After being home from school for over a month for winter break, there are a lot of things on my mind about going into my second semester in college. I have come a long way from when I started my journey in college. I honestly cannot believe that I am about to enter the second semester. After the first few days in Clarksville, I was certain that if I made it through the first semester, I would transfer to the community college back at home.

I am excited to get back to Clarksville for this second semester. Wow, I never thought I would say that.

After being on my own since August, adjusting myself back to my family's schedule was hard. I'm excited for the freedom again, and doing things my way on my time. It's an odd feeling, being on your own for the first time. It's scary, and lonely. Yet, it's refreshing. It's a fresh breath of adulthood.

I'm excited to see my sisters and new friends, the ones I've grown so close to. At the beginnging of the semester, I didn't think I would make a single friend. Now, I cannot wait to go back to all the friends I've made.

I'm excited for the food that gives me comfort in Clarksville. Although my favorite ice cream shop closed and McDonalds is nothing new for me, I'm ready to get back to Casa dates and midnight runs to Cookout. I'm sick of eating the greasy campus food, but the thought of getting curly fries and Einsteins makes my mouth water.

I'm going to miss home. I'll miss being able to cook whenever I want. I've spent nearly all break babysitting my little loves. The fifteen kiddos I watch have made my break. There's nothing like the joy of a child smile to heal your heart. These kids have made the biggest impact on my life. I'm going to miss picking fights with my brother and sister, just because I can.

Home will always be home, though. The house I was brought to after birth, the picture perfect yellow doll house of mine with blue shutters will remain where it has been my entire life. A school may have been added across the street. The neighbors have moved in and out, but my home will always be there.

This break has been filled with the happiest hellos. I've adored seeing all my best friends. The goodbyes are as sad as always, but it's not long now until we have the summer together.

A bittersweet break will be met with a bittersweet start to the semester.