From the old classic, “White Christmas”: “When I’m worried and I can’t sleep, I count my blessings instead of sheep. And I fall asleep counting my blessings. When my bankroll is getting small, I think of when I had none at all. And I fall asleep counting my blessings…”

My column is called “around town” and today I spent roving the community checking on my friends and neighbors and how the economic downturn is affecting everyone. Let this column be – why I am thankful for people in Renton.

My first stop was my dentist. OK, not everyone is thankful for their dentist, but I am. I am thankful for Dr. Steven Lee in the Renton Highlands. He gave me a freebie – just because I was grinding my teeth in my sleep. My friends Julie and Debbie and that office are priceless and have been with me for years.

My next stop was King-and Bunny’s — home of the whammer deal — I just stopped in for a little something, but King is always up for a chat. If you need an appliance, spend your money in Renton. I am thankful for King. I stopped by Armondo’s to purchase some gift certificates. People are cocooning these days and not dining out as much — but Armondo was in good spirits. I am thankful for Armondo and Angela Pavone (and their little cutie pie, Roman), who are participating in the 4-for-$40 promotion giving proceeds of sales to the Salvation Army, even when their sales are down. Gene and Huong Sens are part of that promotion as well. I am thankful for all of them and their truly giving spirit in Renton. I popped into Happy Delusions. Mary Clymer reported that she’d had a really successful open house last Saturday. I am thankful for our local retailers, and the folks that patronize them, and all pulling together to help each other out when times are tough.

I am thankful for Gordon, at my local Safeway, who always greets me by name. Things are great at grocery stores, because people are eating at home. I am thankful for Scott and Allison at the Wine Alley — they are always in good spirits (pun intended) as well.

When I stopped at the Salvation Army, I noted that the shelves are more full then they were a few weeks ago. I am thankful for all of you that are making donations.

And, last but not least, I am thankful for you, readers, who take time to read my column, send me e-mails, and give back to the community. May you all have a warm and happy holiday.