Back in New York

It was really nice to spend a weekend back in NY, including a day back in Chappaqua. Even getting the Metro North was a good experience as it rekindled lots of memories.  I must confess I miss it. 

Happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a fantastic holiday: No presents, very little commercial nonsense surrounding it and a time when family and friends and SAYING THANKS is really what it is all about. Every country should have one.

We were so lucky when we were in the States to be invited to Judy and Morgan's house every year. The one year we thought we would give them a break and take a family trip away up the Connectitcut coast it rained so heavily and so continuously, it had to be an omen. We didn't skip the McGrath's thanksgiving again!

And with the wonders of technology we didn't skip it again this year. Between courses Judy, Morgan, Peter, Junko, Sarah and Morgan Jnr took the time out to include us in this year's Thanksgiving as well.

And we had a Thanksgiving phone call as well. Wonderful people.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Halloween

Without much exaggeration I can say that Halloween in the UK is pathetic compared to the last five years in the States. I have such wonderful memories of big groups of parents and children walking around Oak Hill, or Spring or Begg for a couple of hours, welcoming anyone who wanted to join and all the children in some fancy dress. Everyone made an effort, always, and especially Jill, who never resorted to buying a costume for the boys. She may have borrowed a lion outfit once, but other than that she generally cobbled together stuff and made the most wonderful outfits; my favourite is still The Cat in the Hat. Anyway, in honor of five great US Halloweens, here are some snaps from 2003 to 2007: