‘Tis the season of turkey gobbles and family squabbles over dinner. As we enjoy a second slice of pie and avoid our scales, here are a 10 things to be thankful for during this holiday of gratitude.
1. The wonderland created by the colorful falling leaves.
2. SWEATER WEATHER AT LAST!
I live for the days I can open the front door in the morning and breathe in crisp, autumn air. Also, fall fashion is the best fashion.
3. Starbucks holiday flavors.
This is one such a guilty pleasure of mine. I know, I know. They’re “basic” and bad for you (not to mention expensive), but they're so good! You win this one, corporate America.
4. (Disclaimer: Scrooges will not be thankful for this one.) Christmas music!
From now until the end of the December--or until the end of winter, if you’re like me--it is acceptable to sing Christmas songs.
5. No-Shave November.
Beards, am I right? And it’s for a good cause. Shout out to the women who participate in No-Shave November as well, whether it’s to make a statement or simply for convenience.
6. Food!
It's the main attraction of Thanksgiving, but not everyone has access to a healthy meal during the holidays or throughout the year.
If you want to help, get involved with groups on your campus that address hunger. My college has a chapter of Food Recovery Network that donates leftover dining hall food to people in need.
7. Stores that are closed on Thanksgiving.
While some companies are opening doors earlier than ever for Black Friday sales beginning on Thursday, others are closed so employees can celebrate the holiday with family. This may be more of a PR move than genuine benevolence, but either way I’d say it’s a win.
8. Friends.
Whenever I go see my hometown friends we pick up right where we left off in our friendship regardless of how much has changed. In college, my friends and I share a whole new kind of bond. From the mutual struggle of 8 a.m. classes to the late nights spent studying into delirium, I don’t know how I’d make it through without them.
9. Personal growth.
I’m a lot different than I was last year and I’m grateful for the opportunities I've had to grow as a person. If nothing else, I’ve eliminated Crocs from my wardrobe. (Give me a break, I only wore them to swim practice).
10. Family.
It can be the family you were born into or the family you choose. Whether down the street, across the country or on a separate continent, family is a major part of life. Mine are a pretty goofy bunch, but that only makes me love them even more.
