Bikes, Planes, and Trains: A Year in Belgium: Feeling Nostalgic and Missing the Fam

Although I loved living in Europe and have no regrets about studying abroad for a year, it is hard to be away from my family. I'm very close with them and I missed not being able to see them as much. And I did not realize that I wouldn't be going home until July 1st. If I had been back at Loyola, I would have been finishing my finals this week and heading home.

I was really lucky to have my dad, Eric, visit last week and I had a great time with him. It was a whirlwind week but we saw and did a lot. It was nice to spend time with him because we don't hang out a lot at home. Our lives have gotten busier with every year. He's a hard worker and I forgot how adventurous he is, how he's not afraid of anything (except maybe my driving).

But I did miss my brother Jeremy, my sister Gabrielle, my grandmother Judy (Mema), and especially my mom Jodi. My brother and sister have grown so much in the last couple of years and it's hard missing them grow up. I'm so proud of them.

I miss my grandmother and her warmth. She is classy and sassy and a mean cook. Her house is 5 minutes away and feels like home. She brings everyone together and I admire and respect her tremendously.

And my mom is my role model. I admire her so much. We fight, cry, and laugh together all the time. Whether we're getting pedicures and a sandwich at Bread & Chocolate or just running errands, we always have a good time. She's incredibly strong and tries her best to be a good person to everyone around her. She's the best mother you could ask for.

From my aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins, siblings, and parents, I love my entire family.