Let’s Talk

on July 30, 2010
in All Posts

So much to say! :)  First things first:  Owning a real, live basil plant is awesome.

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I highly recommend that you buy a basil plant for a window in your kitchen.  I haven’t killed it yet, which speaks volumes on how easy it is to tend.  :)  Plus, it’s so much fun to snag a few leaves and add them to dishes that would otherwise lack a little something-something.

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I had an excellent Quinoa Salad for lunch today.  I love putting hot grains on top of a bed of arugula or spinach because the greens wilt and become so supple.

 

In the mix:

 

  • Arugula
  • Quinoa
  • Tomato
  • Fresh basil
  • Athenos feta (tomato + basil flavor)
  • Roasted kidney and pinto beans <—Roasting the beans is easy.  Drain the can, rinse away the extra sodium, pat dry, and throw in the oven at 375 for about 10 minutes.  Perfection!

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In other news…

 

The Operation Beautiful book drops in four short days (more info here).  I’m amazed, nervous, excited, GRATEFUL, freaking out, and really happy.  I plan to write more next week about the process of going from reader –> blogger –> author.  It’s been quite a wild ride!

 

I’ve got tons of special things planned for next week, but I want to tell you about two right now!

 

First up:  The Operation Beautiful Virtual Book Tour (VBT)!

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The VBT kicks off next Monday and runs until Saturday.  For the VBT, I’ve asked a few bloggers to address a topic related to body image and self-esteem.  Each will also give away a copy of the book!  I hope you check out these excellent blogs next week to see what a former personal trainer, blogger for a major health website, vegan mommy, stay-at-home-mom in her 20’s, runner/professional baker, and Grammy-nominated rock band has to say about Operation Beautiful!

 

 

Additionally, I want to hear from YOU!  Next week I’ll also be running a larger effort that includes readers + the entire blog community.  During Change the Way You See, Not the Way You Look week, I encourage all bloggers + readers to think and write about body image issues.

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If you’re a blogger, write a new blog post about whatever subject specifically appeals to you (finding a happy weight? getting fit? learning to love your body? and other ideas here), copy and paste the “Change the Way You See” logo into the blog post (like a photo, as I did above), and then press publish and email me the link.  I’ll put that exact link on the blog so other people can read your perspective, too…  I’ll link to it on Healthy Tipping Point and OB so new readers can find your blog!

 

If you don’t have a blog but want to participate, you can join the discussion by writing a post and e-mailing it to me.  I’ll put it on a special section of the Operation Beautiful site and credit it to YOU!  🙂

 

I’m accepting other blogger + reader submissions NOW!  Send them in!

 

(Mucho thanks to Gina for helping me with the VBT and OB Week logos – aren’t they great? She does excellent design work.)

 

On that note… I’ve got one last Athenos feta giveaway for you!

One reader will win the following: ATHENOS Feta coupon; ATHENOS Feta “Shape Up Your Salad” recipe booklet; ATHENOS Feta water bottle; Life Time Fitness 1-month membership; Fit & Fresh salad container; and a Built NY lunch bag.  To enter, simply answer the following question in the comments section.  I’ll pick a winner on Sunday.

 

Your body does amazing things, like kiss, run, dance, sing.  What ability are you most grateful for and why? 

{ 358 comments }

 

  • Leanne July 30, 2010, 12:55 pm

    The ability to walk up to someone and HUG them. Sometimes you are in a situation where you cannot find the right words to say but to reach out and HUG someone speaks volumes.

    PLUS I love hugging my fiance… Its such a safe feeling.

  • JW July 30, 2010, 12:57 pm

    I am grateful for my body’s ability to heal. I have not always treated my body with the respect and care it deserves.

  • Emily July 30, 2010, 12:57 pm

    The ability to just grasp onto life and have a good time!!!! But I do love snuggling – the warmest, best feeling in the world.

  • Katy(The Balanced Foodie) July 30, 2010, 12:58 pm

    The ability to gain strength and prove me wrong over and over in yoga or running. I tend to think “I can’t” more then “I can” and then my body goes for it and succeeds. I love that we can gain strength if we just put a little work into it!

  • Marci July 30, 2010, 12:58 pm

    Love it! I’m going to write something for monday and email you. I will be on vacation next week but tuning in from Cabo on Thursday! So happy for your successes with this book and glad the whole world gets to hear about it! And maybe my book club will be reading it soon…!?

    • caitlin July 30, 2010, 5:51 pm

      Can’t wait to read what you write!

  • Amanda (modernation) July 30, 2010, 1:03 pm

    Love the OB Week idea! I am grateful for my ability to use my voice. I am able to express myself, how I feel about the people I love and share my thoughts with the world!

  • Michele July 30, 2010, 1:04 pm

    I am most proud of the fact that my body gives me the ability to laugh. There is nothing better than laughing to the point of tears, complete with shaking shoulders and trying to catch your breath.

    So excited for your book to come out 🙂

  • Amy B @ Second City Randomness July 30, 2010, 1:05 pm

    I am thankful for the way it never stops surprising me in how strong I can become. It makes me feel so much more empowered on a regular basis.

    Congrats again on the book, next week will be so exciting!

  • Anne July 30, 2010, 1:05 pm

    From dance, I have developed an incredible ability to balance. It helped me out when I re-learned how to ski a few years ago. The balance meant that I spent more time on skis and plummeting face first down a mountain!

  • LC @ Let Them Eat Lentils July 30, 2010, 1:05 pm

    The ability to hear. I feel so blessed to hear music.

  • Lauren July 30, 2010, 1:06 pm

    Most thankful for my strong legs. They get me through many miles and never fail me! 😉

  • Mindy @ just a one girl revolution. July 30, 2010, 1:06 pm

    I love, love, love Superchick! Their song “One Girl Revolution” is actually where I got the name of my site and it’s my biggest/most played motivational song on my workout playlist.

  • Jess July 30, 2010, 1:06 pm

    I’m training for my first marathon in October, so I’m continually amazed at my body’s ability to run for several hours (and double digit miles) at a time! A year ago, I NEVER would have believed I would be running 14 miles on a Saturday morning (as in tomorrow). It’ll be a new PDR!

  • Samantha Angela @ Bikini Birthday July 30, 2010, 1:06 pm

    I’m excited to read what those other bloggers have to write. I’m really interested in the topic of self-image. Kinda reminds me of my Bikini Confidence series.

  • Beth July 30, 2010, 1:07 pm

    I love my ability to run! It’s so freeing and therapuetic. I also lovemy ability to hug. Seriously, hugs make life so awesome!

  • AngelaOSG July 30, 2010, 1:07 pm

    Ok my basil plant has total envy over yours. I think I planted mine in too much shade! =( I hear they love the sun. I will keep the faith though!

    I am so excited for the VBT!

    • Carrie H July 30, 2010, 6:33 pm

      Maybe be careful putting yours in too much sun though … I put mine in 8-10 hours of direct sunlight for a couple weeks because I thought it would help it along, and the sun burned holes into the leaves! Ugh! Now it’s back into the shade for some of the day. (I also live at 7,200 feet, so that may be a factor, I dunno, but I have basil envy toward Caitlin too! :))

  • Annie@stronghealthyfit July 30, 2010, 1:08 pm

    I’m grateful for the strength to run and do yoga! And all of my senses 🙂

  • Mary @ What's Cookin' with Mary July 30, 2010, 1:09 pm

    Wish I had a window in my kitchen… It would be filled with all kinds of herbs!!! 😀

  • Jessica July 30, 2010, 1:09 pm

    I’m grateful that my body put up with all the terrible things I’ve put it through, and still carries me today! My body is strong and healthy and I am grateful that it allows me to dance through life…and allows good belly laughs 🙂

  • Melissa July 30, 2010, 1:10 pm

    I’m grateful for the ability to move. I have tardive dystonia, and when I have an episode, I’m confined to my bed due to loss of muscle control. So when I have good days, weeks, or even months, I’m so happy to just be able to move how I want to.

  • Kristin July 30, 2010, 1:10 pm

    I am most grateful for my ability to smile…even when things aren’t going my way. A warm smile can always turn things around 🙂

  • brandi July 30, 2010, 1:10 pm

    Today, I’m still grateful for those muscles I’m feeling after Zumba Tuesday night. Super sore, but I love that it was fun 🙂

    Love the idea of the virtual book tour! Maybe I’ll repost some of my story next week (especially since it’s in the book!). So excited for you!

  • Danielle July 30, 2010, 1:10 pm

    My ability to walk…I love my legs (and yes, that includes my thighs!) for carrying me everywhere I go and giving me so many amazing opportunities to see so many places in person.

  • Heather @ The Single Dish July 30, 2010, 1:10 pm

    I am grateful for my body to walk super fast and dodge everyone on the street as I race to work!

  • Shannon July 30, 2010, 1:11 pm

    Continually amazed and thankful of my body’s ability to create my two beautiful babies!!

  • Alicia at Poise in Parma July 30, 2010, 1:11 pm

    I love the idea of a Virtual Book Tour. Very cool.

    I am grateful that my body allows me to live a wonderful life with a man I love, with a pup I adore, in the city that raised me. Life is good, my body is good and I am good.

  • megan July 30, 2010, 1:11 pm

    I’m grateful to be able to cook and bake! 🙂

  • Crystal July 30, 2010, 1:11 pm

    I’m most grateful for my ability to give birth, it’s just such an amazing, incredible thing. Can you tell I’m in the hormonal i love pregnancy stage lol?

    • caitlin July 30, 2010, 5:52 pm

      That sounds like a nice stage. 🙂 Congrats!

  • Maureen July 30, 2010, 1:11 pm

    I’m so glad I can see!

  • Coco July 30, 2010, 1:12 pm

    I am grateful for my body’s resilience. I haven’t always treated my body with the love and care it deserves, but it has still been able to heal.

