Life is composed of little moments and monumental, life-changing moments. Oftentimes we get so caught up in the grandiose moments that we forget to relish in the happiness that the little or unexpected things in life create. I have learned that the little things matter most in my life. These little moments tend to be the ones when I am with family as my family adds happiness, joy and laughter to the memories I hold dearest. It took me time to appreciate the impact of the little things on my life, but know that I have come to understand what it adds to my life. I will always cherish the little details of life.

At heart I am a homebody. I love being with my siblings and my parents. Yes, I enjoy going out with my friends, but there is something about the warmth of home that pulls me in. I love the seemingly monotonous routine of home. The knowledge of what every member of my family is doing at roughly the same time every day gives me peace. When I left for my freshman year of college I quickly missed the daily routine that I took for granted at home. I missed my mom being right there for me to come home to when I was in the best mood or the worst mood. Her loving words of wisdom were mimicked over text message or FaceTime, but nothing will ever compare to the in-person contact that I took for granted. I missed my dad asking me about my day and me asking him about his work. There were also the times that he took out of his busy schedule to read over a paper or to come watch me run. I missed the constant smile that my sister put on my face every time I walked by her in the halls of school, and the loving conversations we had at practice. I missed my brother's teasing attitude and his constant support. I missed my three barking dogs as I walked into the house every day after school. I missed the little things that made my life special. These little moments may seem unimportant and are oftentimes overshadowed by bigger accomplishments, but I hold onto the little things that add to the bigger picture.

This past week in class I got a quick text from my mom saying, “I am coming up to Boston tonight and tomorrow for a meeting. I know you are busy but I would love to be with you as much as possible.” My heart skipped a few beats. This was so unexpected, yet the best news I could receive. Although my mom would only be coming up for a quick trip, I knew that every second I could spend with her I would cherish. From the moment she arrived, I told myself that I would soak up the little time that I was able to spend with her. The walk to and from dinner was filled with constant questions and answers about my life and life at home. Although my mom and I constantly text each other every day, it was nice to connect in person with my best friend. This little trip turned out to be a highlight of my semester thus far. I have plenty of highlights with my friends, school, my half marathon, when my dad visited, etc., but this little, unexpected moment adds to the list. It is taking the time to realize that home is not too far away and that I am always home because my family will always be there no matter how far the distance. This little, unexpected moment brought me joy as I was able to spend time with someone I love so dearly. I was able to take time out of my hectic life to remember the little things matter.

Life is composed of little moments and big moments. Of course the monumental moments in life are important to relish, but I find the little moments the most important. From the less than 24 hours I spent with my mom to the routine of home life, I have found that the little things that make up my life make it all the more important. Although the more minute details may be overshadowed, those small things make your life special and unique.