8 Things You Realize You Took for Granted When You Go Home From College

For many college students, winter break is the first time you’ve gone home since you left for college at the beginning of the semester. With all the stress that comes with being in college, winter break is often much needed. There are also a lot of things we realize we took for granted when we go home for break.

1. Your family’s amazing home-cooked meals

After months of cafeteria food and Ramen noodles in your dorm room, your mom’s home-cooked meals taste extra amazing. Bonus if you get to take leftovers back to school with you!

2. How loving your family and friends are

It’s easy to unintentionally take advantage of your friends and family always being there. You start to become used to it and forget how special it is. Being away from them makes you realize how much you miss it. Going home for winter break and catching up on the little things is so therapeutic, and is a great reminder to be more thankful for what you have.

3. The time you got to spend with your high school friends

How nice it used to be when you could just walk down the block to your friend’s house after school. In high school, everyone seemed to have the same schedule and much more free time. College can get much more hectic. Winter break is a great time to catch up with your old friends.

4. Having a clean house

Most college kids aren’t into cleaning. Crazy schedules, difficult classes, and ping pong tables all result in a messy environment. Especially if you live in a dorm and share a bathroom with 12 other people…Going home to your fresh bed sheets and being able to shower without shower shoes is definitely a blessing.

5. Being able to actually sleep and relax

With noisy roommates and pulling all-nighters from studying, college is not always the most relaxing place. Winter break is the perfect time to de-stress and catch up on sleep before a new semester. Sleeping in a bed larger than the one in your dorm room is pretty awesome too.

6. Your pets

Because your dog and cat are basically members of your family, and the pictures on your phone just don’t suffice. If only they could always be there for you at school.

7. Your hometown in general

That little diner that you have been to 100 times suddenly feels so exciting again. You suddenly don’t feel the need to complain that there’s “nothing to do in this town.”

8. Having your car

Many freshmen aren’t allowed to bring a car to campus. Going home and having the freedom of your vehicle is an awesome feeling. Not having to rely on public transportation, ride share, or having to walk is a great feeling (especially in the cold month of December).

Whatever you’re doing this winter break, try to remember the little things you’re thankful for. It’s what the holidays are all about, after all!