When the first call you get on your birthday is from your brother who you rarely get to talk to because he is overseas in the military.

The moment of arriving back in the US after four months abroad and seeing your family waiting with balloons, signs and four months worth of hugs.

Shopping for your prom dress senior year with your mom.

Getting a five generation old recipe correct when finally making it yourself.

Coming home from London, getting off the train, and seeing my mom for the first time in what seems like forever. There is nothing more overwhelming and nothing which makes me happier

The smell of your home after you have been away for a long time.

Sharing a room with your sibling-- sometimes it sucks but those late night talks can be the best!

When your heart is broken and your family and friends band around you to help you smile again.

Building a fort and camping in the middle of the living room with my husband and two small children.

Movie nights with the family.

Tossing junk food into the shopping cart without your mom noticing.

Inconspicuously turning down the TV to hear a conversation in the other room.

When your get to see your best friend's baby, and her face lights up as she takes her first steps towards you and she knows who you are!

Snuggling with your husband and pets under a heated blanket after a long day at work.

My sister is clinically depressed. There are days when I spend hours trying to make her smile, but when she does, it's worth it.

When your heart is hurting and your family and friends band around you to help you smile again.

When your aging parents are in good health.