The Auto Writer

Psst! What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving Day? It's no secret that I can think of four things that I'm grateful for -- how about you?

Happy Thanksgiving Day to one and all. I know that this is a quintessential American holiday, at least when celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, but it is a good reason as any for people to show their thanks. I thank God for the strength to do what I do and I thank you for putting up with me here every day.

I know that a lot of people are thankful lately especially when it comes to driving, work, or just life in general. The following is my gratitude list as pertains to all things automotive:

Cheap Gas – Okay, maybe $1.79 for regular gas is still not cheap enough for some folks, but after paying $4.09 earlier this summer, I certainly can be immensely grateful that I’m no longer being hosed every time that I fill up. I’m particularly thankful especially when we were told by the so-called experts that $3 gas was a thing of the past and that $4 was the new normal. Do I think prices will continue to stay this low? No, but I’ll gas up while I can and save!

Discounted Cars – For people in the market to buy a new car, discounts have been terrific all year. Many automakers got their year end sales started early which gives buyers plenty of time to compare prices and models, arrange financing, and come away with a special bargain. Used car prices have dipped too which makes most any car purchase much more attainable for many shoppers.

Auto Shows – Yeah, they are plum boring to some people, a waste of money to others. Still, when you want to take in all of the latest models in one setting while examining what concepts have been built, you get a better idea of where the industry is headed. Except, you may want to pass by the Chrysler display if you happen to be going to the Los Angeles Auto Show today – you’ll see three “EV” models being featured, vaporware extraordaire!

Great Blogs – If you read this blog on a regular basis, I thank you for your support. I also read a number of blogs regularly – big and small – sites that share a lot of good information that helps to keep me on my toes. My favorite of late is The Truth About Cars, mainly because we share the same philosophy regarding Detroit: let ‘em die if they can’t or won’t compete. Autoblog offers a lot of good stuff as does Jalopnik and Left Lane News. Some of the smaller sites are worth visiting too, especially those blogs dedicated to a particular make/model – your passion stands out!

That’s it – four things related to driving that I’m thankful for. If you have something that you’d like to add, by all means share a comment or two. Happy Thanksgiving and enjoy your turkey.