T'was the week after finals and all through the town, not a student was stirring not even a GA...

They did it. Finals are behind them and the month away from school is now in their presence. They returned home with boxes and bags of clothing and "necessities" and are ready for the comfort of home to be a normal every-day thing again. Free food and housing and the ability to sleep in is-oh-so appealing.

While they have been away, you probably have had a grocery bill much lower, your utilities are even a little bit lower, but the house has also been almost "too" quiet. They say the heart grows fonder and I think that becomes the most relatable when parents send their kids off to be on their own. Although life has been cheaper and a little more peaceful, it just isn't the same.

Welcoming all students home with open arms and home cooked meals also comes with a fridge that constantly needs to be restocked and a floor that never seems to be clean. House chores are becoming more necessary on a week-to-week.. I mean day-to-day basis and cooking larger portions of meals because the poor students have only eaten ramen and crackers for the past 5 months.

With the void in your heart now filled you forgot they are still independent and social young adults. They will still want to go out with their friends and will forget to text or call you about their whereabouts and plans. You may or may not see them before noon and they may need a few reminders about taking out the trash or feeding the dog.

Your kid(s) may be willing to return to their old home habits or they may be a little resistant. Remember that feeling you had when you saw them for the first time after they came home from school and the laugh you missed hearing when they start to really grind your gears.

It is a similar feeling stay-at-home parents have when Spring Break and Holidays come along and all of sudden their perfect schedules are a little different. They are now filled with driving their kids to their friend's houses and having to make lunch for them as well. Their everyday schedule has a slight change for a short time and throws off the balance of the household ever-so-slightly.

However, if you're smart you caught on to one of the most important keys to a successful and happy home.

The idea that "if momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy."

So although it isn't always our first option or desire in what we want to do, if it makes momma happy then it is in your best interest.

I lead into a topic I wasn't planning on touching on but feel that preparing parent's for their college kid's homecomings that the kids should also be reminded of who helped them become who they are today and who is feeding them for the next month.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good month!