Sound Off: What Are You Thankful For?

A few days ago, Jeannine Beck from the asked me and other Maplewood business people to share messages of what we're thankful for. She compiled our responses and .

I was inspired by the idea, so I asked some of my colleagues—the ones who make this website run smoothly each day—to share what they are thankful for, too.

After finishing the turkey, please take a moment to share what you're thankful for in the comments section. Our messages are shared below.

Happy Thanksgiving, Maplewood and Brentwood!

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I’m thankful for the many blessings in my life: wonderful friends and family, two adorable dogs, a rewarding career, and an incredible community. Above all, I’m thankful to be sharing this journey with the lovely Gwendolyn Ragno. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! — Ryan Martin, editor of Maplewood-Brentwood Patch

I am thankful for my beautiful family, who have taught me so much over the past year and continue to do so each and every day.  I am thankful to work for a company that cares so much for its community. It has been a blessing and a joy to meet so many new, wonderful friends who inspire me daily with their dedication to their community, family and neighbors. Happy Thanksgiving! — Rebecca Campbell, advertising manager

I am thankful for being employed. Knowing my talents are appreciated enough to warrant a full-time position is nice. I saw the other side for almost two years, as a freelancer, which has its pluses, but full-time is definitely better. I'm really grateful for all my loving family, too. — Doug Miner, associate local editor

I am thankful for the cross of Christ, my wife and son, a wealth of friends and family, my pets, my job, food on my table, clothing, a good education, reliable transportation, restful nights and libraries. — Nate Birt, editor of Clayton-Richmond Heights Patch

I am thankful for small surprises in my day. Our jobs take so much from us in terms of our time and attention. They require focus and concentration, and sometimes it is too easy to let the small surprises pass us by. This year, I have been out and about more than in years past, and it's a gift to see the unusual character wander into a coffee shop, or to get the small thank you for the work that I do, or to pause for a moment of people-watching. These small surprises are a reminder to take a deep breath. — Kurt Greenbaum, regional editor

What am I thankful for? My health. I spent the last year with undiagnosed Crohn's disease. Now, I'm on the right medication, I have a great doctor, and I'm finally living without pain. — Lindsay Toler, social media reporter

I am thankful for my son, all 6-foot-4 of him. I am grateful that he has been blessed with good health the 19 years he has inhabited this earth, save for a sniffle or two, and that I have the opportunity to watch him take his first steps, grow and transform into the man he is becoming. — Mary Konroy, contributor

Besides my loved ones, I am so thankful for the opportunities that have opened up for me since moving to St. Louis a little over a year ago. The people here are warm and welcoming, and that is exemplified in Maplewood and Brentwood. I've had such a great experience writing about these two cities! — Michelle Blodget, contributor

I'm thankful for family and friends. We've been very lucky to live in Brentwood where our friends and neighbors are willing to drop everything to help someone. I've seen people rally around families for joyous occasions like a new baby, scary times when someone has suddenly fallen ill or been hospitalized and sad occasions when someone has passed away. It’s what makes our community a special place to live. — Becky Slatin, contributor