Am I the only one that was convinced "adulthood" would be amazing? If I'm being honest, I've spent most of my 18th year wanting to be a considered a kid again. On the bright side, I have surprised myself by doing things that I had never pictured doing as a child, such as working five days a week, filling my car's gas tank every week or so, and dare I say, doing my own laundry! Luckily, I had a great support system at home and two independent parents to show me the ropes. As I embark on my first year at college, I'd like to reminisce on my favorite memories from my childhood.

1. The Lake

Growing up in a lake community had so many advantages. My sisters and I spent our summers on the broken down swing set at beach two and enjoyed every second of it. We had access to our beautiful country club and boardwalk at any given time. I'd say that my parents hit the jackpot when moving to Lake Mohawk, and I can't see myself living anywhere other than on a lake in the future.

2. The Court

The street that we grew up on had a basketball court on it and three giant grassy hills. The neighborhood kids and I would spend hours drawing our bedrooms with chalk on the cement for a game of "house" or sledding down the hills on a much appreciated snow day. We would barely come inside for dinner time without rushing to get back and play. The phrase, "Mom, I'm going to the court," never got old in our house.

3. Cheerleading

I've been a cheerleader since I was in first grade and it was always my favorite thing to do. Sparta ran such an amazing football and cheerleading program for both little league and the high school, and I feel very privileged to have been a part of it. I went to competition after competition and cheered at game after game, yet I am never tired of showing off what I love to do alongside my best friends.

4. Having a Dog

We rescued my dog Jade when I was about nine or ten years old and she has become such an important part of our family. She has been there for us through it all. I can't believe that I'm going to leave her in a week, but I have so many memories with her that I keep so dear to my heart.

5. Having Sisters

There is truly nothing better than being the youngest. I get to learn everything from the most important people in my life and I wouldn't want to have it any other way. My sisters have set incredible examples for me and they have given me such amazing advice for just about everything. Although I've secretly always wanted a brother, my two older sisters are such a god-send sometimes.

There are frankly too many memories in my mind to write on paper. From vacations, to dance recitals, to home videos, I was blessed with a childhood that some people dream of. My town and community was such a lovely place to grow up and it's sad that I am just now realizing that as I'm about to leave it. I'm so grateful for the life that my parents provided my sisters and I with, and I can only hope that I'm able to give my children a childhood that was as wonderful as mine.