With my last two articles about being thankful for my friends and family, this week I'm focusing on two people that are the most important in my life: my parents. Without them, I completely would not be the person that I am today. My parents have given me and my brother so many opportunities in our lives, from attending private school to our many road trips taken all over the country.

I have a special bond with my parents, which sometimes I think is different from other people. My dad and I have our own kind of bond, shared through sports and our love for history and traveling. My mom is really and truly my best friend though, as not a day goes by that I don't talk to her. I know I'm 22 and I still live with my parents, but I really don't mind it at all. I would much rather live with them then live with strangers.

I am extremely grateful to be blessed with my parents, because they have taught me so many things in life. From them I have learned both the importance of family and the importance of responsibility for everything you do. They have showed me how working hard always will pay off in the long run. They take care of me, but I take care of them too in my own way.

While we don't always see eye to eye on everything, my parents (and the advice they give) are usually always right and I will eventually know that I should listen to them. I love them more than anything, and I am thankful every day to be their daughter. I aim to make them proud with everything I do.