National Day of Listening
Today, Friday, November 28th, 2008 is the first annual National Day of Listening. So declared by StoryCorps, National Day of Listening is dedicated to encouraging people to listen to each other's stories and learning about the lives of the people around you. Whether it's your grandmother, a teacher, a neighbor or a child, take some time today to ask someone about themselves and listen to what they have to say. It may be the most meaningful time you spend all year.

You can download a National Day of Listening Do-It-Yourself Guide and use an online question generator to help you get started. Record your stories and submit them to the StoryCorps project or even think about creating a video or book of family stories to share as free, but meaningful holiday gifts with friends and family.

The Big Smiley Face in the Sky
This weekend there will be a particularly good reason to check out the heavens as Venus, Jupiter and the waxing crescent moon will all be hanging out together making themselves conspicuous. This unusual meet-up will be most sight-worthy on Monday, December 1, when the three will be very close together, but can be seen all weekend.

No telescope or binoculars will be needed to take this view in, but if you want to make an event of it head to Belvedere castle in Central park on Sunday night where a winter stargazing program will begin at 6 pm. Advance registration required. Call (212) 772-0210.

The image at left gives you an idea of what to look for. The Moon's size is exaggerated for clarity. Image courtesy Sky & Telescope. [Via Hayden Plantarium Blog]

Winter's Eve at Lincoln Center
On Monday, December 1, beginning at 5:30pm, the Upper West Side, from the Time Warner Center to 68th Street and Broadway, will be transformed into a festive winter wonderland. Winter's Eve is a huge neighborhood-wide street festival with dozens of great performances, street performers, activities, food tastings, special shopping offers and exhibits create almost a carnival-esque atmosphere.

For kids the Father Goose Dance Party will have them whooping it up. You can also see The Big Apple Circus and Circus Minimus. There will be arts and crafts activities where kids can make cards and scarves for charity, a Marc Chagall exhibit with children's art projects, ice sculptures and demonstrations. Plus many of the area restaurants will offer $1-$4 food tastings or be offering free hot chocolates and area stores will be offering free gifts, raffles and prizes. Explore the website to find out all the special deals and details.