I know it's been said before, and I know it can sometimes be an arguable opinion, but I am so thankful for everything about my family, and there are too many reasons to list - but here are at least five that remind me why a family is the greatest gift one can be blessed with.

1. They are always happy to see you.

Whether it's been a couple days or a couple months (especially if its been a couple months), family is made of people who will smother you with hugs and love until you get sick of it - but even then, you know you're never really sick of it.

2. They've given you the best memories.

Yes, family gatherings can get crazy, but those days that you are all together have brought you the most treasured moments in time that you couldn't forget even if you wanted to.

3. They make you laugh when all you want to do is cry.

Even on your worst days, the people you call family give you a reason to smile and forget your problems, even if only for a little while. They can thrill you and lift your spirits just by being near you, and especially by their unconditional love and unrivaled humor.

4. They will move mountains for you.

Family will do whatever it takes to make you okay - they will drive anywhere, be anything, say anything for you. They are the most constant support you could ever have, and they are a force to be reckoned with.

5. They love you just the way you are.

I do not mean that there is never any judgement - your family are the only ones who can get away with telling you what no one else will, but their acceptance is unwavering, because - probably mostly because they've known you for so long - they have seen the very worst and the very best of you. They love it all.