New York is such a multi-dimensional place; I still have trouble focusing on one particular aspect at a time (sorry for the image overload).  Between the architectural three-dimensionality and added socio-economic layers, the city feels like some Orwellian experiment and is at once hectic and peaceful, maker of dreams or destroyer of hope...truly unlike any city I've known.  Add to that the holidays, a small child, lights galore and you have a whole different experience altogether.