What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving?

November 25, 2010. Thanksgiving. Day 329/365 with 36 days remaining in 2010.

Thanksgiving is typically the turning point in the year which marks the beginning of the holiday season. Families gather together over the traditional turkey, mashed potatoes 'n' gravy, stuffing, ham, cranberries, pumkin pie, etc. meal. It's a time to reflect over the past 328 days of the year and then plan out the next 365.

This year, I am extremely grateful for my health and fitness. I work out like an animal and have lost a solid 35 pounds in the past 18 months. This is huge in my world because I've always been a yo-yo dieter. I found the link that prohibits that from happening which is consistency. I've paid extreme attention to the number of calories entering my body and have fought like hell to work out at least 5 times a week.

As some of you know, I decided to challenge myself in a series of 5K races between September 25th and December 3rd for no other reason but to race against myself. I wanted to challenge myself to see where I rank amongst my peers and to take my fitness to the next level. As an inexperienced runner, I was pleased to consistently place within the top 1/3 of my age group. Perhaps when I turn 30 I'll be #1! LOL!

Tomorrow, Thanksgiving Day, I will be participating in the Fort Worth, TX Turkey Trot 5K. Afterwards, I am volunteering to deliver turkey baskets to those less fortunate so they have something to eat on this special day. As I reflect upon this venture, I am really thankful that I have a home, food in the cupboards, blankets upon the bed, money in the bank, etc. But, it isn't the tangible things that bring me the most joy. It's the smiles and graditude upon people's faces when you truly give of yourself to make their day.

I think that's why smiles are referenced as part of the universal language. When I look into the eyes of a person, I see their soul. I see behind the curtains. When they smile, I see for a split second true happiness because nobody smiles just for fun.

So, this Thanksgiving, I challenge you to make a list of things that you are truly thankful for. Share them with your family and do not ever be ashamed. Take the time to reconnect and to share stories. Shoot, you may even make some 2011 goals as a family! Who knows?!