Do we have treats today?”

Anyone in Newspaper knows this is probably the first thing that comes out of my mouth on Fridays.

Some weeks the possibility of cookie cake was my sole motivation to show up to 5th hour. Unfortunately for my sweet tooth and fortunately for my health, it’s not uncommon for the counter to be lacking sugary snacks.

But what’s important is that I didn’t turn around and go home. When my expectations went unmet, I found other things to be excited about.

I got to complain about the inevitably difficult practice after school with my teammates or offer design advice to newbies who probably (definitely) should’ve known better than to ask me for help.

The Fridays void of treats have given me deeper appreciation for the days I am surprised with homemade muffins or cookies. As ridiculous as it sounds, it has helped me avoid complacency in the presence of gifts — edible or not.

Whether it’s the time my classmates took to make desserts or my friends helping me choose a cover picture for a photo assignment, being grateful for what I have has helped me stay positive this year despite my overwhelming eagerness to graduate.

Combating senioritis would be impossible without cherishing the gifts of high school. I am fortunate to live five minutes from school, even if I’m forced to park in the freshman lot half the time.

I am blessed for the opportunity to run track and cross country for the school, despite my legs aching every day.

I am grateful to have friends that notice when I’m not in class and reach out to check up on me.

I am thankful to have teachers who try to get to know me and celebrate my accomplishments.

Equally important are the normal moments of our daily lives. Even if it’s simply Paige emptying the contents of her backpack to find a snack for me or Abby performing a lunch unboxing, these mundane moments make up the high school experience.

I know I’ll miss these people when we’re miles away at college, so I need to express my gratitude while I still can.

Every piece of cookie cake, every brownie bite is a rare kindness that someone else would cherish if offered. So I will be grateful even if an act seems minute. Because it would not be so small to someone else.

I am indebted to each one of my classmates for each considerate gesture they have offered me over the past 12 years and for the endless amazing memories I will carry forever.

I just might savor these moments as much as I would a sweet treat.