  • Kiran July 30, 2010, 1:12 pm

    Love your enthusiasm and the great work you are doing 🙂

  • little miss pharmacist July 30, 2010, 1:13 pm

    I have one basilic plant too and I totally love it. I also have a mint plant which is great too! (makes really good couscous salad)
    I love your blog, I’m french and I live in canada, montreal, but I enjoy visiting your blog once in a while…Do you know a little in french? I would like to go to the United-states one day, but for now..I’m working this summer, no vacation! lol
    have a nice day! 😉

    • caitlin July 30, 2010, 5:54 pm

      Bonjour!!! 🙂

  • Christine July 30, 2010, 1:14 pm

    I am most grateful for my body’s strength. I never knew until I started pushing myself all the amazing things I am capable of. I am NOT fragile and breakable!

  • Heather (Heather's Dish) July 30, 2010, 1:14 pm

    beautiful post…i can’t wait for all of these upcoming events! i would say i’m most thankful for my ability to SEE…with everything that goes on my life, i’m so thankful to see the beauty that surrounds me every day in people, nature, and love 🙂

    i’ll be emailing you later 🙂

  • Chelsea July 30, 2010, 1:14 pm

    I am greatful to breathe, because with out breath I couldn’t do anything!

  • Jes July 30, 2010, 1:16 pm

    Although not something my body physically does, honestly, I am most grateful for my brain’s abilities! There is so much that goes on inside there that makes me who I am, so that’s what I am most grateful for! =)

  • Sarra H July 30, 2010, 1:17 pm

    I am beyond grateful for the ability to basically do anything I want to do if I put my mind to it, thanks to my health! Most of us complain about having to workout (like, “ugh i hate the treadmill”) but we never stop to think about how lucky we are to even be able to WALK on the treadmill 🙂

  • Freya @ Brit Chick Runs July 30, 2010, 1:17 pm

    I have a basil plant in my window too, I love it!
    I’ll definetly be doing a post this coming week on body image – do you think you could put the sign/banner up again over the weekend as a reminder? 🙂

    • caitlin July 30, 2010, 5:55 pm

      Oh you know it!

  • tanyasDaily ProductViews July 30, 2010, 1:18 pm

    everything!

  • Astrid July 30, 2010, 1:18 pm

    I am grateful for my body’s ability adjust and evolve in strength and flexibility. It amazes me each day during yoga, walking, etc.

  • Kristy July 30, 2010, 1:18 pm

    My body never has failed me – only my determination and focus have. I’m blessed that everyday my body has the ability to take me where I want to go, I just have to get the mind on the same page. 😉

  • Renee July 30, 2010, 1:18 pm

    I am grateful to see. There is so much beauty in the world and I am thankful I can see all of it:)

  • Holly @ couchpotatoathlete July 30, 2010, 1:21 pm

    I’m grateful to just BE — to exist, to live, to love, for all the experiences of life.

    I am so excited for you and your book! I can’t wait!

  • Lissi @ livelearnrun July 30, 2010, 1:22 pm

    I am thankful for the body’s amazing ability to improve itself! I have tried to be ‘healthy’ on and off during various points of my life, and I’m finally truly committing to a healthy lifestyle. I’m thankful that my body can adapt to my new interest in running and that I can always improve! I’m excited to see how many awesome things I can do in the future.

  • VCK July 30, 2010, 1:22 pm

    I’m grateful for my increasing running ability–I’m not very fast, but I ran 3 miles in 27:28 yesterday and that makes me happy.

  • Christie July 30, 2010, 1:24 pm

    I’m thankful for my body’s ability to run long distances… nothing needed but a good pair of shoes and in half an hour I feel healthier, calmer, and re-energized.

  • mm July 30, 2010, 1:24 pm

    Honestly, the ability to SEE is the one I’m most thankful for. I’ve been to so many different countries (26) and all 50 states, and now that I live in one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever seen, I am so thankful that I am able to enjoy the beauty of it all.

  • Leah July 30, 2010, 1:24 pm

    After last weekend I am so thankfully that I am able bodied enough to walk up 8 flights of stairs. Something that simple has made me appreciate everything my body can do. Last weekend the elevators broke in the large apartment building my boyfriend lives in. Its a very mixed community of young adults, senior citizens, handicapped persons and everyone in between. When the elevator went out (for over 24 hours) many people were trapped both downstairs and in their apartments, but my boyfriend and I were able to walk the 8 plus flights of stairs with our bags without so much as a pause (or sit in the chairs the apartment staff had put on every other floor for people to rest). That day my boyfriend and I realized how lucky we both were that we were able to navigate up and down the stairs multiple times that day without help, and it make me appreciate all the things my body is capable of, even the smallest of things!

  • Tina July 30, 2010, 1:25 pm

    Oh cool! Love the virtual blog idea and the week of Operation Beautiful. I know I will participate. 🙂

  • Sarah July 30, 2010, 1:25 pm

    I’m insanely grateful for my body giving me the ability to cry. It’s an emotional reaction that helps me in ways I can’t describe!

  • Jennifer S July 30, 2010, 1:25 pm

    I’m so grateful for the ability to run – mostly because up until 2 years ago I was 100% convinced I could never do it. It makes me wonder what else I can do…

  • Sara July 30, 2010, 1:26 pm

    Most grateful to run… for sure.

  • Jessie July 30, 2010, 1:27 pm

    I’m grateful to be able to taste. A family friend lost that ability when she was mugged and hit in the head, and I can’t even imagine what it must be like to eat without tasting!
    Also, of course, hugging! Nothing, nothing like a good hug!

  • stacey July 30, 2010, 1:27 pm

    Congrats again Caitlin. It sounds like you have some great things lined up for the book launch next week! I can’t wait to get my copy:)

  • Amanda July 30, 2010, 1:28 pm

    I love that my body allows me to hike because I have discovered some truly amazing places through my hiking experiences and wouldn’t have been able to have those experiences if it wasn’t for my body

  • Diana at Diana tries a tri July 30, 2010, 1:29 pm

    I’m thankful for my body’s ability to adapt! We throw so much craziness at ourselves in the form of food, climate, workouts etc. etc. etc. and while we might get little resistance, our body can beautifully adapt … that’s pretty awesome.

  • marie July 30, 2010, 1:29 pm

    I am most grateful that I am able to do pullups (did 1 yesterday!!) and chinups (did 4 Tuesday!!).

  • sarah k. @ the pajama chef July 30, 2010, 1:30 pm

    i love having a balcony- i currently have oregano, pineapple sage, parsley, and cilantro. they are all doing great except for mr. cilantro. 🙁

    i am grateful for my body’s ability to run! and also to God for giving me said body. 🙂 thanks for your inspiration!

  • Rosanne July 30, 2010, 1:31 pm

    I am thankful for my bodies ability to be healthy. I went through a severe eating disorder for many years, but my body has been very resilient and I am fully recovered.

  • Amisha July 30, 2010, 1:31 pm

    I’m most grateful for the ability to walk and get around on my own. I see so many people with limited mobility and I always think life would not be nearly as pleasurable if I was in their state.

  • Maya July 30, 2010, 1:31 pm

    A virtual book tour is such a good idea! I can’t wait for Mama Pea’s and Angela’s posts.

    I think our body’s ability to heal itself is amazing. I don’t give mine enough credit for doing so!

  • Britt July 30, 2010, 1:33 pm

    I am so so thankful for my body’s ability to heal itself. I work my body hard, so I am so thankful that my body is quick to repair itself!

  • Chelsea (Chelsea's Chew and Run Fun) July 30, 2010, 1:33 pm

    Ah, having the ability to toss fresh basil into any number of dishes sounds delightful.

    I’m thankful for having a fully functioning healthy body with all my limbs, period. I’ll always remember one particular run in Central Park, I was finishing up my 5th mile and really having a tough time. All of a sudden, a guy with a prosthetic leg whizzed by me. It was incredibly motivating and really put things into perspective for me. I thought, “If he can overcome all that AND still run, I can keep going too.”

  • Kellie July 30, 2010, 1:33 pm

    I am thankful for my mobility. My mother-in-law has MS and seeing how much she struggles just to get around makes me appreciate what my body can do. It makes me want to take care of it and treat it well.

  • Alexandra July 30, 2010, 1:34 pm

    I am thankful that my body is sometimes stronger than my mind. When I think I can’t push forward anymore, my body proves me wrong- especially when running 🙂

  • Stina @ Girl Can July 30, 2010, 1:36 pm

    First of all, any tips for successful basil growing? I killed two plants in the same season and promptly gave up.

    Like another commenter said, I’m grateful that my body has put up with all the bad stuff I’ve done to it, and keeps me going regardless.

  • Abbey July 30, 2010, 1:39 pm

    I am tahnkful for my body’s ability to hug! Sometimes all you need is the hug of someone you love to make everything better.

  • carolyn July 30, 2010, 1:40 pm

    I am grateful for my legs that carry me on my runs, which I so cheerish!

  • Tracey @ I'm Not Superhuman July 30, 2010, 1:41 pm

    The ability to think!!

    Oh, and you’re so right about the basil. I kill any plant I touch but my basil is giant-sized now.

  • Marisa July 30, 2010, 1:41 pm

    I am grateful for my body’s ability to bounce back from sickness. I have had a few surgeries for my Crohns disease and I always bounce back and recover. It is magic. 🙂

  • Erika July 30, 2010, 1:42 pm

    I am grateful for my body’s ability to move and enjoy the bounties of nature….I work in the healthcare field, so I do not take for granted my ability to climb a flight of stairs, get up from bed easily, hug my mom, or take the pups for a walk/run…..I am just thankful for all my injuries, that I am still able to do all those activities that make me smile.

  • Ashley (whole-ier) July 30, 2010, 1:42 pm

    I am thankful for my legs that are training for this 1/2 marathon. I am amazed when they take me 1 mile farther than I have ever gone.

  • Rachel July 30, 2010, 1:42 pm

    I am grateful for my body’s ability to swim/bike/run – doing my first tri on Sunday!!!!!!

  • Juliene July 30, 2010, 1:44 pm

    I’m grateful that my body has bounced back after being mistreated for so long. I can’t believe that after losing so much weight that my body looks and feels better than it did when I was younger!

