More than just a turkey dinner, Thanksgiving is an opportunity to reflect on life's blessings, those things for which we are truly thankful.

People throughout Lawrence County said they have much to be thankful for as they gather today to celebrate Thanksgiving.

Melissa Payne of Ironton said "there are so many things" she is thankful for. "Family and friends, good health," she said. One of her blessings in life, her son, Tre' Neal, 5, will go with Mom "to Nana's house" for Thanksgiving dinner.

Tre' said he is thankful for the turkey that will be on his plate when he sits down to dinner, as well as his friend, Blake.

Tony Hutchieson of Aid said he would spend Thanksgiving "at home eating," as will many others, no doubt. For Hutchieson, his list of blessings is a long one. "I'm thankful for good health, my family, everything, my job and a community that is very caring and giving," he said.

For Barbara Martin, this Thanksgiving will be spent with her children and members of her extended family - with a slightly different twist.

"We're going out to eat this year. I didn't want to cook and clean up like I usually do," Martin said. And what is she most thankful for?

"My kids: Jessica, Travis, Danielle and Amanda. And I am thankful just to be alive."

Her sentiments were echoed by Shirley Martin of Pine Grove. "I thank the Lord I'm here and I've got a pretty good family," she said. "I thankful just for being here."

Ruth Philabaun of Ironton agreed. "I give thanks every day for my health, my home, things in general. I'm thankful I'm here!"

For some, "being here" means being in the United States - another thing to be thankful for.

"One thing I'm thankful for is my country," William Surritt of Ironton said.

"We've got freedom. I'm thankful for the family I've got. I'm thankful I'm saved and I have the opportunity to worship anytime I want and I don't have to worry about it like people in some other countries.

"I'm thankful my whole family is saved. It makes me proud I've got such a family. It's something to be proud of and thankful for."