The first entry in my gratitude journal for Friday, Oct. 25, reads “I am grateful for the orange tree in my yard.” This graceful sugar maple isn’t always ablaze; in the spring and summer its lush canopy is deep green. But in mid-October it starts to show off, slowly transforming to brilliant orange from the top down. Every morning for weeks, when I head up to my second-floor office, I walk through a glowing tunnel of orange in the hallway. As I go from tasks to meetings all day I only need to glance out the window to get recentered in appreciation. I strive to wake up every day and count blessings. That list includes practicing the profession that I fell in love with as a teenager and have been fortunate to do ever since. My relationship with you is a big part of that. You show your appreciation for our work by reading it loyally, by interacting with us and, even more meaningfully, buying a subscription. That subscription pays for daily journalism in our eight core communities, in Lansing to cover state government, to the tips of both peninsulas to pursue investigative journalism, and to the Big House, Ford Field and more. Our journalists appreciate your support and the connection they have with you. And we love when you tell us what it means to you, such as these recent emails: I just wanted to share how much I appreciate the good news features of MLive! I use them in my staff updates to help give the positives in our society and sometimes stories that make you smile. – Heidie While we have often disagreed with your publication for a variety of reasons, we have much more often felt thanks that your organization still exists. Thank you. Donna & Jim I just wanted to say, “keep up the good work.” I have been a subscriber to the Citizen Patriot since moving to Michigan in 1993. I understand how much the industry has changed, and your product had to change with it. In these contentious times, please continue to be the voice of reason and truth. – Kyle Knowing that what we do matters fuels our work, and your subscription makes it possible. If you are not a subscriber, this is a great time to give it a try. We have a variety of options – for the format you prefer (print, print and digital, digital only) and several price points. You can view subscription options here and, keep an eye out for Cyber Monday deals. I’d love for you to give us a try and then give some feedback on how we’re doing. This is a relationship between people who love their communities and journalists who love to cover them. And it’s one we’re all very grateful to nourish. Happy Thanksgiving to all! # # # | 