  • Emily G. July 30, 2010, 1:45 pm

    I’m grateful that my body is able to complete the simple task that so many people can’t. Walking, hearing, seeing, etc. I think so many people take that for granted. I also enjoy being able to snuggle up with my cute pup at night 🙂

  • Anya @ Fitness & Sunshine July 30, 2010, 1:46 pm

    I would love to participate in this–what a great idea! I haven’t always had the most positive body image but have changed for the (much) better and would love to write about it. 🙂

    The thing I’m most grateful to my body for is all the surprises it gives me every time I challenge it. 😉 Whether I push myself mentally or physically and think “wow, this is so hard, I don’t know if I’ll make it through”, I make it! A couple years ago I never thought I’d be successfully lifting weights. A few days ago I thought I would never run. Now I’m doing both and am so glad.

  • jessica g July 30, 2010, 1:46 pm

    i love my lungs. i mistreating them with smoking for so long, but have recently quit and also completed my first half marathon! keep breathing.

  • Kate July 30, 2010, 1:47 pm

    I’m grateful my body is able to get me to and from work everyday either walking or biking. Saving money, getting exercise, and being green – can’t beat it!

  • Jen July 30, 2010, 1:48 pm

    I love that my body evens itself out. If I have too many carbs one day, my body craves fruits and veggies the next!

  • Chaaron July 30, 2010, 1:48 pm

    I’m most grateful for my body’s ability to dance, because dance expresses so many emotions without words.

  • Scargosun July 30, 2010, 1:49 pm

    I love my body’s ability to taste! I love to cook and it makes me so happy to make tasty and healthy things for my friends and family.

  • Sami July 30, 2010, 1:49 pm

    I’d love a basil plant! I love that our bodies are so powerful. From fighting disease to running 10 miles. I’m thankful for strong legs and a strong heart 🙂

  • Heather July 30, 2010, 1:49 pm

    I’m grateful for the ability to walk and run…very simple, but so many people in the world are not able to do those things and the fact that I can makes me stop and take pause to be grateful every day!

  • emily July 30, 2010, 1:50 pm

    To RUN! There’s been a few injuries that made me think I’d have to stop and I’m so glad that wasn’t the case!

    • emily July 30, 2010, 1:50 pm

      Also, kissing my husband kicks a lot of ass.

  • Tracy July 30, 2010, 1:51 pm

    For my smile 🙂 I believe that anyone can brighten another person’s day with their smile. I try and smile at everyone I see just in case their day needs a little brightening.

  • Me-Linh (Sweet and Sweat) July 30, 2010, 1:52 pm

    I’ll be doing an Operation Beautiful post tonight!
    I’m thankful for the ability to see. I whine and bitch about a knee injury, but at least I can still walk (which I need my eyes for). Plus, how else would I be able to see when my two dogs are about to pounce on me? Beagles are quite stealthy.

  • Sarah July 30, 2010, 1:52 pm

    I am thankful that my body can handle it when I push it harder physically than usual. It’s always a great surprise!

  • Laura July 30, 2010, 1:52 pm

    I’m grateful that i am able to SMILE. one small little movement of the mouth can have such an amazing affect on someone’s mood.

  • Whitney July 30, 2010, 1:52 pm

    So grateful that I can run and walk! I work with weight loss patients who sometimes can barely do either one…really makes me think twice about what abilities I am so blessed to have!

  • janneke July 30, 2010, 1:53 pm

    this might be stretching it a bit but I am most thankful for being able to feel. Be it an emotion, sense, etc. As an artist I would hate not to be able to feel something when I see not only my own but another beautiful piece of art. Same goes with love, what would I be if I couldn’t feel love?

  • Heather July 30, 2010, 1:53 pm

    to see for sure. I think being blind would be miserable, I am so grateful I can see all the beautiful things in creation!

  • Joyce Davis July 30, 2010, 1:54 pm

    Because I’ve experienced knee problems, I am most grateful for the ability to kneel, something others must take for granted.
    Congratulations for your book.

  • Karla July 30, 2010, 1:54 pm

    I am most greatful that I can hear. It is through my fiance’s words that I know how much he loves me! 🙂

  • Cate July 30, 2010, 1:55 pm

    I am grateful for my voice. It’s painful to listen to me sing, but as a teacher, that’s the one part of my body (along with my mind) that I use to affect students every day.

  • Lauren July 30, 2010, 1:55 pm

    I’m grateful for my brain! I have volunteered at a rehab hospital for about a year now, and it’s so crazy how little things- a fall with a little knock to your head– can impact your ability to think, speak, form words, swallow, control impulses, time your speaking (and know how much time should lapse before you speak again in a conversation)…And on the other side of that token, it’s absolutely AMAZING how well your body can heal itself- your brain can rebuild and help you learn to swallow, walk, talk, run, sing, again! With a strong sense of faith, hope, and determination, it’s amazing to see what a body can accomplish.

  • Nicole July 30, 2010, 1:55 pm

    Totally inappropriate but I gotta say I’m grateful for the ability to orgasm….’nuff said!

    • caitlin July 30, 2010, 6:49 pm

      Me too 🙂

  • Amy July 30, 2010, 1:57 pm

    I am grateful to be able to go for long walks in the sun!

  • Gina G July 30, 2010, 1:57 pm

    i am grateful to be able to smile as someone has said before. a smile can produce such happiness and make someones day that much brighter. it is a very powerful thing 🙂

  • Raya @ Raya Runs July 30, 2010, 1:58 pm

    I’m grateful that my body allows me to be active and do whatever I set my mind to. If you think about it, just the ability to move/see/hear/speak is a gift. A lot of people aren’t as lucky.

  • Rachel July 30, 2010, 2:00 pm

    I love that my body can dance!!

  • Michele July 30, 2010, 2:00 pm

    I am most grateful that I am completely able to hear. I know some people who are deaf, and it is obviously a very difficult life.

  • Sara July 30, 2010, 2:00 pm

    Just to have a fairly healthy and happy body that allows me to do most anything I want–that’s enough for me!

  • Ashley July 30, 2010, 2:01 pm

    I am thankful for my ability to run! When I get burnt out from training for a race or because of a hectic day/week, I just think, “Do it because you CAN!” So many people are unable to run, or even walk, so I am soo grateful!

  • J.L. July 30, 2010, 2:01 pm

    Love to visit friends and be active

  • Carol July 30, 2010, 2:02 pm

    Grateful to be able to walk my dogs

  • Marcie July 30, 2010, 2:03 pm

    To play with my daughter

  • Erin July 30, 2010, 2:03 pm

    I’m grateful that my body is healthy and that it allows me to run. There are so many things that you think you can’t do, but if you trust in yourself and your body, you find that it’s easier than you think.

  • Maria @ Oh Healthy Day July 30, 2010, 2:04 pm

    My head is swimming with OB post ideas! Body image was my Master’s Thesis topic, so it could be a long one 🙂

    I’m grateful for touch. There is nothing better in this world than a giant bear hug from someone you love.

  • Kristen July 30, 2010, 2:05 pm

    Grateful that I can run, jump, swim and be active with my family!

  • Abbey July 30, 2010, 2:05 pm

    I am most grateful for vision that allows me to see the world around me and legs that allow me to explore it.

  • Kaitlin July 30, 2010, 2:06 pm

    The OB blogger/reader post idea is an awesome one! I can’t wait to read what others have to say and maybe submit my own 🙂

    I’m grateful for my mind. I love to think, analyze and experiment– it’s what makes me love life as a scientist!

  • Julz @ freshman5k July 30, 2010, 2:10 pm

    I’m grateful for running! Without it, I don’t know who I’d be today.

  • Erin July 30, 2010, 2:11 pm

    I think I’m most grateful for the ability it gives me to help others and that I can do pretty much anything I want to do.

  • Marilyn July 30, 2010, 2:11 pm

    Definitely my body’s ability to heal! I’ve had a couple of surgeries so the healing process has been a life saver!

  • kirsten July 30, 2010, 2:12 pm

    I’m grateful for the ability to smile! you can express a lot with your face 🙂

  • christine July 30, 2010, 2:12 pm

    I’m grateful for even just being able to walk and for tolerating pain. I’m thankful for breathing and continuing to live a healthy life 🙂

  • Nancy July 30, 2010, 2:13 pm

    I’m grateful to be able to run with my 4 1/2 year old daughter and carry her when she gets tired!

    I’ve got my book on pre-order!!!

  • KMattrn July 30, 2010, 2:17 pm

    I can’t pick just one thing I’m grateful my body can do. I’m constantly amazed at the ability of the human body. Not only does mine get me through daily life — even when I’m not treating it as good as it should be treated — but it has carried me through lots of adventures (hiking, white water rafting, myriad amusement park rides); given birth to two healthy babies; allows me to appreciate the arts and beauty of the world we live in; allows me to experience intimacy and physical pleasures; to taste all the wonderful foods out there; heals its own injuries; learns and adapts to new situations and demands…
    Seriously?!!? How fantastic is all that?!
    I love my body:)

  • Nicki July 30, 2010, 2:17 pm

    As a mom of six, I love my body for its ability to give birth and then nurture those children.

  • Jen July 30, 2010, 2:19 pm

    I am so thankful for my ability to walk. I’m thankful for this because I badly sprained my ankle two weeks ago. It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions trying to adjust to not being able to RUN for the time being – I was training for a half marathon that I’m not going to be able to participate in – but realizing that at least I’m able to walk – albeit slowly – while others can’t has given me SUCH appreciation for what I used to take for granted.

  • Corinne July 30, 2010, 2:21 pm

    I am grateful for my body’s ability to adapt. I have just lost over 120 pounds and my body stuck with me the whole time.

  • Rachael July 30, 2010, 2:22 pm

    I’m a brand new runner (started C25K last week!) and have been suffering from a terrible case of shin splints. I am so thankful that my body is able to push through workouts but also signal to me what’s wrong so that I can be proactive in stretching and preventing any potential injuries.

  • Erica July 30, 2010, 2:23 pm

    I am most grateful for my body’s ability to let me enjoy an active lifestyle. I can go out for bike rides with my husband, 9 mile hikes with my best friend, and runs with my dog. I get to experience so much because my body is strong and healthy!

  • Alison July 30, 2010, 2:23 pm

    I’m grateful for my ability to walk as I walk around the city I live in without a car!

  • Rae July 30, 2010, 2:24 pm

    I am so greatful to my body for handling everything I throw at it…as a triathlete, I can be pretty darn demanding of it…but it rocked me through my first Ironman on Sunday…LOVIN my body!!!

