After a long summer of living at home, working, sleeping, and being bored, it seems as if fall semester can't come soon enough. But after the first couple of weeks of reconnecting with friends and going out every night, the reality of your course load starts to settle in. Before you know it, you are drowning in essays, weekly assignments, and never-ending exams.
Once November rolls around, the only thing on every college student's mind is going home for Thanksgiving break. Whether you are one of the lucky ones going home for a whole week or maybe you fall under the "home for a night" category, everyone deserves to look forward to some relaxation time. Going home for the holidays allows me to really bring myself back down to earth. Fulfilling traditions with my family reminds me that some things in life will never change. After being away from everyone for so long, it is strange to find out that you missed a few milestones along the way. For example, finding out your younger cousins have started losing teeth, playing new sports, and even dating is weird. It is easy to forget that they won't stay young forever.
Trading out fast food, Ramen Noodles, and reheated leftovers for a home-cooked meal is one of the best parts of going home. I love a late night trip to Checkers just as much as the next guy, but nothing can beat my dad's spaghetti. If I'm home for a few days, my family always makes sure to cook my favorite meals and it is the best! Thanksgiving is the perfect holiday to load up on some home-cooked meals from all of your family members. It is always nice when you get to bring the leftovers back to school with you, too.
No matter how long you are home, make sure you make the most of it. Reconnect with friends who went to different schools, eat a lot, and remember to love on your family. They miss you just as much as you miss them! Take the time to rejuvenate and refresh your mind so you can go back to school with the strength you need to finish out the semester.