It’s that time of year when we pause, take stock of our lives and consider what should make us thankful.

That’s a pretty easy task for me — I always try to be grateful for what I have and avoid taking things for granted. So, when I look for the positives in life, I find many of them.

First and foremost, I am thankful for the family and friends that surround me. From my husband, Mike, to my brothers, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces and mother- and father-in-law, I am grateful to have them all.

I am also thankful to have a fairly small but longstanding group of close friends. Some of them are like family, and they make life brighter for me and for my other loved ones.

I am grateful to have a job that allows me to interact with all of you. I am also thankful that it not only allows me to earn a living, but that it is a position I feel is important to the community — one in which I can make a difference by sharing the stories of the people who live here, hold public servants accountable and, hopefully, sometimes entertain our readers.

Speaking of our community, I am thankful for that as well. I have lived in a few different places over the years, and this, of course, is the one that truly feels like home. From the individuals who are willing to step up and take the reigns of leadership to those who would rather volunteer their time and talent behind the scenes to help others, I know that our region if filled with truly good, kind people.

I am thankful to live in a country where the people truly have a voice. Although our democracy may land on some decisions we may not agree with, we always have the ability to speak out and to work for change. Our recent general election showed that when voters come out and participate, they truly can make a difference.

I am grateful that I have a warm, sturdy home and plenty to eat. There are some out there who do not have that security, but the residents of the Ohio Valley are always ready and willing to help support them.

I am thankful to live in such a beautiful area, where there is a great deal to see and do. From the incredible colors of the fall leaves that are now fading to the interesting and irreplaceable historic sites that dot our region, all you need to do is look around and actually take them in to appreciate the unique character of the place that we call home.

I also am grateful for each and every one of you who continue to read The Times Leader and care about what is happening in your community. Happy Thanksgiving!