To be honest, I'm really happier as a college student. I'm living on my own and working three jobs, but it's exciting being free. The hours, the schedule, all of it's yours to make, and I know it sounds cliched, but I believe I'm only limited by my abilities and choices. Where I go from here's up to me.
Childhood was more constrained in that regard, but the bills man. I miss not having to pay those as a kid.
I guess I also miss not really having money. I could pine after things, but now I make just enough as a waiter and a TA to cover living expenses (D.C's really expensive), but I always have a big pile of cash with me. I can't spend it, and I know that, but it's so. very. tempting...