Hello everyone, next week is the time of year that we should reflect on all the things we are thankful for. I hope you are all able to spend the holiday with your family and friends, but if not I hope you still get some Turkey.

I have several things I’m thankful for this year. I celebrated my 53rd year of marriage to my wife Barbara. 20 years ago, Barbara was diagnosed with breast cancer, and today she is a lucky survivor. She continues to be an outspoken advocate of early detection and screening and I’ve joined her in this battle. Barbara and I have been blessed with five children, nine grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. I am looking forward to hosting another Grassley Thanksgiving this year as family members travel from near and far to join us in New Hartford. Beyond my family, I am thankful for the trust Iowans place in me to represent our state in the United States Senate.