  • Heather July 30, 2010, 2:24 pm

    the ability to sleep … I love sleeping , I love that my body rests ! YEah !

  • Divya Vikram July 30, 2010, 2:25 pm

    I am grateful that I can cook and paint!

  • Tracy July 30, 2010, 2:26 pm

    I am so happy my body allows me to workout and do hard things! I am glad I am able to strengthen my body and use it to do everyday stuff at work and at home. I have some family members who are unable to do much due to health, so I am really grateful.

  • Ericka July 30, 2010, 2:28 pm

    The ability to run. It’s the only thing that truly makes me feel good lately.

  • Sara July 30, 2010, 2:28 pm

    Laugh! (Does that count?) I love how it makes me feel…and how having a good laugh with friends, family, strangers on the street (as long as it isn’t at someone elses expense!) instantly bonds people together!

  • Lucy July 30, 2010, 2:31 pm

    My ability to run outside

  • Amanda- The Nutritionist Reviews July 30, 2010, 2:31 pm

    I’m most grateful for the ability to walk! Without that life would be very difficult.

  • Will July 30, 2010, 2:32 pm

    The ability to bake and cook for my family and friends

  • Don July 30, 2010, 2:32 pm

    I love that I can work in my garden

  • Kelly July 30, 2010, 2:33 pm

    I am grateful that my body was able to have 2 healthy babies!

  • elaine! July 30, 2010, 2:34 pm

    I am so grateful I can run. When I was a kid, I had asthma. I would often have to sit down in the middle of PE and try not to cry because I was panicked about how hard it was to breathe. Then my inhaler would make me shaky and lightheaded. I still remember when I did 1 mile at our school track meet. I was second to last and so proud of myself. Then in college, I took a jogging class, and after a few months my knees hurt so bad I could hardly walk to class. I managed it for a few years, but then it got really bad again. This year I took a running workshop and really practiced my running technique, and now I can run pain-free. My longest run so far is 8 miles! And I’m signed up for two half-marathons, and am planning on a marathon next year.

    But I’m still so very grateful I can run that first mile.

    • caitlin July 30, 2010, 5:57 pm

      <3

  • Gen July 30, 2010, 2:34 pm

    I am grateful that my body let me train for and finish a half-marathon–I never thought it would ever be possible.

  • Paula July 30, 2010, 2:36 pm

    I am grateful that I can take care of people, I am a nurse and the fact that I can hold someones hand, give a hug, wipe away tears, and make someone laugh makes me realize that my body can offer someone else comfort.

  • eatingRD July 30, 2010, 2:38 pm

    I’m grateful that I am able to enjoy the little things in life like going for a nice bike ride and to our local farmer’s market to cook up a bunch of goodies in the kitchen 🙂 Fresh basil is pure heaven.

  • Brittany July 30, 2010, 2:41 pm

    love having own plants : ) makes it that much easier while cooking …although i have to say i just started this whole cooking thing (LUV IT!)
    I am greatful for this time with my family on earth : )

    today is my last day for GIVEAWAY its jewelry from a Amazing jewerly store!

    thedayjustbegan.blogspot.com
    good luck!!

  • Kristy C July 30, 2010, 2:41 pm

    I’m grateful that I can pick up my niece and nephew–and chase after them and swing them in the air, of course 🙂

  • Elizabeth July 30, 2010, 2:43 pm

    My body can RUN up stairs!

    I was >100 pounds overweight for about 20 years and battled major knee problems. With a major lifestyle change (made one, small step at a time), I now compete in stair-climbing events. My next event will be to run up the Sears Tower in November. I’m hoping to do it in less than 20 minutes. (Yikes!)

    I’m super grateful I can try! 😀

    • caitlin July 30, 2010, 6:08 pm

      Dude, that is awesome!!!

  • Chelsea July 30, 2010, 2:47 pm

    I am greatful for my body always being able to go further than I think it is able to. <3

  • AlisonJ July 30, 2010, 2:48 pm

    I am so grateful that I can hug – there is nothing like a good hug with friends and family.

  • Allison B July 30, 2010, 2:49 pm

    I am grateful for my ability to get up every morning, walk to the bathroom, fix my breakfast, go running…Being able to do everyday normal things that a lot of people have trouble doing, or just can’t, that we talk for granted a lot. I am very lucky with my abilities and health and it can be easy to take it for granted.

  • Meghan July 30, 2010, 2:49 pm

    grateful that my body allows me to do run marathons, which helps me to keep my sanity 🙂

  • Jennifer July 30, 2010, 2:50 pm

    WOW! I know that my body is capable of so many things, to include the ones I don’t even give a second thought most of the time. So, I am going to say that I am grateful for the ability to walk: the simple act of being able, with no trouble at all, to get myself from point A to point B. There are people in my life for whom getting around is difficult due to numerous health problems (like COPD and neuropathy from anti-rejection meds for a liver transplant). I am thankful for my health so that I can get around and move and be and do! ♥

  • Keri-Danielle July 30, 2010, 2:50 pm

    I’m most thankful for my body’s physical and emotion strength. The feeling over overcoming something you never thought you could is so very impowering.

    (:

  • Monica July 30, 2010, 2:53 pm

    My arms and their ability to hold. I am not a very touchy person and often don’t hug, but holding my husband and wrapping my arms around family/friends I haven’t seen in awhile brings me more comfort than anything else in this world. My day ends and begins with wrapping my arms around my husband and I am so grateful that I have the ability to do that each and every day.

  • Sarah (this is it) July 30, 2010, 2:54 pm

    I am so thankful for my great balance. I took ballet as a child for five years, then became a three-sport athlete through high school, and although I still play tennis, I have developed a great sense of balance. Balance is such a simple thing, but it has allowed me to take on downhill skiing in the winter. Skiing in the winter has become a great get-away and escape for me.

  • Jess July 30, 2010, 2:54 pm

    I’m thankful I can run!! A student from my Alma mater recently lost his legs in a freak climbing accident. His amazing attitude and desire to continue living life to it’s fullest made me realize I have very little to actually complain about.

  • Shannon July 30, 2010, 2:54 pm

    I am thankful for my body’s ability to breathe! I had problems breathing as a child, and try not to take respiration for granted 🙂

  • Rebecca July 30, 2010, 2:55 pm

    I am most grateful for my body’s ability to walk and run. Although I may forget at times, I try not to take being able bodied for granted.

  • Maura July 30, 2010, 2:55 pm

    I am most grateful for all of the above ( i hope i can do that–bc i just did, haha!) i am so happy to have the ability to kiss, run, dance & sing…but to add to that i’m also greatful to hug, skip, love, SMILE, jump, and twirl 🙂

  • Heidi July 30, 2010, 2:56 pm

    Of all the things my body can do for which I am grateful, I am most grateful for my body’s ability to change into what ever I am willing to work for it to become. It can become stonger, leaner, faster, more muscular, more flexible, lighter, more graceful……

  • Paige (Two Runners And A Brown Dog) July 30, 2010, 2:57 pm

    I am thankful that I am able to run almost every day. Running makes me strong and keeps me sane!

  • Molly July 30, 2010, 2:57 pm

    Caitlin, where did you buy your basil plant?

    • caitlin July 30, 2010, 6:09 pm

      Trader Joes!

  • Julie July 30, 2010, 2:58 pm

    I am greatful for my body’s ability to reward me for my efforts! When I push myself in a run, I get that extra endorphin buzz. When I train hard, my body becomes able to go faster and further. Every goal I set, my body rewards me for working for it, regardless of the time on the clock, or the number on the scale.

  • Stephanie July 30, 2010, 2:59 pm

    To give birth to three wonderful babies!

  • Trista July 30, 2010, 3:02 pm

    I am most grateful for my body’s ability to run. I’m still amazed when I get in from a long run that I just did that!

  • Anne Weber-Falk July 30, 2010, 3:03 pm

    I am most grateful for my ability to smile. I know that a genuine smile pointed in any direction can make a person feel better. It makes me feel better too. I can have the worst day but when I start to smile, especially at other people, my day becomes better immediately. So smile with your teeth and with your eyes. It is beautiful and makes others feel good too.

  • Jess July 30, 2010, 3:05 pm

    That’s a really great question and a tough one at that. I’m grateful for everything that my body does and the energy it gives me to do all I want in life, like running, standing on my feet all day while teaching, lifting grocery bags, and doing a body pump class. I am in awe of how much my body gives me but know that I should be more aware of it all the time!

  • Ali @ Redhead Reports July 30, 2010, 3:08 pm

    I am most thankful for my ability to hug!

  • Andrea July 30, 2010, 3:09 pm

    I am thankful for so many things. Hard to choose just one. I constantly thank God for the ability to run because of the numerous gifts that it give me but I am going to choose SMELL on this one. The sense of smell is so powerful. My absolute favorite thing to smell is my children (especially my two year old son). His sweet smell is so calming to me. The smell of coffee is invigorating, the smell of spagetti in the kitchen or a pie cooking is undescribeable. I am blessed to have the use of all my senses and limbs and I am thankful for that everyday. What a blessing it is to be able to see, hear, smell, touch. This is really going on. I must be having a moment.

    Anyway, I am totally getting your book and even though I have not written an operation beautiful type post on my blog..yet, I am totally snagging the button bc I like it. I will write something soon and send it to you. 🙂

  • Camille July 30, 2010, 3:13 pm

    I will definitely be participating in this!
    I am most proud of the fact that my body can think. I am proud of my mind and my ability to be intelligent both in an academic sense and in my everyday life!

  • Lizzy July 30, 2010, 3:14 pm

    I remember last year after i ran my first half marathon telling myself that i was sooo grateful that my legs were able to take me that distance. i was thankful that they allow me to run and walk, and that they put up what i make them go through! So thank you legs!!!! 🙂

  • Rachael @ Mrs-Adventure July 30, 2010, 3:15 pm

    I am grateful to be able to hold my husbands hand…

  • Amy Ramos July 30, 2010, 3:16 pm

    I can not wait to get my hands on the book (I pre-order it last week!0
    The thing I am most proud of is the ability to run longer than 3 miles without feeling like dying! I never thought in a million years I would run a 9 mile race and then sign up for the a 1/2 marathon! If you told me I would be doing this two years ago, I would have said you were nuts. Now, here I am doing it.

