There is so much going on right now- elections are in five days, coursework for classes is picking up, all the tragic events going on worldwide, and the holiday season is nearing. With it being the first week of November, now is the perfect time to start thinking about what we are all thankful for. Here is a list of 15 things for which I am thankful.

1. My immediate family

Probably the most obvious one. I am so grateful for the unwavering support and love of my mother, father, and sister. They have been there from day one and always there to lend an ear or a shoulder to cry on when times get tough. Since moving two hundred and eighty something miles from home, I really have gained a new perspective and have a better appreciation for them.

2. My extended family

Again, pretty obvious. But I still am so grateful for my aunts, uncle, grandparents, and cousins. I don't get to see them too often, especially since moving for college four years ago, but I know they are always there for me.

3. My sisters

No, not my blood sister. But the sisters I made when I joined my fraternity. The sisterhood I am part of is definitely one of the greatest things in my life. They push me to be the best I can be and I would do anything for them. The bonds I have made with them will last a lifetime.

4. My best friend

She may as well be a sister to me. I have only known her three years, but I feel like we have a lifetime of memories already. She's my rock. I know that we can count on each other to talk about our issues and push each other to be our best selves.

5. My puppy

Though I have only owned my pupper for about a month now, I am still so grateful to be able to call him mine. He's the first thing I see in the morning and the last thing I see before I go to bed. He's my stress reliever and best pal.

6. My teachers and professors

There have been so many influential educators in my life, I couldn't even imagine what my life would be like without even one of them. From my jr. high music teacher to my German professor in college, each has made a lasting impression on me. I would not be where I am today if it weren't for their caring dedication to guiding me in the journey for knowledge.

7. Music

This isn't a person or a living thing, I know. But music is such an important part of my life. I wouldn't be in the sisterhood I am in or a team leader in the marching band without playing music. Music is where I go when I want to think. I pick up my horn or earbuds and start playing some tunes. It's my sanctuary.

8. Outdoors

Again, not a living thing, necessarily. I am grateful to my dad for introducing me to the beauty of the outdoors. Nature is the base of all life. I am blessed to be able to go outdoors and enjoy the little things, from the little caterpillar crawling along the grass to the colors changing in the leaves in fall. Nothing can be compared to the peace and tranquility of walking outdoors.

9. My exes

I'm grateful to have met each of them. In dating them, I learned more about who I was and what I wanted in life. I discovered what exactly I want in a relationship and that I deserve to be treated like a princess. Nothing lets you know this better than being treated poorly. So I am grateful for each one of them.

10. Other mistakes I have made

Without making mistakes, life would be boring. I wouldn't learn anything, and I wouldn't get anywhere in life. I am grateful for having a boundless curiosity and determination to try and experience new things, regardless of if it's a mistake or not. You live and you learn.

11. Being born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri

There is just something about being born and raised here that makes things different. I have noticed this more and more, especially since moving to college. There is nothing in this world that I would trade for the childhood I had. Imo's pizza, Ted Drewe's frozen custard, Cardinals' Baseball, who could say no to that?

12. My health

For those of you who know me personally, you might laugh. But being a Type 1 diabetic has given me a new perspective. The daily struggle to keep my blood sugars in control while juggling everything else in my life has taught me to never let anything get in my way. Even with a somewhat compromised immune system, I am stronger than I have ever been.

13. Fireworks

Sounds silly, but fireworks will hold a special place in my heart for as long as I live. I have worked seasonally in the fireworks business for a long time, I have been around it since I was a kid. The people who I work for are probably two of the hardest working, most dedicated, and loyal people I know. They gave me my first job. They taught me to work hard and that you get whatever you put into it. They are people who I have adopted as my family, and I will be forever grateful for being able to say that.

14. Hot cocoa

With the fall season kicking into high gear and the cooler weather coming in, I thought hot cocoa would be a perfect addition to this list. I believe in enjoying the little things in life and if drinking a nice, hot cup of hot cocoa on a cool day isn't enjoying the little things then I don't know what is.

15.Laughing so hard I can't breathe

See #14. Although I don't like my laugh, I love being able to take a moment and really laugh and cherish a funny moment. Being able to enjoy the little things is one of the most important aspects to living life to its fullest. Laugh at the silly pun or meme, take time to appreciate it, there is so much negativity in the world as it is, so why not try and brighten it with a laugh or two?