I don't get to tell my family how much I appreciate them very often. I love all that they do for me, from making me laugh over crazy stories about our neighbors to comforting me when the stress of school gets to me. My family is the best and I wouldn't have asked for anything else. Here's to my family and why I love them so much.

1. I tell them everything

My family knows everything about me. I tell them what I eat for breakfast, what grades I got on my tests, and even when I'm going to get my period. In return, they tell me everything about themselves. I hear the good, the bad, and the ugly of their personal lives, workplace drama, etc.

I love how they are my confidantes and I am their confidante in return. We give each other advice and are always there for each other. If I'm walking alone to class, I'll just call up my mom for a quick hello just so I can tell her that my coffee tastes delicious that morning.

2. They are loud and Italian

Being in an Italian family, it's a given that everyone is loud. However, I feel that my family brings loud to the next level. When I am on the phone with my mom, I can hold the phone out an arm's length away and still clearly hear what she is saying. The more excited she gets about something, the louder she gets. This goes for everyone in my family. If you are speaking in a low tone, there must be something wrong with you.

3. They are the best cooks

I compare everything to my family's cooking. My mom is the best at cooking staple dishes, like spaghetti and meatballs or chicken soup. My dad, on the other hand, is the master of creating unique dishes. He artfully takes his time in adding a myriad of ingredients and the end result is phenomenal. Eating at the dining halls at school is nothing compared to eating home-cooked meals.

4. They are the funniest people ever

My family makes me laugh until I cry. My sister, Danielle, is the funniest person you will ever meet. Years ago, she used to be this shy little girl, but now she is a strong and independent woman. When she tells me stories, I squeal and have the most obnoxious laugh. My aunt and cousins are also hysterical. Holidays and family get-togethers are the best because the combination of personalities is enough to make you pee your pants.

5. They are my best friends

My family members are my best friends. I love them so much and they made me the person I am today. I couldn't think of anything better than living with my best friends. I am so close with my family that when I tell one of them something, all of them know within an hour.

When I started dating my boyfriend this semester, I texted my mom and my sister that night, and by the next day, my dad, aunt, neighbor, sister's coworkers, sister's best friends, and three cousins and their spouses all knew. News travels fast among my best friends because they love me so much and want me to be happy.

I love them with all of my heart. Thank you for being the best family and best friends I could ever ask for!