Bayshore Residents: What Are You Thankful For?

Three weeks ago, the Bayshore community was gearing up for Halloween. Costumes and candy were purchased from stores, and a number of horror flicks played at local theaters.

Before All Hallow's Eve could be properly celebrated with trick-or-treating, however, a storm the area will never forget barreled mercilessly through New Jersey. 

The morning before Halloween, the community awoke to find downed trees and homes and businesses washed away by the storm surge. Many would remain in the dark for two or more weeks, with a flashlight permanently in hand and several layers of clothing to protect them from the cold of the Nor'easter that came just days later. Others would remain in shelters, in search of temporary housing until they could rebuild.

And although much of the community falls into the category of 'Sandy victims,' just as many fall into a much greater category: 'Sandy volunteers.'

Sandy volunteers showed up at shelters, dropped off mounds of food, clothes and supplies at distribution centers and showed up at strangers' homes to clean up what the storm dragged in. 

In the wake of the damage, the Bayshore community has a rare opportunity to reflect on what they truly are grateful for. 

What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving? Tell us in the comment section below.