    • caitlin July 30, 2010, 6:11 pm

      Thank you!!

  • Kacy July 30, 2010, 3:17 pm

    I’d have to say dance. I’m not good at it by any means, but it always puts a smile on my face when I do a goofy jig in the living room.

  • Kristina July 30, 2010, 3:19 pm

    in the spirit of Operation Beautiful, I am grateful for my BRAIN + MIND…

    MY BRAIN, because it is intelligent and has not only earned a college degree, it has excelled as a CFO. as an Accountant. as a Project Manager for a $6 Million project. …and it helped me attract a SUPER Intelligent, Amazing Man – who loves me for my smarts 🙂

    MY MIND, because it is open minded and accepting of all people, in all walks of life, every size, shape and color. MY OPEN MIND allowed me to enjoy several years as a Special Olympics coach in college – I coached a team of weight lifters and brought them to tournaments. A truly amazing, humbling and FUN experience!

    🙂

  • nicole July 30, 2010, 3:28 pm

    Running! I’ve really become a running nerd in the last year and have completed a half marathon and a full marathon. I really love it and it’s amazing how much it can improve my mood. Lately I’ve been loving trail running and I have a 25k trail race on August 15!

  • Laura T. July 30, 2010, 3:28 pm

    im thankful for my ability to exercise! not only can i let off some steam, but it keeps me healthy and sane!

  • KatieF July 30, 2010, 3:30 pm

    I am grateful for the ability to breathe. Just think for a second about how refreshing a great big breath of cool air is. Nothing better. 🙂

  • Teisha July 30, 2010, 3:31 pm

    I’m grateful for the ability to dance ! Whether it be in public, on stage or just at home with my daughter. It makes me happy 🙂

  • Stacey @ Tipping the (Kitchen!) Scales July 30, 2010, 3:33 pm

    I’m just grateful that I can get up everyday and do the things that I want to do, without giving it a second thought.

  • stephanie p July 30, 2010, 3:34 pm

    I could never pick just one thing…so as kind of a cop=out, I’m grateful for my body’s ability to live.

  • Ilene July 30, 2010, 3:36 pm

    I’m simply grateful to be able to live…we take it for granted.

  • Christy July 30, 2010, 3:37 pm

    I’m must grateful that I have the ability to move. I have several members of my family including my parents who are on some type of arthritis medication. My grandmother being the most crippled by the disease. I see the pain they are in every day and it makes me want to keep moving so that I might fight off the disease one more day.

  • Alicia July 30, 2010, 3:39 pm

    To be able to move–mostly pain free.

  • Amber from Girl with the Red Hair July 30, 2010, 3:40 pm

    I’m SO grateful for the ability to run. I just love running SO much, it makes me feel better about myself and feel strong! My Dad was really sick and confined to a hospital bed for over 2 months last year. I would think about him every day and the fact that he couldn’t even get up and walk across the room, I could darn well go do my 5K run and APPRECIATE every second of it. That really changed my perspective on running and my ability to do so. And even now when I start to feel tired/annoyed with running, I remind myself there are so many people who CAN’T run so I should get out there and appreciate the fact that I can!

  • Mary July 30, 2010, 3:40 pm

    Run! I don’t think I have gone on a run in the past month without thinking how grateful I am to be able to run…I often think about grandparents or the handicapped who are unable to run (or often walk), and I realize how lucky and blessed I am to be able to run! Can’t imagine my life without it.

  • Tessa July 30, 2010, 3:41 pm

    I’ve been a sailor since I was in highschool and when you sail smaller boats, you really use your body to control the boat and navigate the waves and wind. Nothing makes me feel stronger and prouder of my body than when I use my body to hike over the edge of the boat and hold onto the mainsheet to keep the boat from flipping because of a really strong gust of wind.

  • Katie July 30, 2010, 3:41 pm

    Definitely the ability to get out and run. I think about the fact that not everyone is able to go and just run and that helps motivate me everytime I don’t feel like lacing up my running shoes.

  • Jess July 30, 2010, 3:42 pm

    I’m grateful for the ability to be active! Whether it’s zumba, running, yoga, hiking etc, I’m grateful that I can just get up and go whenever the mood hits 🙂

  • laura July 30, 2010, 3:42 pm

    im grateful for my ability to learn! im in the process of applying to grad school and am so thankful i have that opportunity!

  • Katie July 30, 2010, 3:43 pm

    I am most grateful for my strong legs that walk (occasionally jog) me so many places.

  • mal July 30, 2010, 3:45 pm

    sleeeeeeeep!

  • Laura July 30, 2010, 3:45 pm

    Each day I am simply blessed to wake up, get up and do the things I put my mind to doing. I am only limited by my own fears and lack of determination.

  • Lauren (Clean Eats in the Dirty South) July 30, 2010, 3:46 pm

    i am SO writing an OB blog post! 😀
    i’m so grateful for just being able to have a body and being able to move, live, breathe, laugh, and enjoy life. after all i’ve put it through…the lows that i have hit and to the highs i’ve soared through, i’m so thankful that each and every day i have a healthy body that is capable of such amazing things.

  • Silvia July 30, 2010, 3:46 pm

    Just getting through all that I put it through every day.

  • MaryZ July 30, 2010, 3:46 pm

    I am always amazed and grateful for how strong my body is when it is under stress. Whether the stress is physical or mental, its always amazing how it gets me through life.

  • Baby Blue July 30, 2010, 3:49 pm

    I am thankful that I have to ability to be strong in my body. I have beat myself up too many times for not exercising enough or not eating healthily. I have decided to just let go and eat well and exercise because it will make me feel better. I am thankful for my strong body that lets me do the things that I need and want to do.

  • Jenny July 30, 2010, 3:52 pm

    I am grateful that my body can heal after so many years of treating it really terribly. I’m also grateful that no matter how often my car breaks down, my feet and legs always get me wherever I need to go. 🙂

  • Lori July 30, 2010, 3:54 pm

    I am most grateful that my arms are the perfect length to give squeezes to my son. Even though he is getting older, I will never tire of hugging, holding, and cuddling with him as much as he’ll let me.

  • Stephanie July 30, 2010, 3:54 pm

    Although I haven’t had any children yet, I’m grateful for my body’s ability to bear children and be a nuturing mother. I think that is a very important part of who I am and what makes me happy in life.

  • lauren July 30, 2010, 3:58 pm

    smiling! so glad i can smile and am also really glad that others can!

  • Kaleigh July 30, 2010, 3:58 pm

    I am so thankful for the ability to see. I can’t imagine not getting to notice the little and big beautiful things that make up this world. From the tiny dots on a lady bug, to the smile my doggies have on their face when I get home, to the way my husband smirks at me to the way the Rocky mountains look purple. You can learn so much about life just by paying attention!

  • stephanie@Avocado Nation July 30, 2010, 3:59 pm

    I am actually really confused about the blog post for next week. Do you want us to write the post and now post it this week or wait until next week?

    • caitlin July 30, 2010, 6:13 pm

      You can post it now if you want and then just email it to me – a little early but no worries!

      It just can’t be a post you wrote in, say, april.

  • Danika July 30, 2010, 4:04 pm

    I am grateful that my body can push its limits and pump out those miles. It really makes me appreciate my body and how capable it is. I am confident then anybody can do the work if they put their body to the test!

  • Heather July 30, 2010, 4:05 pm

    I am grateful for the strength of our hearts. My dad had quadruple by-pass surgery yesterday afternoon, and today he has already gotten out of bed and now he is watching NASCAR 🙂

  • Alexa July 30, 2010, 4:05 pm

    I am grateful for my ability to hug without hesitation. My body gives REALLY good hugs. =)

  • Courtney July 30, 2010, 4:06 pm

    I think my ability to bounce back I havent always been kind to myself and still have the ability to run and participate in other physical activities!

  • Amber July 30, 2010, 4:09 pm

    I am pretty hard on my body (in my head) wish it looked this way or that way….but all in all I am grateful that I have the strength to do most anything I put my mind to! The body is an amazing tool and everyone should learn to love and respect what God gave them!!!

  • Amber K @ sparkpeople July 30, 2010, 4:10 pm

    I am most grateful that I simply have legs that work! While I’m injured right now, it has got me thinking that in general I have two strong legs that can power me through anything. I can walk, run, skip, jump, whatever I want!

    I am SO glad to see the Daily Spark is one of the blogs that will be talking your book up! I, of course, love Sparkpeople and I love when I see two of my favorites combined!

  • Nat July 30, 2010, 4:10 pm

    I am most grateful for the ability to move/walk/run and for being able to see! I love being able to go places and explore and to excercise- it makes me happy. Taking in all the sights/nature makes me happy too.
    Oh, don’t know if this counts as it’s obviously a learned thing, but I am so grateful that I am able to read 🙂
    I look forward to your posts on how you became an author! I was wondering about that just yesterday and wanted to spend some time over the weekend trawling your archives 😉
    You must be bursting with excitement…only a few days now 🙂 I am so excited for you!!! Will order my copy of OB right now here in the UK!

    • caitlin July 30, 2010, 6:13 pm

      I love the ability to read too 🙂 🙂

  • Erika July 30, 2010, 4:10 pm

    The love that my legs are strong enough to get me out of bed every morning and carry me through the day.

  • Andrea July 30, 2010, 4:17 pm

    I am most thankful for my body to be overall healthy and strong, enabling me to do all the things I love like wakeboarding, riding, kickboxing, yoga – and that it never complains.

  • Savannah July 30, 2010, 4:17 pm

    i am so grateful for strong legs that have been kind enough to let me train for a marathon, do countless downward dogs, kick reeeeally high in kickboxing, and travel the world with just my feet to guide me.
    and for an easy smile. i like smiling. i’m pretty good at it too. 🙂

  • Jessica July 30, 2010, 4:19 pm

    Congrats on the official drop date being so soon as well as the fun things that go with that!

    I love that my body has the ability to write. Opposable thumbs are where it’s at. I can write with a pen or type the words. Either way, without this ability, I wouldn’t have a livelihood!

  • Lana July 30, 2010, 4:19 pm

    I amazed at my bodies ability to run. I went from not being able to run to the end of the street to just finishing an 8K! I also just took up Latin dancing and am so grateful for my health.

