Sunday, March 27, 2016

City Views, Country Dreams

Happy Easter from New York!

I'm writing this as a fully retired person, and am surrounded in my little apartment by dozens of tulips and other gifts presented to me by my lovely work colleagues at a farewell sendoff.


Many photographs were taken during the farewell party.


I've decided...with only one exception...


not to share any of those photographs here.  I will definitely be sharing the pictures with the folks who attended the party.  I was so honored by all their kindness and generosity to me!


And so, moving on, I will show you what I saw today on my stroll over to the Fifth Avenue Easter Parade.  Taking a diagonal southeastern route through Central Park, I passed by lots of daffodils, and also the softball fields that will soon be in use.


Reaching Fifth Avenue and 57th Street, the uptown boundary of the Easter Parade just after noon, I saw lots of open pavement, and realized that as usual, most bonnet wearers would be promenading closer to St. Patrick's Cathedral and Rockefeller Center.


Some of you all may recognize the name on the building in the above picture.  I think that no one really wanted to linger in front of its entrance, in case some sort of demonstration might occur.


Quite a few of my photographs were taken on the hop, so to speak, and so you all might wish to click on the pictures to see an enlarged version.  Such clicking is optional.  There are many photographs in the post!


Madam has bananas on her hat while her consort kept his hat simple with s few colored eggs.


Lots of colorful floral exuberance on display above.


It was a bit chilly, but the sunshine felt great and made for fine lighting for the photographers, professional and amateur.


the hats in the above photograph were made from cut and furled paper, and were definitely being caught by the breezes.


The colorful fellow above was enjoying entertaining all passersby.


These ladies took a more subdued approach in their bonnet choices.


Balloon artists were able to make impromptu hats.  The cute little girl hiding behind the balloons in the next photograph smiled when I took her picture.


Some irresistible photo opportunities present themselves along the Avenue.  Did you all notice the golf course theme of the green hat?


As you can see, the crowd was thickening.


The lady chose a large rose; the gentleman in the background went for flags.


Ice cream cone on lavender hair was looking cool.


This little family group was adorable and cuddly.





This duo from other generations looked festively elegant.


This lady's blue jacket looked grand underneath her flower garden hat, complete with picket fence.


The decorated straw saucer hat above looked very elegant.  The extravagance of the creamy outfit below was definitely a one off.


Some chose to go green.


As in past years, I saw many retro fashion looks.


Bus service and other vehicular traffic was banned for the 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. duration of the parade, so this bus stop was claimed by a bunny ear head gear vendor.


How elegantly dramatic these ladies looked against the matte black wall proclaiming the opening of yet another Victoria's Secret shop.


Let us count the bunnies!


He gave up his cigar for a carrot today.


The Easter Bunny was giving out lots of hugs.


St. Patrick's Cathedral looked much more attractive this year, now that all the protective scaffolding had been removed following months of restoration work.


What a beautiful hat this lady had chosen to wear to church.


What an incredible floral cascade this lady chose to wear over her pale green coat.


And this fellow chose to delight folks of all ages with a light touch.


More retro bonnets worn by stylish ladies.


The following trio, standing in front of Saks, had made their own terrific hats.


As had these ladies, who were having a bit of trouble keeping those bonnets on their heads.


More pretty bonnets, and a jaunty fedora.


These gents were not taking any chances of being chilled.


Lots of folks were taking pictures of this family group, and so I had to wait a while to have a clear view.


When I wished the older boy Happy Easter, he obliged me with an action pose.


Over on the Esplanade at Rockefeller Center, these children were being tempted by the chocolates in the extravagant shop window.


I had to click my camera's button quickly to catch this dandy lion.


There was quite a lovely display around the Esplanade's fountains.


This little girl couldn't resist picking just one flower for her basket.  Her dad only allowed her that one posy.


Two couples moving to very different style beats.


Time for a little sit down, a snack, and a check of the smart phone.


Aren't these two children adorable?


Returning to Fifth Avenue, and beginning my homeward walk, I encountered this trio of ladies who had chosen the retro theme.


