At last, the dreaded midterm week is over. Your mind is practically in shambles and you might be drooling a little from lack of sleep. But hope of a sweet recovery period lies ahead. That's right, it's time for fall break. Here's five reasons why it's the actual greatest thing (next to Christmas and summer break).

1. Going home to your pets

Sure, families are great and all, but nothing is more satisfying than giving your pets a great big hug. And even if you aren't going to your own house, there's many more opportunities in your free time to be around cute, furry pets than if your were stuck in your bleak animal-less dorm all day.

2. Cute fall photos

I am a summer person, undeniably. However, even I have to admit there's just something magical about the trees in my town in the fall. It's impossible not to want to go out in the leaves and take photos.

3. Plenty of time to do (not) do homework

Sure, all the teachers tell you to "relax and catch up on some sleep" after they're done torturing you with their brutal midterms, but their version of relaxing usually also entails at least a small load of homework or studying for post-midterm tests. At least at Creighton, fall break gives a whole week to spread said homework out over, but...let's be real, the majority of us cram it into

4. Mom's cooking

Dining hall food pales in comparison to almost anything, but there's nothing like mom's mac and cheese or dad's ribs. "Making dinner" doesn't mean boiling some ramen or microwaving mac and cheese when you're at home—

and you get to sit at an actual table instead of your desk or the couch!

5. Sleeping in your own bed

Confession: I am terrible at sleeping. Even alone I struggle with it. In a dorm room, there's always some sort of noise—

roommates snoring, hallway doors slamming—

and I have an even worse time. But finally collapsing into your own bed, now that's relaxing.

Bonus! 6. Seeing your friends

I suppose seeing old high school friends should make the list, but, honestly, when you have pets and your own bed are they really a necessity to your sleep deprived, anti-social self?