It's strange. There are no two ways about it. You're caught in this odd limbo between "Oh my gosh, it's so good to be home," and "Wow, I can't wait to go back". School is filled with stress, occasional drama, and weirdos. But it also has new and magical people, classes you can actually enjoy, and activities you're passionate about. Home has chores, family and friend balancing, and summer jobs. But it also has familiarity, longtime friends, and family bonding.
I have a hard time remembering to communicate where I'm going to be and remembering to do simple things, like rinsing dishes off. I think my mom is about as ready for me to go back to school as I am.
Things changed. After being gone for a year, things around my house changed, building and roads have been built or torn down, and people's lives have gone on. You don't realize how egocentric you are until you realize how surprised you are when life goes on without you.
You tell yourself you're going to live it up this summer in a way you haven't before. Go exploring and see and experience new things. I went to two new states and Europe, watched my favorite musical live for the first time, saw a historical spot, and so much more, but there were also times when I wanted nothing more than to just lay around in the comfort and familiarity of my own bed.
Honestly, this article won't do much good to anyone now because the summer is coming to an end, but maybe someone will stumble upon it next year and realize that it isn't odd to feel out of place. I don't quite feel in place at home, but I'm also not giddily awaiting returning to school. It's an awkward in-between, but, having talked to my friends, I've realized that it's totally normal. Don't feel like you're the odd one out or that there's something wrong with you.
It's simply you figuring out how to be you.