The man in the next photograph had decorated his hat with a series of wired black birds.  He actually had a lady friend helping him to walk through the crowds, so that the hat and passersby would not suddenly meet.  It was a great hat!


Here's a selection of bunnies!


The following couple had chosen forsythia for their theme, and also chosen to check their text messages.


The lady in the white feathered headdress towered over these two boys who wanted to be photographed with her.


For contrast, this photograph setting could appear in a magazine.


Here is another one off outfit.


If for any reason, someone felt under-dressed and needed to quickly assemble an Easter bonnet, this couple had provided all the ingredients for sale.


Now this is a bonnet!


Quite a fashion plate with her sash, perhaps advertising a shop.


These crafty gents were attracting a crowd.  In a way, their outfits are a sort of variation on those worn my London's Pearly Kings.


And just a few feet away, here is a touch of elegance.


I very much doubt that this pup chose this outfit.


What a stylish couple!


This bunny was having a little Zen moment of contemplation.


What a huge hat this very thin young lady was wearing!


Very cool, I'm sure.  We wished each other Happy Easter.


This family were taking pictures of Baby's first Easter Parade.


Although the main purpose of these heavy planters is to provide protection from vehicles leaving the street, accidentally or intentionally, it's nice that they have some swirly shrubs and daffs growing in them, too.


Just as I was nearing the 57th Street parade boundary I encountered this white suited, bunny-eared fellow rolling down the Avenue with his dog.


I thought that taking a few photographs of them was a fun way to conclude my Parade reporting for this year.


This was a fine day for a parade and I hope that you all will be able to get some notion of the spirit of the day.


Thank you all for your visit to my previous post and for your lovely comments, about the other parade and also wishing me well on my retirement decision.

I will be back with a new post before long...most likely not featuring a parade.  Happy Easter

65 comments:

  1. Frances, I like your picture at your retirement party – you look quite happy. You will enjoy retirement but it is also difficult to leave a place where you have been for so many years with many colleagues that are also friends.
    I enjoyed the New York Easter Parade through your lens – what a great variety of hats. I liked the lady with the Dandy Lion – as a coincidence I had a large dandelion salad for dinner. It rained here today unfortunately. It did too yesterday. It was my birthday and since we were not going away on a trip I had scheduled a road trip in Atlanta, but with the grey sky and showers, we decided not to go. Being in New York would have been great, but with your photos I feel that I was there, a bit. Thank you.

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    1. Happy Belated Birthday to you, dear Vagabonde! Your Georgia rain has now reached us, so we were very lucky with yesterday's sunshine. I do love sharing the Easter Parade's joyous atmosphere.

      I think that I'm going to be just fine with my transition into retirement. Thank you for your kind words! xo

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  2. What fabulous pictures. I'm amused to see that the guys take part too; over here it's almost exclusively a female activity (the hats, I mean).

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    1. I had a smile on my face for just about the entire time I was at the parade. You can tell that it's a rather laid back affair where folks can definitely do their own thing.

      Eventually, I finally get around to wearing a hat myself!

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  3. So fun to see the parade!! Thank you for taking us! So much variety! I love the vintage looks the best!

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    1. Yes, it's a true visual feast. Keep in mind that that my pictures only capture a fraction of what was on display. xo

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  4. What a beautiful Easter walk !
    I adore the Asian styled hat with the bunnies and the posh lady with the sash. So many beautiful and fun hats.
    Thank you for taking us along on your walk.
    Your retirement flower gifts are lovely.

    cheers, parsnip

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    1. Thanks so much for your comment. The Easter Parade is definitely one of my favorite NYC events. It's all so good natured and low key. The Asian lady with the bunny hat was definitely one of the best looks I saw.
      I received many lovely retirement gifts, but thought those gorgeous tulips were perfect for an Easter post. xo

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  5. Folk make such a creative effort for those hats! I'm not sure there'd be so many join in over here. And this Easter hats would be blown away by storm Katy!

    You look very happy standing by the shop door, I'm sure you've planned things to fill the extra time you now have, and hope you don't miss your work colleagues and customers too much.
    It looks as if you have some bright Spring weather which will inspire more outdoor adventures.
    xx

    PS those tulips are gorgeous!

