What Are You Thankful for This Year?

During this season when we feel inclined to take stock of our blessings, it's usually the big things that top that list: good health, family, and friends. But this year, more so than others, I find I'm grateful for all the little things as well.

If there is one positive that can be taken away from the nightmarish aftermath of Superstorm Sandy it is a newfound appreciation for all the conveniences we take for granted: heat, light at the flick of a switch, a home-brewed cup of coffee. Even paying almost $4 a gallon for gasoline doesn't sting like it used to when you don't have to wait four hours to fill up the tank.

So, I'd like to take a moment to share what I'm thankful for this year in addition to the items above and I hope you'll do the same in the comments section below.

First, let me start by saying I'm thankful to not be hosting this labor-intense holiday this year. I'm grateful that my family members are still speaking to one another after being trapped in a cold, dark house together for days. I'm thankful for amazing friends who keep their senses of humor after trees crash through their garage, and for neighbors who bolstered our spirits by inviting us for pizza by flashlight and an impromptu game of soccer and not once mentioned that we'd begun to look like a Seattle-based grunge band. 

It's been just over a year since I began covering the Westfield community and I'm thankful to work in a town where people have put their own hardships aside and risen to the occasion to help their neighbors and others in need.

I’m grateful to all those who answered my numerous calls for help in keeping the community informed during a challenging time. (Special shout out to one-man social media machine Mitch Slater and Councilman Keith Loughlin, who responded to emails at all hours.)

I’m thankful for the opportunity to meet people who are making a difference and still take the time to share their stories of healing, hope, camaraderie, resilience, service and inspiration. 

I'm grateful to all those who help make my job easier and more interesting every day.

Happy Thanksgiving!