There's nothing like going home after a long time away. I love catching up with family, eating at my favorite restaurants, and exploring the city. Here's a list of 14 things I love about being home.

1. Seeing family and friends

That first hug from your siblings, parents, and grandparents is so special. It never gets old.

2. Seeing pets

I come home to a beta fish named Blue, but I love seeing my friends' dogs and cats. It's so fun and therapeutic to play with animals.

3. Eating all of my favorite foods

I'm always craving my favorite restaurants, so I try to eat at all of them while I'm in town. And I love seeing the waiters and waitresses I saw every week while growing up. The staff at Mi Cocina and Ku Sushi know my family by name, and we try to catch up with them whenever they have a free moment.

4. Shopping

Shopping alone is hard! I had to buy my first business suit the other day, and I wished my mom and/or grandma had been there to help. They always give honest opinions and advice.

5. Getting a manicure and pedicure

I never get my nails done in California because I'm too busy studying or hanging out with friends. It's a nice treat when I'm home.

6. Becoming a tourist

Whenever I visit Dallas, I try new things that I wouldn't have if I still lived there full-time. I go to museums, visit parks, try new restaurants, and brave amusement parks.

7. Going to events/parties

Sometimes my days at home are spent at various events and parties. I usually get asked a lot of questions about college. I don't like being the center of attention, but it's nice to have people interested in what I'm involved in, my new friends, etc.

8. Sleeping in my own bed

Enough said.

9. Having more space

Sometimes the dorm room can feel very cramped. At home, I can always spread out and not worry so much about being perfectly organized.

10. Getting to drive

Freedom! I love driving, especially in a city I know by heart. Having my car is a much-needed break from sitting in the backseat of an Uber.

11. Getting to cook

I love baking and cooking homemade meals with my family, especially since I can't in college.

12. Having a fully stocked refrigerator

Yes. Finding good and healthy food can be a struggle in college. My parents always make sure to have fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator, and my favorite ice cream, of course.

13. Being with people who speak and dress like you do

Sometimes I'm embarrassed to say "y'all" or wear huge T-shirts. But I've grown up a certain way and I don't want to change that just because I live in California now. I love to be back in Dallas with my "people" and surrounded by the Southern hospitality I miss so much.

14. Being at home

Just being home is enough for me. I don't care about the restaurants, shopping, and exploring as much as I care about spending time with my family. Home is where the heart is.