Thanksgiving literally has "thanks" in the name, and the entire holiday centers around being grateful. So, to honor this tradition and to add to the already cliche "what I'm grateful for" essays, here's a list of this that I am glad exist.

1. My loved ones

Without my mom and dad, not only would I not be here, I also wouldn't be the person I am today. They've supported me through everything I've ever done, even when they didn't necessarily approve. I can't possibly express my gratitude to them through mere words, but I hope they know.

2. Charles Bukowski

This man is a genius, and I don't use that word lightly. I just purchased "The Essential Bukowski" from Barnes and Noble today and I'm honestly already in love. My favorite poems of his include "A Poem Is A City," "The Swan," "The Genius of the Crowd," and "I Met a Genius." If you have any interest in poetry whatsoever or if you would like to get into poetry, then Bukowski is a fairly good place to start.

3. The Phantom Tollbooth

The Phantom Tollbooth is one of my favorite books of all time. It's chock full of cliches, but that kind of adds to the charm. In it, Milo and the Watchdog are sent on a journey to find Rhyme and Reason, and throughout the book they are greeted by a myriad of quirky characters. It is branded as a "children's" book, but it really should be read by people of all ages at least once.

4. Fuzzy Socks

They keep my feet nice and warm. 'Nuff said.

5. Journals

Words are the vessels that I use to express myself. One of my main hobbies is writing; it's a core part of who I am as a member of the human race. Poetry, prose, short stories, you name it, I've probably tried it before. I love writing, though it can be both mentally and emotionally taxing. But isn't that part of the appeal? People wouldn't climb mountains if the summit were only 5 feet above sea level. Half the fun is in the challenge. Coming up with new ideas, figuring out how to word things, and trying to get your point across to the audience all make up fundamental obstacles that can't be fully conquered through any other form of media.