Happy Thanksgiving. Yep. It's today, which means that “the holidays” have officially begun. In that spirit, I'm going to deviate a bit from the norm and focus on what the day is all about: giving thanks.

For many, Thanksgiving Day may be one of happy chaos, shuttling between football games and food with family and friends. Some might be traveling, lost in the rush and hurry of bus stations, airport terminals, or multi-lane highways.

Regardless of where you are or what your plans are on this day, I strongly encourage you to pause, even for a moment, reflect on all your good fortune (because you are fortunate in countless ways), and let the gratitude surface.

Some time ago I began taking part in an online photo journey called the 365 Project (365project.org). The basic concept is to snap a photo each day of something you are grateful for. It's meant to open people's eyes to how much in life there is to feel thankful about, and believe me, it can be pretty powerful.

If you follow that particular social media profile of mine, you'll likely have seen images of nature, family, friends, and other random and not-so-random moments. Though I don't always post each day, trust me when I tell you that I definitely find something to feel grateful for each day, and the gratitude spills backwards from before I even started with The Chronicle.

See, I am grateful for my previous job for cluing me in to how valuable independent local newspapers are. I'm grateful to a former colleague for placing in my hands the advertisement that would ultimately change my life for the better. I'm grateful that I had the courage to “change horses midstream” and take on a new adventure in the summer of 2015, which brought me into new communities and introduced me to new student athletes, coaches, educators, and (best of all) friends.

I am grateful for the teams I've had the privilege of celebrating victories with and supporting through losses. I am grateful to have so many students now know me by name so that when I'm at their school they often stop to chat. Their future plans always impress me!

I am grateful to spend my summers interacting with future Major Leaguers, and my school time with game changers, forward thinkers, and some of the most determined and dedicated students around.

And even though my job had me getting up today before the sunrise (did I mention I'm not a morning person?) for a most enjoyable road race, followed by a new Thanksgiving tradition for Monomoy football, I'm grateful to work for a paper I respect and appreciate.

So without further adieu, thanks y'all. So grateful this is just the beginning! Now bring on the pie!