Everybody has their own ideas f what thanksgiving is supposed to look like and what actually happens. Sometimes they aren't the same thing, but nonetheless, it's still another memory look back on. The warm fuzzy feeling that everyone gets when they're surrounded by family is a feeling everyone remembers and never forgets. So, here are some things that I think of when I think of Thanksgiving.

1. Waking up early to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The giant inflatables, musical appearances , dance teams and more! The only time I look forward to getting up at 8 in the morning.

2. Being excited to see Santa at the end of the parade.

I love thanksgiving and all, but everyone knows that its the start of Christmas once Santa Is seen at the end of the parade!

3. Grandma's house and the never-ending heaps of good food.

Every college student looks forward to grandma's cooking!

4. Crazy dinner conversations.

After everyone says what they're thankful for, the conversation gets a little weird ( you guys know what I'm talking about) and of course, politics is off the table.

5. The endless selection of pies.

Seriously, the choices are endless. Should I get sweet potato pie or pumpkin pie or perhaps pecan pie?

6. Gathering around the TV and watching movies.

After such a good meal, there's no better way to end the day then to watch movies with your family.

7. Bringing home leftovers.

There is nothing more satisfying than heating up leftovers the next day, especially since there is enough leftovers to last a week.

8. Going around the table and saying what we're thankful for.

The list could go on and on, but here are some things I'm thankful for: my friends and family, my roommate, my dogs, my education and books.

I think, as people, we tend to focus on the bad things happening in life so much that we forget to think of all the good in our life. Just a little reminder: somebody out there does have it worse and they're still finding things to smile about. This doesn't mean that our problems aren't valid, it just means that I think we should remind ourselves of the good in every situation and what we have to be thankful for.

With all of this being said, I challenge you to tell a loved one just how much they mean to you, and then encourage them to do the same. Let's start a chain reaction of expressing our gratitudes!