates most of the wonderful photographs featured in Postcards From New York) if he would design something unique, understated, elegant and at the same time a recognizable symbol of this remarkable city.

What do you think? I would say he has succeeded beyond anything I imagined.

Of course, he chose diamonds; Mr. Knight has perfected a technique he calls diamond thread, where the lines of diamonds are so fluid they look like fine thread. In his own words he describes The Big Apple Diamond Suite, "My inspiration was to combine all the elements I love about New York into a very wearable suite of jewelry; so, I took the famous Big Apple motif and jazzed it up with a thread of diamonds which represents the Manhattan nighttime skyline and the lights on Broadway."

The Big Apple pendant, with a 16" chain, is set in 14K white gold mounted with (35) fine diamonds that total a quarter of a carat. The earrings consist of (10)diamonds each, for a total weight of .10ct. Whether giving the entire suite or the necklace or earrings separately, these items make the perfect gift for any New York lover on your list.

Order today, so a very lucky person in your life can unwrap them under the tree Christmas morning. The set is specially priced at $599.00; Click here for details. For special RUSH orders, If you order by Saturday, Federal Express will assure delivery on Christmas Eve.

Merry Christmas!

Jacqueline Cable
For Postcards from New York

Joseph Knight Private Jeweler, 201-925-5373, http://www.knightandhammer.com/

Photo courtesy of Knight and Hammer

© Copyright 2007 The Cable Group

10 Things

Taxis, A Quintessentially New York feature

Dear Postcards from New York Reader,

On a return flight from LA last week, I looked out the plane window at the landscape below ablaze with light; building lights, expressway lights, bridge lights and car lights zooming rhythmically in a sea of traffic. Immediately I got the rush, the little exhilarating shiver I always get when I come home and it hits me how lucky I am to live in this incredible place.

Now after a festive Thanksgiving surrounded by friends and family, I pause a moment to share 10 things I am extremely thankful for but take for granted far too often.

1. That this city truly never sleeps. It is alive with places where you can listen to jazz, like Birdland, into the wee hours, and places where you can just sit and chat with friends until 3 or 4 in the morning.

2. That the US Post Office at 33rd Street and 8th Avenue is open 24 hours a day 365 days a year. Need to have something postmarked, perhaps your tax return on April 15th? Just get there by 12 AM. In most US cities, even major ones, the Post office is closed by 5 or 6 PM at the latest.

3. The late Federal Express Drop off. It is almost 9 PM, you discover you’ve got to have something delivered tomorrow. In any other city, you would be out of luck. Not here, last drop off at 537 West 33rd Street between 10th and 11th Avenue is 9:30PM.

4. The Barnes and Noble at Lincoln Center. If like me, you find it impossible to free up an hour or two during the day to get to a bookstore; Arrive here at 9 PM and you will still have hours to browse through books in your favorite sections. The store is open until 12 AM every day.

5. Cipriani for gourmet take-out. Your sister or a friend calls to say they are on the way over, and like most New Yorkers you have nothing in your fridge; After all, with over 45,000 restaurants to choose from, we frequently dine out. No need to settle for Chinese, Mexican or Pizza. More on this amazing place in an upcoming Postcard.

6. Staples and FedEx Kinko's. Ever find yourself in a situation where you finally finish a last minute report or presentation and you need to have copies made and professionally bound? Staples at 14th Street and Union Square is open until 10 PM or there is a 24-hour Kinko’s in almost every neighborhood.

7. Easy access to the most renowned writers, artists, musicians, healers and guru’s. One can hear them play in intimate surroundings, meet them at gallery openings or lectures, or talk with them after a show or informal gathering at places like The New School. Enroll in a drawing class at the Art Students League, and there standing next to you is a famous artist, pencil and paper in hand honing his craft.

8. The New York Public Library. The city’s greatest asset belongs to all of us and we do not take advantage of even 10% of all its offers. Look for an upcoming series on the Library in Postcards early in the New Year.

