2017 marks my first Thanksgiving at Bright Horizons. I've been introduced to a lot ; terrific colleagues, lively home office meetings, and the daily game of "trying to find a parking space without parking on the fifth floor of the garage" (let's just say spaces are so precious here, most of us would rather spend the night in our cars than give up a prime space by the door). In all seriousness, I've been so fortunate to be in a company that really inspires me -- one with employees, clients, and a culture that makes me excited to come to work every day.

At a time when companies are not just groups of employees, but work families, we at Bright Horizons have a lot to be thankful for. A few things on our list:

Good friends:

Our world got a little brighter this year with the arrival of some new additions to our family. Aloha, Little Ohana; Greetings, Bristol-Myers Squibb Child Development Center; Cheers, Pepstart. And to all our new friends - -welcome!

Good news:

We love seeing how often our clients are recognized for their great cultures. Many were named to this year's Working Mother list. Just recently, we were so thankful to see our own name on the Boston Globe Top Places to Work list for a tenth straight year. Congratulations all!

Good people:

Florida. Texas. Puerto Rico. 2017 was a really tough year for a lot of people. And our Bright Horizons family was right there with clients and Bright Horizons employees who braved the storm to take care of patients, children, and families, and who took in the displaced -- even with pets -- to make sure people were safe.

Good hearts:

The rain was still coming down when our employees and those around the country began asking together, "What can we do?" And the elbow grease hasn't stopped since the rain did.

Good work:

Thanks to all in and outside of our company who put real muscle volunteering for our Bright Horizons Foundation for Children and other organizations. They helped (and continue to help) people who really need it.

Good sports:

Yeah, we know our home office is squarely in Red Sox Nation. But Houston had a tough go this year. And we're happy the Astros were such a bright spot during an otherwise difficult time. Plus, there's nothing we love better than a happy ending. We'll get `em next year. Houston Strong!

Finally, many of us have family and friends in places like Puerto Rico, Texas, Florida, and Las Vegas where people are still reeling from the fallout of this year's difficult events. Our hearts go out to all, please know our thoughts are with you. To everyone near and far, we wish you the happiest and safest of holidays.