1. Consistently stocked groceries.

At school, finding a bag of popcorn in my snack drawer was a luxury. Being at home, I suddenly have a constantly full refrigerator, freezer and pantry. Fortunately and unfortunately my kitchen at home doesn't close after meal time, so it's not hard to obtain a midnight snack. I'm even lucky enough to have some of my meals made for me. So much for being healthy this summer.

2. A room to yourself.

As amazing as my roomies were last year, it is relieving to know that I can't piss anyone off at home. Nobody cares if I put my laundry away today or tomorrow. I have an entire room to destroy when looking for an outfit. I can arrange my room however I want. I can talk on the phone without taking someone else's study habits into consideration. My room, my rules.

3. Your usual restaurants.

You know the place where you can walk in and sit down and the waitress already knows you want a water with no lemon, two chicken tacos with rice, and a side of queso? It sure is good to be back.

4. The parents.

I'm a pretty lucky gal. My parents are extremely excited to have me home for the summer. They are so excited that they have been exceptionally generous since I've been here. I hope that my mom stays on this kick of making my favorite meals for dinner and I hope my dad keeps slipping me dead presidents for gas. Not to mention, they recently became fun to hangout with. I can't help but to soak it all in.

5. Old friends.

It's good to come home to some familiar faces. There will always be something significant about the people you grew up with. Even when you might grow in different directions, it is a wonderful feeling to know and appreciate people who knew and still loved you when you had braces and a bad haircut.

While I tremendously miss Purdue and all it entails, there really is no place like home. I can't help but be grateful for the summer I am about to have. Although I'm counting down to the return to Purdue, I appreciate the time I have to be home. Being at home after a year at school can be strange and feel like we're in limbo. Just realize that one day you will move out of your parents' house for the last time. Woah.