Every time I hear about a friend going home to visit their family, I'm reminded again of how much I miss living close to mine.
Of course, it's my own fault for moving so far away from them — something my brother loves to remind me of whenever I complain about missing my nephew. Don't get me wrong, I love being in a big city — it just doesn't compare to growing up surrounded by all of my loved ones nearby.
I especially liked being so close to my cousins and having tons of sleepover parties together. Sometimes we would all fall asleep at my house only to wake up for breakfast at theirs after our parents transferred us in the middle of the night. It didn't matter where we were, though, as long as we had each other to go on adventures.
Take a look below to see even more reasons it's so great to live close to your family.
Let us know in the comments if we missed your favorite part about having your family nearby, and be sure to SHARE with your loved ones!
1. You Form A Closer Bond With Grandparents
Having them nearby means getting to really listen to their stories and spend quality time with them in person. And maximum grandparent time is invaluable!
2. Your Cousins Are Like Extra Siblings
Sure, that might also mean there's a bit more squabbling going on while growing up, but you also know they care for you just as much as your brothers and sisters.
3. You Have All The Babysitters You'll Ever Need
All you have to do is look down the checklist of family members. They can't all be busy when you're trying to squeeze in a date night or two.
4. It's Easier To Spoil Your Nieces And Nephews
And grandkids, of course. It's so much better seeing their happy faces react in person rather than hearing about it over the phone.
5. You Never Have To Worry About Being Alone In An Emergency
All those frustrating times like your car breaking down or you needing a ride to the hospital after a fender bender are covered by at least one (or five) aunts, uncles, cousins, and others showing up as quick as you can call.
6. You Get To Chow Down At Family Potluck Dinners
There's nothing better than a homemade meal, especially when the chefs know your favorite dish or have signature recipes you can count on.
7. You'll Get Less Guilt From Your Parents
Instead of hearing "you never call anymore," those close to home are more likely to hear their parents telling them to get out of their hair and hang out with someone else!
8. There's No Need To Travel Far For Holidays
This means you avoid all the stress from packing, driving long distances on snowy or icy roads, or making your way though crowded airports.
9. You Can Easily Relive All Your Favorite Old Memories
You have all the family photo albums and mementos from growing up at arm's reach. Plus, you can revisit all the embarrassing or heart-warming stories with each other face to face.
10. You Don't Have To Be Glued To Your Phone
Whether you're concerned about racking up minutes on your plan or always losing service right in the middle of an important conversation, you don't have to worry about that when you can simply stop by for a chat.
11. You Get To Cuddle Extra Pets
What's better than having your own fluffy friends to snuggle up with? Having even more eagerly waiting to greet you every time you head over to your family member's house, of course!
12. You Can Leave Get-Togethers Early
You might get tuckered out or would rather not stay when tensions start to rise. Either way you can get out of there — you're just a short trip back to your own house.
13. You Never Have To Look Far For Loving Support
Any time you're just feeling down or having to deal with an unexpected blow, you know you also have several people waiting with arms open for a nice big hug.
Did we miss any of your favorite things about living close to home? Let us know below and be sure to SHARE with your loved ones!
