My grandparents moved to Tallahassee when I was a little kid, so I grew up coming here to visit them for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but I never thought I would end up going to college at FSU. On top of that, I definitely didn’t think I would be seeing them several times a week, I figured I would just see them on occasion every few months or so or if I needed to do laundry. But living only 20 minutes away from them has turned out to be one of the absolute best parts of my college experience.

I have learned so much about my grandparents just from spending quality time with them and asking questions. I see them at least once a week, even if it’s just for 10 minutes, and I look forward to it every time. They have been there for me through all the ups and downs of college and have challenged me, helped me grow as a person, taught me lessons, given me some of the best advice I’ve ever received, and fed me lots and lots of food.

Going to college where my grandparents live is one of the best decisions I ever made.

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1. You can see them whenever you want.

Whenever I was a little kid, I only got to see my grandparents a couple times a year, but now that I live in the same city as them I can see them any time I want and it’s awesome.

They probably regret giving me a key... because I show up unannounced far too often.

2. They adopt all of your friends as honorary grandchildren.

All of my friends have officially been inducted into the Borders family as honorary grandchildren. I'm convinced the only reason my friends hang out with me is so that they can hang out with Grammy and Doc.

3. They feed you.

Who are we kidding... this should be number one. If you know me, you know there's nothing I love more than Chick Fil A dates with Grammy and Doc.

4. They feed your friends.

My grandparents favorite thing in the world is having all my friends come over for a night of hanging out around their fire pit, feeding them good food, and getting to know them… aka telling embarrassing stories about me.

5. Free laundry.

Major key.

6. They give the best advice in the world.

Whenever I’m handed a really difficult situation or just feeling stuck or unsure, my grandpa is the first person I go to. He has been around 58 years longer than me and has learned a life lesson or two. He never fails to give me incredible advice whether it’s about a class, a career, or a boy.

7. Quality time.

Developing a deeper relationship with your grandparents as an adult is such a unique experience. Growing up it’s all play time and fun, but being able to lean on your grandparents when real life and adulthood hits and seek their advice is something to cherish.

8. They are always there for you.

Whether you need to be taken to the hospital or just need to take a bath at your Grammy’s, they’ve got you covered. There’s nothing like the comfort of knowing you’ve got people who love you more than anything just on the other side of town. If you need them for an emergency or just need a hug, they've got you.