It's been a long year and as we begin the holiday season where we think about parties, the hottest ticket items and seeing friends and family— I wanted to talk about the five things I'm thankful for and hope you share what you're thankful for too.

1. Readers, Commenters, Bloggers, Sources: It may be cheesy but one of the best parts about this job is the interaction with our Patch readers and sources. Whether it's getting answers from Gov. Martin O'Malley or County Executive Rushern Baker's offices, the teachers and principals at the local schools or a neighbor on Twitter with a concern it's great to talk to so many friendly people.

2. My job: In a time when we're often writing about unemployment rates and people struggling to get by, I'm very happy for the opportunity to do what I love everyday— work in community journalism.

3. The food I will get to eat today: To most Thanksgiving is a fancy meal you get to gorge on once a year, but I do want to remember that I'm thankful that I can do that, I'm not hungry and I have plenty.

4. My family and friends: They may be #4 on this list, but they are always #1 in my heart.

5. Being American: We've just finished an election season and no matter what you think about the president and his re-election, you can say it—freely. I love being associated with a country where the minority and women votes make a difference and that people can openly say what they think even if they are criticized for their thoughts. Maybe we can learn from the pilgrims and the Native Americans who put aside their differences and joined hands over a table for Thanksgiving.

I hope you and your family have a great holiday this year. Tell me what you're thankful for below! Happy Thanksgiving!