It’s me again, the cliché queen, here to talk to you about why your family is the most important group of people in your life. The most important, most frustrating, most mind-boggling, most crazy ass group of people you will ever have in your life. The best news of all is: they are never going anywhere. Throughout all the constant questioning, endless embarrassing baby photos, and so on…they’ve taught you some valuable life lessons—and will continue to do so. That being said, I think we should all start a list of thank yous to our families now, because it is bound to be a damn long list.

1. Thank You For All The Times You Dressed Me Up & Messed Me Up

The wigs, the fake dog vomit, the fake dog poop, the real dogs running all over me, the outfits, the skits, etc. All of these things and more have been such a huge part of my childhood. Thank you, family, for these embarrassing, almost scarring, but awesome moments from my infancy to present day. I’ve really developed quite a character.

2. Thank You For Keeping My Secrets

Shout out to the cousins. The people I am the closest with—thank you for always keeping my deepest, darkest secrets. Not that there are really that many…mom. It’s awesome knowing I will always have a solid group of people I can trust with anything, even those that live miles away I know would be there for me in an instant

3. Thank You For Being Honest

This group of people contain some of the bluntest people I will ever know, which is a damn good thing to have in your life. Never do I have to question honesty or loyalty in my family. Thank you for hurting my feelings every once and a while because you know it’s the best thing I will need to hear.

4. Thank You For Protecting Me

Each family has their own pair (or pairs) of body guards. Whether it be your aunts, uncles, cousins, or whoever, you know they will always be there to protect your sorry ass when it’s in trouble. They will protect you from a broken heart, a toxic friendship, or a scraped knee. No matter the cause, they’re on the job.

5. Thank You For Mentoring Me

Thank you to the endless role models in our families who demonstrate bravery, courage, wisdom, and a kickass sense of humor. Without these people, we wouldn’t be who we are today.

6. Thank You For Throwing The Best Parties

Who the hell needs frat parties when your family parties are 10 times more fun? The best food, the best laughs, and the best company are always had at gatherings held by and with your family members.

7. Thank You For Passing Down Traditions

As the newest generation, we are the ones who will be carrying on our family traditions. So thank you, family, for teaching me all of the best family stories, Thanksgiving recipes, and so much more.

8. Thank You For Being There

Ending with the biggest cliché of all. Thank you for being where I needed you to be when no one else could or would be. Without you being there for me, I would not be where I am today.