A DAY IN THE LIFE: TIME TO THANK THOSE WHO DESERVE IT

In the next weeks, people all over the country will be stopping to reflect about all the things they are thankful for.

Like you, I am very grateful for all the blessings in my life, and -- for the most part -- these blessings have come in the form of people. I thought it might be nice to thank those who have made my life so special.

First, I'd like to say how thankful I am for my 4-year-old son, Zachary. I know many of you have children, but I am duty-bound to inform you that I have the most adorable little boy in the whole world. Believe me, if yours is cute, mine is cuter.

Anyway, I'd like to tell Zach that I am so thankful that he is my son, no one could ask for a better boy. I know things aren't easy on us now, but I promise to always try to be the best father I can.

Please be patient, and I will try to be patient with you. I love you and am very thankful for you and the precious-little time we have together.

Secondly, I'd like to thank my father. You weren't perfect, Dad, but for whatever happened in the past, you've more than made up for it in my eyes.

I admire you so much for how you've turned everything around and I've always appreciated your good old fashioned horse sense. You were never afraid to tell me I was doing it wrong, and you always pleased to tell me when I was doing it right. If I turn out to be half the man you are, I will be satisfied.

Next I want to thank (I feel like I'm accepting an Academy Award all of a sudden) my step-mother, Vicky. You have become so much like the mother I never really had and always needed.

I know we haven't always gotten along -- a lot of the people in my life can say that -- but I appreciate everything you've done for me and Zach, and especially my dad.

You gave him his life back, and I didn't think anybody could do that. You have certainly earned the title of "Ma-maw" from my son and "friend" from me.

Finally, I want to thank the soon-to-be newest addition to my family, my fiance, Lori. I am not quite sure how two people as screwed up as us are so perfect for one another.

You are so much like me and so different at the same time -- it's almost scary. I've never loved anyone the way I do you. Just the mention of your name still makes my heart beat a little faster.

People say I'm different since we met. Just ask anybody. You make me better than I actually am and when I'm with you, I walk a little taller. I am a very lucky man Lori, and for that I am, and will always be, thankful. I love you.

I am also thankful to you, Dear Reader, for tolerating this indulgence of mine, but I feel much better. It always feels nice to let others know how much they are appreciated.

I know Thanksgiving is still over a week away, but why don't you pick up the phone and call someone that has made your life special, and tell them how much you love them.

It'll make you feel better, I promise.