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    1. Dear Celia, the Easter Parade seems just a bit different every year, which just adds to the fun of the day. (Sorry to report that yesterday's sunshine has now given way to steady rain, with possible clearing this afternoon.)
      I feel so relaxed about retirement. I've certainly got a huge array of interests to now turn to. Expecting to stay in touch with many folks whom I met through my years with EF, as this has also been true of colleagues from other stops along my employment history.
      Yes, the tulips are really, really something to behold! xo

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  6. What imagination people have to put some of those hats together. I do rather like the very floral ones!
    Best wishes on your retirement Frances.

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    1. Elizabeth, the variety of hats is fabulous. Maybe next year I'll take time to put one together myself!
      Thanks for your kind wishes. xo

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  7. Great, I loved all the hats and the couples like Cro said, some very smart and matching pairs there. Nice picture of you too. Very pleasing to see that in this day and age Easter Parades such as this still exist.
    Thank you. Rachelx

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    1. Dear Rachel, since I know you are a hat person, I wish that you could have strolled up and down the Avenue with me yesterday. It's a lovely tradition that allows each attendee to find his or her own way to participate.
      It's a pleasure to share the fun via this post. xo

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  8. Congratulations!
    So glad the folks at EF gave you a warm send off. I look forward to hearing derails.
    As ever, your parade post was a delight -almost as good as being there.
    It's a yearly treat!
    see you soon!

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    1. Thanks so much, Elizabeth! Yes, looking forward to seeing you soon. "Derails" made me laugh...yes, I'll report on the lovely party to you. xo

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  9. How lovely to see the sunshine and all the happy people out in it wearing their beautiful, creative hats and costumes. It's nice to see taht spring is making an appearance somewhere. Not here in our part of the UK though....we have had snow this morning.
    Happy retirement to you.
    Hugs from The UK-x-

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    1. Easter Monday has begun with rainy grey sky, so we were so fortunate to have pleasant weather yesterday. Most of those Easter Parade hats would not have withstood a shower!
      I appreciate your kind wish, too. xo

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  10. What a party!
    Your farewell must have been fun and such a beautiful array of tulips!
    Congratulations Frances

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    1. Thanks so much for your kind words. Yes, that Easter Parade is always great fun, and my farewell EF party was also lots of fun.
      Now...the world is my oyster... ha, ha! xo

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  11. What a rich life you lead in the city. Best wishes as you embark on your 'new life."

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    1. Donna, in the past, I've taken a few short breaks from the employment life, to pursue my painting, but always needed to return to the workday world. This breakaway is totally different! xo

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  12. Sorry my fingers must have slipped!
    New York City is alive with beautiful people in their Easter bonnets enjoying life on a magical Spring day - hats off to them.
    I'm not a bit interested in Blow you own Trumpet tower.
    He embarrasses many and many others where I live...a sad person.
    St Patrick's Cathedral on the other hand looks beautiful and much more worth a look and a pause to say a prayer.

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  13. The cathedral, the raven hat and the "one off" are my personal favorites.Congratulations on being a FREE WOMAN; who knows what good mischief you will get up to!

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    1. There was so much to see yesterday afternoon, Jeri. I am sure that I missed other marvelous creations, but really loved just catching what I caught. Thank goodness for point and shoot cameras!
      I'll keep you posted on future mischief. xo

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  14. I think what I love about the Easter Parade and some other NYC events, is the generosity of spirit of those who do the dressing up. It's truly a labor of love.
    Yes, this retirement bit is going to be delightful. (I might even find time to try some of your wonderful recipe suggestions. Promise to report to you.) xo

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  15. Another fabulous NY parade! Enjoy your retirement Frances... I'm sure you will!

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    1. Gina, I just know that you would love this particular parade, since it's quite informal and much more of a mingle. You can really see lots of details in the hats.
      Oh yes, retirement is going to be great! xo

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  16. Lovely photo's of the Easter parade. Did you wear anything special Frances?

    How strange it must be to be now officially 'retired'. When I look at your photo's, I see a beautiful store in the background. Is that were your worked for? It's good to hear your colleagues bade you farewell in style!

