Many, many thanks to Beth at MissBethsVictoryDance for the "tap" for the "Thinking Blogger Award."  The image is posted in the side bar .... Again -- Thanks to Beth for the recognition!

Now, I get to nominate five (5) blogs that "make me think" ..... This is going to be difficult -- I read in excess of 30 primary blogs a day -- and most of their links .... Each makes me think ..... I'll need to give this a bit of thought -- after all, it IS about bloggers who make you think!

As political as I may sometimes be, my blog reading is rather eclectic.  The five blogs I nominate reflect my daily interests, inspirations and (in many respects) aspirations .... Once you visit them, you will know why ... And check out THEIR links to learn how thinking is, after all, a rather contagious activity!

1.  (Sometimes) Photoblog Steven and I met a few years ago via the AOL Community Leader program.  Though we've lost personal contact, I continue to visit his blog regularly to relax, reflect and to appreciate the world he captures. 

2.  The Gray Dog  I happened upon this blog when I started visiting a Vietnam Vets forum ... And then I saw his Gathering of Eagles video.  I don't know why it hasn't received more publicity -- it's one of -- if not -- the most moving promotions I've seen.  NOTE:  GD seems to have reorganized his blog, and the video is difficult to locate .... Sorry --

3.  Our Beloved Angels  Jo is another associate from AOL's CL program.  Although the program was disbanded some time ago, Jo has continued to publish newsletters, host discussion groups and a write a blog for bereaved pet owners ....

4. Gay Patriot  An award-winning conservative blog that should be on every reading list.  I don't always agree with his perspective, but hey -- that's what makes the conservative umbrella so inclusive!
  
5.  Black and Right  The link is to Bob's powerful video message in support of our troops .... Check out his entire blog -- he's right, by the way. 

To nominees:  Should you choose to participate, please make sure you pass this list of rules to the blogs you are tagging. The participation rules are simple:
1). If, and only if, you get tagged, write a post with links to 5 blogs that make you think;
2). Link to this post so that people can easily find the origin of the meme;
3). Optional: Proudly display the 'Thinking Blogger Award' with a link to the post that you write.