I haven’t been home to Carson for nearly six months, which is a rather long streak for me. When I first moved away to the Bay, I went home as often as I could, even when I could barely afford it.

As I fly through my 10th year in San Francisco, months pass without me even thinking about going home, and I only consider it for major holidays when I might catch a lot of grief if I miss them. I miss my family and friends, of course, but the day-to-day grind is blinding.

Going back to LA is like eating freshly baked chocolate chip cookies to me. It’s always warm and inviting, and familiar. Visiting home is always reassuring too, because while many places and people have changed, my relationships with my friends remain regardless of time and distance.

I’ll be visiting for the first time this year for Independence Day. We typically barbecue at my grandpa’s house, and light fireworks as soon as it gets dark. It’s very low-key, and I love spending time with my dad and my many nieces and nephews. I have a tendency to over-schedule my time in LA, but at least I know I’ll have one relaxing evening.

I’m looking forward to the trip. I have too much planned and not enough time, but so it goes.

As much as I enjoy the time I spend in LA, I’m always ready to come back to SF after 3-4 days.