Santa and his busy and mischievious elves are acceptable to almost everyone’s mid-winter holiday — whether it is Christmas, Solstice, Kwanza or Chunakuh. They represent the spirit of giving. But was I ever surprised to glance up at the facade of the Monier building across the street from the Mercado and see these elves hanging out the windows and one even dangling from string of lights. It’s an amusing take on elves and probably much more dramatic at night when the lights are bright and colorful.
Elsewhere in the Monier apartment building I saw a Christmas tree (originally a Germanic pagan religious icon) framed by doorways of the building. It being December in Tucson, two men were having lunch and a conversation in the courtyard in their shirt sleeves. No jackets needed.
Decorated windows in white instead of green and red
Other sights around this district: both in the Mercado and in nearby MSA, store windows were decorated with beautiful white window paintings. The one of the left, inside the Mercado, appears to be a permanent art addition to the store’s window. The one on the right, in MSA, is clearly more seasonal. Maybe it’s an expression of hope for chillier weather and snow on saguaros. Today it is supposed to be over 75F degrees for a high temperature. (That’s 10 degrees above the historic average for December.)
Also at the Mercado and MSA: Delicious baked goods including Mexican favorites and, on the right, a wreath for the holidays with people eating lunch outside in the sunshine in the background. No picture yet, but there is a sign that reads that MSA is expanding and adding new shipping containers for more stores.
Happy holiday season and may 2025 be a great year for you!
P.S. There are surprises coming here in January.
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