“I’m most grateful for my family, friends and probably growing up in Alaska is one of the things that I’m most grateful for. I think about how people grow up in cities and don’t get to experience what we experience.” Emily Glaves, Soldotna, 20
“I’m just glad that we’re all still walking here on the earth.” Janet Miller, Kenai, 71
“I’m thankful that my adopted son was contact by his biological brother after 50 years. When he called, my son thought it was a crank call at first. He hung up and got a call right back. It turns out that fellow lives about 10 miles from my brother in Oregon. He found something out about his blood. He told me ‘there’s a hole in my heart that’s been filled.’” Joan Hett, Kenai, “Over 70”
“I am grateful for family and friends.” Linda McMillan, Sterling *would rather not say age*
“Tsalteshi trails!” Pete Sprauge, Soldotna, 67
Right now I’m in the midst of cancer treatment, and I’m grateful for my family and friends. Next to that, I’m grateful for my practice — I have a long-standing Buddhist practice… There’s a stillness in it, and I’m reminded that I find refuge in my breath. When I exhale, I’m what we call ‘home.’ I have everything I need there, and cancer is a footnote to that, cancer is a detour… And I’m grateful I can get treatment in Anchorage, Soldotna, and Homer. Debi Poore, 67, Homer
I’m grateful for my family, and I know that sounds cheesy. I’ve got two kids under the age of two, a wonderful husband. I’m just now experiencing the depth of that love. I’ve heard people talking about it, but you don’t know until you experience it — now I see how humans have survived for millennia because of those bonds, and we’re not not random molecules floating around. There’s this power of love behind it. Victoria Florey, 32, Soldotna
I’m thankful for small towns and hardworking people. I grew up in Eagle River and Wasilla — which is not so small anymore — and now I’m in Kasilof. My favorite thing about Kasilof is the post office is cold. I’ve realized that’s because all the people going in and out are holding the door for each other. So I guess that’s what I’m thankful for: a cold entryway in a post office. Aimee Cassidy, 36, Kasilof
I’m thankful for everything. I’m thankful for my business (Fine Thyme Café) and our wonderful customers. We have a regular group of customers in here every day. Bobbi Stelljes, 73, Soldotna
I’m grateful I have a roof over my head, and my husband and my family. I’m grateful for my job. This may be my longest job I’ve had, and I love my boss and I love the conversations I have with customers. Jessica Tautfest, 26, Nikiski
“I’m grateful for my mother, Anita, who adopted me recently.” -Liz Oliva, 18, Nikiski
”I’m thankful for my supportive family.” –Treasa Cooper, 17, Nikiski
“Family and life in general. Life’s too short and we’re always bringing new people into our lives.” Jessica Small, Kenai
“I work for the Food Bank, so I’m extremely thankful to be able to help.” Paul Sutherland, Soldotna
“My family.” Ryan Huerta, Kenai
“I was born in Sacramento (California), but I live here now, so I’m thankful for Alaska.” Kayla Culbertson, Soldotna
“After seven years of being a drug addict, I’m thankful for being a year clean and for my lovely wife.” Tyler Carroll, Soldotna
“Being a Catholic.” Trent Wight, Soldotna, age 11
“I’m thankful for myself.” Kolben Lopez, Soldotna, age 7
“I’m thankful for a warm home.” Jacob Lopez, Soldotna, age 9
”I’m thankful for family.” Zane Wight, Soldotna, age 9
Clarion staff ask what Kenai Peninsula residents are thankful for.
