There are so many things to be thankful for in the lives we live and we should feel grateful year 'round for these things. However, as Thanksgiving time comes around, we are reminded just how lucky we are for the many things we have to be thankful for. Here are a few simple things to be thankful for:

1. Family

Being surrounded by a family that provides you with unconditional love and support is always something to be thankful for. One of the best parts of returning home from college for the holidays is being able to sit around the table for Thanksgiving and talk about what you are thankful for with the people you are most thankful for.

2. Friends

Surrounding yourself with positive people is a very important aspect of life. Often, your friends are even considered your family so how could you not be thankful for them?

3. Pets

Whether it's a dog, a turtle, a cat, or any pet you may have, they hold a special place in your heart. Your pet is always there to cheer you up when you're down just by providing you with companionship.

4. Fresh Air

Being able to step outside and take a breath of fresh air to take a break from it all reminds us how important it is to be thankful for the small things in life.

5. Time

Time is valuable in every aspect. Be thankful for the time we're given on this earth, as well as the time we're given with the ones we love.

6. Sunshine

Especially as the winter rolls around, sunshine is another simple thing to be thankful for. Since it starts to get dark early, it's nice to take advantage of the daylight that we do get and the warmth that the sun provides us with even on a cold day.

7. Weekends

Being at school or at work can take a lot out of you so it's always nice when the weekend comes around and provides you with the break that you've been needing.

8. The bad and the good

Although it might not seem like it at the time, there is a reason to be thankful for the misfortunes we encounter. Without the bad times, we would never know what a good time is. A bad experience teaches us to have a greater appreciation for the good experiences. Of course on top of that, it's important to be thankful for the good times because you never know how long they will last.

There are a lot of things to be grateful for in life and every person has their own things that they are thankful for as we each live our own lives. However it's important to remember to be thankful not just for the good things or the material things in life, but to be thankful for the simple things and the experiences life provides us with whether they are good or bad. With that being said, be sure to enjoy Thanksgiving surrounded by the people you are thankful for, and don't be afraid to tell them you're thankful for having them in your life.