Every time I have the chance to go home, I always book the earliest flight possible to Michigan and the latest flight back to school. I LOVE college life, but it can be hard to be far away from my family for long periods of time. The last time I have been home was Christmas break and its time to reunite with my family. Sure going to luxurious islands would be great, but family time is more fulfilling for me. Weather is improving every day in Tuscaloosa and polar vortex weather is not something I am looking forward to.
Here are some fun things you can do at home that are equivalent to any island beach trip.
1. Produce premium social media content
You may be very aware of your hometown, but take the time to try new hotspots and snap a pic while you are there. See where your social media is lacking and snap some pics to fix your feed. Dress up, or not, have your mom or sister snaps some shots, then enjoy the yummy food and atmosphere. The important thing is to get the pictures done then be present because you are coming home to visit your fam. There is nothing more annoying than someone more preoccupied about their face on social media, so don't make that the whole subject of the fun date.
2. Catch some Z's
Sure, it's great to know on the weekends you can turn off your alarm clock in college, but there is nothing like the first night in your bed at home. It's OK to workout at a later time if you are a morning grinder. Take this break to unwind, spend time with loved ones. One thing I like to do is waking with the sun, going to get coffee with my family, and then sitting around watching the news on the couch and getting comfy. Some families are all about sitting together and having dinner, but we are morning people and function best with a cup of joe!
3. Retail therapy
I love a good shopping date with my family. Not going to lie there is nothing better than going back to school with some new kicks and workout clothes. Make a day to get some shopping and who knows, momma might buy you some new shoes. Really milk your sob story of "midterms killed me and the only cure is some retail therapy."
4. Cooking with Nonna
In my family, the best way to share love is through a home-cooked meal. I will be spending time cooking with my Nonna and learning new recipes. Maybe hit up Pinterest to see some new snacks to try and do it with your friends or family.
5. Movie night
There is nothing like getting cozy, making some buttery popcorn, a cheese platter, your favorite candy, and share some laughs with your girls. This is a great way to catch up with old friends and enjoy some trending cinema. I am so embarrassed to say that I haven't seen "A Star is Born," so that's what ill be doing on this break.
6. Hometown yummies
I know that when I get back home, the first thing I will do is go to the nearest Tim Hortons and aid my coffee fix. There's always those foods that remind you of home and miss when you go to college. I miss the tastes of my Nonna's pasta and will enjoy every bite. So whether its Wawa or that one breakfast diner you use to go to religiously, indulge and enjoy!
7. Catch up on your Netflix series
The best thing about spring break is that you have no classes and can use this is as an excuse not to leave your bed and just watch "Gossip Girl." It's hard when you have to study and sad that you would rather sleep then watch a couple episodes of your favorite shows. Use this time to reboot to refuel to finish this semester strong.
8. Sleepover with the gals
As a kid, I always remembered when my friends and I would present this grand idea and the pros and cons to my parents on why my friends should have the infamous "sleepover." Now that I'm clearly a young adult, I still love a good sleepover. I remember sharing the best laughs and memories and plan to do as many sleepovers this break as possible. There's nothing wrong with being lazy and having some good times with your loved ones.