Dear Universe,

Thank you for making me feel like a kid again.

Last night (New Year’s Day) I ended up in Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland.  I can’t remember the last time I went to a fair or carnival.

I strolled around and loved seeing the crowd enjoying themselves, still celebrating from New Year’s Eve.  From the young to the old, everyone there was joyous.  All the while, music, laughter and the sounds from the rides filled the night.  The atmosphere was infectious.  It was the most relaxed I’ve felt in a while.

There were stands that offered a variety of food (I was even adventurous and tried two of the unusual burger choices!), drinks and more candy than I could possibly choose from.  Other stands sold handmade jewelry, leather bound journals—I had to get one, knitted scarves and holiday ornaments.  There was a bar set up on a Carousel that rotated slowly.  People jumped on and off, carefree and happy.  Somehow I made room for dessert.  I couldn’t resist when I saw mini-pancakes smothered with Nutella and banana. I was content.

All in all, it felt like a promising start to the year.  I hope for more nights like this one: spontaneous and light-hearted fun.

Thank you,

A