  • Lindsay Perrone (goodiesgalore) July 30, 2010, 4:21 pm

    I’m grateful for all my limbs– which I so often critique for not looking how I want them to. I’ve stopped doing that because they allow me to function in so many ways. Thank you limbs!!

  • Britney July 30, 2010, 4:24 pm

    I work with people with disabilities and every day I’m thankful for my health, my ability to make decisions for myself about myself (many of these guys are under some sort of guardianship), and that my good health allows me to make decisions that make me healthier, like go running. When I see our consumers who are in wheelchairs or have bad hips or other conditions that affect their mobility, I’m glad that I don’t have these obstacles in the way of maintaining my own health.

  • Andrea July 30, 2010, 4:45 pm

    I’m grateful for the Most Amazing Thing my body has ever done – nurture and birth my son _all by itself_. No drugs, no probes, no problems. A previous miscarriage devastated my confidence and faith in my body so I was deeply grateful to have that faith and confidence restored. And I got the added bonus of my beautiful boy. (If I’m picked I will gladly send a photo of said boy!) I also realize that others aren’t blessed by this ability, which makes me treasure it all the more.

  • Natalie July 30, 2010, 4:47 pm

    Love this question! I would normally say just the ability to be active and having a young able body, but reading the other responses reminds me that I should be grateful for everything I can do. Today I will be consciously thankful of my ability to hug, hear(listen), and dance. And I will do all three!

  • Amy July 30, 2010, 4:49 pm

    I’m thankful that my bodies strong enough to lift weights and build muscle despite battling anorexia and dealing with bad body image issues. I’m trying to overcome them with replacing the being skinny mantra with being healthy, fit, and having sexy muscles. Muscles and health are sexier than skinny anyday. Looking in the mirror and appreciating myself for who I am is my work in progress right now. I love operation beautiful.

  • megan July 30, 2010, 4:50 pm

    I am in awe of my body’s ability to grow (not the right word but I can’t think right now) my two beautiful children. And also of my ability to make milk! breastfeeding is such an amazing phenomenom. My daughter has gained almost 3 lbs in her 6 weeks of life and knowing that it’s all been from me is so stinkin awesome.

  • Michelle July 30, 2010, 4:51 pm

    I’m grateful for my ablity to walk. I voulenteer with kids, some of whom are disabled and it really makes you appreciate being able to lace up your sneakers and run. I try to remember that when I’m moody after a bad run!

  • elaine July 30, 2010, 4:55 pm

    definitely run! i was just thinking about this on my run the other day. it amazes me the way my body works together to let me run and i can feel every part of it working in unison. it makes me appreciate and love my body so much!

  • shorty July 30, 2010, 4:55 pm

    Wow what a tough question! Having babies seems to be the most amazing thing…but really anything our bodies are capable of is down right amazing!!!
    Shorty

  • jen July 30, 2010, 5:03 pm

    sight. the world is so beautiful!

    • caitlin July 30, 2010, 6:15 pm

      <3 <3

      so perfectly said.

  • Monica July 30, 2010, 5:04 pm

    I am grateful for the fact that my body can breathe. If I wasn’t breathing, I wouldn’t be living, and I wouldn’t be on this earth. After breathing, I am thankful for everything else that my body can do, even the negatives (none that I can think of right now) because they help me learn, and make me who I am.

  • Emmanuelle July 30, 2010, 5:06 pm

    The ability to surprise me every day with what I thought I could never do, and the ability to do the most simple things that seem “normal” but not everybody can do. In general I am just in awe how bodies can be so similar and so different at the same time!

  • Amanda @ Amanda On Foot July 30, 2010, 5:09 pm

    I’m grateful for these curvy hips I was born with. Instead of hide them, I embrace them and dance my heart out at salsa class.

    ~Amanda

  • My Life As I Live It July 30, 2010, 5:12 pm

    Are you doing any book signings? If so, where?

    • caitlin July 30, 2010, 6:17 pm

      At the Healthy Living Summit!

  • Katherine July 30, 2010, 5:13 pm

    I am so thankful for the ability to walk. I don’t live in a super walkable area right now, but in the past it has been my main means of transportation. My life would be so different if I didnt have the ability to walk/run/skip down the street everyday.

  • Anna Webb July 30, 2010, 5:17 pm

    I am thankful for the ability to hug. At the end of a long, terrible day….a hug can do wonders. I love giving them and getting them!

  • Ivy July 30, 2010, 5:18 pm

    I most grateful for my body’s ability to constantly adapt to new challenges, doing more and going farther than my brain thought it could, and for its ability to constantly renew itself through the simplest act – sleeping. As a healthcare worker, there are times I have to work weird hours, or switch from day shift to night shift on short notice, and my body adapts readily as long as I give it its sleep. It pushes through 12, 13, and 14 hour or longer shifts with little complaining and gives me the ability to do a job I love.

  • She-Fit July 30, 2010, 5:21 pm

    I haven’t had time to congratulate you on the book! Crazy that you are going from a blogger to an author. I’m so excited to see the countless doors that are going to open for you to effect the lives of girls all over the world! What a thought. Keep up the great work!

    Right now I am thankful to breath. To take in a fresh breath of air, to breath in the smells of baking bread in the kitchen or the bakery down the street!

    • caitlin July 30, 2010, 6:17 pm

      Thank you! I appreciate it.

  • Jenn July 30, 2010, 5:21 pm

    I am most grateful that my body allows me to get from point A to point B so easily. My father has multiple sclerosis and throughout the past few years it has become so much more of a chore for him to simply navigate places. It’s so difficult for him that sometimes he just won’t go certain places in order to skip the hassle. I’m so lucky that I am healthy and his disease has really made me appreciate it so much more. If only I could give him some of my ability… he deserves it more than anyone I know!

  • Denise July 30, 2010, 5:22 pm

    I am thankful that my wonderful hands enable me to hug my children and my husband and to take care of my patients ( I am a nurse ) . I am now especially thankful for my often under-appreciated hands as I recently healed from surgery to a broken hand and realized how ESSENTIAL my hands really are!!!!!

  • Amy July 30, 2010, 5:23 pm

    I can’t even list the number of things I am grateful to my body for-I have not always been so nice to it, and yet I am able to run many miles, work at a very physical job, and hopefully, have a baby soon!

  • Jae July 30, 2010, 5:23 pm

    Im grateful that my body is strong enough to let me mom walk for a couple miles or bike each day. im grateful that it is strong enough to get myself through a couple all nighters when Im studying for tests during the school year.

  • Amy H July 30, 2010, 5:26 pm

    I am most grateful that my body let’s me run. Sometimes I get frustrated that it is not running faster, but then I think about how wonderful it is to just be out there doing what I am doing, no matter the pace.

  • elissa July 30, 2010, 5:34 pm

    I am most grateful for my bodies ability to love and be loved. It’s the best feeling to give your love away and to be able to receive it from others. I can’t imagine life without it!

    Can’t wait for next week…so many fun things going on!

  • Amelia July 30, 2010, 5:35 pm

    I am grateful for my vision. I have had such a rough time this past year with non stop eye infections (due to an allergic reaction from my contacts since the company changed chemical composition without telling me). There was a point in which I was visiting my eye doc every 10 days. Not cool for insurance or my wallet. I can now see!

  • Heather July 30, 2010, 5:35 pm

    Honestly, I would have to say the ability to FIGHT. I’ve had cancer and been through chemo 2 times, and the last time was told my odds weren’t great, my body didn’t fail me and fought and I’m still here, and for that I will forever be grateful.

  • Theresa July 30, 2010, 5:36 pm

    I am grateful for the ability to move. I think the body does amazing things when we move it.

  • Shannon @ Before Sunrise July 30, 2010, 5:38 pm

    I’m grateful for my body’s ability to always know what to do.. whether it’s move, rest or heal… it does what it needs to do with ease as long as I take care of it. Great motivation to continue to take care of myself!

  • penny July 30, 2010, 5:40 pm

    I am a runner and always grateful for my body’s ability to move. My mom had mobility issues for 16 years and after she got sick I never took my ability to exercise, walk or even move my hands freely for granted.
    On a slightly cheesier note, after giving birth I am incredibly grateful for my body’s ability to make and grow another person. I had an easy pregnancy and a fairly easy birth and I know how lucky I am.

    Congrats on the book!

  • Ilana July 30, 2010, 5:43 pm

    I am grateful for my body’s ability to dance! There’s no better way to express yourself =)

  • Liz July 30, 2010, 5:43 pm

    Wow, that’s such a great question! I am definitely most grateful that my body is so able to do so many things! My sister in law is disabled and it is so hard to see her struggle so much physically. Spending time with her makes me realize how blessed I am to have an able body. She looks on the bright side of things and appreciates what she can do, but I know it is so difficult for her to be so limited. I especially love that I am able to dance around in my apartment in my underwear…probably my favorite thing to do in my spare time!

  • Runner July 30, 2010, 5:59 pm

    I’m grateful for my body’s endurance. It has been through some long days, weeks, months, and years and it’s still going strong. I especially appreciate the way it’s able to build endurance for running which has become one of my favorite activities.

  • Charlotte July 30, 2010, 6:05 pm

    I am grateful for my body’s ability to heal and being able to walk after being unable to for 6 months due to an injury. You do not realize how strong and important your body is until it is put to the test.

  • Drake July 30, 2010, 6:06 pm

    I am grateful for my body’s ability to keep on tickin. Whether it’s running, working, swimming, biking, or just surviving, it never lets me down.

  • Elana July 30, 2010, 6:07 pm

    I’m grateful for my ability to RUN! And be active in general! I wasn’t very active growing up and while I went to the gym off and on throughout high school and college, I never really found any exercise that I genuinely liked and felt challenged by. I just started running a few months ago and am now training for a half and although I’m certainly not a naturally gifted runner and have way more bad runs than good ones unfortunately, challenging my body in this way has even lead me to take on other physical challenges that I wouldn’t have dreamed of trying in the past! (Bikram, intense plyometric workouts, etc!)

