Dear family,

I’m going to start by saying that I love being away from home at college. I’m sorry that I have not been home much this semester and please do not take it personally that I have fallen in love with the campus that I live on.

No matter how much I love it here, you know I’ll be coming home for thanksgiving break and Christmas and I hope you’re ready for me.

I just need you all to remember that college changes people sometimes. I may have picked up new foods that I like, new language, and a whole lot of stress. I might not be the same girl that you watched drive away a couple months ago. Since then I have grown as a person and I continue growing by the day.

Please don’t be offended if I sleep a lot or act moody. I’m tired. It has been an extremely busy semester full of school, work, and extracurricular activities. I am coming home for these breaks and have been sleeping 3-5 hours a night and I have a lot of catching up (and getting ahead) to do. Remember, this is the only time of the semester I have more than a few hours to relax before I remember that I have to complete and assignment or study for an exam.

Oh, and don’t forget, I’ve been away from home and I miss my friends almost as much as I miss you all. I’m very excited to see my friends but don’t think I didn’t miss you guys nearly as much.

I’m so ready for family holiday parties as well. I can’t wait to be around my loved ones again since I have not seen them since before I moved into school. It’s only October and I’m making my Christmas shopping plans as we speak.

This Thanksgiving I will be thankful that I have a loving family that allows me to pursue my dreams and supports me from a distance. I would not be here if it wasn’t for the love, care, and support that you guys give me every step of the way.

Christmas is also extra exciting when you spend time away from home prior, because the presence of your loved ones is the best gift that I could ask for. I can not wait to wake up on Christmas morning and enjoy a coffee with you, Mom. Not only am I excited for Christmas, but I’m excited for the three weeks that I will be home and able to spend time with you all.

I guess what I’m trying to say is that I really love being away at college, but I’m also really ready to be home. No matter how far I stray from home I’ll always want to come back. No matter how long I’m away, whether it be a few weeks like it has been, or years, I’ll always be excited to welcome myself back home.

With love,

Me