The final leaves on the trees have started to fall and the mercury continues to drop. Once again, it is that time of year when folks from southwest Michigan and around the country will take a break from their daily lives to spend quality time with friends and loved ones. It is an opportunity for all of us to reflect upon life’s many blessings and offer up a solemn prayer of personal gratitude.
My wife Amey and I especially look forward to having the family all together under one roof for a couple of days. As any parent knows, when your children grow older these special times together mean so much.
As we all know, our state has faced more than its share of challenges. After years of high unemployment and tightened budgets, we remain hard at work to get our economy moving again. This is the time of year when we are reminded that the same relationships, memories, and traditions that warm our spirits can help us overcome our greatest difficulties. The holidays remind us that we are all in this together, and as Americans we know that better days lie ahead.
Our thoughts are also with our brave men and women in the armed forces who will not be able to return home for the holidays. Their service means so much and we are thankful for all that they and their loved ones sacrifice for our country. They are in our prayers and we look forward to their safe return home.
Whether you will be spending this Thanksgiving at home or on the road, may you and yours have a safe and happy holiday. God bless.
