I had my Thanksgiving a few weeks early this year, in a hidden garden in Sicily with views of ancient ruins in the Valley of the Temples.

It was just the four of us, sharing rich caponata and crispy panelle (Sicilian chickpea fritters) in a beautiful citrus orchard, surrounded by birdsong and millennial olive trees, a light breeze making the tablecloths dance in the sunshine.

It was the kind of meal where time slows down, and you remember why these moments matter so much.

We live far apart, so being together like that—no rushing, nowhere else to be—felt like the truest kind of luxury.

I’m sharing this today because I’m thinking about what I’m grateful for, and you’re on that list, Reader.

Thank you for being here, for reading these emails, for trusting me with your travel dreams, and for all the support and love you’ve shown me this year. It means more than you know.

I’m excited about what’s ahead, and I’m so glad you’re along for the ride.

Happy Thanksgiving 🧡