This year so much has happened. This article I'm going to express what I am thankful for.

1. My Family

This might be cliche but my family means the world to me. I don't get to see them everyday anymore since I am away at school for 9 out of the 12 months of the year. I thank God that he hasn't needed anymore angels up in heaven from my family so far.

2. Being able to attend college

This years Illinois budget cuts have had a major impact on schooling for students. I was able to with the help of my mom, to re-attend my college in Monmouth. If it wasn't for her support, I don't think I would have been able to do it. I was able to move from a freshman to a sophomore at Monmouth College and it feels great. I feel completely blessed to be able to work on my Business degree and have the Liberal Art Education with it.

3. My dog

So many are probably shocked this wasn't number one but she is family to me. She deserves her own bullet point and reasons why I am thankful for her. She is my best friends and therapy dog. She helps me through bad times and good. We do everything together in the summer and when I am home on break. She's always by my side and is always protective of me. She makes me feel safe and we complete each other. I love my Wrigley roo.

4. My friends

I am thankful for my friends. The old and the new. The ones who I see all the time like my roommate. (BTW, Thank you Emily for always making sure my ass is at class. We got this whole college thing as long as we are together!) I am thankful for the friends who turn into my lover and who may be miles away from me but always make sure that I am okay. (P.S. Shout-out to my boyfriend for keeping me stable through my roller coaster of school. I love you babe!)

5. Freedom

I want to thank all of the men and woman who fight and serve to protect this country. Who see what many have not or could never imagine. I hope you have a blessed holiday no matter where you are and know that you are thanked back home at least by this citizen.

6. My professors

I know I bitch about my professors, some more than others....but I do want to thank my professors for installing wisdom into my brain. I know sometimes it may seem like your trying to teach a brick wall but I swear I try my hardest to understand what you are trying to explain to me.

7. A roof over my head and my parents

I know I previously expressed that I am thankful for my family but my parents deserve a separate point. Even though you are divorced and at times don't see eye to eye just know that I am thankful for all that you do for me. From raising me for 18 years and letting me crash at your house until I'm out of college. (P.S. you have two more years so get excited!) I just want to thank you for shaping me into the respectable, caring, and loyal young woman I am. I may have a hot head and a wild side but know that you raised a daughter that is a different breed. Who isn't afraid to stand up for what she believes and takes life by the horns. I love you mom and dad!

I know this may not seem like a lot but I truly am thankful for the fact that God let me live for the past 20 years and counting. I may have been born early and had all odds against me but I have always had angels watching over me. I hope everyone has a blessed holiday and spends it safely.