  • Angela July 30, 2010, 6:19 pm

    I am grateful to my body for making my beautiful daughter, safely housing her for 40 weeks and delivering a healthy little girl who is the sunshine in my life! 🙂 My body rocks!!

  • Tracy July 30, 2010, 6:29 pm

    I gave birth to 4 beautiful healthy children, 2 of which were full-term twins!

  • katelyn July 30, 2010, 6:31 pm

    I am grateful for my body’s ability to take my pup Hudson on a walk!

  • Kim July 30, 2010, 6:34 pm

    I’m grateful to just be ABLE to move. My sister had a snowboarding fall last week and broke the T8 and T9 vertabrae in her back. She’s got to wear a back brace now for 3 months and her idea of movement is going to the bathroom then back to bed! It definitely puts things into perspective when you know that someone would love to be out doing stuff is confined to bed essentially. I think we take our bodies and what they can do for granted to the extreme, until something either happens to us (or someone close to us) to impair that.

  • michele July 30, 2010, 6:34 pm

    I am most grateful for running. I love running, and it helps me relieve any stress.

  • Hillary July 30, 2010, 6:35 pm

    I am grateful to have the ability to run. I also am grateful to walk around my city and enjoy life!

  • Sam July 30, 2010, 6:38 pm

    Being able to walk 🙂 There are so many people who can’t and many of those that can take it for granted. A lot of people see it as a “given” and hate walking an extra 5 ft to get something. We should embrace the fact that we can walk around freely and enjoy the extra steps we are allowed to take!

  • Edith July 30, 2010, 6:41 pm

    my mind!!

  • Dee July 30, 2010, 6:42 pm

    I am most grateful for the ability to introspect. I think it fuels my generally optimistic nature.

  • kayla July 30, 2010, 6:48 pm

    My sight! I am a landscape designer so the world around me is so important. There is so much beauty in this world it would be very sad to not be able to see it.

  • Susan @ Journey for Health July 30, 2010, 6:51 pm

    I am grateful that I am able to walk. I may have difficulty with some things because I’m trying to lose weight, but I am grateful every day that I still have the ability to walk and have the option to exercise. I try to remind myself of that when I have a day where I want to be too lazy.

  • Alyson July 30, 2010, 7:03 pm

    I’m grateful for my body’s ability to recover after hard workouts! Its amazing how you can push yourself to what you think is the limit and then be able to come back wanting more:)

  • Brenda July 30, 2010, 7:18 pm

    I am so grateful for the ability to laugh. Nothing feels better to me than when I laugh so hard that my stomach and cheeks hurt!

  • Erica July 30, 2010, 7:34 pm

    I so grateful for all of my senses. To be able to see a beautiful sight or hear a great song is the best!

  • Jennie July 30, 2010, 7:40 pm

    Today I was really grateful that I had the courage to try a new class, Zumba and I LOVED it! It was so much fun!

  • Ellen July 30, 2010, 7:49 pm

    I’m grateful for my body’s ability to heal.

  • Joanna July 30, 2010, 7:51 pm

    I’m truly grateful for my body’s ability to sing. It’s my passion and something that is always there, no matter what else might get me down.

  • Toni July 30, 2010, 8:15 pm

    That I can run, I love it!!!

  • Courtney July 30, 2010, 8:21 pm

    Being able to see and hear my kids tell me they love me!

  • Katrina July 30, 2010, 8:25 pm

    I am grateful that I can grow my own food. This is my first summer that I have been in a garden, and as a full time gardener, I’ve learned a lot. There’s a certain satisfaction that comes from growing from seed a portion of every meal for the entire summer. And watching the plants grow, one of my (now astonishingly huge -I have no idea how it got that way) was once a wee little seed carried from dorm to house to environmental center. It’s quite a meaningful thing. And flowers are spectacular.
    Lettuce is also a really good thing to grow if you don’t have a lot of space, you can grow it in pots and plant quite a few rounds of it in a season. It’s very neat to watch it grow. 🙂
    Take care,
    Katrina.

  • Lindsey Gail July 30, 2010, 8:37 pm

    I am most grateful for my simple ability to use my legs: playing soccer, yoga, dancing, hiking, doing housework, but most of all walking and running. My dad died of ALS (amyotrophic lateral schlerosis; known as Lou Gehrig’s disease) a few years ago. During the fast progression of his illness, I was surprised when he really needed the convenience of using handicapped parking spaces at the grocery store; it was really hard for him to walk even with the closer parking space. When I started doing ALS walks, the shirts simply say “Walk to D’feat ALS: Because you can.” When I run, I always get a little extra boost from thinking that I am taking the steps that my dad could not.

  • Liz July 30, 2010, 8:39 pm

    I am most grateful to use my body to help students. I am a special education teacher in a school with students that come from really hard family/economic lives. I am grateful that I can help my students and that they can learn from me.

  • Amanda July 30, 2010, 8:40 pm

    running and hiking the most! I am grateful that my body is strong enough to do these things, sometimes I have to remember that there are so many people out there that can’t run, hike or even walk.

  • Anna @ Doing Good & Living Well July 30, 2010, 8:50 pm

    I like that my body recognizes all of the wonderful things and experiences I have daily. Being able to run, taste, kiss, hug, etc would mean nothing if I was oblivious or unappreciative.

  • Erica July 30, 2010, 8:50 pm

    I am grateful for my ability to run, walk, skip, and dance

  • amanda July 30, 2010, 8:51 pm

    how exciting about your book. you must be so tickled! ahhh.

    i am most grateful that my body can spin until it’s dizzy. there is just something whimsical about twirling and twirling with my niece until we fall down.

  • Sarah R July 30, 2010, 8:52 pm

    I am most grateful for my ability to be compassionate. I realize this is more of a mind thing than a body, but I think that they’re all connected.

  • Christine July 30, 2010, 9:10 pm

    I think I am most grateful for being able to smile and be happy! What’s better??!

  • Jeanne July 30, 2010, 9:34 pm

    I’m grateful for being able to swim – all my worries and anxieties dissolve in water! Grateful also for your blog as I have learned so much! 🙂

  • Macrae July 30, 2010, 9:34 pm

    I’m grateful for my body enduring all that I have put it through! Whether it be double digit runs, countless bumps and bruises, late nights out, super intense study sessions, or all of the above in too short of time, my body pushes forward and provides me with amazing opportunities!

  • Esther July 30, 2010, 9:35 pm

    I just wanted to say that I’ve adapted your cereal breakfast cake recepie the past few mornings and it’s been great 🙂 Thanks a lot.

    • caitlin July 30, 2010, 9:36 pm

      thanks!!

  • Maria July 30, 2010, 9:53 pm

    I am truly grateful for my body’s memory which allows me to cherish my memories. I’ve seen the affects of the elderly losing their memory and I hold it dear to me that I still have the ability to use mine.

  • Elizabeth July 30, 2010, 9:55 pm

    breathing! I have a very good friend who needs to be on oxygen all of the time, and even though she really is able to take advantage of all life has to offer, she reminds me about how lucky I am to have an ability that we all take for granted so often!

  • Niki (Running in Pink) July 30, 2010, 10:00 pm

    At this point in my life, I am most grateful for my body to be able to produce and house my growing baby! It is so amazing how the body reacts and changes during pregnancy (the good and the weird/bad), and I still find it completely mind-blowing that there is a little person in my belly right now!

  • Cindy July 30, 2010, 10:04 pm

    “Your body does amazing things, like kiss, run, dance, sing. What ability are you most grateful for and why?”

    I am grateful that I have had the strength to overcome obstacles, and survive when life has given me lemons. I’ve faced bankruptcy, unemployment several times over, and financial destitution. And I’ve always come out of it a little bit stronger. I hope that I can overcome this recent struggle of recovering from surgery and severe financial issues, as well as the very large possibility I will be living in a different country in a month and a half.

    • caitlin July 31, 2010, 11:37 am

      I’m sorry you are going thru $$ troubles. 🙁 That’s really rough and I wish you the best!

  • Danica July 30, 2010, 10:12 pm

    I love that our bodies know best and always heals itself. We are amazing creations!

  • Melinda H. July 30, 2010, 10:17 pm

    I’m grateful for my ability to help others. I <3 being a nurse. 🙂

  • Erin July 30, 2010, 10:25 pm

    I love my basil plant — such a nice addition to a meal.

    I’m grateful that I’m healthy and able enough to do anything I set my mind to. Sure, I “can’t” run a marathon (at least not today) but if I really set my mind to it, I could do it one day.

  • Paula July 30, 2010, 10:27 pm

    I am grateful for my body’s ability to laugh. And not just laugh from the throat upward, but to really laugh through the spine all the way down to my toes.

  • caronae July 30, 2010, 10:29 pm

    I am most grateful for my body’s ability to RECOVER from multiple massive pulmonary embolisms in just two weeks! I am back to running, working, and yoga already. 🙂

    • caitlin July 31, 2010, 11:37 am

      I’m so glad you are OK caronae!!!

  • kimberly July 30, 2010, 10:37 pm

    walking. it’s the best thing to be able to move on your own

  • alyssa July 30, 2010, 10:45 pm

    caitlin!

    you should totally try to start a “movement” encouraging EVERY PERSON who buys a book to leave an OB note in the book behind it! 🙂

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) July 30, 2010, 11:07 pm

    I am most grateful for my bodies ability to dance – dancing makes me happier than anything!

  • Brittany July 30, 2010, 11:11 pm

    I’m thankful for the ability to wiggle my toes! After I go for a nice run, or when I’m doing some sort of intense physical activity I like to wiggle my toes at the end. It makes me feel like I’m five years old again, and turns the hardest work outs where I struggle into something to smile about! I’ve been involved in drum corps international (www.dci.org) for the last 5 years of my life and everyday during a hard rehearsal I would remind my friends just to wiggle their toes, and it always made us smile when things got hard. I guess that means I’m most thankful for the ability to push past hard things? Or to live in child-like moments? But mostly just wiggling my toes sums it up. c:

  • Ashley S July 30, 2010, 11:17 pm

    I’m grateful for my straight hair. Most people struggle with theirs, but I’m fortunate enough I don’t have to. It allows me to have more time in the morning to tend to more important things…like breakfast!

  • Danielle July 30, 2010, 11:18 pm

    I am thankful for my ability to walk confidently into challenging situations! Confidence is a beautiful quality and one I strive to embody every day!

