We all have things we're thankful for.

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, as I write this. By the time this article is live the holiday will have come and gone. Thanksgiving is a time for community with friends and family, a time of remembrance, and most importantly it is a time to be thankful with the life you have been given. As the holiday nears I have started to think more about what makes my life so great, and that is something I am truly thankful for. Here is a short list of things I have come to cherish this past year.

1. My High School Experience

Odd, right? If anyone had told me when I was in high school that I would later be thankful for it, I would have laughed. The more I think about it, I truly am thankful for my time in high school. Sure, it wasn't the greatest; but it made me who I am today.

2. My Artistic Gift

I've been drawing for 7/8 years now, and it's a huge passion I plan on pursuing as a career. Art has been a way for me to channel my negative and/or overwhelming emotions in a non-harmful, more positive way. I'd be in a pretty bad spot if I didn't have art.

3. Old Friends

People come and go, sadly. Yet there are those few friend who have been there for many years now; and I will always be thankful for them. When times seemed bleak, they were there. When I was lonely, they were there. My older friends know me best, and I am forever thankful that our friendships continue to grow.

4. Music

Much like art, music is a way for me to channel my emotions. Songs, no matter the genre, have a way of speaking to me and always find a way to counteract my current mood - for the most part. It usually doesn't make me sad when I'm happy. Music, to me, is just another form of art. My world would be silent without it.

5. Baker First

I moved on August 25, 2016, to Huntington University. Yep, I am a college freshman. Here at HU I live in Baker Hall, on Baker First (the first floor). The community of girls I live with is amazing. I've only lived here for approximately 4 months, and I wouldn't change it for the world. When I lost a friend in October, the girls gathered around my in support and love. They're all amazing, loving, and truly wonderful women. I wouldn't trade living on Baker First for anything.

6. Makeup, and No Makeup

Wow. Basic girl, am I right? I feel like I should include this because since I moved I haven't worn a lot of makeup. It doesn't sound impressive, but if you knew me before this time you would be shocked. I used to go full face of makeup every single day, because I was uncomfortable. Now I've grown perfectly comfortable with my "naked" face; and for that I am grateful. I'm thankful that I can accept myself without makeup. I'm also thankful that I can see makeup as more of an accessory than a necessity.

7. New Friends

I mentioned old friends, and I've mentioned Baker First; but there are still some more people in my life that I am thankful to have there. These people have been there for me in the rough spots of the semester. They were there when I've had mental and emotional breakdowns - and they're still here loving me, supporting me, and caring for me. I love my friends so very much, they are all so dear to me, and I am thankful to have them in my life.

8. Sleep, Coffee, and Food

Your basic college survival kit. Adjusting to life in a new place was a bit of a struggle for me, and it honestly still is very much of a struggle. I don't have a consistent sleep schedule; but that's what coffee is for! Also, food is basically the source of all life so I'm quite thankful that I have the chance to have three meals a day.

9. Amazing Professors

While they are amazing in the classroom, the educators here at HU are even greater outside of the classroom setting. I have had many memorable times with my professors, and the greatest memories I have are those outside of the classroom. They listen to you if you have a problem. They laugh at your jokes (sometimes), and speak truth into your ears. I'm thankful to have these people placed in my life, even for a short time.

10. My Family

My mom, my dad, and my sister have been there literally all of my life. If anyone had an influence on me it was them. Sure, we had rough spots and arguments, but what family doesn't? I'm just thankful that I can call any of them, at any time, and they will answer. They're there for me when I need a familiar shoulder to cry on. They provide good humor and good times. I'm so thankful to have the family I do and I love them all so much.

There are many more things I am thankful for, but I will end it here. As the holidays come and go, remember the good times. Remember the bad times. Think of what influenced you. Be thankful for the life you had and for what got you there. Happy Holidays.