As a sophomore, the memories of my freshman year are still very fresh in my mind. I remember being welcomed home with open arms and a lot of mom tears. I remember the smell of home-cooked meals and having a few tear sessions of my own. However, I distinctly remember my brother, who is about to finish college, saying "Don't get used to it."
See, the difference between your visits home as a freshman and sophomore differ tremendously. Now, I am not saying that your parents stop missing and loving you. They always will, and I am sure they love seeing you walk through their door every few months. All I know is...they get comfortable having a home to themselves again.
So, here is a healthy serving of expectations vs. reality of going home for the holidays.
1. Laundry Expectation:
The shirts, blouses, and garments have special instructions you can't understand. You're out of clean underwear. There's that one thing with that one stain you're unsure if you should explain or not. Mom comes in clutch, by being a superhero and managing to fit your laziness into her schedule.
Laundry Reality:
"You are an adult, and I am not your maid. Love you." - Mom
Day one: 
One Week Later: 
2. Food Expectation:
Homemade meals. Yes. Finally—mashed potatoes that don't taste like they're from a box. Meat straight off the grill that hasn't been sitting for two hours. Heck, the Panda Express six minutes down the road tastes better than the union. Yes! Bring it on!
Food Reality:
"We didn't really have anything planned for tonight. There's mac and cheese in the pantry! Love you." - Dad
3. Friend Expectation:
You're going to be back with the OG squad. Your homies. Your bros. These are the people you have some of your favorite memories with! It'll be just like old times, and you'll just catch each other up on everything!
Friend Reality:
"Well, then, at this party, Sarah, you don't know her, she got on Daniel's shoulders and hahahaha, you don't know him either, but— *laughs uncontrollably* You had to be there." - home friend
4. Room Expectation:
You haven't seen your room in so long. You bet Mom or Dad cleaned it up and washed your sheets so you sleep super comfortably like last time! They're so great, and definitely don't have anything else to do!
Room Reality:
"Well, it was either this, or a Naked Room. You pick I guess." (actual quote from my Dad) *watch "Failure to Launch," if you missed this reference*
How you left it:
What you came home to:
5. Home Expectation:
Mom and Dad and everyone else you love will be so excited to see you and hear about your accomplishments. Sure, Grandma will ask about your love life. Your parents will want to bug you about your grades. Someone will point out the weight you've probably gained; they do it because they love you so so much. You're a college kid now! You're out doing big things, and they are so incredibly proud of you.
Home Reality:
*see above*
Happy Holidays, everyone!. Enjoy this time with the people that mean the most.
