Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. Yes, I understand that the formation of this holiday might have stemmed from the decimation of Native American land, but to me, the holiday has always been about family. Of course, there will be those awkward family conversations and questions about your college experience, love life, and future plans but you'll just have to grin and bear it.

Hallmark movies have idolized the concept of falling leaves, cute fall outfits and family time. Plus we get days off from school - what is not to love? With the Thanksgiving countdown crossing into single digits, I decided it would be fun to write about my all-time favorite things about this holiday.

1. Bring on the food.

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Have you ever been judged for going back for seconds? That judgment does not exist during this holiday. In fact, I think it is mandatory to fill your plate and go back for second helpings. Part of the Thanksgiving fun is eating so much you end up in a food coma.

2. Getting to see your parents.

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You never realize how much you love your parents until you are away from them at school. One of my all-time favorite things about coming home for the holidays is getting to run into my parents' arms for a hug only a mother and father can provide. I am already counting down the days until I get to see them and they wrap me in their arms.

3. And maybe see your dogs.

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Pets are a really close second. Despite the constant stream of photos and videos my parents send me of my dogs, it is not the same. At least I get to talk to my parents over Facetime, but my dogs are not interested in staring at a cell phone. Thanksgiving is wonderful because you get to see you, furry little friends.

4. The cute fall outfits.

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Unless you live in Florida where we seem to live in a never-ending summer, the weather is getting colder letting you mix and match booties, skirts, and sweaters. Every year, I see Instagram flooded with photos posted by my friends sporting cute outfits surrounded by their family. Not a bad mix if you ask me.

5. Mashed potatoes.

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My all-time favorite food is a Thanksgiving staple. Every year, I look forward to my dad's mashed potatoes. Last year, I told him how much I loved them, he started making them whenever I come back home. What a great man! Since I have several allergies, I cannot eat regular mashed potatoes and Thanksgiving gives me a reason to eat my gluten free, milk free mashed potatoes.

6. Everyone is so thankful.

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I am a firm believer not to wait until it is too late to tell someone how much I appreciate them, or how thankful I am to have them in my life. Thanksgiving allows everyone to share these feelings and thoughts with one another. It is so important to tell someone they have played an important role in your life and Thanksgiving is the best opportunity to do just this. Grab your phone, send those texts and make those calls. Share the love with your friends and family.

7. The unavoidable food coma.

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Eat to your heart's content!

8. Sleeping in.

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One of the greatest things about Thanksgiving is that school and work are canceled. That means sleeping in! There are no set plans or schedules that allow us to bypass setting the morning alarm and sleep for as late and long as we want to without anyone making you feel guilty or lazy.

Yes, Thanksgiving will include those awkward questions, but the pros outweigh the cons. I know I am so excited to see my parents and eat until I can't anymore.