No matter what, you’ll always love your family…you just might not always like them. In times of need, there’s comfort in having the family of a friend or significant other to turn to and knowing that your home away from home is always open to you (only because you know the garage door code by heart). Here are six things you need to thank your second family for right now:

1. Their food is your food.

You can always count on them having a place set for you at the dinner table, even if you decide to show up last minute. Not only that, but they also have the best snacks that you can shamelessly reach for without even asking.

2. You actually get along with their siblings.

Maybe your sister “borrowed” your shirt again without asking, or maybe your little brother is just getting on your last nerve. Luckily, you have the best stand-in siblings ever who you can always hang out with when “the others” get to be too much. Plus, they’re always game to gang up on your friend with you.

3. They keep you in the loop.

Let's be honest - your real family is awesome, but things can get a little dull. Somehow, your second family always has some exciting news to share. From new boyfriends to new babies to Kardashian-like drama, you can always get your own version of E! news right in their kitchen.

4. You can be totally yourself around them.

They accept all parts of you - even the weird ones. God bless them for putting up with your awkward stage, which consisted of ridiculous fashion shows that you forced them to watch, late-night piano practices and baking sessions that you and your friend always "forgot" to clean up. Looking back, it's actually shocking that they never kicked you out of the house.

5. They’re proud of you.

There are just some days where your parents won’t get off your back, and you feel like you can’t do anything right. Thankfully, your second set of parents is always there to congratulate on just about everything, from getting a good grade on your biology test to getting a good deal on a cute pair of shoes. They are always excited to hear about these little accomplishments, and you can totally be yourself around them.

6. They love you like you're their own.

No matter what you're going through or what mistake you've made this time, you can always count on your second family to support you and love you unconditionally as if you were their own kid. They'll be there to dry your tears and listen to you vent, and they always know how to cheer you up. Never take that for granted.