Home

I remember Alex and Daniel once debating what "home" meant. I don't remember the conclusions, other than the fact that Daniel's home is not Hawaii. Period.

This past week, I've really realized how important and valuable "home" is to me, no matter how you define it. I've been so busy running around doing interviews, making business-related calls on the phone, and toiling in group projects that I really haven't had much of a chance to just sit back at home and have personal space. It's SO important for me to have my own time/space. I think this year is the first time at Stanford when I have truly felt that I have a place to call "home." Having no roommate, no chaotic running around outside the halls has been...relieving. Don't get me wrong--I've had positive experiences with roommates and dorm life. I do miss quite a few aspects of that. But I'm generally much more of a "I need my space" type person. I like just opening the door, changing into PJs, and turning on the TV ... all the while knowing that no one can bother me once I'm home. It's not even just the fact that I have tons of good memories of this studio. It's more the sense of overwhelming comfort. My own space behind closed doors. I think I could even feel at "home" in a hotel room (as long as my suitcase is unpacked). Home to me is about private space. Where I can lie around in boxers and watch TV. Where I can have the heater or fan on without worrying about my preferred temperature bothering other people. (I'll reconsider this once I pay for my own utilities.) It's about being a little messy, but knowing that that mess is caused by me so I'm not grossed out by the germs/dirtiness. And I need this time at home. It's where I can get my me-time.



Author's note: In case you were wondering, no I do not have a date for Valentine's Day. Surprised?