Jennifer Hudson: Grammy Nods "Truly a Blessing"

Oscar winner, whose mom, brother and nephew were killed in October, has four Grammy nominations to be grateful for

It's very nice that Jennifer Hudson has something to smile about.

The Oscar winner, whose personal life has tragically overshadowed her professional accomplishments in recent weeks, said Thursday that she's "honored" to be among the nominees for the 51st Annual Grammy Awards.

"It's been a childhood dream of mine to release an album, so to receive four Grammy nominations is truly a blessing. I'm extremely honored and humbled by the nominations," Hudson said in a statement released by Arista Records.

The 27-year-old singer-actress' self-titled debut is a contender for R&B Album of the Year, while the tune "Spotlight" has her in the running for Best R&B Song and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance. Hudson also shares a nomination for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocals for her duet with Fantasia on "I'm His Only Woman."