9. Fairway – Like No other Market. Yes, Zabar’s and Citarella are wonderful and they too bring food and delicacies from far corners of the globe within our reach; but Fairway makes no pretense and doesn’t try to be anything other than an insanely harried, bustling, crowded-at-all-hours market.

10. The Spa at the Madison Hotel for the most exquisite Shiatzu massage. Back walk anyone? I never have time to do these things during normal business hours. Here, I can book a last minute appointment or just walk in at 7 or 8 PM and leave at midnight or later, completely rejuvenated.

Yes, only in New York.

Jacqueline Cable
For Postcards from New York

P.S. Wow! It’s been almost one month since I last wrote a Postcard and I have missed communicating with you. I would like to thank contributing writer’s Jerry Petrasek and Deborah Torbert for sharing their special insights. And, I thank all of you for your wonderful comments and stories and look forward to publishing some of them in upcoming editions.

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  If you like today's issue, why not become a subscriber to Postcard from New York? To start receiving your own copy of Postcards, click here. Or forward this e-mail to a friend so they can sign-up to receive Postcards from New York too.
  


• Keep Postcards From New York coming to your mailbox! If you enjoy reading Postcards, help us out by "white listing" our service before its delivery is interrupted.
  

Photo by Joseph Knight

© Copyright 2007 The Cable Group

Remembering Princess Diana

Althorp - Princess Diana's childhood home

Dear Postcards from New York Reader,

In memory of the 10th Anniversary of Princess Diana's death, A Postcard From New York Encore published May 2, 2007.

Princess Diana will always hold a special place in my heart since she died on my birthday. So with sadness, I paused a moment when I saw the book, Althorp Living History, lying casually on a coffee table in the Antique Galleries at ABC Carpet and Home.

But then, how can one remain sad when you think of Diana's beautiful laughing smile and her shy mischievous eyes?

Soon after she and Charles were married, I had the good fortune to finagle an invitation for art collector clients to visit Althorp for a luncheon with her late father and the Countess of Spencer. The long drive on the estate's gravel road to the mansion remains a vivid memory.

If you have lived in or visited the British Isles, you are familiar with the sight of herds of sheep as they graze in lush green fields and meadows throughout the countryside. In a city like New York, we are completely isolated from such bucolic scenes right out of an 18th century novel. What made the drive to Althorp unusual was, not only were there sheep grazing, but a herd of Black Angus cows as well. Holding my breath to avoid the pungent odor of manure nearly made me gag; I had never seen such massive animals outside of the ones at a zoo, so close-up.

We quickly forgot the unpleasant aroma outside as we stood in the elegant guest entrance hall surrounded by great horse portraits by the artist, John Wootton. With the magnificent collections of paintings, silver, antique furnishings, Persian carpets, decorative art, porcelain, and objects of art, great country houses like Althorp are a pleasant reminder of a time and a past way of life.

In today's world, these homes present a real problem. The cost to maintain such properties is staggering, as repairs and upkeep never end. No matter the resources of the owner, they are a constant challenge.

Anyone who owns a home knows the time and money required to stay ahead of repairs and maintenance; There's always something, the boiler, the gutters, the ceiling, the roof, the plumbing, the wiring, or the vents; Now, image your home has over 100 rooms!

How clever of Diana's brother, Charles Edward, Earl of Spencer, to collaborate with Theodore Alexander to create exquisite reproductions of Althorp's extraordinary antiques. He has found a way to finance the maintenance of his ancestral home, while he shares Diana with all of us, at the same time.

We can imagine her as a youngster running and playing games like hide and seek, peeking out behind a high-backed wing chair, or on her knees under a great desk or table.

Take a walk through the Althorp Collection and live the dream of being lord or mistress of the manor. Then go home and rent a movie like "Remains of the Day" or "The Queen."

Jacqueline Cable
For Postcards from New York

P.S. Those of us who share a particular affection for Diana will enjoy Mario Testino’s beautiful photographs of her at home in his recently published Diana Princess of Wales by Mario Testino at Kensington Palace: Princess of Wales.

