“My father was always scrupulous in exacting our holydays, and having us around him on family festivals…It was the policy of that good old gentleman to make his children feel that home was the happiest place in the world, and I value this delicious home feeling as one of the choicest gifts a parent could bestow.” –from The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, by Washington Irving

This is a favorite quote of mine, from one of my favorite books. If you’ve never read the Sketch-Book of Geoffrey Crayon, I give it my highest recommendation. I live not far from Irving’s home in Sunnyside, which I pass on my way to work, and I think of him often during my commute. There is something magical about his stories that captures the essence of the area, especially as it must have been in those bygone days.

Happy Thanksgiving, and my warmest wishes to all for a peaceful holiday season.