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Holidays

Bar Car Night in the Garden

Shortly before Christmas, my friend and I rode the train from Grand Central Station to the Bronx for an event at the New York Botanical Garden. On select weekend evenings throughout the holiday season, the Garden presents a festive program anchored by the popular Holiday Train Show—Bar Car Nights. Guests can enjoy performers, food trucks,…

(Courtesy of Little Miss Celebration)

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year’s Day! Hope that you’re sharing the day among loved ones or enjoying your own New Year’s tradition.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas! This year, I have found the Christmas season especially magical. Maybe it’s because I shared a few days with an old friend. Maybe it’s because I’ve been listening to Christmas music non-stop. Maybe it’s because my wife and I watched Savannah bedecking itself for the holiday on our recent trip. Enjoy the day…

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving! Wishing you a wonderful day and a hearty meal with family and friends. This year, forgo the mad consumption of Black Friday. Instead of heading to the mall or shopping online, watch a favorite film, read a book, or simply share another day with your loved ones. Indulge in leftovers, too. All experiences…

Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween! After handing out candy to trick-or-treaters this evening, crack open a collection of ghost stories or watch a treasured horror film. Remember the spirit of the holiday needs not depart at the stroke of midnight. As long as you feel autumn in the air, the fun and mystery of Halloween linger. Enjoy.

Jean Leon Gerome Harris, George Washington Visiting Bartram's Gardens in 1787 (Courtesy of Smithsonian American Art Museum)

Plants & America: A July 4th Reflection

Every summer, near the Fourth of July, I try to read a history of the American Revolution or a biography of a founding father. This period has long captivated my imagination: Enlightenment thinkers led a young nation discovering its identity.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day

Before you indulge in corned beef, soda bread, and a perfectly poured Guinness, devote a portion of this St. Patrick’s Day to the appreciation and enjoyment of Irish letters. Irish writers have penned some of the best literature in the English-speaking world. Read a poem or begin a novel before heading to your favorite pub.…

Happy Presidents’ Day

If you’re fortunate enough to enjoy the day off from school or work, take a moment to honor and learn about your favorite president. Read a book or watch a documentary about him (and some day her). Who knows? Our past might rescue us from the present.  

Happy New Year!

Wishing a happy New Year to my readers. May 2019 bring you fresh beginnings and welcome surprises. Spend the day with family and friends or simply relishing a quiet afternoon at home.  

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

Wishing a wonderful Christmas and holiday season to all my readers. Treasure this time of year. I’ll be taking a short break from blogging to partake in the festivities. See you in 2019!