1. Having a close-knit family.

The people that can drive us absolutely crazy are the same ones who will always, undoubtedly be there for us when we need them to be (and sometimes, even when we don't need them to be). Throughout the good times and the bad times, knowing there is a group of people in your world who you can turn to for advice, support, and love under any circumstance is so valuable. It is important to remind them how much they mean to you, and tell them you love them too while you're at it.

2. Coming home to a wagging tail.

Nothing warms our hearts more than the love of our dogs running to the door to greet us (especially when you're away in college and you've been separated from your pup for weeks, or maybe even months). No matter what is going on in our lives, one thing that always stays true is the excitement conveyed through a wagging tail thumping against our legs as we are showered with doggy kisses when we arrive at home. Next time we walk through the front door and are greeted by the pitter-patter of four little paws, acknowledge that it is a sign of unconditional love, and be grateful that we have a loyal companion that sees us as their entire world.

3. The strengths we've gained from facing challenges.

I always say that I will be forever grateful for the wisdom that my hardships have brought me. Whether or not we want to believe it, all of the difficulties that we have conquered throughout our lives have helped us to grow into who we are today. It might seem silly to be thankful for the challenging parts of our lives because those are the parts that we don't enjoy, but after everything is finished and the struggles have settled, we come out a stronger and improved person in the end. If we spent every moment of our lives soaking up the good times, we wouldn't be able to appreciate them to their full extent, so next time you find yourself facing a challenge, remember to be thankful for the benefits it will reap in the long run.

4. Having a place to call home.

At the end of a long day, it is the place we are all rushing to get back to. We take off our shoes, throw our keys on the counter, and don't think twice about the fact that we have a place to call a sanctuary after a tiring day. It is all part of our daily routine and we sometimes neglect to remember that we are fortunate to have someplace to come back to filled with the things and people we love most. It is important to not take the four-walls that give us safety, comfort, and happiness for granted.

5. Waking up each morning.