Address to remember: ABC Carpet and Home, 888 Broadway at 19th Street. New York, NY 10003. 212-473-3000.

Hours: Monday - Friday 10 AM - 8 PM, Saturday 10 AM - 7 PM, Sunday 11 AM - 6:30 PM.

Directions: From Times Square MTA, N, R, or W to 23rd Street. Bus M2, M3, and M5.

Address to remember: Althorp, Northampton, Northhamptonshire. England, UK NN7 4HQ

Directions: From London M1 North Exit 16 or 18

Photo courtesy of Beric Tempest & Company

©Copyright 2007 The Cable Group

Remembering Princess Diana

Althorp - Princess Diana's childhood home

Dear Postcards from New York Reader,

continued from A Day at the Kasbah

Princess Diana will always hold a special place in my heart since she died on my birthday. So I paused a moment when I saw the book, Althorp Living History, lying casually on a coffee table in the Antique Galleries at ABC Carpet and Home.

But, how can one remain sad when you think of Diana's beautiful laughing smile and her shy mischievous eyes?

Soon after she and Charles were married, I had the good fortune to finagle an invitation for art collector clients to visit Althorp for a luncheon with her late father and the Countess of Spencer. The long drive on the estate's gravel road to the mansion remains a vivid memory.

If you have lived in or visited the British Isles, you are familiar with the sight of herds of sheep as they graze in lush green fields and meadows all over the countryside. In a city like New York, we are completely isolated from such bucolic scenes right out of an 18th century novel. What made the drive to Althorp unusual, was not only were there sheep grazing, but a herd of Black Angus cows as well. Holding my breath to avoid the pungent odor of manure nearly made me gag; I had never seen such massive animals outside of ones at a zoo, so close-up.

We quickly forgot the unpleasant odor outdoors as we stood in the elegant guest entrance hall surrounded by great horse portraits by John Wootton. With magnificent collections of paintings, silver, antique furnishings, Persian carpets, decorative art, porcelain, and objects of art, great country houses like Althorp are a reminder of a time and a past way of life.

In today's world, these homes present a real problem. The cost to maintain such properties is staggering, while repairs and upkeep never end. No matter the resources of the owner, they are a constant challenge.

Anyone who owns a home knows the time and money required to stay ahead of repairs and maintenance. It's always something, the boiler, the gutter, the ceiling, the roof, the plumbing, or the vents; Now image your home has over 100 rooms!

How clever of Diana's brother, Charles Edward Earl of Spencer, to collaborate with Theodore Alexander to create exquisite reproductions of Althorp's extraordinary antiques. He has found a way to finance the maintenance of his ancestral home, while at the same time, he shares Diana with all of us.

We can imagine her as a youngster running and playing games like hide and seek, peeking out behind a high-backed wing chair, or on her knees under a great desk or table.

Take a walk through the Althorp Collection and live the dream of being lord or mistress of the manor. Then go home and rent a movie like "Remains of the Day" or "The Queen" ( just released on DVD.)


Jacqueline Cable
For Postcards from New York

P.S. Have you been watching TV? Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip were at the White House yesterday, they are here to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the first British settlement in America at Jamestown Virginia.


Address to remember: ABC Carpet and Home, 888 Broadway at 19th Street. New York, NY 10003. 212-473-3000.

Hours: Monday – Friday 10 AM – 8 PM, Saturday 10 AM – 7 PM, Sunday 11 AM – 6:30 PM.

Directions: From Times Square MTA, N, R, or W to 23rd Street. Bus M2, M3, and M5.

Address to remember: Althorp, Northampton, Northhamptonshire. England, UK NN7 4HQ

Directions: From London M1 North Exit 16 or 18

Photo courtesy of Beric Tempest & Company

©Copyright 2007 The Cable Group

A Day at the Kasbah

An invitation from ABC Carpet and Home