November 21, 2014 | Tim Hauserman

It’s easy to focus on the problems in our community, in our nation, in our world. But one of the great things about Thanksgiving, is that it forces us to focus on gratitude. The first step, of course, is to look at our families and our friends, who bring us that special spice, flavor and joy that make up our lives. Then of course we live or play here, in Lake Tahoe. If that doesn’t make you thankful, you are just not looking around.

Here are a three things to remember about life in Tahoe that should put a smile on your face and make you thankful:

It really is a magically beautiful place. Whether it’s the pinks and purples of a mountain sunrise, the soft blues of a fall afternoon, or the tranquility of the evening alpenglow, the lake is always changing, never boring, constantly awe inspiring. When you look at the lake, you can always find a feeling of bliss in your heart.

We are a community that values exercise and health. In a country where for many the focus is on the next fast food meal, our focus is fitting in the bike ride, getting in the ski, going for an after work run. While a work out in the gym is for many a part of the routine, it’s almost always possible to get your endorphin rush outside. Whether it’s on the dirt, on the lake, or on the snow, it’s all good to put a little frosting on our exercise cake. There are very few places in the world where if someone says, “Hey, I need to take the day off tomorrow, I’m tired” they mean they need to take a day off from skiing.

At a time when Thanksgiving means rugby scrams at shopping centers for big screen TV’s, Tahoe City, and the whole region, is a place of small businesses. It’s local people using creativity to find a niche, provide a service, delight a guest. When you hear about a call to shop local, it’s pretty dang easy, just walk down the street and go to almost any business. These businesses are struggling to make a go for themselves and a few employees, but they are still passing it on, supporting the non-profits and the food banks, the charities and the friend who is going through a rough stretch.

So this Thanksgiving weekend, get out there and get your heart rate up. Revel in the joy of living here. Then say hello to your local merchant or stop in and enjoy a meal. Ah, life is good.