Gary Burke.'s photostream  

There is an exhibit of antique Chinese wood windows and doors currently on display at our local town hall. I was off from work today so I went to see the exhibition. I'm really glad I did! These beautiful doors and windows were all hand carved. I was amazed at the level of detail and the workmanship that went into creating these works of art!

I have only started venturing into the Chelsea district of New York City recently and, now that I am going there, I cannot imagine what kept me away for so long. This is a great area for both photography and eating. Two of my favorite things to do while being out!

Chess is a very popular and often cut-throat game here in the parks of New York City but the game of choice in the Chinese neighborhoods is Xiangqi, commonly known as Chinese Chess. I haven't a clue how to play this game or even a basic understanding of the rules, but it's so popular here in Chinatown. The players seem to take the game very seriously and there is always a sizable audience surrounding them, watching the game so intently. I really enjoy playing chess, so I'm sure I would like Xiangqi too, if I can find someone willing to teach me.

There were so many Lion Dancers at the parade, many in colors that I have never seen before. This green and silver one was new to me this year. I love to see these big colorful creatures come dancing down the street!

It was a nice surprise to see this woman dressed up as Disney's Sleeping Beauty during the Chinese New Year Parade. Seeing a Disney Princess was one of the last things I would have expected to find here, except perhaps Mulan who, surprisingly, was not there. She looks great as Sleeping Beauty though! So beautiful! I wish the float would have gone by a bit slower so that I could have gotten a few more shots of this lovely princess.