Gratitude.

Happy Thanksgiving!

As I gathered with my fellow Turkey Trotters on Union Avenue this morning, the energy and camaraderie was infectious. It was cold at 8:00am when the race started. But you’d never know seeing the hugs, smiles, high fives, and laughter among friends, families, classmates and teammates.

The Turkey Trot is one of those great Framingham annual traditions. Even though I may be grumpy waking up at 6:30am on a cold Thanksgiving morning, I never regret doing a 5k when I cross that finish line. It renews me with gratitude.

On this Thanksgiving, I am grateful for this place we call home.

For our sense of community, and being there for our neighbors in their time of need. You see that this week with the annual Curtis Family Dinner and Daniel’s Table.

For our first responders, many of whom I saw this morning organizing the race, and who give of themselves to keep Framingham safe. Special shout out to those working today.

For those who volunteer to serve in Framingham’s government, boards, commissions, non-profits, organizations and advocate for issues important to them. You make Framingham stronger with your participation, ideas and energy. I am thankful to see more and more people raise their hands in service.

For educators for sharing their love of learning with our students. And for our students who show us that Framingham’s future is in good hands.

And lastly, I am thankful for you. Thank you for subscribing to The Ham’er, your comments and support, and your emails.

From my family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving.

I’ll be back on Monday with our regularly scheduled issue. We have a lot to talk about.