A moment’s inspiration years ago has become tradition here at The Record with the annual publishing of our collective Thanksgiving column. It’s all the things that we at the paper are grateful for and would

Evan Thompson, reporter

I’m grateful for… yeah, about that.

As per tradition, staff at The Record lists what they’re thankful of. I thought about all the cliche stuff that I could say, like being thankful for my family, my friends and all that good stuff. But when I did, I drew a blank. It was then that I realized that I don’t always have to pay tribute to those who have helped me to get to where I am today. Because in doing so, it’s easy to forget the person most responsible for my development: Myself.

This year, I’m thankful for me. I’m thankful to be who I am today, at this moment, because despite all the good, the bad, and the ugly, I’m proud of where my life is heading and what I’ve overcome to get here. When people say life is an uphill struggle, I couldn’t agree more. Sometimes I slip and slide back down, but other I claw my way further up that hill. I’m thankful for that journey and I won’t ever turn around and rest at the bottom.

See you guys at the top.

Kyle Jensen, reporter

An urban newcomer like myself couldn’t have come to a more welcoming rural environment than lil o’ Whidbey Island. I was hesitant to escape the hustle and bustle of the city at first, but South Whidbey has been good to me. For that, I’m thankful.

On a more lighthearted note, I’m also thankful to see a handful of other young 20-somethings here and there on the odd day. Other things I can’t forget to mention: the neighborhood cat, who I’ve started to call Carlos, Bernie Sanders memes and the new album by A Tribe Called Quest. R.I.P Phife Dawg.

Pam Grant, marketing representative

If it s not too late, I am grateful for my white furbaby Scooter Pie who inspires me to be the person she thinks I am.

I am grateful for two blonde gals and a couple of guys they hang with. I am proud to call them my daughters, and the men they have chosen, and sons, Kiley, Ryan, Shayna, Tyler — I love you to the moon and back.

Last but not least I am grateful for the community of Whidbey. We are one in love, blessings.

Nancy Waddell, proof reader

For the joy of watching a baby grow and learn; for friends and family who become more precious each year; for the Island practitioners who help keep me healthy.