The classic Perry Como song goes, “there’s no place like home for the holidays.” This simple phrase rings loud and clear when Thanksgiving comes around. There is nothing I love more than gathering around the fire, snuggling up with my puppy and appreciating the simple things at my own home sweet home. Don’t get me wrong, I love to travel, but when it comes to the holiday synonymous with simplicity, there is no where I would rather be than the house I have occupied for the majority of my life.

I love nothing more than the four people who accompany me in my family unit. I love my grandparents, my aunts, uncles and cousins too, but sometimes it is good to have one-on-one time with my sisters and parents. This holiday is a great time to recuperate and focus on family time. My sister has been away at college for the past several months and I know I am counting down the days to just catch up with her. Sometimes sitting around the kitchen table, helping my mom make dinner and chatting with my sisters is the most rewarding time.

The phrase literally goes, “Home Sweet Home” and nothing is truer. I have lived in my house for almost 15 years and when I pull down my street, I feel a sense of contentment. Every room is filled with memories and special moments that I cherish. When it comes to the holiday of thanks, I want to spend it at the place I am most thankful for. Why would I want to go anywhere else?

An airport on the week of Thanksgiving is one of the most hectic places in imaginable. Chaos and tension are synonymous with holiday travel. Staying home is peaceful. To have an enjoyable week, circumvent the stress and have a staycation. Also, it is a total waste of time to spend two days mixed up in the hustle and bustle of flying.

And the most important reason to stay home: the premature Christmas decorating. The second the turkey pan is cleaned, the leftovers are stored away and the pie is eaten, the lights and ivy come out. It is a family tradition for us to assist my mom in decking our halls. We listen to Christmas music and soak up the holiday spirit. This time wouldn’t be available to me if I was anywhere but home.