We do not have many Jewish people in New Zealand. It leaves one very unprepared for Christmas in New York.
For instance, we had a menorah in the lobby at work but only a couple of the lights were on. So I helpfully screwed the other bulbs in, admonishing Otto, our security guy, for not trying hard enough to get them all working. Otto (the one who told me my lack of salsa finesse was more down to my lack of practice than my ethnicity) patiently explained that you’re only supposed to light one per day, one for every day of Hannukah. Then he unscrewed them all again.
I myself will be working Christmas Day. Starting at 7 a.m.! My father is in Austin, Texas; my mom in New Zealand, so it seemed like the thing to do.
So I am on call over Christmas….
You might get lucky and edit a great news story!!
Meredith and John are here, and we are going to Mary’s for Christmas dinner – Anna Marie and Sarah will be there – the first time thay have both been here for Christmas in 4 years!!