    Happy retirement Frances!

    Madelief x

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    1. Dear Madelief, I did not wear a bonnet, but did wear my newest blue/green fair isle shawl collared jacket.
      I am still getting used to the idea of being retired, but it's a pleasant transition to make. Yes, the photograph of me in a vest I knit about 30 years ago was taken at the entrance to the EF shop where I've recently been working. Yes, it is a beautiful location with a grand team I was fortunate to join for a while.
      xo

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  17. hello You spent a good Easter at the Parade...thank you for all photoes every one is special...I don t know about this tradition!!A lovely sun here clouds and little rain!!And now you are ready for a new life at home ...best wishes!!

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    1. The Fifth Avenue Easter Parade is a very joyous occasion. Perhaps some year you will see it for yourself! xo

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  18. What a post! What a fantastic parade and comprehensive comments to the photos. Wonderful photos of extraordinary hats and costumes... I felt the festive atmosphere of the place and am very much impressed by the number of people who had used their imagination and had spent time to prepare their participation in the Easter Parade. Different ages and nationalities - all together, smiling and happy! Just lovely!
    Thank you, Frances, for the sharing!
    And happy first FREE week!:)xx

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    1. Rossichka, I truly appreciate your comment. The Easter Parade is just what you describe ...so I think my photographs told a good story.
      It is grand having these first days of retirement, a bit like the slow process of a flower blossom opening up! xo

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  19. All good wishes on your retirement. The parade might have been just for you! I do appreciate the glimpse of NYC life. And I look forward to seeing what your future holds.

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    1. Thanks so much, Vicki! I expect to be busier than ever, doing my own thing, at a pace that allows me to enjoy each day. xo

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  20. Those tulips are so gorgeous, I love all the different shades. I am glad you had a happy retirement party, and love your happy leaving work photo!
    The Easter Parade looks very cheerful and sunny...so many colourful sights, it was a pleasure to go along with you. Enjoy your new found freedom, dear Frances(I am sure you will!)and have fun doing all those wonderful creative things you like to do.
    Happy new week.
    Helen xox

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    1. Helen, I love every variety of tulip, and I don't think I've ever had so many different colors on display in my apartment before! As the blooms evolve and age they become increasingly interesting to draw, I think.
      The Easter Parade is always a joy! It's also a joy to gradually explore all that opportunities that retirement offers. Thank you for your kind words. xo

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  21. I wonder if some people spend all year designing and making their outfits for the Easter parade, they are so intricate. Congratulations on your retirement. Perhaps you will make a hat for next year!

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    1. It's grand to be reminded, by all those hats,of how many creative people live in or visit NYC.

      Yes, Lucille, perhaps I will make a hat for next year's Parade. Thanks for the congrats, too. xo

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  22. As always, my friend, you leave us breathless with the beauty of your photographs. I loved every one of them, but perhaps the "Downton" retro endeared themselves to me most of all. Love the gentlemen with their fur collars; reminds me of an elderly gentleman who once lived in this village. On Sunday mornings he would head for the local CoI church with his Top Hat, fur collar [brown]spats and umbrella. He would ambulate in leisurely fashion down to the church and on his return collect the Sunday papers from the local newsagent. They reminded me of him. I hope the retirement is settling well on you. Enjoy yourself my friend. xx

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    1. Irish Eyes, I am delighted that you enjoyed my Easter photographs. I must say that I loved your portrait of the elderly gentleman's Sunday routine.
      And yes, the retirement is settling gently. xo

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  23. Thanks for your many photos, Frances! So fun to see the parade hats and bonnets :)
    Good luck in your retirement!

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    1. Solveig, it's a pleasure to let you see a bit of what Easter Sunday in NYC looks like. Lots of fun along Fifth Avenue! Thank you also for your good wish. xo

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  24. "In your Easter Bonnet..." How I love to browse through all your photos of New Yorkers in their finery. Thanks, Frances, and a belated Happy Easter to you.

