PEACH BUZZ: Heartfelt thanks for friends, kin

Happy Thanksgiving 2008. This year, in these tough economic times, Buzz readers who responded to our annual request to share what they are thankful for are focused on what’s important in life —- each other. And while we never play favorites here at Buzz Central, we begin today’s column with an entry that especially resonated with us. After all, she’s helping to keep us all employed and her entry rhymes.

Barb Evangelista, Canton:

“I’m thankful it’s on the driveway each day.

Online copy? No way!

It may be ‘old school’ or not up to date,

but holding a copy is something I appreciate.

Over breakfast or in a comfy chair,

no Internet service does it entail.

News, sports, puzzles, the Peach Buzz too,

I read it through and through.

I know I’m not alone when I say,

I’m thankful for the print copy of the AJC every day.”

Jerry Schwartz, Alpharetta: “I’m thankful for the life lessons from my parents who lived through the Great Depression. They were part of America’s Greatest Generation. They taught me, through example, that tough times don’t last, but tough people do and if you can get up one more time than you’re knocked down, you can make it through.”

David J. Payne, Atlanta: “For friends far and near who remind me that I am loved and appreciated for what we all share in our lives and what I, too, contribute to their joys and happiness. Life is good.”

Lanny West and Leslie Fram, Buckhead and Manhattan: “Our 17-year love affair. There is something to be said for having different last names, thermal undies, hats, scarves and gloves for living in New York, and our many friends and family that love us no matter where we live.”

Carole Hager, Smyrna: “For children with jobs [and one without], the gas bill being paid for now, a husband that holds my hand and the knowledge that I can have that second glass of wine if I want because I’m not getting any smaller [or younger!].”

Carol Gee, Stone Mountain: “I am thankful that I’ve lived long enough to become what has been termed a ‘seasoned’ woman. A seasoned woman, according to author Gail Sheehy, is ‘combined of many flavors —- spicy, mellow, sweet and tart.’ Having suffered a mini-stroke a year and a half ago, my journey back to health makes every milestone more poignant.”

Krissy Ambrusko, Woodstock: “For President Bush keeping us safe.”

Kenny Cheek, Marietta: “That at 52, I still have all of my teeth, most of my hair and a 32-inch waist.”

Jackie Goodman, Atlanta: “In these trying economic times, I am especially thankful that my parents gave me good financial lessons. I am glad they taught me the value of a dollar, the importance of saving, how to diversify, how to live a fairly conservative lifestyle and be contented. I am also thankful that I live in the USA, where anyone can grow up to be president.”

Susan Hartsfield Tanner, Cumming: “For my two beautiful and healthy grandchildren, 2-year-old Lily and 7-month-old Davis. They are truly a gift from God and touch my life in a way that I never imagined. I am thankful for my daughter and son-in-law who allow me to be such a big part of their lives. I am thankful for my husband who loves them as much as I do and realizes my yearning to see them almost daily.”

Donna Lodin, Snellville: “For my breast cancer walk group, the Stone Mountain Cruisers. I have stage four breast cancer. I could have never made it through the last year without them. They have endured the days at chemo, bought me scarves and hats to cover my bald head, cried and laughed with me. Waited for scary results, sent me silly e-mails and enough pink items to open my own kiosk. You never know what God has in store for you when he puts people in your life.”

Richie Arpino, hair salon owner: “That people in Atlanta don’t want to look poor and are still getting haircuts!”

Rachel Rine, Newnan: “For my 21-month-old daughter who makes me laugh every day. She reminds me daily that it’s important to color, read and talk all day long. And every night when she goes to sleep, I have to stop and reflect on all we did and realize how much she amazes me.”

Mary Jo Winer, Atlanta: “For my family and for my friends Len and Ann Brown and their family. We celebrate our 40th Thanksgiving together this year. We met as new neighbors in June of 1969. We have shared our lives on a daily basis. Those adult children who can make the trip will be here. The differences in our Catholic and Jewish heritage have enriched us. We have shared much.”

Jennifer Pendarvis, Woodstock: “For my precious daughter Rachel, and for my mom who is able to watch her while I go to work at the job I am thankful to still have.”

Cate Carmichael (submitted by mom Amy), Atlanta: “For my Daddy, who took me to my first UGA football game!”

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS

TV personality Bill Nye (left, “Bill Nye the Science Guy”) is 53. Actor William Fichtner (“Prison Break”) is 52. Actress Robin Givens is 44. Actor Michael Vartan (“Alias”) is 40. Rapper Skoob of DAS EFX is 38. Rapper Twista is 36. Actor Jaleel White (right, “Family Matters”) is 32.

Contributing: News services

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