It’s the most wonderful time of the year for us college students. Finals are over and done with. Now all we have to focus on is ourselves. Sounds very zen if you ask me. Nothing, however, can equate to the level of joy we get when I pull up into my driveway. As much as I love being away from home and being independent there’s just a few things that I missed.

1. My Dog

If this list was ranked my dog would be number one. He’s my best friend. I can’t wait to spend time with him and take him on little road trips to the park or the pet store. FaceTime just isn’t cutting it anymore.

2. Mom’s Cooking

I never thought I’d say it (or type it), but I’m definitely excited to be eating something that doesn’t come from a dining hall or food truck.

3. My Bed

This…this is what dreams are made of. Being in my own bed in a room that I have all to myself. Not that I don’t love my roommate.

4. My Friends

I always saw the class who graduated before me look so happy when they got together on break and now I finally understand. It’s weird not seeing your best friends every day. Spending the holidays with them is the cherry on top.

5. My Sister

Yeah, I’m definitely getting teased for this one, but it’s true. I missed my sister and dragging her to all the places I really didn’t feel like going to. Talk about that sisterly bond.

6. My Hometown

Even though I got used to my surroundings at Temple nothing compares to knowing one’s hometown like the back of your hand. I miss the hot spots and (believe or not) my gym. It’s like watching old television shows. It’s very nostalgic.

7. My Car

Okay, so it’s technically my dad’s car, but we share it. After not driving since fall break it’ll be nice to get behind the wheel again.

8. Milk

I didn’t realize how essential milk is in my diet until I opened the fridge and there never was any. Breakfast every morning was ruined because my roommates and I never thought to purchase milk. It was granola bars every morning for me.

9. Midnight WaWa Runs

This was something I did all the time in high school with my friends. If we were bored, slightly hungry, and just wanted to get out of the house this is what we would do. The WaWa was literally right down the street so it wasn’t a hassle at all!

10. Quality Take-Out

Compared to back home, the takeout just wasn’t up to par down at school. I’ve been craving some good ole’ Chinese food and a slice of pizza from my favorite spot.

11. Wifi

The wifi at college is terrible compared to a house where only four people live in it. It always cuts me off in the midst of my Netflix time.

12. My Mom-Mom’s House

I don’t know about you, but when I need to get away and destress from life my mom-mom’s house is where I go. There’s something about it that makes me feel safe and carefree. Hence why I never want to leave.

13. Annoying My Friends at Work

They don’t like as much as I do. I would always find out when they were working and just show up either alone or with somebody. I’d request for them on purpose. And even though they’d get annoyed most of the time I always tipped them well!

14. My DVR

There’s no such thing as a DVR when you live in dorms and I’ve got about four weeks of Vampire Diaries to catch up on.

15. Family Time

I love my family and I come from a big one. Being able to see all my aunt’s, uncles, and cousins will tie in the holiday season for me. Cheers to the New Year!