Dear Family,

I'm not sure about you guys, but being away from you for the past year has surely been a changing experience. Not just on me, but on you as well. For one thing, I'm not there to be keeping the house loud, or leave my stuff everywhere. Its been extremely difficult being away from you guys. I know that you guys always laugh at me if I ask to go out with my friends. "Mackenzie, you are in college! You can do what you want!" I know that I can do what I want, but oddly I find some comfort in asking for permission. Whenever I have a question on if I can wash something or not, or if i could have some friends over for dinner, I get a little sad. Not because I can't get my questions answered, (OK maybe that does make me kinda sad) but because the people I spent the first eighteen years of my life with aren't here with me everyday. Of course we talk everyday, and I see you guys on the weekends, but it still isn't the same.

Mom; I am so sorry that I had to leave you alone with the boys. I really am. (kidding, we both know that they really aren't all that bad.) I love spending time with you when I am home. Now that I think of it, most of my time at home is spent with you. I always look forward to seeing you on Friday at North Station. Although I get there super early and am just really antsy the whole time. It is all good though. Every Saturday I love going shopping with you, watching TV, or even planning stuff for our next Disney trip! (258 days) I miss you so much while I am away at school, but I know that you miss me too. I love you so much and can't wait to see you!

Dad; Do you miss me yet? I know that you always say that you don't get the chance to miss me since you see me on the weekends, and sometimes throughout the week, but I know that you really do miss me. I mean, who wouldn't? (sarcasm) Have you been doing work around the house for mom? I bet you have, you are usually pretty on top of things for mom. I look forward to the days where you call me telling me that you are in the area and want to come by for lunch. Honestly, it makes my week to see you on such short notice like that.

Brother; Gosh, where do I even begin with you? Most kids our age can't stand there siblings. But in all honesty, I am so happy that we have such a close relationship. I mean how cool is it that we are each others confidant? Sorry that I can't be home to pick you up from school, or go to watch you play tennis. I promise that as soon as I get the chance to do so I will! I hope school is going well for ya bud and that you are enjoying your year.

Love,

Your Girl Away From Home