Traditions, togetherness, and of course, turkey... all reasons I enjoy this month. November is always an exciting time of year. It's a time for family, reflection, and giving thanks. This year I have much to be thankful for and I hope you do as well. Here are just a few things for which I am thankful this holiday season.

Thankful for our troops

As I travel throughout the district I am continually amazed with stories about the honor and sacrifices of Texans serving in the armed forces. What a wonderful country we live in where young men and women volunteer to serve their country to protect our liberties and interests overseas; they should be treated with the upmost respect from both the federal and state government and the communities they live in. I am extremely thankful for their service and sacrifice and am committed to doing all I can to assist our soldiers and veterans.

Thankful to live in Texas

As always, I am thankful to live in the greatest state in the union. As I talk to fellow legislators in other states, I have become keenly aware of the distinct advantages we have in Texas. Our economy and job market is stronger and getting stronger every quarter. We do not have the financial troubles other states have; I attribute this to our low tax rates, predictable regulatory climate, and constitutional mandate that we have a balanced budget. Texas is a wonderful place to work and raise a family. No wonder Texans have such a unique pride in their state.

Thankful for new opportunities

Last month I was appointed by Lieutenant Governor Dewhurst to serve as chairman of the Texas Senate Committee on Transportation. This committee has jurisdiction over important agencies and issues such as the Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, transportation planning, public transportation and other infrastructure related matters. I believe the issues facing this committee are critical to keeping the Texas economy moving. I think we must have adequate resources to build a first class highway system and maintain the existing infrastructure at the level Texans expect and deserve. I am thankful for this opportunity and will work to find real solutions to address our state's critical infrastructure problems.

Re-election to the Texas Senate

This week I was re-elected to a third term in the Texas Senate. This is a job I take very seriously and am thankful and honored by the confidence you have placed in me. When I first ran in 2006, I asked East Texans for their vote based on trust. Since that time I have worked to reduce government spending, protect private property, and make state agencies more efficient and accountable to you. I will continue to advocate in the Texas Senate on your behalf and I am thankful for the opportunity you have given me.

Thankful for family and friends

Most importantly, I am thankful for my family and friends. This job can be very rewarding, but is impossible to do without a strong network of support back home. I have made many new friends throughout the district over the past six years and I never forget that I am sent to Austin to represent you.

I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving full of fun, family, fond memories, and pecan pie!

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