With Thanksgiving around the corner, we decided it was time to take a moment and reflect. We never thought we’d be here again making a part two of our post-Thanksgiving gratitudes from last year, but here we are—and we can’t wait! Last year, we were thankful for things like Costco, Black Friday, and DoorDash. This year, we have a new and improved list of some things that we think have been essential in 2025 and can’t live without.
- Concerts
Imagine it’s a regular day of the week. While the rest of your friends are spending their time locked away in the houses, you’re hopping in the car and driving to MetLife stadium or Madison Square Garden for the concert of your favorite artist. You’ll probably forget your voice at the venue and come back with way too many videos on your phone. If you get lucky, you’ll find your way in the merch line, probably purchasing a sweatshirt in an XXXL because it’s the only size they have left. But nonetheless, going to a concert, listening to live music, and celebrating your favorite artists in the experience of a lifetime is surely something to be thankful for.
- Owala Water Bottles
The water bottle craze seems to be never-ending, with the old debate of whether an Owala or a Stanley is better. However, to us the Owala comes on top, and is a water bottle that can never be replaced. I can truly say after losing mine recently that the quality of life decreases without an Owala. The sipping versus chugging straw makes the Owala especially useful in sports after a tiring practice, and it is convenient to bring around during school. Although some of the colors are quite displeasing to look at, you can’t deny there are some types such as the Owala collaboration with Disney look great.
- Matcha
In a world filled with “performative” people, many are forgetting the true taste of matcha (because on social media, it’s more of an accessory than a beverage). We love matcha for its taste, color, and maybe a little for its ability to make any outfit look nicer. The best part of matcha is that it can be used for the traditional antioxidant tea as well as many more things: smoothies, lattes, baked goods, and really anything you put your mind to.
- Quarter Zips
The best outfit for a high school student is hands down a hoodie. Every day at THS, there are at least 100 different people wearing hoodies, no matter the weather. What could possibly be better than a hoodie, you ask? A quarter zip. A quarter zip has everything a hoodie has (minus the hood) but completely elevated. It takes the comfort of the traditional sweatshirt and combines all of the necessary factors into one perfect garment. Better yet, when you wear a backpack, you won’t have to deal with the annoyance of taking out the hood. Our favorites this year have to be the Aritzia quarter zips and Ralph Lauren quarter zips. We’ll be looking for them on the day after Thanksgiving—Black Friday!
- E-Days
E-days might feel like the longest day of the week, but they are actually a blessing. No tests are allowed on E-days, and we get to have every class for a shortened period, which usually means less packed lesson plans. Getting to school at 8:30 a.m. instead of 8:10 a.m. is only a 20 minute difference, but the time you get to sleep in and get ready feels much longer. They’re one of the staple days of THS and the greatest start to a long school week.
As we wrap up our 2025 list of Thanksgiving gratitudes, we reflect on the things we simply can’t live without. While we’re grateful for the little things, like yummy drinks and cozy clothes, it’s the people and experiences that truly matter most—friends, family, and the school community we’re so lucky to be a part of. But we weren’t the only ones reflecting on what to be thankful for this Thanksgiving.
“I am thankful to be back working where I went to high school. And that the school is still here!” – Mr. Shum
“For my family, friends, good health, the kindness of others … and apple pie,” – Mr. Moreng
“I’m very thankful for Thanksgiving break.” – Ms. Celli
We hope this inspires you to reflect on what you’re most grateful for this Thanksgiving. Whether it’s family, friends, or a much-needed break, we wish you the happiest Thanksgiving this year. Enjoy—but don’t forget to take some time to give thanks for all the good in the world around you!
