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Each year millions of dollars are spent on therapy because people want to re-live their childhood. These people discover late in life that childhood was the time period where the most meaningful parts of life were. Things from our past don't just fade away, they are part of us, and most people greatly miss them weather they know it or not. My most meaningful place is my parents' house because it is a symbol of reliving my childhood, indulging in good times, and just plain feeling at home.

Childhood is the time in life where personality traits are formed and memories haven't yet taken a sentimental feeling. Now that those times are gone, I remember running through the neighborhood with my friends and many other happy times where I knew I was having fun. The time my best friends and I were playing hockey in my living room was fun. It was a friendly game, and we even had the cushions form the couch set up so nothing would get broken. Little did we know one stray puck would have us replacing drywall at 11:30 PM so my parents wouldn't see it, but, like everything else, we did it because it was enjoyment. My theory on life is, in order for something to be meaningful, you have to want it. I don't always want the irresponsible times of discovery that were my childhood back, but I do strive for the feelings I had toward life when I was there. Having a pleasant attitude all the time may not be possible this day in age, but I know it's a good feeling when you can. I can recall these memories at any time, but they are especially present when I am at home. It's not just because most of these things took place while I was at home, but because I actually feel like I can do everything again while I am there. In this aspect, my parents' home is a giant playground of memories with every toy I can imagine.

I don't live far from this home. I've decided to make it a habit to visit every weekend. I recall lots of fighting when I was younger. We weren't dysfunctional or anything, but like most families, I argued with my parents pretty regularly. Since I have been here, even if it has only been a semester, I've noticed that these once dreaded family dinners are a lot of fun. I can converse with my mom and step-dad like never before. Eating dinner is no longer a rush to gulp the food down as fast as possible go we can go back to playing, but a dinner table with people passing the mashed potatoes around, laughing, and enjoying each other's company. Leaving the house may have pushed my family apart a little, but coming back to it glues us back together stronger than ever. We even plan different types of outings so we can spend