Tomorrow marks my favorite day of the year – Thanksgiving – and as such, I’m heading back home to upstate New York today to spend a few days with family.

I love Thanksgiving for a number of reasons.  My mom’s homemade apple pie and zucchini bread is as good of a reason as any, of course. And there’s also the stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, copious amounts of dead animal flesh, and football.

Most notably, however, I think what appeals to me most is that there’s no “commercialization” surrounding it.  In every sense Thanksgiving truly is about spending time with friends and family and being appreciative for all that you have in your life.

To that end, while I realize it’s borderline cliche to spend an entire post recognizing things I’m thankful for, I think it’s important to do considering the time of year (and because many people disregard it altogether).

Besides, it’s my blog……..I can do what I want!

Family

I can’t write a post of this nature and not give props to my family.  Even though I’ll be seeing them in a few hours (Mom, seriously, have the pie ready!) I just want to take a few moments to say how much I love you.

I can’t thank you enough for all the support you’ve given throughout the years.  Everything from watching all of my Little League games to giving me my first Nintendo during Christmas of 1987 (arguably the best freakin day of my life!!!!!!) to travelling miles on end to watch my play all through high school and college to trusting my judgement and supporting my decision to leave home and move to New England to pursue my career in fitness, you’ve been amazing, and I’m so appreciative for everything.

Lisa

I realize her name pops up a lot on this blog, but there’s a logical reason for that.  She’s such a profound part of my life – it’s as simple as that.

I’ve never met a more compassionate, caring, and decidedly perfect companion for me than her.

I can say without hesitation that she, more than anyone else, has made me a better version of me and has helped elevate me to levels I couldn’t have ever fathomed.

The confidence I’ve gained having her in my life has been unparalleled, and too, what an awesome feeling it is knowing that she is ALWAYS by side supporting me every step of the way.

I couldn’t be more grateful.  I love you babe!

Friends and Colleagues

Firstly I’d like to give a shout out to my boys – Eric (Cressey) and Pete (Dupuis).  Yeah, yeah, yeah we’re business partners, but above all, you two are my best friends and I couldn’t be luckier.

Additionally, I want to thank the rest of the CP staff – Chris Howard, Greg Robins, and Michelle Elwell.  You all do a remarkable job and we’re lucky to have you.

And I don’t care what you say, Michelle, techno is the awesome….;o)

And to all of my colleagues out there who have made me a better coach and better human being in general – THANK YOU!

The list is endless but I’d like to give a special thanks to those who have played an integral part in my life:  Bret Contreras, Ben Bruno, Nia Shanks, Dean Somerset, Rick Kaselj, Adam Bornstein, Bryan Krahn, Mike Robertson, Mike Roussell, Brian St. Pierre, Joe Dowdell, Dan Trink, Optimus Prime, Jen Sinkler, Sirena Bernal, John Romaniello, Jon Goodman, Nick Tumminello, and  many many others who I hope won’t get mad at me for not including their name.

Yes, I’m talking to you Matt Damon.

Bacon

Nuff said.

You!

Not that I haven’t gotten sentimental enough already – 2012 has undoubtedly been the most successful year thus far for me professionally, and I owe much of that to all of you who continue to support me and help spread my message.

Everything from the release of my very first product – Muscle Imbalances Revealed – Upper Body to SPOILER ALERT:  The Spinal Health and Core Training Seminar, which is right around the corner – to Greatist Workout of the Day to helping this blog grow and grow, I can’t tell you how appreciative I am to everyone.

Sincerely – THANK YOU!!!!

And that’s about it.  I need to hop in the shower and get my things packed for my road trip bak home.  Most likely you won’t hear from me again until Monday, but I may sneak in a quick blog post before then.

Until then, again, thank you, and HAPPY TURKEY DAY!!!