As we enter into the last full week of winter break, I am already well into my mental goodbyes. Sure, there's definitely no real reason to be feeling nostalgic already, but there's always a part of me that tends to romanticize anything that I can (just ask anyone who has been unfortunate enough to listen to me wax poetic about grilled cheese).

Maybe I'm feeling especially reminiscent at the end of this break because it's my last winter break of my undergrad career. Theoretically, I shouldn't really have to be nostalgic at all, considering I'm bound to be back at home post-grad anyway, but again: if I can make it needlessly dramatic, I will (Sorry to Murphy's Law for this clearly inferior bastardization).

It's just the little things, you know? Experiences you get to have when you're back in your hometown and in your childhood bedroom (that's still filled with a bunch of dolls you forget about until your friends point them out) and with your family that you don't get to have when you return back to the icy hellscape that is your college town. For no one's enjoyment but my own, I have compiled a list of a few of my favorite things about being home. Honestly, I'll probably use this as something to look back on later to remind myself that real life does exist outside of classes and tests and seasonal depression and work and regular depression.

1. Popeye's commercials

I miss these when I go back to school because I don't have cable, and the loss truly feels monumental. I'm not exaggerating when I say that I trust the Popeye's lady with my life. I believe in her and I know she believes in me. Sometimes it feels like she raised me.

2. The fact that in the bathroom next to the living room, the toilet paper holder is over the vent

Honestly, there's a lot to be said for warm toilet paper, especially in the middle of winter. It's probably one of those don't-knock-it-'til-you-try-it things, but I promise, it's definitely worth a try. At this point, you're at least a little curious, aren't you?

3. $5 Tuesdays at Wehrenberg Theaters

Even if it's only for a limited time, I'm still devastated I only had a few chances to experience this unparalleled deal. Like, I got to see "Rogue One" for five bucks. A medium soda there costs $5.50. My movie cost less than my Wild Cherry Pepsi. I'm in tears just remembering this.

4. Bubba, my sister's cat

Even though he gives me genuine stress dreams, I love this precious animal. He's sweet and cuddly and he knocks cups of water over just to stand in the puddles. He's also still playful and joyful, a fantastic comparison to our family cat whose biggest challenge is remaining awake and upright for longer than 30 seconds. Plus, Bubba's great because he never gets tired of being the life of the party so he doesn't mind when I defer to him to entertain my guests.

5. Cracker Barrel catering

Alright, so this is an example of me missing something I haven't actually experienced, but in my defense, there's no possible way I can get a Cracker Barrel to cater a country-style dinner for 20 to my apartment in Kirksville but it is feasible at my home in St. Louis. And, like, I'm gonna do it at some point. This is the first time I have had a real life dream/goal since I was like six, so. It's important to me and for some reason, it's making me miss something I have never had.