Around this time of year is when I begin to realize what I'm especially thankful for. I'm thankful for the typical things most people are thankful for: family, friends, good health, shelter, etc. But I'm particularly thankful for the little things; the things that help make up the bigger picture:

I'm thankful for sunrises and sunsets because they remind me there's always a new beginning right around the corner.

I'm thankful for crashing waves because they teach me that it's okay for things to come and go.

I'm thankful for trees that stand tall because they show me how to keep my head high when I want nothing more than to take cover.

I'm thankful for silent forests because they tame my wild soul.

I'm thankful for coffee because it shows me that I'm capable of more than I think.

I'm thankful for music because the melodies remind me that I'm not alone.

I'm thankful for dogs because they show me what true and unwavering happiness really is.

I'm thankful for roll on the floor-stomachahing laughs; they remind me to never take anything too seriously.

I'm thankful for memories, the good and bad; they make up who I am.

Throughout the year it's easy to forget about the little things. You get caught up in deadlines, due dates, missed calls, cold shoulders, politics, and routines. Sometimes you just need a little reminder to be thankful for those mornings you can sleep in, those new boots you got on sale, the cute boy who texted you back, that A+ you received on a really hard test, and for waking up to a new day full of endless possibilities. Don't be too harsh on the world, be thankful for it because it's thankful for you.