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Arizona Tales

Here we are almost entering December 2012, hard to believe as we just had our July 4th b-b-q it seems.

This is the time of year that I wish I was back in Pennsylvania with the crisp leaves and the chill of the Holidays to really get me in the spirit.   Have you ever lived somewhere that had great big department stores with BIG display windows?    They are spectacular during the Holidays, if you get the chance make sure to see it.    

I actually worked for Gimbels Department Store (Yes, that Gimbels) for my summer fresh out of high school.   I worked in the suburbs, but the downtown store was always amazing.   Holiday windows were filled with twirling ballerinas and lifesize tin soldiers and carolers.    The trees throughout the store were magical creations of ornaments and ribbons and lights.    Everything was over the top opulent and breathtaking.   Santa was always regally seated in his own special area with a huge ornate velvet and carved golden chair.   

The elevators took you up to many floors filled with possiblities for gifts and filling Christmas wishes.     There was a floor with ladies hats and lingerie, one for the specialty candy counter and gift wrap.    Things that were imported from other countries were of the finest quality and workmanship.   The Ladies who worked in the store were often life time employees who knew what customer service really meant.  Each package was wrapped carefully in tissue and often had ribbons.    There was always a wonderful smell that greeted you as you pushed the circular door open, the perfume counter was on the first floor and welcomed customers with exotic scents. 



It was a treat for me and my Mom to go downtown for the day and have lunch on the 12th floor in the Tick-Tock Restaurant where they served tea sandwiches of cream cheese on raisin bread and rice pudding.     I was thinking of Mom when I did this water color to send to her.  She loves delicate colors and Angels.   I hope she likes it.

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