  • Bee July 30, 2010, 11:44 pm

    I’m grateful for my body as a whole. As much as I tear it apart with criticisms about my appearance, my body gets me from point A to B without any problems. I’m in good health and getting more and more in shape with every passing day. I try to nurture it with physical activity, wholesome foods and rest as best I can. I will only ever have one body, and I’m grateful for every bit of it!

  • susan July 30, 2010, 11:46 pm

    I am grateful that my body allows me to sprint like it’s my job. I am able to beat the men in my boot camp class 🙂

  • Christine July 31, 2010, 12:10 am

    I’m a labour and delivery nurse, and I am so grateful for my body’s ability for recovery in so many ways. I work 12 hour shifts work…including nights. Can be tough…but by the end of my work sets my body is CRAVING exercise! Recovery from the tiredness, wierd shifts, and more infrequent exercise. I always try to exercise at least once or twice during my 4 shifts, but it doesn’t always happen. And having said that, I’m ALWAYS amazed at how quick your body remembers where you left off as far as endurance goes! So crazy!

    In general…I am so amazed by women’s ability to make babies and give birth! And the things us gals do up to their deliveries is crazy cool too! I’ve had patients who were running awesome distances up until the day before their babies are born!!!! Yay girls!!!

  • Melissa G July 31, 2010, 12:17 am

    I am so amazed that my body heals so quickly. I broke my foot and less than 3 months later after being on crutches and in a cast I was back to doing triathlons. Amazing!

  • Sarah July 31, 2010, 12:25 am

    The ability to dance for sure. It’s my way to celebrate, or how I wake myself up on a late night drive, or a way to connect with the high school girls I mentor. Dancing is such a great way of self expression! And I don’t care what you look like when you do!

  • Lindsey July 31, 2010, 12:43 am

    I am most greateful for the ability to dance!

  • Brianne DeCesare July 31, 2010, 1:29 am

    I am very thankful that I have a healthy, sturdy, strong body that allows me to stand for many many hours at a time. It got me through 6 wonderful years of waitressing and will now get me through MANY years of nursing 🙂 Without this body I would not be able to help others. I am very thankful for this gift.

  • Carly July 31, 2010, 1:56 am

    I’m grateful for my head – without it I’d be dead! haha no but seriously, I’m just grateful for life in general. It’s so easy to take it for granted, and I am grateful to wake up happy, healthy and loved every morning 🙂

  • Kristin July 31, 2010, 2:07 am

    Aw, I miss my basil plant! It’s so easy and such a sense of accomplishment to see something so epic sitting on my windowsill 🙂

    On a shallow note, I love the fact that I can lick my elbow even though it’s rumored that we humans aren’t supposed to be able to do that. More seriously, I’m very grateful for my body’s ability to bounce back from all the physical torture I have subjected it to over the years.

    • caitlin July 31, 2010, 11:25 am

      Hahah I just tried to lick my elbow and couldn’t.

  • Maribeth July 31, 2010, 2:24 am

    I am thankful for the ability to be a positive person as well as someone who has a big heart. What I like best is that I try not to judge others, I have an open mind, I am able to see things from others’ perspectives, and I view things with love and happiness! 😀

  • Dena Semkowski July 31, 2010, 2:38 am

    I am most grateful for my ability to care for others, as well as myself!

  • sirenjess July 31, 2010, 5:45 am

    I am most grateful for the ability to be active and move around. Although lately I’ve been injured I’m still happy that I’m trying to remain positive and stay active.

  • Jessica July 31, 2010, 7:18 am

    i’m grateful that my body can face the challenges of both running and yoga

  • Maria July 31, 2010, 7:20 am

    I am most grateful for my ability to hug someone and help them feel secure and that they are not alone. I love that I can do that without saying a word.

  • Lauren July 31, 2010, 8:22 am

    I’m a singer and I am so grateful that I can carry that talent with me anywhere I go…for some reason it’s always made me feel like I was never truly alone no matter what situation I was going through. I’ve always tried my best to take care of my voice in every way including what I eat, and cardio helps with breath control! 🙂

  • Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin July 31, 2010, 8:44 am

    I’m so excited for your book to come out! I’ll be running to my local store to get it! Also I love the virtual tour idea. I can’t wait to read everyone’s posts.

    I’m grateful to be able to be able to do cartwheels on the beach like I did yesterday. 😀

    • caitlin July 31, 2010, 11:25 am

      Thank you for supporting OB!!!

  • Ashley July 31, 2010, 8:52 am

    I am thankful that my body is finally strong enough to carry me through the day. When I was in the thick of an eating disorder, I couldn’t go more than an hour or two without wanting to lay down and take a nap because I was so exhausted/malnourished. Now that I’m recovered, I’m able to go the entire day doing things that make me happy and can now finally LIVE LIFE!

  • KG July 31, 2010, 9:31 am

    For me, it is most definitely the ability to see! Reading has always been one of my favorite things to do and I have learned so much about myself and others as a result!

  • Kayla July 31, 2010, 9:35 am

    Definitely the simple ability to smile. When you smile you make those around you happy and you make yourself happy too. If you’re stressed – smile! It’s hard to be in a bad mood when you’re smiling – if for no other reason then that those around you almost always smile back!

  • Emily July 31, 2010, 9:41 am

    I am most greatful that my body gets up day after day and powers through my busy days without giving out on me, making me sick, etc. I also enjoy the simple ability to walk. I can’t imagine going through each day without my two feet speedily moving across the floor.

  • Allison L. July 31, 2010, 10:00 am

    I love my swimming ability. I feel like a fish or a mermaid when I swim! It’s my time to disconnect from technology and just focus on my thoughts or pray.

  • Katie R July 31, 2010, 10:02 am

    I am most thankful for my ability to run and walk. I love that I can use my foot power to travel fun places (shopping…library…restaurants…). Plus, running and walking is such a great stress relief.

  • Ashley July 31, 2010, 10:26 am

    It may sound simplistic, but I’m just thankful that my body is functioning. So many people have so many physical ailments (old injuries, aches & pains, etc). I’m still relatively young & quite active so hopefully I’ll be able to stave off some of this ailments. But for now, I’m just thankful that I can do ANYTHING that I want to do physically. I’m totally able-bodied! : )

  • Kassi July 31, 2010, 11:41 am

    Hooray on your basil plant! I love fresh basil, I think it might be my favorite herb. 🙂

    As for my favorite body-skill, I’d have to say riding a bike. I am so grateful that my body can push me for 20 + miles on a bike (especially when I definitely can’t run anywhere close to that far… yet).

  • jodie July 31, 2010, 12:01 pm

    I appreciate how quickly body heals as well as the thankful to my legs and lungs fre helping through long runs etc.

  • Holly M July 31, 2010, 12:54 pm

    I’m grateful for how my body can run 18 miles one day and then play volleyball the next! i have been sooo fortunate to inherit athletism!

  • Christina July 31, 2010, 3:59 pm

    I’m grateful for the way my body swims. It’s so therapeutic!

  • Kiersten July 31, 2010, 5:14 pm

    Hey Caitlin! For the “Change the Way You See…” posts, would you rather we wait to post them next week? I had something in mind but I wasn’t sure if I should wait to post it or not.

    • caitlin July 31, 2010, 7:14 pm

      You can post it now if you want! That way I can kick off the week with a bunch of great posts to list on Monday 🙂

      Send it in!! 🙂

  • Jaclyn July 31, 2010, 6:15 pm

    I think I’m most grateful for my ability *and others abilities* to express emotions on our faces. non verbal communication–laughing, smiling, crying, hugging, kissing–says so much more than words can and i love that our bodies give us the ability to do that

  • Suzanne July 31, 2010, 7:50 pm

    Hugging and holding. Hugging my children for the first time was one of the most amazing things I’ve ever experienced. And, of course, hugging my husband is one of the best feelings in the world.

  • Lisa A. July 31, 2010, 10:18 pm

    I’m grateful that my body is designed with the many processes that keep me alive, from my heart pumping to my food digesting, to sleeping and waking, to blinking, to all the chemical processes that make me be able to move–truly miraculous! Regarding ability, I’m a type 1 diabetic and so I’m also grateful that I’m *able* to supplement those processes with my pump. 😉

  • Lauren July 31, 2010, 10:57 pm

    I’m grateful for the ability to use my hands to do creative things like paint, draw, and hug my family!

  • Coco August 1, 2010, 7:46 am

    I am grateful that my body is a tool that I can use to fulfill my dream of making a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether I am hammering nails during a Habitat for Humanity build or running a race to raise money to fight childhood cancer, my body gives me the strength and endurance to do these things.

  • Haley August 1, 2010, 7:17 pm

    I am most grateful for my arms. They allow me to hug my boyfriend each night we get home from work.

  • Emily August 1, 2010, 8:17 pm

    I am grateful for my knee!! I had major knee issues for 6 weeks following my first marathon and last night I ran the fastest 5k I’ve ever run. Oh and being in pain simply walking made me realize how amazing our knees are!

  • Sarah August 4, 2010, 12:10 am

    I’m grateful for the ability to hug my loved ones.

  • Sue August 4, 2010, 1:26 am

    I’m SO glad my body was able to support me, literally, while being overweight before I discovered SparkPeople!

  • Edwina August 4, 2010, 5:41 am

    I am grateful that my body survived everything I have put it though; yo-yo dieting, eating disorders, drinking, bad food, too much food, etc. The resilience of our bodies amazes me. We are constantly rebuilding cells, skin, bone, blood and muscle. Now that I am older, I finally appreciate my body.

  • Candy Martin August 4, 2010, 4:31 pm

    Your body does amazing things, like kiss, run, dance, sing. What ability are you most grateful for and why?

    I’m the most grateful for my bodies ability to heal spiritually, physically & emotionally when confronted to trauma such as tragedy. I have had much tragedy in my life and my body refuses to give up. My job now is to treat my body as it deserves to be treated – a precious vessel.

  • Terrie August 4, 2010, 7:43 pm

    I am most thankful for my eyesight. I am a first-time grandmother and I was able to see my grandson, Benjamin, just hours after his birth. What a beautiful sight to behold!

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