1. Coffee with mom.

The first thing I love about being home is morning coffee with my mom. It’s a tradition that we have had together for several years that always takes a forced break when I'm away at school. Coming home means that we can rekindle that tradition and wake up every morning to hot coffee and good conversation.

2. My Dogs.

I absolutely love my dogs. My family has four dogs that are all special in their own ways. They love us so much and we love them just as much. When I’m at school throughout the year I don’t get to spend quality time with my dogs and I miss them a lot. But when I’m home I get to be with them as much as I want and it always makes me really happy.

3. Judson.

My little brother, who is no longer smaller than me, is the most exciting part of coming home from school. My brother makes everything an adventure and each day is different. Whether it’s four-wheeler riding, playing in the creek or just watching movies in a pillow fort, my brother always finds a way to make my day a little better and I don’t know what I would ever do without him to bring out my inner child.

4. My dad’s food.

My dad makes the best food. It doesn’t matter what meal we are eating: soups, salads, pastas or casseroles; if my dad made it then its guaranteed to be delicious. Funny thing is my dad never writes any of his recipes down, so I can only have his food if I come home so he can make it for me.

5. My own bed.

No explanation needed, I definitely miss my bed when I am at school. Coming home means I get my big bed back and I can sleep as long as I want to.

6. My church family.

Being at school is great and I love the church that I visit while I’m there. But there is nothing quite like my church back home. Monticello Baptist is my home church and when I walk in those doors it just feels right. We all know each other and you can just feel the love that flows from the congregation. I always look forward to going to church when I’m home.

7. My parents.

In addition to the individual things I love about each of my parents I also love watching them interact with each other. My parents have a unique relationship with each other and it's truly magical to watch them. There is so much love between them, and to watch them it’s hard not to notice how much they really love each other. The way that they joke around and play but get things done at the same time is something I have never seen from any other couple.

8. Monticello.

Much like my church and my family, my little hometown way out in the country is unique in its own way. Monticello is one of those places that everyone knows everyone and there is always someone looking out for you. You can never get lost in Monticello because there is always someone there to help you out. The people of Monticello truly reach out to lend a helping hand when you need it. The feel and vibes of my little hometown is something I truly miss when I am away in the city at school.

9. My Mom.

One of the most wonderful things I miss about home is the moments I get to share with my mom. Not just coffee in the mornings but every moment that we share. My mom and I are as close as two people can be and when I come home I love it when we get a day to just spend with each other. Whether it’s a day filled with salons and stores to shop in or just a simple night in with a good movie and some grilled cheeses, time spent with my mom is the absolute best.