College is great. You'll hear that from everyone, even me, but I would be lying if I said there weren't things I missed about high school and life before college. What I miss most is:

-Books. Not school books but novels and stories. Sure, I read them for class and such but I rarely find the time to sneak in a good novel in between working and school and such. It's really heartbreaking, especially for me- the english major. I long for a hot cup of tea, a warm bed, a good novel, and time to enjoy the three. I long for breaks and weekends where I can find that lovely moment.

-Pets: I miss my cats and my dog, more than I realized I would. Pets are always so happy to have you around. That is one of the greatest feelings, hands down.

-Fireplaces: I know this is going to sound strange but, at my house, during the fall we always have a fire going. I miss the smell of crackling wood and homemade bread. I miss the smell of home, the familiarity of what fall used to be.

-Baking/Cooking: My mother will say I am a terrible cook but... I try. I really miss making my own sandwiches, salads, veggies, and cupcakes (which I am notorious for). There is something I find so gratifying in making my own food... it makes it that much tastier! Sure, there are ways to cook here on campus but... it's not the same. Here it is for sustenance rather than enjoyment.

Most of all, I miss my friends. I have the greatest friends and being away from them makes me realize that even more. The hardest part is trying to keep up with what is going on in their lives. It's hard to stay connected when my friends and I are on such very different paths. My closest friends are still in high school, enjoying the fun and everlasting senior moments. Some times, I think I am supposed to be in high school with all of them (I did skip a grade so... technically, I should be). Luckily, I live close enough that I can drive home and go to our Starbucks, our place and get a great big hug from Ashley, a good story from Katie, and a smile from Kevin. 

When I first came to college, I sort of had this mentality that I needed to make new friends. Sure, you do and you should if you want to have fun in college and make it worthwhile but... whoever said you had to get rid of the old ones? Maybe they are some of the best friends you'll find. Who ever said those people, the people who shape you, need replacing?