I love this time of year when New York City is adorned with twinkling snowflakes, gift wrapped buildings, 10-foot nutcracker soldiers, giant red Christmas ornaments, and sparkling and glittering Christmas trees. 

My dad worked in fashion and each holiday season he took me with him to work. In his office, was a big walk-in closet with wrapped presents for all the kids.

What an amazing experience for a child to be able to enter this dreamlike closet and take as many gifts as we could carry. 

Afterwards, we always went to lunch and then walked around the city to gaze in wonder at the holiday lights and decorations. 

I credit my dad for instilling in me a deep love for New York City and all it has to offer – its culture, its energy, its diversity and mostly its magic.