I have been reading Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt (aff) by Anne Rice (yes that Anne Rice). It is a fantastic book describing Christ’s journey back home when he was a boy. What is interesting is the culture of the characters in the story. Even though they live in turbulent times they are still grateful for what they do have: each other.

Today I would like to give thanks to everyone that has been a big part of my life including my family and friends who are too numerous to mention - you are all the best!

And because this site is dedicated to online promotion I’d like to highlight a few people that I’ve learned a lot from and that I am grateful I have been able to met, if only online.

Rand Fishkin of SEOmoz who gave me an early education back at SEO Chat. Rand taught me critical thinking and logic as it applied to the search engines. Thanks.

Donna Fontenot of SEO Scoop who has been a continuing source of knowledge, generosity and wisdom. When Donna speaks, I listen.

James and Ben Cook of SEO Refugee whose countless hours keeping the site up and giving me (and many others) a playground to explore SEO in will always be appreciated. It’s been a hell of a year!

EarlPerl the international man of mystery whose calm and steady research and testing of search engine results has set an excellent example.

Kim Krause Berg of Cre8asiteforums (and others) who has assembled some of the best and brightest web developers on the planet. Also, for her persistent reminders of keeping websites usable and accessible. Thanks Kim.

Toddieg who keeps me in line - thanks jerk!

Mirriam Loraditch of Solas Web Design who is a dream to converse with. Very few people online are as easy and fun to communicate with. Seriously we’ve got have tea, soon!

Michael Vandemar who has been very quiet lately… almost too quiet… but whose critical thinking and blunt speaking manner keep me on my toes and provide great wisdom.

Pittbug who I’m so glad I got to interview. Something in the way you carry yourself gives me strength to keep going. Can’t explain it better than that.

Kichus whose childlike wonder at SEO belies his insightful analysis of what’s going on around him. One to watch.

John Rothra who gives me a spiritual kick in the ass when I want it least and need it most. Thanks and God bless.

Bill Slawski who answers my questions and even though he’s way smarter than me doesn’t rub it in. You’re a great guy Bill and congratulations getting in on Search Engine Land.

Wit who just seems to always be there with just the right [whatever is needed].

Doug Holland who proves it can be done.

EGOL for just being smart and kind enough to share.

Geoffrey who showed me blackhat isn’t “evil” or even bad, just different.

And everyone else at Refugee and Cre8 and the people from Chat from “back in the day” and whose blogs I read frequently. I’m sure I’ve posted some link-love to you at some point.

If I missed you don’t feel bad. I meant to jot down just a few names and got carried away. Really, my success is built on the hard work, dedication, care and mischief of others.

So to all of you: Thanks. I appreciate all you have given me. So do my clients. And so does my family. Have a great Thanksgiving. :-)

Next Article: Challenging the Experts: Google Sandbox “Trust” Escape Previous Article: What to do when you’re screwed