It’s 1:45 and time for me to get some sleep. But before I lay me down to rest, I’d like to make a list of nine things (and people) I’m thankful for. Why nine? It’s one less than ten. Anyway, here they are:

1. I’m thankful for my family. Yeah I know - everybody says that, but I’m no different. My sisters are two of the sweetest people I know, and they get it from my mom. My dad is one of my best friends. Nellie is lazy and wonderful.

2. I’m thankful for my girlfriend. Anneli, you keep me grounded, you continue to teach me the value of selflessness, and you love me no matter how nutty I get. Before I met you, I don’t think I knew how to put a dish in the dishwasher. You’ve made me a better house guest, but more than that, you’ve made me a better person.

3. I’m thankful for my friends. You guys make my life considerably more fun, and my experience at Wake wouldn’t be worth anything if it weren’t for you.

Now I’ve listed the three essential elements of a sappy appreciation list, so…

4. I’m thankful for random occurrences. Whether it’s a spur of the moment road trip or seeing three guys doing parkour on the Mag Quad, randomness and spontaneity keeps things interesting.

5. I’m thankful for good teachers. I hope to be one myself.

6. I’m thankful for gray days. If every day was sunny, the sun wouldn’t seem so special. Plus, everything’s so still outside when it’s cloudy; these are days for long walks.

7. I’m thankful for retrospection. Not only does it lead to a greater appreciation for the things of today, it also leads to a better tomorrow. Hence this list.

8. I’m thankful for Southside. There’s no better way to spend a Sunday morning (or a Wednesday night) than with those fine folks from Waughtown.

9. I’m thankful for sleep. Which is where I’m headed now.