1. My Mom

My mom is someone who I am thankful for all the time, however, around the holidays she means so much more. My mom is someone who puts others before herself, and will make sure everyone is happy around her no matter what. When the holidays roll around, things can get stressful and busy. Family members come to visit, friends drop by, and things can get very jumbled around the house. My mom somehow manages to decorate the entire house, and put up the tree. Being a college student, I am not always there to help her out, but somehow she manages just fine. My mom is always there to keep a smile on my face when finals roll around, and I can always count on her to send me a "have a good day" text. Thank you, Mom, for being my rock.

2. My Home

I am blessed to have a roof over my head, and to not know what it is like to not have a house. My home is another thing that I am very thankful for. Coming home from break and finally laying in my nice warm bed is something I long for when I am away at school. Not to mention the smell that fills my home when my mom starts cooking dinner. Around the holidays, my house is lit up from front to back with twinkling white Christmas lights. On the inside, garland wraps the staircase railing, and our Christmas tree front and center in the dining room. I miss all the comforts of home and with finals week nearing an end, I cannot wait to be back.

3. My Family

I have a relatively small family, it is just my mom, dad, and me. A small family does not mean a large amount of love isn't there. I am beyond thankful for how close I am with my parents, I know I can go to them with anything and everything and they would be there for me. My mom is always my shoulder to cry on, and my dad gives the best advice. I am very stubborn, and somehow my parents have all the patience in the world for me. My grandma is also very important to me, and she is thankfully able to spend Christmas with us every year even though she lives so far away from us.

4. My Friends

I have moved so many times in my life that I have friends all over the place. Somehow, I believe I have found some of the greatest friends right here at college. Being a freshmen, college can be a scary thing, but having a good group of friends can truly make a difference. No matter what, I know they've got my back and they will always be there for me with whatever issue I've got. This holiday season, somehow we have made time to do a small gift exchange. These small things are what can really make a difference in someone's day. Whether it is a box of candy canes or a cute coffee mug, the gift of giving can easily put a smile on someone's face.

5. My Boyfriend

My boyfriend does so much for me. From buying me Starbucks and food (the way to a girl's heart), to hearing my problems and drama as well as anything else I feel the need to get off my chest. He is constantly there for me, as well as a shoulder to cry on. He is my study buddy, cuddle buddy, and one of my best friends. I am so thankful for all that he does for me, and how caring and loving he is. He is there for me when I am at my lowest and will help me back onto my feet. This holiday season, make sure to remind your significant other how much they mean to you.