Thanksgiving for all our blessings

As the band Poi Dog Pondering sang, "Thanksgiviing for all our misgivings, let's do it right." Yes, it is that season when we remind ourselves how blessed we are to have what to have and wish for nothing more than the health and happiness of our family and loved ones.

For this Thanksgiving weekend, I can say without a doubt that I'm one of the luckiest people in the world. I'm in Williamsburg right now taking a much needed weekend vacation with my family - just Kerry and the kids.

Right now they are all snuggled up watching the "Curious George" movie, eating pop-corn and relaxing after a busy day where they saw their new cousin McKenzie Grace Mannion, played with their other cousins, ate a huge dinner and swam at the hotel's indoor pool.

Tomorrow we're off to Colonial Williamsburg where history will come alive for them. I will be thinking of two things: First, is my grandfather who took me to Williamsburg, Jamestown and so many other places, instilling in me a love for history that lasts to this day. Second, is my love for this country. We are so fortunate to not only live here, but to relive our history and understand from our past.

This Thanksgiving isn't without sadness though. We remember our veterans as I and other members of Council did on Veterans' Day, which the City observed for the first time in its history (as far as I know).

We also remember the passing of so many of our City's leaders, with this week seeing the passing of Gene Moore, a former School Board member, City Councilman, dedicated public servant and always smiling at the morning breakfasts at McDonalds. He will be truly missed by so many.

This Thanksgiving we will certainly have had our fill of turkey. Let us also have our fill of hope, too, as we look forward to brighter days ahead.