Going to college 3.5 hours away from home has made me very thankful for my family. Due to my major and simple lack of a car, time spent home is basically sacred. When I am at school i'm at school, when i'm home i'm home. I never bring school work home anymore because I learned that my backpack tends to get placed in the corner of my room when I get home on Friday and not picked up till Sunday afternoon when I leave for school. This year I have been home twice in about 4 moths, never more than three days. So now with Thanksgiving coming this week I am more than ready to get home and enjoy my favorite Thanksgiving favorites!

1. The homemade pie:

Lets face the truth, a home made pumpkin pie is a key symbol in a feel good Thanksgiving dinner. Even if you can't get over a squash being made as a desert, you got the pecan pie and apple pie to back you up.

2. Endless family gatherings:

At first it may be a bit much, walking into a room of 20 plus extended family members that I have not seen in months. However they are all someone to be thankful for. I'm thankful I have people who want to ask me about what I am studying, what I have been doing in my free time, what my future plans are. They are my family and they WANT to know about me.

3. The turkey:

In my house my Mom is the cook, AKA the magician in the kitchen. However, on the rare occasion my Dad likes to pretend like he is a famous chef straight outta Babette's Feast. My parents have been married for 29 years, and even when they are bumping elbows in the kitchen I can tell they love doing life together. Home wouldn't be home without my Dad getting "sassy" about his precious stuffing and Turkey.

4. The day after:

I was informed of my black Friday plans a week ago, yes I said informed. When I say i'm coming home my older sister has the ability to schedule my free time in the matter of 24 hours, and I love her for it. 1) It makes planning easier for me. 2) I love that she is married and has kids and still wants to spend that much time with me!! Shopping in general is crazy, let a lone on a black Friday. I wouldn't want to battle the mobs at Target with anyone else.

5. The dayS after:

After Thanksgiving is complete and that last plate is washed a put away, a sigh of relief is had. The fun part of the day is over and complete, but the beauty of the Thanksgiving food is not over! I love me some leftovers, especially a cold turkey sandwich! And since i'm a poor college student, I love the fact that my Mom loads me up with a bag of food so I don't starve.

6. The Charlie Brown Thanksgiving special:

My Grandpa passed down this tradition, and I gladly stick to it. He likes all things Snoopy, and watching the Thanksgiving special is just a feel good time for us.

Thanksgiving bonuses that are including but not limited to the Macey's Day Parade and the turkey dinner induced nap. And maybe a football game or two. :) Whatever your Thanksgiving traditions are, I hope that you feel joy and loved during this holiday. May God bless.