This is my second year of college/ living away from home. Being away from home has taught me independence, but it also has made me miss the little things at home. I like the way my life is going right now, but here are a few things I have missed:

1. Food and home-cooked meals.

As a college student, it's hard to eat healthy (resist those Ramen noodles!). 1- It's not cheap, and 2- it takes a lot of hard work. Some students are on a meal plan, but as for me, I cook at home. I never realized how much time, effort, and work it took to make a healthy dinner every night for myself.

2. My little brother - not so little anymore.

How time flies. It feels like a few months ago my brother was this small little kid, but then suddenly he grew up all at once. Being away from home means that I am missing out on my little brother slowly becoming a man. I walk into the house expecting to be greeted by my little brother, but instead I am greeted by this 6 foot tall, deep-voiced guy all grown up.

3. Being a big sister.

Back when I was in high school, I remember my dad picking us up from school and my sister just ranting about all the drama that went on with her friends on the drive home. She could talk and talk about things for hours. One thing I miss about living at home is being there to hear those stories. Being there to hear boy drama, watch cheesy Disney movies, pointing out cute guys we see... I miss it all.

4. Momma and Pops.

Obviously, my family and parents are going to be one of the biggest things I miss being away from home. Just coming home and getting hugs every day is completely different from what I am used to now. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy living on my own, it's just nice to have a mom and dad take care of you every once in a while.

5. Always having people around.

I live in an apartment style dorm with 3 other roommates who never come out of their rooms. When I was living at home there were always people around. At my dorm now, everyone minds their own business and never really talks- so it gets kinda lonely sometimes.

Regardless of the things that I have missed, college has been one of the best experiences of my life.

So keep living it! And remember to always be inspiring.