Every once in a while you need take a break from the craziness and noise of campus living and take a trip back home. There are more than a few pleasant surprises to come home to.
1. Peace and quiet. Turns out what you thought was quiet in downtown Columbus was still quite a few decibels above quiet. At home in the suburbs, you can't hear the thumping bass of the house party next door, the person in the room next to you entertaining guests, or conversations from down the hallway or downstairs. Everything is peaceful and its actually kind of nice.
2. Loving family. There is nothing like being greeted with big smile and a hug as soon as you walk in the door. It is so great to catch up in person after so many quick conversations on your walk home from class, and try not to get hit by a car or biker. I even got to see my grandma, which is always a blessing.
3. Delicious home cooked meal. Even if you call yourself quite the chef while you're away at school, I'm pretty sure you don't go grocery shopping often enough to pick up fresh seafood and in season vegetables to have for dinner. Throw in a fresh baked dessert, and your stomach is wondering why you waited so long to visit home.
4. Pets! As much as you love your family there is nothing like a reunion with the spastic little furball that is your pet. They're usually jumping up and down at the door when you arrive, and they will be ready to play and be pet for hours. Seeing your cat or dog smiling up at you is a nice reminder that there is innocence in the world. At least until you see what they did to your shoes.
5. Gathering on the couch for funny sitcoms: After catching up and enjoying a nice meal, my family usually settles into our big comfy red couches and we watch corny family sitcoms on TV. It may not be the first time we have heard most of the jokes, but Modern Family and similar shows can bring a closeness back to your family and get you reminiscing about embarrassing moments, as well as great moments, that you shared together. Then all of a sudden, the photo albums are out and every awkward stage is relived. This is how you know you've gotten more attractive then you were in middle school.
6. Wifi mostly to yourself. It's a wonder how strong your laptop connection can be when everyone else in the house isn't hooked up with their computer, phone, and tablet too. Everything loads so fast, you realize that even homework might not be as much of a pain.
7. Leftovers to bring back with you. Further proof that people show their love for each other with food. Now you don't have to cook for the next few days. Thanks mom!
