With Thanksgiving right around the corner, I've been thinking - as the season requires - about all the things I have to be thankful for. Yes, I'm incredibly thankful I was born into a family that encouraged me and was able to support me in getting an education. I'm thankful for my friends, I'm thankful I live in a very privileged country, and I'm thankful for my health.

However, especially in the past few months, one fairly normal, common aspect of my life has given me more to be thankful for than I ever realized. My sister is strong, talented, smart and kind. I'm thankful for her today and every day. We may have fought often when we were younger, but I'm thankful we grew closer over the years. She's made my life better in more ways than one:

1. She makes me laugh.

Whether it's funny stories from life back home or ugly Snapchats, I can always count on my sister to brighten my day.

2. She does favors without rolling her eyes (sometimes).

Although I jokingly make a big deal about it every time I have to do something for my sister, she does things for me without complaint - well, at least some of the time.

3. We share clothes.

Although it's a pain when I find the shirt I had been looking for on the floor of her room in a crumpled heap, it's nice to have access to a backup wardrobe when mine gets repetitive.

4. She bakes me cookies.

I'm lucky to have a sister who not only loves to bake but is a PRO at making chocolate-chip cookies. What more could you ask for?

5. We back each other up.

We love our parents but sometimes they can be a little crazy. Especially during these times, my sister and I have an unspoken rule to back each other up. It's nice to even the playing field every once in a while.

6. We can travel together.

We both caught the travel bug when we were children, so it's nice to know we will always have go-to travel buddies for our next adventures. Plus, she's given me suggestions on gelato in Rome before, too, so that's a plus.

7. I can count on her for advice.

Even though she's three years younger than me, I know I can count on my sister, to be honest, and fair when I'm freaking out and need someone to tell me what to do.

8. She's always down for fro-yo.

No matter if it's summer or -50 degrees, nothing will curb her craving for cake batter and cookies n' creme yogurt with cookie dough on top. When I'm in the mood, she's DEFINITELY in the mood.

9. She's always there for me.

Although she already has a crazy busy schedule of her own, I know that if I ever need anything, she would do whatever it took to make me feel better.