Before I left for college I could not wait to leave my hometown. Although college is great, I must admit that I am counting down the days until the start of winter break. I guess you can say being a college student has made me realize just how much I have to be grateful for back at home. Here's why:

1. Being able to drive

Running after the bus has become my daily workout, but it is time for a nice break.

2. Not having to wear flip-flops in the shower

Every college student who uses a communal bathroom knows (or rather does not know) what is living on the shower floors.

3.Home cooked meals

If you have not had a meal in college that has at one time, or another, looked alive, you have not experienced fine dining.

4. Air Conditioning

Even though winter is approaching, I can still feel the sweat trickle down my back just from being in my un-airconditioned dorm for a second.

5. Privacy

Sometimes it is good to get some quality time with yourself.

6. Sleeping in your own bed

The only time you snooze and lose is when you are sleeping in an uncomfortable college bed.

7. Being able to sing in the shower

Unless you have no shame in your singing game, belting in the shower is a no-no in the communal bathrooms.

8. Having your parents to help you do laundry

Sometimes Oxy Clean just does not cut it.

9. Pooping in your own toilet

Everyone poops! However, pooping in the communal bathroom feels like pooping in public: you hope you don't fart, you go really fast, and then you sprint out of the bathroom in hopes that no one has seen you.

10. Seeing old friends

There is nothing like reuniting with your friends after nearly three months.

11. Your parents

It is always good to see your parents...until they start pulling the "because we're your parents!" and then you know it is time to go back to college.