As we move into November and prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, I’m reflecting on the many things that I am thankful for. 

First, I am thankful for my wonderful family and friends who brighten every day and bring me so much joy. I’m also thankful for my cat, Penny; she’s always there to provide me with cuddles on the good and bad days. I’m looking forward to reconnecting with my family and some of my friends while I’m back home visiting for the holidays. 

I’m thankful for the Fayetteville community. I’m excited to be involved in a production of “It’s a Wonderful Life: Radio Play” at the Gilbert Theater this winter. When I moved to this city without knowing anyone, theatre was my main outlet for connecting with new people. It continues to give back to me, and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to create art with some amazing people. 

I’m thankful for all of the health care workers, some of whom are recognized in this issue for our fourth annual Health Care Heroes Awards. These people dedicate so much of their time and energy to helping others, and that is something worth honoring.

And of course, I am thankful to work with such a lovely team of people and for an organization that wants to serve the community. We appreciate every paper you read and every link you click on, but we also love getting to engage with our community in person.

We’ve got two in-person events coming up before 2026 comes to a close. First is our Health Care Heroes Awards on Nov. 12. We’ll be announcing the winners of this year’s awards and passing out trophies to the well-deserving parties while enjoying a lovely dinner provided by Two Brothers Catering.

Then on Dec. 8, we’ll gather bright and early for our final Power Breakfast of the year. The theme has now been announced: The Long View: Untold Stories and HardWon Truths from a Lifetime of Leadership. We are gathering a panel of individuals whose fingerprints are embedded in the fabric of our area’s business, civic and military community for a morning of authentic storytelling, profound fellowship and perspective that only a lifetime of service can provide. 

For details about panelists and to purchase tickets, visit fayettevillepowerbreakfast.com. 

As the busy holiday season sweeps in, take a moment to pause and acknowledge the blessings in your life that you are thankful for.