There is a time when we all want to run as far away from where we grew up but also a time when we can’t wait to get back. I still struggle with the fact that the house I grew up in is no longer my home, but a place I go to visit. Even so, after a long stressful semester we all pack our bags and head to our hometowns for the holidays. We leave our college life and return to the family and friends we grew up with.
One of my favorite parts of being home is actually eating real food. The switch from mac and cheese cups and ramen noodles at odd hours to home cooked meals is amazing. Many of my favorite restaurants are located in Charlotte. But honestly, what’s good food without good company. I love sitting in restaurants sipping on drinks just talking with friends about the things that have happened to us over the semester. I’ve been close to most of my hometown friends since middle school and no matter how long it is between visits they always know of the most important parts of my life. I love having them to go back to and I miss them every day when I am gone.
There are so many amazing gifts that life brings you and family is one of them. Regardless of religion, the holiday season can bring together families of all shapes and sizes. Even though my house feels a lot smaller with all seven of us around, I am so grateful I get a month with them. My sisters and I are all close in age so it’s always easy to get back into our normal routine. Christmas time has always been when we felt the closest and with everyone growing independent, it has become even more important. It’s important we have time when we get away from the difficulties this world throws at us and are able to just be together.
As comfortable as I am at school and with the life I have made for myself there, I love having people to return to. If I didn’t have the support system I do at home there is no way I would be able to be so successful in school. Christmas is a time for love and recognizing the gifts you have. I have been blessed with so much in this life and my friends and family are no exception.