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    1. Carol, it's always fun to stroll over to Fifth Avenue on Easter and to be caught up in the joy of the day. xo

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  25. Congratulations on your retirement.
    What a lovely parade, i've never seen this before! We don't have it in Europe I think.
    Overhere the Brussel bombs made us realise that not everyone had nice Easterndays. Its so close to the netherlands.
    I went to a very nice movie: Brooklyn. Have you seen it? Brooklyn in the fifties, I love it so much!

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    1. Dear Jolanda, thank you so much for your kind words.
      I can understand how your own Easter day might have been somewhat dampened. I expect that some folks might have been reluctant to attend our own Fifth Avenue Easter Parade, out of worries about what could happen. We are very glad that what happened was Fun!
      Haven't seen the Brooklyn film, although I did try to read the novel. I admit I did not finish it because it reminded me of too many other similar novels I have read. I know many folks loved both the film and book! xo

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  26. Dear Frances,
    Just did not take a 12 minute walk to the
    "parade" as I knew your superb photos would
    allow us a better view of what happened.
    Thanks,
    Ms. Kitt & Mr. Mike

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    1. Dear Ms and Mr., it is a great pleasure to share a bit of the Easter Parade. There was so, so much to see, I really only captured a bit of the fun. xo

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  27. What a fascinating and colourful city you live in Frances. Congratulations on becoming fully retired and hope you will enjoy all the extra free time you now have (although I find it is easily absorbed). Happy Easter x

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    1. Marianne, thanks so much! I am already beginning to appreciate the pace that retirement will allow me. Yes, I am going to fit lots and lots into each day, but it's great to be looking forward to each day's choices. xo

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  28. What terrific fun!
    No Easter parade in Paris...I wish.
    Yr post makes me miss NYC!!

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  29. What a lovely compliment you've given me, dear Carol! No Fooling. xo

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  30. I have come to depend on/look forward to your Easter Parade posts, Frances. If I am counting correctly, this could be the 10th. Fantastic, as ever. What a way to kick of your first week of retirement!

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    1. What a lovely comment you've written, dear Pondside. Can it really be ten years' of Easter Parade reporting? I have certainly lost count!
      All I know it that I truly love sharing my impressions with you all. (I am finding retirement very agreeable.) xo

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  31. What a lovely time to celebrate and all those hat´s, wow!
    Beautiful pictures...
    Love from Titti

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    1. Oh thank you, Titti. The hats really were amazing, some just crazy, some truly stylish, some very traditional. And, as an earlier comment remarked, it's fun to see men wearing hats, too. xo

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  32. Wow! Wonderful photos which made me feel as though I was there, with all the colour, laughter, chatter and music. Some brilliant creations- very hard to pick a favourite, but the little ones in their woolly, warm jackets stuck in my memory, also the very elegant family with the little boy who struck a pose for you. As a country girl, living on the edge of a large Moor with the free-roaming ponies, sheep and cattle, I can't get my head around such huge, tall buildings all around. I live in a bungalow, surrounded by a few other bungalows, so none of us have any stairs in our homes, let alone lifts/elevators.
    ! It's good to see where and how other folks live, though.

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  33. Rambler, thank you for your kind words. When I began my blog years ago, I wanted to share some of what I do love about New York with folks who live far away from here. What's been great for me is being able to learn lots from folks, like yourself, about the beautiful places that surround you. Blogging can be wonderful! xo

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  34. Dear Frances, how I look forward each year to your Easter Parade chronicles! The amazing, astonishing hats. What a wonderful thing. It looks like it was a perfect day for a parade, too, with a beautiful blue sky and all those bare arms! Spring arrives. Thank you, as always, for sharing your adventures. :)

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    1. Kristen, it would be grand if you and the Doctor could come down to NYC some year to stroll the Avenue yourselves. I only manage to convey a bit of the fun. What's best is its relaxed way of celebrating a lovely day. (Particularly when the weather obliges. This year it was a bit chilly for those bare arms.) xo

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  35. It's pleasure for me to explore every colorful detail or emotion on your photos. they are full of life. thank you for the wonderful trip :) You look like actress.

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    1. Thank you for those kind words, Chloe. Please do visit again.

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