Thankful in Opelika

Thanksgiving season is a beautiful time to reflect on the many blessings of living in Opelika. If asked to name the top 5 things I'm thankful for, I'd probably list family, faith, friends, health and home.

FAMILY

My wife, Tamera, and I have raised three children, and each one brings us joy. Our oldest, Addie, is musically gifted like her mother and is currently traveling and performing in the Broadway musical, "Come from Away." The story revolves around a small town in Canada that unexpectedly had to host numerous rerouted flights during the 9/11 crisis. The community comes together during this difficult time, which reminds me of how the Opelika community supports its own.

Our second daughter, Emma, shares some of my interests. In addition to being a runner (OHS and Samford), she is now a physical therapist like I am. She also married a physical therapist, Hunter, who also loves to run. They both enjoy outdoor activities and helping others stay healthy and active.

Ben is our youngest. After running at Opelika High School and Samford University, he is now a professional runner living and training in Colorado. When he isn't training or racing, he stays busy working in sales for a local contractor in Boulder.

Maybe I should add "running" to my thankful list. Tamera and Addie also run, and we all enjoy family runs when we are together. You might see our pack jogging the streets of Opelika during the holidays. It's a great way to combat all the delicious food! Whether running or sitting and enjoying a meal, I am grateful for my family!

FAITH

I am thankful to have a relationship with God and for the grace he freely gives. I fail Him, but he never fails me. I am also grateful for my church family and the many opportunities for growth at my home church, First Baptist Opelika. It is wonderful to gather and worship, or learn, or support one another. My church family has celebrated with me during my happiest moments and wept with me during the hardest ones, and for that I am so grateful!

FRIENDS

Opelika has the BEST people, and I am lucky to have so many friends here. Some friendships began over 50 years ago. Some began more recently, through my neighborhood, church, sports, school, or work. I look forward to meeting and making new friends in our wonderful city. A true friend is someone who is there when you need them. I hope I can be that for my community.

HEALTH

Staying healthy has always been a priority for me. I love to stay active, whether I'm running, biking, or swimming. I ran in high school and college, and I chose a career that would allow me to help others stay active. As a physical therapist, I enjoy getting people back on their feet. I also spent several years serving Opelika High School athletics by helping to keep the athletes well. Opelika is fortunate to have top-notch medical facilities and staff to keep our community healthy. Now, that's something to be thankful for!

HOME

Home is more than a house. Home is a feeling of belonging. There's nothing like the feeling of coming home after a long day at work or even after traveling to amazing places. Home. Opelika is home. I was born here. I grew up here. I left for school and career, but I came home, and it felt GREAT. I am glad to be home. I want to make home so awesome that everyone will want to call Opelika "home."

HOW ABOUT YOU?

What are you most thankful for? What do you love about Opelika? Comment below.