I lived in my hometown for roughly 16 years and for so long, I hated it. I wanted out so badly, and when college rolled around, I was gone before anyone could even say goodbye, and I didn't look back. Everyone told me I'd end up back there, but I don't believe I will. However, I was surprised at how much I missed it.

My hometown isn't anything spectacular; it's nice, but it's not unique or super special in any way, so I assumed I wouldn't miss it. Then, surprisingly, I found myself a little homesick. I missed the house I grew up in and my backyard. I missed my school (something I never thought I'd say), knowing my teachers and being close to them, and always seeing my best friends.

I missed my family (majorly) and family dinners and my mom’s spaghetti (not an Eminem reference – legitimately miss it). I missed what I knew, I missed my friends, my favorite restaurants…in short, I missed home.

Leaving home helped me realize what makes my hometown special, and it’s not the beaches or attractions there. It's my home, it's where I grew up, where my first friends were, where my favorite retail haunts are and where thousands of memories are, and reminders of them are all over.

I still don't want to move back because I wouldn't forgive myself if I never even tried living somewhere different, but being away has made me respect it. Appreciate it. There’s just something about coming home, and whenever I drive home, I always feel excitement and a sense of peace when I see the 'Welcome To' sign for my town.

I may never live there again, but my town will always be home, and it will always bring me a sense of comfort that nowhere else can.