At long last midterm week has come to an end, and your departure for home is so close you can almost taste it. As you pack your things and prepare for the long haul, it’s all too easy to overlook some of the most wonderful things about going home. As your mind races with the thoughts of how incredible your responsibility-free week is going to be, be sure not to forget some of the most obvious, yet easily forgotten, treasures of simply being at home.
1) ESCAPING THE CAMPUS “BUBBLE”
Perhaps the last thing you want to think about as your campus dwindles away in your rear view mirror is the week of exams you just survived. Midterms are no joking matter, and the stress they can put on your shoulders, mixed with that mysterious campus food, can really start to weigh a toll on your mind and body. During these weeks of cramming, it seems as if there is something to stress you out at every turn. Getting away from things will certainly be good for you, both mentally and physically.
2) PETS
Your most loyal fan; the homie since day one. This one can seem obvious, but it’s still important to be thankful for these furry critters. I’m a proud owner of an old black lab, and even though she’s ancient, smells horrendous, and probably loves me solely for my food, she continues to bring a smile to my face every single time we’re together.
3) NO SHOWER SHOES
My personal favorite on the list, this one cannot go unspoken. Whether you’re a freshman on campus (meaning you’re forced to share a shower with some questionably unhygienic hall mates), or you simply don’t trust your apartment’s shower floor, chances are you use shower shoes. Those first few seconds of glory as you step bare-footed into your very own shower are some of the best moments of spring break, if you ask me. Be sure to enjoy them while they last.
4) PARENTS
I don’t care how tough you think you are; the love your parents have for you will always trump all else. After all, they are the reason you’re having a spring break to begin with. Even if your parents aren’t the best chefs in the area, it’s still greatly satisfying to enjoy one of their nice home-cooked meals. A literal taste of home. And don’t forget, they’re just as happy to see you as you are to be home (if not more).
5) YOUR OLD ROOM
If your parents haven’t already turned your room into the new guest room, you’re in luck. Take a moment to appreciate that familiar old smell of your room as you unload those winter clothes you brought back from school; It can be the most comforting thing ever. Plop down on your old bed (which is probably double the size of your bed at school), and kick back and relax.
6) THAT SHIRT YOU FORGOT TO PACK
I spent the entire first half of the semester searching for the damn thing, and there it was. I had completely forgotten to pack it before coming back to school. My lucky shirt, 70% cotton and 30% nylon, was finally in my possession again. Maybe one of the coolest aspects of being home for the week is another chance to go through your old clothes; it’s sort of like a broke college student’s idea of shopping, in some weird way.
7) FREE LAUNDRY SERVICE
If your mom is anything like mine, all you have to do to score some free laundry service is to leave those dirty piles of clothes out in sight just long enough. Eventually, she won’t be able to stand it, and before you know it your clothes will be neatly washed and folded sitting atop your dresser. Set the bait, and they’ll come.
8) YOUR HOMETOWN
Finally, perhaps one of the most overlooked treasures about being home is being home! The familiarity of your surroundings can bring a comforting feeling of being at ease, and there’s just something about it that can’t be replaced by your school’s surroundings. Take a night to just drive around, maybe pass a couple of the hang out spots you used to cause trouble in while in high school. There’s nothing like a trip down memory lane.
So...
Even if you’re going to some exotic island or foreign country this week, the biggest take away is remembering to be grateful for even the smallest of things. The examples listed above are only a few of the wondrous gifts your home can give you, as there are too many to name. Regardless of where you are as you prepare to get reckless and rowdy, be sure to stop and smell the flowers once in a while. After all, it is spring break!
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