As we gather with our families for one of the best traditions in this great country, it is time for all of us to think back on our year and what we have to be thankful for. A new addition to my family - the birth of my daughter Abigail, an engagement to my long-time girlfriend and a year of good health for friends and family has made me extremely thankful. Yet, I am also thankful for having the honor and privilege to bring the news and results from one of the greatest sports in the world to you the fans.

With one of the best and most loyal fan bases in all of sports, NASCAR brings people together like no other. Whether watching from the grandstands or from their couch or their favorite bar, NASCAR fans are the glue that holds NASCAR together. Without their support there would just be a bunch of cars riding around for nothing.

I am extremely thankful that I - and all of us at HardcoreRaceFans.com - am able to do my part in bringing the latest news and results to you the fans. As someone who has spent the majority of his life in the grandstands, it is a privilege to report the news. While we still have a lot of work to do in order to be on top, I am thankful that our core group is committed to getting there.

I am also thankful that I am able to live out one of my childhood dreams. Growing up in New Jersey, I was always the one criticized and made fun of when I said my favorite sport was NASCAR. Although the ultimate goal was to one day drive and contend for wins, I also grew up idolizing people like Steve Waid, Tom Higgins and Dr. Jerry Punch. While the men behind the wheel made the show, these men were the ones that brought it to the fans. To be able to stand in the same room as these men, let alone have the chance to ask them for advice is something I will forever be thankful for.

Finally on this Thanksgiving holiday, I am thankful for this great nation we live in. While the country is going through some very tough times, there is no place like it in the world. Where else can a sport bring such a diverse group of people together not just for one event, but an entire weekend with little confrontation'  Where else can a young kid from New Jersey grow up to have a budding career doing what he loves to do?

So this Turkey Day, I am thankful for all of these things. I am also thankful this season - as exciting as it was - is finally over, but on the same token I am thankful the 2009 season is just around the corner.

We at HardcoreRaceFans.com would like to wish all of you out there a happy and healthy Thanksgiving.