On this Thanksgiving, I'm grateful for having just a spent a wonderful day and early evening with my family and friends.

Twelve of us celebrated around a bountiful table, and shared many laughs and good stories.

My son just got a modern version of the whoopee cushion... with remote control, so that provided him hours of entertainment, "framing" guests with unpleasant sounds!
At times, our celebration felt as if we were part of a quirky holiday movie.

Now, I'm here at the station preparing for the late newscasts,and feel especially grateful to have a wonderful job that I love.

So many reasons to celebrate!
By the Grace of God go I.

I think back on the Blazers' annual Harvest dinner two days ago.
I had the honor of helping serve the thousands of disadvantaged families and individuals who came to the Rose Garden for an early Thanksgiving meal.

And I do mean "honor".
I was so humbled to meet and serve those among us who don't appear to be as fortunate.
However, almost without exception, the people I met were grateful and cheerful, and seemed to count themselves as fortunate, just to be there.

They were pleasant and courteous, and expressed their thanks for the volunteers who were serving them.

They were old people, teenagers, single men, families, mothers carrying babies, people in wheelchairs, and spouses asking for an extra plate for their husband or wife who was homebound.

But, I think it was me who got more out of the meal than they did.

For most, this would be their Thanksgiving meal.
Some would leave the Rose Garden to sleep on the street.

Still, most of them smiled and thanked me,shook my hand and said "God Bless", or "Happy Thanksgiving".

I thank them for giving deeper meaning to my Thanksgiving, and showing me how much our joy comes from within. Even when times are tough.

I hope your holidays are blessed.

Another way we can feel the joy this special season is to share our blessings with others.

Please join us in the Newschannel 8 Great Toy Drive.
I'll be out at the Les Schwab Store near Washington Square on Saturday morning 11/25.

Hope to see you there.

Laural Porter