Helen of Windows Toward the World gave me a Thinking Blogger Award, saying, “My fourth Thinking Blogger Award goes to Terry, who presents some alternate views concerning people and places. Terry makes me think. Thanks, Terry.” In response, I’m to give out 5 of my own.

This is tough. I wish I could give them to my entire blogroll - they wouldn’t be on the list if they weren’t insightful and always prompting me to ponder. But if I have to pick just five, here goes, in no particular order.

Sherry Chandler. Her mix of poetry, politics, philosophy and environmentalism makes her one of my first reads every day. She brings passion to every subject she touches, and I learn something from every entry she posts. I’m proud to say she’s one of my blog siblings, and a dear friend.

Jeff Hess of Have Coffee Will Write. He approaches every issue with journalistic objectivity and makes me reach past my gut reaction to see the other side of the story. He always challenges my assumptions and stretches my mind, a very good thing. Read, too, for the From My Chapbook series - inspirational.

Ahistoricality. Though the blog isn’t updated as often as I’d like to see, A. consistently shares thoughtful comments with us here, bringing a much needed infusion of logic to my thinking and writing. When A speaks, I listen. A, please give me a link to the historians site you mentioned so I can read you there!

Shamash Says. Through her eyes I see a part of the world I’ll never know. Her photography captures my heart and imagination and her choice of quotations opens my mind to possibilities. Her perspective is utterly unique in my life, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to read her.

Stephen Leigh of Intersection of Fiction and Reality. He’s an acclaimed novelist and writing instructor, as well as a blog sibling from the old days of Not-A-Web-Ring on sff.net. His discussions on writing, publishing and politics are always honest and well crafted, and his generosity with his knowledge is much appreciated.

If you’d like to pass on the honors, just copy the graphic from here and give out your own awards. I’d love to read your lists.

I feel bad that I couldn’t give out twice as many. I value every reader, commenter and site I visit regularly, and I learn something from all of you. Thanks for being part of my circle.