What I’m Thankful for This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday, not because of the food (though I’ll never turn down a second slice of pumpkin pie), but because I get to spend it with family.

It forces us to pause, take stock of our blessings, and appreciate the people who make our lives meaningful.

This year, I’ve been reflecting deeply on what, and who, I am most thankful for.

First and foremost, my mom. At 91, she is the bravest and most relentlessly positive person I know. She is facing real health challenges, yet she never complains. She never asks, “Why me?” She simply moves forward with grace, humor, and a remarkable attitude that leaves everyone around her feeling lighter.

If strength and optimism had a face, it would be hers.

To my wife, Bried. She is my best friend, my biggest supporter, and my fiercest defender. She believes in me on the days I don’t fully believe in myself. She steadies me, challenges me, and reminds me why I’m doing all of this in the first place.

Nothing I do, professionally, personally, or in this campaign, would be possible without her by my side.

I’m also incredibly grateful for our small but passionate and wildly creative team at Fifth & Ninth. From our little office in Narragansett, we’re building a national eyewear and accessories brand together. It’s proof that big dreams can grow from small places when you have a team that shows up every day with heart, hustle, and imagination.

To the Board at the Bonnet Shores Beach Club (BSBC), thank you for trusting me and working collaboratively as true financial stewards. We make decisions as if we were spending our own money, and in many ways, we are. I’m thankful for our thoughtful discussions, our shared mission, and the pride we all take in protecting something special for our owners and future generations.

And to the incredible BSBC team I’m grateful to lead. Thank you for trusting my instincts, my judgment, and our vision. Every season we ask a lot of each other, and every season you deliver.

You care deeply about the experience our members have, and that commitment shines in everything you do.

I’m thankful, too, for the gift of being able to live in South County for more than 40 years. If you know, you know… There’s a reason we call it “God’s Country.”

From the beaches to the small-town spirit to the sense of community that binds us all together, there is nowhere else I’d rather call home.

Lastly, and most importantly, I am grateful for my family, my friends, and the community we are building throughout this campaign. You’ve shown up with encouragement, honesty, humor, and belief.

Your support means the world to me, and it’s reminded me what public service is supposed to be about: We the people.

Wishing you and your loved ones all a warm, healthy, and joyful Thanksgiving.