So, yes, I am still at home, and yes, I still miss my apartment/Athens like crazy, but I gotta say, this break has been pretty great lately.  My sisters are all home, and I’ve spent the last several days with all or most of them, mainly just sitting around in various rooms drinking, talking, and laughing.  I wrapped presents with them just before the holiday, escaped early Christmas Eve craziness with them (and wine), and just today, went shopping and spent an admirably small amount of money, even though we were out for something like five hours.  And, about an hour ago, my oldest sister marched into my room, rolled around on my bed, announced, “I’ve had four glasses of wine!”, and read the back of one of my new books in a ridiculous English accent.  I’m going to miss her when she’s gone.

Another great thing about being home is that I get to see my niece SO MUCH.  Like, every day for the past week, I think?  I’m going to have withdrawals when I head back to school.  I’ve never been one for babysitting or being around infants, so it’s pretty astounding to me how much I love her and want to hang out with her, and miss her when I don’t see her; sometimes, a few hours after she leaves, I’ll already be lonesome for her.   And, watching her grow and learn new things, even just since I’ve been in town, is one of the coolest things I’ve ever experienced.  She has huge cheeks, fingers I love to munch on, and the loudest baby yells EVER.  Ugh, I love her so much, you guyssssss!

Nevertheless, I was daydreaming in the shower about how I wish there were a way to scoop up my whole apartment in my arms when I get back and hug it.