Marking the Miles: A step-by-step path to gratitude

Over the past eight months or so, I've become fond of telling people, "It's there when you look for it."

Now, "it" might be faith or hope or whatever you need it to be. But it's there when you start paying attention.

Today was yet another example of that in my life. After a tough week at work -- in which I began questioning every professional decision I've ever made -- I woke at 5:30 this morning to run 11 miles. I had the best run of my brief-but-growing running career, the kind of thing that gives me real hope and pride and a sense of accomplishment.

Afterward, I visited with my grandfather, a living miracle in and of himself, and then I drove with my mom's neighbor to pick up a dryer. Mundane? Not at all. Along the way, Chuck and I talked about everything from food to wine to religion and faith, and it was one of the best conversations I could imagine ever having.

So I am grateful for this day, which led me to wonder: What are you thankful for? When you look for "it," where do you find it?

And now to keep with my list-making theme, I need your help. I need 26 responses, on Facebook, Twitter or Weebly, about what you're thankful for.

Take a moment, look for it, and share it.