For many college freshman that are dorming, its you're first taste at freedom. No more curfew, you could walk out with out making your bed and theirs no one to nag you about it. Eat what you want, sleep when you want; you could go joy riding at 3 am and no one would stop you because you're free. Yet, you still miss home, I know I do. This is my first time living away from home; I'm not used to not seeing my mom and siblings everyday. I miss my mom’s home cooked meals and warm hugs. I miss arguing with my siblings over who gets to sit in the front seat of the car when we go on late night McDonalds run. And surprisingly enough, I miss my dad's corny jokes. Even though they had me cringing so bad, I miss the big smile that would break out across his face when he'd get a reaction out of me. I especially miss walking with my best friend to the swing set by my house and talking for hours about the nothing and everything.
Dorming has been great so far because all the activities at campus are so close yet, its only the second week and all I look forward to is going home on the weekends. Though it is annoying to have to pack a bag for two days, I cant wait to jump right into my old twin bed and look up at the plastic glow-in-the-dark stars that make up a galaxy on the ceiling. But after two weeks when I'm home, its all seems so different. The city life around my campus is alive at all hours of the day, while at my house, all you hear is the tv and the pitter pat of feet walking. It takes longer to sleep now because I've come to rely on the car horns that never stop even at the night time to put me soundly to sleep like some type of lullaby. Also, I feel more independent now because I have to do everything myself. I wake up before everyone and fix myself breakfast before my mom can even get the question out. I sit down to eat at my regular chair, but it doesn't feel like mine anymore. I had a chair at our dining table where I would sit all the time. Id eat there, do homework, read, watch tv; you name it, I've done it all, while sitting in this chair. But, now when I sit in it after days, I notice all the flaws, like how its less comfy and how one legs shorter than the other, making it slightly tip forward if I move.
Home is still home though, where ever I go, this will always be my home because my family is here. Even when I'm at college, one phone call to my parents makes it feel like I never left. Whenever I miss them, I remember the words my mom told me on college move-in day. She said," You came here to learn. The sole reason you are dorming is because we want you to focus all your attention on college; on your future. Adjusting will be difficult, you are going to miss us and we will miss you too, but remember that we are only a phone call away. Remember that we believe in you, and whatever you choose to do in with your future. No matter which path you choose, I know its very bright, like you. Follow your heart, go on adventures and make great memories because these four years are going to go by quicker than you think. Know we will support you, no matter what. I wish you luck, your journey is about to begin. You may live here but your home will always be your home. We love you so much, don't forget that, ever." Dorming was difficult in the beginning but I have a routine now. If it weren't for my family, I wouldn't have the motivation to do well in my classes. I may love and miss them but it will all be worth it in the future. I will get to see them and it will make our time together that much more meaningful.
