What Are You Thankful For This Year?

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, residents around Daniel Island and Clements Ferry reflect on what they are thankful for. From cherished family moments to accomplishing goals, the community paints a picture of the joys and blessings that filled its lives this year.

 

Michael Huff, principal of Philip Simmons Elementary

“I am incredibly thankful for my family, friends, and co-workers. They bring joy, support, and camaraderie into my life. My family’s unwavering love and guidance provide a strong foundation, while friends add laughter and shared memories. Co-workers inspire collaboration, making work a fulfilling experience. These relationships enrich my journey, and I’m grateful for the bonds we share.”

 

Jeff Leonard, broker-in-charge at Daniel Island Real Estate

“I am thankful for my lovely lady, my children, my faith and life of beautiful meaningful friendships. In today’s world, it’s not so important what you have but rather whom you have that means the most!”

 

Father Gregory West, head pastor at Saint Clare of Assisi Catholic Church

“I am grateful for the thousands of committed members of the Saint Clare of Assisi parish family who are so generous in faith, hope and love.”

 

Lisa Avant, associate community manager at the Daniel Island Property Owners’ Association

“I’m thankful that you reached out to me today to ask me this question because it’s reminding me to stop and think about what is really important and to focus on what I am thankful for in my life instead of my stress and worries that are troubling me lately. The stress is temporary. I’m thankful that my late mother instilled a positive outlook in me and taught me to always know things will get better!”

 

Charla Groves, principal at Philip Simmons Middle School

“In August, our oldest daughter went off to college, so at the moment, I am very thankful that she will be home for several extended breaks during the holidays. Family time is the best time, so I am thankful that we will get to spend plenty of time together soon.”

 

Eric Bendig, head football coach at Philip Simmons High School

“I am thankful for such a supportive and loving family! My wife, Colleen, is our rock and during football season she does so much to allow me to do what I love to do every day. Our daughter, Lilly Kate, has grown into such a sweet, kind and respectful young lady who we are all so proud of! I am also thankful for the ability to live out my passion every day of coaching and teaching young people at such a wonderful place, Philip Simmons High School!”

 

Chris Buchholz, principal of Philip Simmons High School

“I have a lot to be thankful for this year but No. 1, by far, the support my family received from friends, family and the community as my wife has been battling with breast cancer. It has made all the difference.”

 

Chip Robinson, lead pastor at King’s Cross Church

“Every season of life is different, and this year I find myself thankful for how God has shown himself faithful in my family’s life as we’ve transitioned to a new one: empty nest for my wife and me, and living away at college for our three girls.”

 

Claire Monahan, Daniel Island resident

“This year I’m extra grateful for the health of my family and friends. It is such a privilege to live in this community, and I thank every day that we are so lucky to call Daniel Island home.”

 

Bill McCartney, Daniel Island resident

“I’m thankful the good Lord watches over us every day and we are safe.”

 

Victoria Seelinger, Daniel Island resident

“All the new opportunities I’ve been given, and adding another addition to the family!”

 

Morgan Pennington, Daniel Island resident

“I am thankful for my progress with personal growth. Every obstacle I have faced in life has made me stronger and taught me valuable lessons, even when I thought they would break me. I am thankful for choosing to start therapy despite my reservations, because it has allowed me to break bad habits, communicate in a healthier way, and build stronger relationships. But more than anything I am thankful that I was able to wake up every single day this year, healthy and happy.”

 

Molly Hespenheide, Clements Ferry resident

“I’m thankful for the wonderful extension of family I have gained in my neighborhood!”

 

Sherrie Dennis, Clements Ferry resident

“My house, food, warmth and cooling, car, family, friends, art and books.”

 

Scott Trottier, Clements Ferry resident

“My family and good health. That I have a nice house to live in. That, although I’d prefer to be a millionaire and not have to work, I do have a pretty good job and great coworkers and students.”

 

Sharon Lancaster, Oak Bluff resident

“My three wonderful children! One wakes me up early to exercise, one keeps me regular with worry, and one is my helper I can always count on!”

 

Julie Allan, Clements Ferry resident

“I am thankful for so much, being alive, having a wonderful family, amazing friends, the best golden retriever, a safe home, wonderful neighbors, a job I love and my faith that gives me comfort in the crazy times we are living in. The thankful list far outweighs everything else and the attitude of gratitude fuels me and powers me through every day.”

 

Michael Stisi, Clements Ferry resident

“For the Lord! Salvation and love.”

 

Leigh Dawson, Clements Ferry resident

“I am alive.”

 

Karine Hovsepian, Daniel Island resident

“I’m thankful my rent stayed the same.”

 

Becky Robinson, Daniel Island resident

“I’m thankful that I love Jesus and he loves me.”