As the holiday season approaches, I can't help but wait in excited anticipation for my return to the greatest city on Earth: St. Louis. Sure, going to school out of state was a wonderful choice, but nothing beats spending time in my hometown. I've even found that time that should be spent studying for finals has been dominated by daydreams of the Gateway Arch and Cardinals baseball. So, in honor of my extreme excitement for my triumphant return to the land of Budweiser and Clydesdales, here's a list of just a few things and native of the "Lou" looks forward to after time away from the STL.

1. Toasted Ravioli

You know you’re a true St. Louisan when you wake up in the middle of the night with an overwhelming hankering for toasted ravioli (this has happened to me multiple times). So, upon my return home, there’s no question that I’m going straight from the airport to Imo’s for an extra large order of “T-Ravs."

2. Calling people hoosiers

Food isn’t the only thing I’ve been craving since I left home. Being so far away from the Lou has made me realize how many phrases are special to St. Louis. For instance, at home, “hoosiers” means hicks or country. When I say it now, however, I always getting a puzzled look and the question: “You mean Hozier the singer?” No, not Hozier. Needless to say, I’m looking forward to returning to a place where my expressions aren’t practically gibberish.

3. Winter Wonderland

It’s that time of year again, when Tilles Park becomes the epicenter of holiday cheer in the 314, and all us college students are returning home just in time. I’m especially excited for this because there’s something about sticking your head through the sunroof of your Mom’s car, while driving through the glowing display, that makes you forget about finals and student loans and sends you back to simpler times.

4. The Loop

Who says Missouri can’t be hip? I can’t speak for everyone, but I can’t help but feel trendy, sometimes even *cringes* like a hipster while strolling down that marvelous swath of Delmar. So, whether you're returning from a rural state school or an urban university, you know you’ll find yourself at Blueberry Hill, the Pageant, or Fitz’s at some point over break.

5. Gooey Butter Cake

No, it’s not coffee cake, and, no, it does not taste like butter. Gooey Butter cake is yet another St. Louis delicacy that any native struggles to live without (even if it’s only been three months). This golden chunk of the heavens is perfect for any meal or snack, which is probably why my withdrawal is so bad. But a piece of advice, never give in to this withdrawal and have your mom send you a box of it. It will explode, and your care package will be covered in powdered sugar.

6. Going to Bread Co, and having it be called Bread Co

If you’re a true St. Louisan, a little part of you dies every time someone calls it “Panera.” And a bigger part of you dies when you go to correct someone on it only to realize that the rest of the country does, in fact, call it “Panera.” I don’t care what anyone says, though; in the land of the Cardinals and the Arch, we give credit where credit is due. Long live St. Louis Bread Co.

7. Forest Park

Some cities have a beach, some have a killer skyline. Well, St. Louis boasts a killer, free zoo (because who doesn’t love staring at penguins?). Beyond the amazing zoo, forest park boasts the Boat House, the Art Museum, and a pretty neat playground that any age would find legendary. So, suck it, cities of America; Forest Park comes in the clutchest of them all.

8. Lion’s Choice

People who rely on Arby’s for a good roast beef sandwich are the scum of the Earth. Lion’s Choice wasn’t lying when they decided to call themselves the “King.” Why this heavenly establishment has not spread from the confines of Missouri, I will never understand. I’ll just have to settle for enjoying it as an occasional treat.

9. Hitting the rest of your favorite restaurants

Someone out there (I’m assuming) has probably poked fun at St. Louis for our low brow cuisine. They, obviously, have never been to Lester’s or Sportsman's park, where waistlines go to die. They may not offer fancy, organic, vegan, grass-fed anything, but they sure do know how to satisfy a customer. Save me a table, guys, I’ll be back for the holiday season.

10. Seeing someone you know everywhere you go

Some people hate surprise run-ins with acquaintances. If you're a Saint Louisan, born and bred, you take them as a part of life. You could be anywhere from the shops in the Central West End to the checkout line in Schnucks. Regardless, you’re always prepared for a surprise run in with your mom’s co-worker’s daughter’s aunt, or something like that.

11. Being with the people you love in the city you love

This one needs no explanation. If St. Louis is your home, you know just how special of a place it is, and can’t wait to get back there for the Holidays.