Whether you’re coming home from college, or traveling hours from home to visit family during Christmas, the holidays are a special time to take a step back and appreciate the goodness that may surround you.

1. High school friends

Although college has been a time for branching out and discovering my true self and new friends, coming home to old faces has never felt more comforting.

2. Christmas in the mountains

Nothing beats waking up to a white Christmas and being able to spend the day skiing with family and friends.

3. New Years resolutions

It’s always refreshing to know that when the clock strikes midnight December 31, you’re given a clean slate to accomplish all that you didn’t in the previous year.

4. The ability to give back rather than receive

Now that I’ve grown older and don’t necessarily rely on the magic of Santa, it’s an even better feeling knowing that I have the ability to give back to those in need rather than ask for things myself.

5. The chance to relax and reflect

Everyday it seems as if we are always rushing around, trying to exceed the expectations of others, but after a crazy first semester at college it’s refreshing to be able to come home with no obligations and truly enjoy the time I get with family.